Classic Motorcycle Leather Goggles Review – Mark 49 | Halcyon

Classic Motorcycle Leather Goggles Review – Mark 49 | Halcyon

Halcyon Classic Parts Goggle Review! To kick things off, I’ll be reviewing the Mk49 model—Halcyon’s most iconic and popular classic motorcycle leather goggles. With a design that dates back to World War II, these goggles were originally worn by aviation pilots. These goggles remain a favourite among motorcyclists today.

Although I’ve received several other models from Halcyon, including the MK8, MK9, and MK410, I decided to begin with the original Mk49, the pair that started it all. Known for its timeless appeal, the Mk49 continues to lead in popularity, with the ‘compact’ version coming in as a close second. Stay tuned, as I’ll review the compact goggles in a future post.

Halcyon Mk49 goggle specs and materials

Mark 49

The Mk49 type is the Halcyon goggle standard. It uses angled brass frames with chrome plating and a leather facemask.

Available in Black | Brown | Red | White | Green | Tan.

Materials

  • Leather
  • Brass
  • Stainless steel
  • Elastic
  • Polycarbonate
  • (Synthetic leather available)

“There is no other classic motorcycle goggle that comes close to the quality of the Halcyon goggle, I have owned 3 pairs over the last 40 years (yes I’m that old) and other than replacing the headbands and occasionally the lenses they are still as good today as when I bought them.”

15/02/2013 – Richard – 5 Star Review on www.Classicpartsltd.com

Vintage box design

The Halcyon Classic Parts goggle box exudes a clean, traditional design that aligns perfectly with the brand’s timeless aesthetic. With clearly printed, concise titles and descriptions on all sides, the packaging ensures effortless identification of the product inside. It proudly showcases the goggles’ versatile applications, including motorcycling, aviation, and motoring, while celebrating their heritage craftsmanship. Made in England, the packaging reflects Halcyon’s unwavering commitment to quality and enduring style.

Halcyon goggles come beautifully packaged in a sleek blue box that reflects the brand’s classic aesthetic. Inside, the theme continues with a light blue tissue paper, carefully wrapping the goggles to provide protection and maintain their polished finish. Each pair is meticulously cleaned and polished, arriving in such pristine condition that they almost feel too good to wear!

Goggles come neatly packaged.

Adjustable headband

Halcyon classic motorcycle leather goggles are thoughtfully crafted with a versatile, elasticated headband that ensures a secure and comfortable fit. The fully adjustable band accommodates helmet sizes from small to large, making them suitable for various riders. These goggles are designed for maximum flexibility, allowing them to be worn comfortably over or under a helmet. Goggles adapt effortlessly to different riding styles.

To enhance stability during use, the headband features a silicone lining that prevents slipping and ensures the goggles stay firmly in place. This combination of functionality and classic design makes them a reliable choice for motorcyclists.

For riders who prefer not to wear a helmet, Halcyon provides a silicone-free headband option to prevent hair snagging and ensure maximum comfort. This thoughtful design consideration demonstrates Halcyon’s commitment to tailoring its products for diverse rider preferences. Ensuring a comfortable and customizable experience for all.

WHERE TO BUY – BUY ONLINE
Halcyon Mark 49 Leather Goggles
AmazonPrice: £68.95Check out the Amazon marketplace.
EbayPrice: £69.95Find motorcycle goggles on eBay.
EtsyPrice: £71.95Made made motorcycle goggles on Etsy.
ClassicpartsltdPrice: £71.95The manufacturer’s source.

*Price last updated on the 26th of November 2024 at 09:00 am GMT
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to this product.

User guide for Halcyon goggles

Every pair of Halcyon classic motorcycle leather goggles comes with a detailed instruction manual, offering guidance for proper use and maintenance. Many riders also choose to purchase additional lenses in varying colours or tints to enhance their riding experience. These interchangeable lenses, often darker or tinted, allow for easy swapping with the standard clear lenses. This provides superior eye protection and comfort in bright, sunny conditions. This added versatility makes Halcyon goggles a stylish and practical option for motorcyclists navigating diverse weather conditions.

To detach or replace the headband or lenses:

  1. Repeat this process for the other side of the goggles.
  2. Reverse the headband so it rests on the outside of the goggles.
  3. Squeeze the clip that secures the headband to the goggle frame.
  4. Hold the goggles firmly while pulling the clip to release it from the holder.
  5. Slide the clip out through the slot in the frame.

To fit a new lens:

  1. Select the lens that is correctly shaped for the goggle frame.
  2. Insert the lens into the frame starting at the nose end.
  3. Carefully push the lens down past the face pad and into the frame, ensuring the face pad is not trapped or misaligned during the process.
  4. Avoid adjusting the split lens setting’s angle, as it is factory-preset to 135 ° and will remain in position when the headband clip is secured.
  5. Insert the headband clip into the slot in the frame and push it firmly into the bracket.
  6. Double-check that the clip is fully engaged to ensure a secure fit.

