Bollé has long been known for quality optics for snow, water and everywhere else. With a recent update, their new Volt+ lenses are said to offer better clarity and a 30% improvement in color perception. With rubberized temple tips and nose pieces, the Bollé Score sunglasses have been on test for a good bit, so let’s see how they compare.
Bollé Score Sunglasses Features:
- Available with Volt+ polarized lenses (AI-optimized, patented technology)
- High-contrast lens with optimized white point
- Lightweight and flexible TR90 nylon frame
- Thermogrip® rubber on nosepad and temple tips
- Score Volt+ available in matte black (tested) and teal crystal shiny
- 2-year warranty
- MSRP: $140
Hip, hip, Bollé
A classic pair of sunglasses can go a long way, but a little twist on a classic shape can take that capability even further. With the Bollé Score Volt+, you not only get sports-friendly grippy rubber temples and nose pads, but you also get the new Volt+ polarized lenses for increased clarity and color sharpness. Color-enhancing lenses aren’t a new thing as other brands have introduced similar technologies in recent years, but Bolle has differentiated theirs enough to achieve a patent on it.
In the store, or with a few lens options to choose from, it’s easy to compare one lens with another. The best polarized lenses I’ve tested come from Costa and Kaenon — both of which I’ve compared to the Volt+ polarized lens here. Color correctness and clarity is good overall. I still prefer Kaenon’s polarization overall, but the Volt+ polarized lenses remain solid performers.
I’m not typically going to purchase a pair of glasses for pure fashion purposes. No, I need a set of sunglasses that can transition from the beach, to the car and on the trail. The only negative for use while fishing is sunglass keepers or tethers don’t have much to grab hold of, due to the straight temples. But, those straight temples play well with hats and helmets (a good trade off).
The nylon frame easily flexes to adjust to different head sizes without ever feeling tight. There’s just enough pressure to allow the grippy rubber to do its job. Part of that flex is provided by the tapered thickness of the arms that allows the tips to flex like a natural hinge. These sunglasses do stay put quite well and only improve with moisture. What they don’t do, however, is stand up well to being sat on. While some hinges are forgiving in this regard, these are not. I sat on my initial pair and the hinges blew out completely. Unlike other brands, that kind of mishap isn’t covered under a full or partial warranty, so sit carefully and don’t expect much help with replacements from customer support.
For pure trail running, the Bollé Score isn’t my favorite choice, but they can do the trick in a pinch. I prefer a wider field-of-vision on the trail, but the lightweight design and Thermogrip rubber keeps these shades in place just fine for even the most strenuous of terrain.
While have been testing the Bollé Score out here in Utah, I did also test them extensively while on a Caribbean cruise this spring. With extensive beach and water glare, the polarization tamed the worst of the sun’s rays and instantly relaxed my eyes. With lesser lenses, you may still squint, but the Volt+ lenses performed very well overall — with a noticeable pop of colors. I especially appreciated the clarity and vibrant colors throughout the Caribbean. And, after extensive all-day use, I didn’t experience any pressure points.
Despite repeated abuse, I don’t see any scratches on the lenses. I’m not a fan of labeling on the lenses themselves and wish that the Bollé and Volt+ logos weren’t imprinted on the left lens. Yes, I do see it on the fringes of the lenses and I always wonder if there’s something on the lens. I know… I’m kind of OCD about that kind of thing. Folded up and stored away, the Bollé Score sunglasses don’t take up a ton of space. This is a great attribute for travel as I can stash them in a backpack or other area very easily.
I’m a fan of bright frames, but the Volt+ lens is only available in matte black and teal crystal colors. These are timeless colors, but I did wish for a pop of color as an option.
The Good
- Quality optics
- Volt+ adds color vibrance you can see
- Lightweight design
- Folds down fairly small for travel
- Fit comfortably for all-day use
The Bad
- Boring, but classic colors
- Don’t have an easy way to tether the temples
- A little larger lens size would be nice
The Bottom Line: Bolle Score Volt+ Sunglasses
These lightweight shades offer quality polarization and color vibrance in a classic package. You’ll appreciate the flex temples to accommodate a wide range of head sizes too. The straight temples do work well with a variety of hats as well.
Buy Now: Available from Bolle
