The RIOT glasses from GUNNAR are not a new release for 2026. The frame has been out for a while, but I love the classic design. What is new, however, is the colourway for this Autumn. The Crystal Cobalt option is a new addition to the range. This cool, interesting, and eye-catching finish adds some flair to a fairly classic design. Therefore, it is ideal if you want a little bit of a conversation starter without the outlandish nature of other GUNNAR products.
This Signature product is an entry-level option. This may seem like a low-key affair, but it is not. Instead, it allows gamers, office workers, and those who stare at a screen all day to benefit from blue light technology at an affordable price. Furthermore, the classic, rectangular design suits many face types. Accordingly, these glasses will be the perfect option for many people.
What’s in the box of the RIOT glasses?
- The packaging is simple and understated. It’s also robust and recyclable.
- The RIOT glasses come in an array of colours. Crystal Cobalt looks great, and I like the nylon frame, clean style, and lightweight design.
- A soft case is provided to keep the glasses safe.
Technical aspects.
The RIOT glasses come in an array of different lens types, and if you wear prescriptions, you can order +/-5 at the checkout. I don’t need prescription lenses, so I opted for the 65% blue light protection amber-tinted option. A lighter 35% option is also available if you need more colour clarity. I appreciated the yellow tinge as it reduces those harsh black-on-white contrasts. Furthermore, it helps with fatigue and other downsides of staring at a TV, mobile, or monitor for hours.
GUNNAR offers patented technology with every pair of glasses. The RIOT glasses are designed to keep your eyes moist during the toughest work and gaming sessions. This means that you will be more productive and feel fewer side effects. We’ve all experienced dry eyes, a lack of focus, or poor sleep after we’ve worked nonstop in front of a monitor. Alternatively, if you love to play competitively, you’ll know how much fatigue impacts your reactions. Thankfully, these glasses improve your reaction times while removing that horribly gritty feeling of dry eyes.
If you are a streamer, you’ll know how distracting glasses can be. The light reflects from the lenses, and this causes problems for your viewers. Thankfully, the G-Shield protection offers dual-sided anti-reflective qualities to reduce distraction for your audience.
Build quality.
I’ve looked at enough GUNNAR products to know that the build quality is second to none. Even though the RIOT glasses are an entry-level product, nothing is left to chance. You are offered an impressive 12-month warranty for peace of mind. Furthermore, the accessories are nicely built, and they’ll keep your glasses safe.
The lightweight nylon frame is hard-wearing, and once you slip them on, you barely notice them. This is ideal as you can protect your eyes without feeling weighed down. Additionally, the multi-barrelled hinges prevent pressure on your temples. This is perfect as they’ll adjust to many head types and you won’t suffer from pressure headaches when wearing these glasses for marathon sessions.
The stunning colourway is what makes these glasses stand out from the crowd. The icy blue is delightful, and the clean finish and lack of logos or details create an understated, classic, and professional look that’ll appeal to many people.
Are the RIOT glasses worth it?
If you are on the fence about blue light glasses, then the RIOT glasses should be on your radar. They are affordable while offering the protection of more expensive glasses from the GUNNAR range. Moreover, they are durable and have an impressive 1-year warranty. Consequently, I love them, and I recommend buying them here!
(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