This process ensures the lens is properly installed and aligned for optimal performance. Let me know if further clarification is needed!

Nost bridge adjustment.

Among the various options available, I opted for the version with a nose-bridge screw adjustment system. This straightforward yet effective feature allows you to fine-tune the fit by narrowing or widening the gap between the frames to suit different nose sizes. Whether you need a snug fit or more room, the adjustable screw provides flexibility.

However, take care when widening the gap excessively, as this could loosen the screw and potentially cause the nose-bridge piece to fall out during use. Regular checks can ensure it remains secure and functional for your needs.

Clips allow goggles to fit most helmet types

The extended clip design of Halcyon goggles is meticulously crafted to ensure a secure and comfortable fit across various helmet styles. These longer clips are designed to extend beyond the thick padding of the helmet, allowing the goggles to sit snugly against the face for optimal comfort and protection. Without this feature, the goggles might hover between the helmet and the face, creating gaps that compromise their fit and effectiveness.

This thoughtful design element highlights Halcyon’s dedication to functionality and rider satisfaction, making their goggles a reliable choice for both comfort and performance.

Halcyon also provides smaller clips designed specifically for riders who prefer to wear goggles with leather helmets or without a helmet. These smaller clips offer a tailored fit and ensure the goggles stay secure and comfortable in these configurations. Caters to diverse rider preferences and styles.

Meets British safety standards

To earn the BS4110 certification, goggles must adhere to strict standards for safety and performance. These include:

  1. Impact Resistance: Goggles must withstand high-velocity impacts to protect the wearer from debris and other hazards during use.
  2. Durability: Materials used must endure various conditions, including weather extremes, without compromising function or safety.
  3. Sealing Efficiency: The goggles must fit securely to prevent the entry of particles, wind, or moisture around the eyes.

The BS4110 mark serves as a benchmark for quality and safety in protective eyewear, particularly for high-risk environments like motorsports, aviation, and industrial settings. It assures users of reliable performance under demanding conditions.

Verdict

Halcyon classic motorcycle leather goggles are a premium product, priced higher than most motorcycle eyewear, but they deliver exceptional value for the investment. The craftsmanship, durability, and timeless style make them stand out. While cheaper imitations often lack the quality and may fail after limited use, Halcyon’s Mark 49 Goggles are built to last. Some owners report their goggles remaining in excellent condition even after 30+ years of regular use.

This longevity, paired with their classic design and functionality, justifies the cost and makes them a highly recommended choice for riders who prioritize quality and reliability.

MARK 49 LEATHER MOTORCYCLE GOGGLES – BUY ONLINE
AMAZONPRICE: £68.95*VIEW
*Price last updated on the 26th of November 2024 at 09:00 am GMT
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to this product.

Mark 49 Halcyon Leather Goggles

GoggleWear

Build Quality
Price

Summary

Premium quality goggles! Ideal for taking outdoors in all weather conditions.

4.5

15 thoughts on “Classic Motorcycle Leather Goggles Review – Mark 49 | Halcyon

  1. Do these use laminated glass lenses? I don’t see any mention of them here, did they stop doing them?

    1. Unfortunately, Classicpartsltd no longer provide laminated glass lenses. You can still see them in the replacement parts section of their website, but they have been out of stock for several years. The team told me the manufacturing costs became too high and the bump up in price would be an unreasonable amount. They only provide scratch and impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses now.

    1. Compact goggles are available! Halcyon provide the Mark49 goggles with smaller frames and padding to fit most open-faced helmets. If you’re unsure if the standard Mk49 types will sit large against the face, I recommend looking at the compact section of their website.

    1. Yes, the old pair of Stadium goggles you have are now being manufactured by Halcyon. Stadium sold the company and Halcyon (previously known as Halcyon Ford) took over. The same old tooling is still being used today, so if you need any replacement parts for your old Stadium goggles, Halcyon can provide them. : )

  2. I saw some antique Steampunk versions of the Halcyon goggles. Can i use these at Burning Man events? Will the goggles keep out sand and dust?

    1. I have been sent a Steampunk goggle and will review them soon! : )
      Speaking with the Halcyon team, they have told me all goggles they manufacture will be suitable for Burning Man events. While the goggles do have ventilation holes on the frames, sand and dust should not get through! I hope this helps.

    1. You are correct! The goggles did appear in the grand tour: one for the road. This was the last episode sadly…

  3. Do the Mark 49 motorcycle goggles come with faux leather? I don’t want to use real leather as i’m vegan.

    1. I have been told Classicpartsltd have got the Mark 9 Deluxe Goggles back in stock due to popular demand. The Mk9 Range uses a synthetic leather facemask. This should be suitable for you. : )

  4. I saw these on Amazon and was unsure. Thanks for the review! I have placed my order and this will be a perfect gift for my Grandad. : )

  5. Thanks for the review, I’ve been using Halcyon goggles for years! I have the compact type while riding my triumph motorcycle and they haven’t failed me yet. : )

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