After a successful first few years, the young start-up from Whistler now presents the second generation of their eyewear line-up. The spotlight is on the new Nita glasses, which we already tested back in 2023. The second generation now includes the Nita 2 and, additionally, the Nita XL – a model especially aimed at riders with bigger heads. For all gravity fans, there’s a new Alta goggle featuring cool specs and different color and lens options. And all this comes at a fair price and with a strong focus on sustainability – perfect!
Coast Optics’ vision remains unchanged, as the two-man startup from Whistler continues to strive to offer stylish and functional products with the smallest possible ecological footprint. And at a fair price, too – the new models start at around € 70. Of course, there’s a wide range of lenses, colors, and straps available, which you can mix and match on the Coast Optics website.
The Coast Optics Nita 2 in detail
The new Coast Optics Nita 2 is slightly bigger than its predecessor but continues to offer the familiar features, including interchangeable lenses and a removable nosepiece. The temples have been redesigned slightly but still feature a rubberized inner surface to ensure a secure fit. The Nita 2 is available in three different frame colors: Driftwood, Alpen, and Black. Once you’ve chosen a frame color, you can select from five different lenses. Needless to say, you can pick multiple lenses and swap them out as needed.
The clear lens has 85% light transmission, no tint, and the lowest retail price in the range. Then there are three tinted lenses – Pink, Black, and Gold – each with varying levels of tint and light transmission. If you choose one of the three tinted lenses, a clear lens is included in the price, meaning you’ll get two lenses right away – cool! Lastly, there’s the photochromic lens, which automatically adjusts to the lighting conditions but is also the most expensive option. All lenses feature anti-fog technology, which had already impressed us in our first test of the Nita. The Nita 2 uses a frame made from Bio-TR90 — a bio-based plastic that’s partly made from renewable, plant-derived materials.
The Coast Optics Nita XL in detail
The brand-new Nita XL is based on the design of the Nita 2 but has an even bigger field of vision. The lens is 10 mm higher and 2 mm wider, while the temple length remains the same. This makes it particularly appealing to riders with bigger heads and fans of oversized eyewear. Aside from its increased field of view, it features the same properties and specs as the Nita 2, and the color and lens options are identical as well. Another great aspect: it doesn’t cost more than the Nita 2, so you can choose freely based on size and personal preference. Like its smaller sibling, the Nita XL’s frame is made from the bio-based Bio-TR90 plastic.
The Coast Optics Alta 2 in detail
Last but not least, the Coast Optics Alta 2 goggles have received an update. The focus here was on improving the fit with a triple-layer foam and enhancing the field of view. Additionally, it now features a revised lens-changing system. This relies on a magnetic closure and can be easily operated even with gloves, allowing lenses to be clicked in or out within seconds.
The Alta 2 goggles are available in two colors: Black and Driftwood. The goggle strap is also easily interchangeable and comes in three color options: Black, Tan, and Fig. The frame of the Alta 2 is made from Bio-TPU, a material partially derived from bio-based raw materials. The goggle strap, on the other hand, is partially made from recycled polyester.
All new Coast Optics models at a glance
| Model | Glas | Color | Price | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nita 2 | Black Sun | Alpen | aprox. € 90 | 31 g |
| Nita XL | Photochrom | Driftwood | aprox. € 100 | 37 g |
| Alta 2 | Klar | Driftwood | aprox. € 70 | 148 g |
The new Coast Optics glasses on test
For riders who prefer a smaller frame, the Nita 2 is the ideal choice. Slightly more compact and 6 g lighter, it’s a very comfortable fit. Even in rough trail sections, the glasses stay perfectly in place and don’t cause any pressure points behind the ears or on the nose. This is thanks to the short rubberized temples and the Ultra Grip nosepiece.
If you’re after a larger field of view or simply prefer a bigger frame, the Nita XL is the way to go. On the trail, it’s light and comfortable– despite the generous field of vision and low weight of 37 g. However, you should keep your helmet’s compatibility in mind, as deeper helmet shells may come into contact with the frame.
Our favorite among the lenses was the photochromic option, which adapts rapidly to changing light conditions without ever becoming too dark.
So even when entering a dense forest section, visibility remains excellent, and there’s no need to slow down. When the sun comes out, the lens darkens – as you can see in our photos – keeping glare out of your eyes. If you want to swap or clean your lens, the quick-change system lets you remove it from the frame within seconds – awesome! The tinted lenses aren’t overly dark either, and we never had to remove them even in dark forest segments.
When it’s time for bike park sessions and shuttle laps, the new Alta 2 goggles come into play. They stand out above all through their optimized fit, excellent ventilation, and anti-fog technology. We never experienced fogging while riding – even during extended uphill sprints. If you remain stationary at the trailhead for a longer time, the lens may start to fog slightly, but as soon as you’re moving again, the fog clears within seconds and your vision is fully restored. Swapping out the lens is a breeze thanks to two magnetic closures. We often used this feature on the trail to quickly clean off dirt and debris. The goggle strap is replaceable if needed. This makes the Alta 2 not just ideal for bike park days, but also a perfect choice for enduro racers who prefer to ride with a full-face helmet.
Conclusions about the new Coast Optics glasses
The new Coast Optics line stands out with its excellent price-performance ratio and stylish design. Both the glasses and the goggles are very comfortable to wear. We were particularly impressed by the secure fit, the anti-fog technology, and the clever lens exchange system. Combined with Coast Optics’ sustainable and mindful approach, there’s every reason to support this small brand from Whistler.
Tops
- Very fair pricing
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Doesn’t fog up
- Stylish design
Flops
- None
For more information, visit the Coast Optics website.
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Words: Peter Walker, Jan Pätzold Photos: Peter Walker
