CYBERSIGHT has officially launched its new Z1 audio sunglasses on Kickstarter, introducing a pair of sports sunglasses that combine sun protection, music playback, and hands-free calling in one lightweight design.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post written in partnership with Cybersight.
A Different Approach to Open-Ear Audio
The idea behind the Z1 is straightforward. Wearing traditional sunglasses and headphones together can become uncomfortable during extended workouts. Earbuds may also slip out due to sweat, while conventional headphones can create pressure around the ears. The CYBERSIGHT Z1 aims to address these issues with an open-ear audio system and a distinctive Z-shaped frame designed specifically for movement.
One of the most interesting features of the Z1 is its Z-shaped temple design, which CYBERSIGHT calls part of its Sports Acoustic Architecture. The frame isn’t just an aesthetic choice; its shape serves both acoustic and ergonomic purposes.
The angled temple structure is designed to redirect incoming airflow away from the ear canal, helping reduce wind noise when cycling or running. Meanwhile, the dropped section of each temple positions the speakers closer to the ears, directing sound toward the wearer without blocking the ear canals.
This means users can listen to music while remaining aware of surrounding sounds. That’s particularly important for outdoor activities where situational awareness matters.
Another interesting tech is SpeedSync Audio, which automatically adjusts volume and sound balance according to the user’s speed. When picking up speed, the system increases the audio output to help music remain audible over wind noise. When slowing down or stopping, it lowers the volume, making conversations with teammates easier without having to reach for the controls.
Designed for Comfort During Longer Workouts
Traditional sports glasses can create pressure around the nose pads and behind the ears, especially when worn for extended periods. CYBERSIGHT’s Z-shaped frame changes how weight and pressure are distributed across the glasses, aiming to reduce those pressure points.
The company also uses a wraparound sports design to keep the glasses suitable for outdoor activities. The frames are available in black and white, with high-contrast and photochromic lens options for different lighting conditions.
For the lenses, CYBERSIGHT uses Covestro Makrolon LQ-grade optical polycarbonate. The material is impact-resistant and shatterproof, while providing full-spectrum UV protection. The Z1 also supports 2 prescription options: direct one-piece prescription sport lenses or a removable prescription insert. The prescription solution uses Mitsui Chemicals MR-7 ultra-thin optical resin and supports correction of up to 6.00 diopters.
Clearer Calls and Convenient Connectivity
The Z1 also features a hybrid 4-microphone system designed to improve call quality in windy outdoor environments.
Each temple contains an air-conduction microphone and a bone-conduction pickup sensor. The air microphones capture surrounding noise, while the bone-conduction sensors detect vibrations from the wearer’s voice. Working together, these microphones help reduce the impact of wind and ambient noise during phone calls.
Connectivity is handled by Bluetooth 6.1 with Multipoint support. Users can connect the glasses to a smartphone and a compatible smartwatch simultaneously. One particularly useful feature is automatic audio switching: when a phone call comes in while listening to music from a smartwatch, the Z1 switches to the phone call and resumes music playback afterward without requiring manual reconnection.
Through a connected smartphone, users can also receive workout audio cues from compatible apps and access voice assistants such as Siri or Gemini.
Battery Life and Everyday Practicality
The Z1 is designed to remain practical for everyday outdoor use. CYBERSIGHT claims up to 6 hours of playback at 70% volume, which should be sufficient for many shorter training sessions.
The glasses also carry an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance, offering some protection against the elements during outdoor activities. Physical buttons and touch controls are available for adjusting volume, controlling music, and answering calls.
Pricing
CYBERSIGHT launched the Z1 on Kickstarter on October 29, 2026. The Super Early Bird price is just $129, including shipping and taxes. The company also provides a 1-year global warranty.
This isn’t CYBERSIGHT’s first crowdfunding campaign. According to the company, its previous campaign in 2025 raised $817,746 from more than 2,100 backers, with products delivered to customers in over 60 countries. At $129 during its Super Early Bird campaign, the Z1 looks like an interesting option in the growing smart eyewear market.
