The 100% brand has become synonymous with style, speed, and statement-making gear. From its unmistakable goggles worn by World Cup DH pros to the signature sunglasses seen across gravel, road, and mountain scenes, 100% doesn’t just design equipment — it creates an attitude.
In 2026, 100% stands as one of the most influential names in cycling optics, helmets, and apparel. This review dives into the brand’s history, technology, and product lineup to see whether 100% lives up to its name.
Brand Overview: From Motocross to Mountain and Road
The roots of 100% stretch back to the early 1980s motocross scene. The name originated as a simple question on a sticker:
“How much effort do you give?”
That slogan grew into a mindset — a symbol of dedication, courage, and all-out performance. Decades later, 100% transitioned from moto to mountain biking and cycling, bringing along its DNA of bold design, high-speed focus, and race-ready tech.
Today, 100% sponsors elite athletes like Loïc Bruni, Peter Sagan, and Sam Hill, spanning the full spectrum from downhill MTB to road racing. Their eyewear, helmets, and protection lines now define what high-performance gear looks like.
1. Eyewear: The Heart of the 100% Identity
If you’ve seen a pro road cyclist or World Cup DH racer, chances are you’ve seen 100% eyewear. The brand’s glasses combine aggressive styling with technical precision.
S3 & S2
- Inspired by Peter Sagan’s original Signature Series
- Full-frame protection with enhanced ventilation
- HiPER® lens technology for ultra-contrast vision
- Adjustable temple tips and nose pads for a custom fit
These models balance aerodynamic efficiency with coverage — perfect for both gravel and road use.
Speedcraft
The Speedcraft is arguably 100%’s most iconic piece of gear.
- Worn by countless pro riders
- Available in standard and Speedcraft XS sizes
- Interchangeable lenses with Hydrophobic + Oleophobic coating
- 100% UV protection
The Speedcraft doesn’t just perform — it’s become a cultural icon in cycling eyewear.
Hypercraft
An engineering marvel, the Hypercraft delivers massive coverage at a shockingly low weight.
- Ultracarbon™ frame weighs under 24 grams
- Featherlight, flexible, and impact-resistant
- Ideal for endurance athletes who want maximum ventilation
100% eyewear consistently outperforms rivals like Oakley, Rudy Project, and POC in weight-to-protection ratio — without sacrificing flair.
2. Helmets: Protection with Attitude
100% took its moto helmet expertise and applied it to cycling, creating a powerful new standard for MTB protection.
100% Altec
The Altec is the brand’s flagship trail helmet.
- 14 large vents for maximum airflow
- Smartshock® Rotational Protection System
- Extended rear coverage
- Washable, moisture-wicking liner
It’s lightweight, well-ventilated, and stylishly aggressive — a go-to for trail and all-mountain riders.
100% Trajecta
For enduro and aggressive trail riders, the Trajecta adds DH-level protection without full-face weight.
- Smartshock® system
- Integrated visor and full ventilation channels
- DH-certified while maintaining a compact feel
The Trajecta competes directly with the Fox Proframe RS and POC Otocon — but at a lower price point and edgier aesthetic.
Aircraft 2 Helmet
For DH and BMX, the Aircraft 2 is pure pro-level protection.
- Carbon/Kevlar composite shell
- 25% lighter than most DH helmets
- Smartshock® system + multi-density EPS
- Emergency-release cheek pads
It’s one of the safest and lightest downhill helmets money can buy — with world-class ventilation to match.
3. Apparel: The Racer’s Edge
While 100% is best known for helmets and eyewear, their apparel range has exploded in recent years.
R-Core / R-Core X
Built for downhill and enduro use:
- Durable 4-way stretch materials
- Fade-resistant graphics
- Laser-cut ventilation
The R-Core X line adds Cordura panels and a race fit used by World Cup athletes.
Airmatic
Designed for trail riders who value balance between comfort and performance:
- Casual fit with technical fabrics
- Moisture-wicking mesh paneling
- Reinforced seams
Ridecamp
The entry-level line for recreational riders:
- Budget-friendly
- Great fit and finish for the price
- Pairs perfectly with 100% gloves and helmets
4. Gloves and Accessories
100% gloves are among the most popular in the MTB world, offering tactile grip and style at every price point.
- Brisker – Lightweight, insulated glove for cool conditions
- Cognito D3O® – Integrated knuckle protection
- Ridefit – Minimalist glove for maximum bar feel
Each model emphasizes function and comfort, while maintaining the brand’s trademark look.
5. Technology: Smartshock® and HiPER® Lenses
Two technologies define 100%’s approach to performance gear:
- Smartshock®: Rotational impact protection system designed to absorb and dissipate energy across multiple directions during a crash.
- HiPER® Lenses: Contrast-enhancing optics that separate colors and increase depth perception — especially valuable in changing light conditions.
Together, they embody the brand’s DNA — technical innovation married with bold design.
6. Design Language: Moto Roots, Modern Expression
100%’s design philosophy is loud, proud, and unapologetically aggressive. The angular lines, oversized lenses, and race graphics make it clear: this brand was born in the dirt.
It’s performance gear that looks fast even when standing still.
If POC is Scandinavian restraint and Fox is modern utility, 100% is pure adrenaline.
7. 100% vs. Fox Racing vs. POC vs. Troy Lee Designs
| Brand | Strengths | Weaknesses | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% | Style-forward, lightweight, pro-level gear | Flashier design not for everyone | Riders who want aggressive aesthetics with serious tech |
| Fox Racing | Complete lineup and broad accessibility | Slightly heavier builds | All-around riders |
| POC Sports | Safety-first, minimalist, premium | Expensive, understated | Safety-focused riders |
| Troy Lee Designs | Race culture, color, artistry | Premium pricing | Gravity and enduro enthusiasts |
Verdict: 100% Lives Up to Its Name
In 2026, 100% continues to define the visual identity of high-performance cycling. Its gear isn’t just protective — it’s expressive.
From the Hypercraft sunglasses to the Trajecta helmet, every product radiates a sense of speed, purpose, and passion. The technology is real, the protection is elite, and the brand story is powerful.
If your riding style is bold, fast, and unapologetically confident — 100% is for you.
FAQ: 100% Sports
Q: Is 100% a good cycling brand?
A: Absolutely. 100% is one of the top global names in cycling and motocross gear, trusted by professionals for its lightweight protection, sharp design, and dependable performance.
Q: Are 100% helmets safe?
A: Yes. Helmets like the Altec and Trajecta feature Smartshock® protection systems that rival MIPS and offer multi-directional impact absorption.
Q: What’s the best 100% helmet for trail riding?
A: The Altec is ideal for trail and all-mountain riders who want ventilation, light weight, and coverage.
Q: How do HiPER® lenses compare to Oakley’s PRIZM?
A: Both enhance contrast and depth, but HiPER lenses tend to produce slightly sharper color separation with less tint distortion.
Q: Does 100% gear run true to size?
A: Generally yes — though gloves and jerseys tend to fit snug, as they’re designed for performance.
Q: Where is 100% based?
A: 100% is headquartered in San Diego, California, with design influence drawn from both American motocross and global cycling communities.
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Why Trust This Review?
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