More sustainable material: These are the new Evil Eye Trailsense sunglasses

The Evil Eye Trailsense II We recently tested 14 models in our large sunglasses test. But only a short time later, the Austrians are adding to this in terms of sustainability. The glasses are now made from a new, more environmentally friendly material called Evil Eye Eco PPX. More on this below. Of course, we wanted to know how the two glasses differ. To find out, we sent the model we had already tested into direct comparison with the new model.

The Evil Eye Trailsense II Eco PPX

The first thing you notice when opening the supplied glasses box is that the new Trailsense has a "corner" at the lower edge of the lens. Where the lens of the predecessor was still rather rounded, the new sunglasses now have a clear edge.

>> The new Evil Eye E-Sense Next: The fastest self-tinting glasses in the world?

>> Cycling glasses with prescription: models, alternatives and expert tips

The material of the frame - which is what the more sustainable Eco PPX is all about - also has a different look and feel. This means that in the unpainted version that we tested, the frame looks a little more matt and you can sense a fibre structure in the material. It looks "raw" or a little "worn", but not unattractive. But the most important thing - and Evil Eye says this itself - is that "everything remains better". Despite the new material everything as before (see below).

As far as the other features of the glasses are concerned - especially the optics - the positive impression has not changed. The Vario photochromic, i.e. self-tinting, lenses do their job - not ultra-fast, and sometimes a lighter edge remains where the frame of the goggles casts a shadow on the lens. The tint is not particularly dark, but it offers a very good improvement in vision in terms of contrast and a certain brightening in cloudy conditions. All in all, great glasses.

How comfortable is the Evil Eye?

As already described in the previous test, the glasses sit quite close to the face, even if you can adjust a few things using the nose pads and three-way adjustable temples. Depending on the shape of the face, the sunglasses can sit on the cheeks or the eyebrows/eyelashes can touch the lenses. The fit is very good and stable thanks to the rubberised temples, even in the Eco PPX version. It is also good that there are three available sizes - Evil Eye only announced glasses in XS in July. The "Virtual Try-On" on the manufacturer's website is designed to help you choose; an online tool that uses a photo to virtually conjure up the glasses on your face.

ECO PPX explained

From 1 August 2025, Evil Eye will be using a new performance material in the production of its sports eyewear that is not only extremely robust, flexible and hypoallergenic, but is also designed to significantly reduce the carbon footprint. The previous high-tech material PPX had the small drawback that it was made from fossil raw materials. ECO PPX is made from 100 per cent biocircular raw materials - for example from existing organic residues from agriculture and forestry, such as tree bark or straw. A new process is used to produce a polymer that does not require petroleum.

Sustainable origin - same performance

1. Sustainability without compromise:
   In contrast to the predecessor material PPX, which was based on crude oil, ECO PPX is said to score points with a 60% lower carbon footprint and 100% renewable energy in production.
2. Durability and dimensional stability:
   Just like PPX, ECO PPX is durable, retains its shape in hot and cold conditions and is suitable for demanding sports applications.
3. Consistent quality in processing:
   Like PPX, ECO PPX can be precisely processed, painted or - in the RAW edition here in the test - deliberately left untreated without any loss of function.

Made in Austria

All Evil Eye sports glasses are manufactured in Linz, Austria. Electricity from 100 per cent renewable energy sources, such as solar power, is used. According to the manufacturer, short internal routes and resource-efficient processes ensure maximum product control and minimum environmental impact.

Info & price of the Evil Eye Trailsense II Eco PPX

• Glass colour and technology: LST Vario purple M
• Basic colour: orange - grey
• Protection level: 1 - 3 (light to dark shade)
• Light absorption: 38-87 %
• Light transmission: 62-13 %
• Frame colour: black matt
• Frame width: 145 mm (size L)
• Available sizes: XS, S, L
• Price (RRP): 299 Euro >> available here

Technical specifications

• Tri.fit: Adjustable triple bracket position
• Double-snap nose pads: Dual adjustment of the nose pads
• Quick-change lens system: Optics can be easily changed; lenses optionally available
• Traction grip: Non-slip rubberised temple tips
• Quick-release hinge: In the event of high loads (e.g. a fall), the bracket detaches from the frame. It can simply be clicked back into place.