Frame Color: Black
Lens: Photochromic Clear To Gray Lens
MSRP: $289
Product Details from Smith:
Vision
- Light-sensitive, photochromic lenses adapt to changing light conditions
- Smith MAG™ lets you change lenses quickly
- Smudge and moisture-resistant coatings for easy cleaning and clear optics
Fit / Integration
- Large to XL fit, XL coverage
- 5-base cylindrical shield lens curvature
- Slight wraparound fit
- Megol temples and nose pads provide non-slip grip so glasses stay put
- Two-position, adjustable Megol nose pads
Frame
- High impact resistant TR90 nylon frame
- AutoLock hinges hold frames open for easy one-hand on and off
Review:
As an avid mountain biker, I have tried and tested numerous sunglasses throughout the years, seeking the perfect combination of functionality and style. My quest led me to the Smith Shift Mag XL Performance Sunglasses, and I must say they have surpassed all my expectations. I normally have two pairs of glasses I use for biking, depending on the light. The Smith Shift Mag XL with the Photochromic Clear To Gray Lens alleviated the need for two pairs and has become my go to.
The Smith Shift Mag XL is definitely made for larger face profiles. It offers a wide field of view and excellent protection from the sun’s harmful rays. The large profile feels like looking through a snowboard goggle with great peripheral vision. Being larger it also offers protection to your face and eyes from flying debris and branches.
The Shift Shift Mag XL glasses are also very comfortable to wear, thanks to the adjustable nose pads and temple tips. They stay put while riding thanks to the non-slip pads so you don’t have to worry about adjusting them. The nose piece has a hinge piece to adjust to your nose profile. I expected them to be heavier since they are large, but they are incredibly lightweight. You hardly notice them on your face at all.
Smith has a full line of lenses to accommodate your riding style. I found the Photochromic Clear To Gray Lens to be perfect. It does not get super dark so if you have sensitive eyes you may want to look into another lens. I really enjoyed not having to swap glasses depending on lighting.
The glasses come with a spare clear lens which I found to be great for night rides or overcast days. It also comes in a hard case to help protect your glasses when not in use. The lenses are attached to the top part of the frame and have small vents to prevent fogging.
Swapping lenses on most sunglasses can be very challenging. The Shift Mag is a quick, easy lens swap. The Smith logo by the temple is actually a release button housing magnets to hold the lens in place. You simply fold the earpieces in, press the temple piece to release then gently pull on the center of the lens. To replace them, you line up the new lens, snap it in place and close the temple pieces.
Overall Impressions:
The Smith Shift Mag XL glasses are a great choice for mountain bikers who want a wide field of view and excellent protection from the sun’s harmful rays. The XL frame provides plenty of peripheral vision. The Mag XL glasses are also very comfortable to wear, thanks to the adjustable nose pads and temple tips. Overall, the Smith Shift Mag XL glasses are a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality pair of sunglasses for mountain biking. They offer excellent protection from the sun, a wide field of view, and comfortable fit.
Pros:
- Wide field of view
- Excellent protection from the sun’s harmful rays
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- May not be suitable for all face shapes