Price: $245 to $305, depending on which model frame
Frame Color: Black
Lens VLT: 67% to 12%
Lens Coating: Smudge and moisture-resistant coatings
Availability: Online or retail
How Obtained: Sample from company
RBR Sponsor: No
How do you improve on a great pair of sunglasses? If you are a product manager at Smith, you add ChromaPop technology to their PhotoChromic lens. It doesn’t matter if you’re riding on a cloudy day or bright sunshine; the lenses enhance natural color to make details pop, clarity, and definition while automatically adjusting to different lighting conditions. With a VLT swing ranges from 67% to 12%, Smith now offers five of their popular high-performance frames with the ChromaPop PhotoChromic lens ―Shift Split MAG, Shift MAG, Shift XL MAG, Bobcat, and Wildcat. However, note that they only offer this unique lens with a black frame. I am unsure why they’d limit the frame style when most cyclists like colored or patterned frames to match their helmets or bikes.
Each style frame comes with a bonus clear lens, a hard shell storage case, and a microfiber bag that doubles as a cleaning cloth. Prices vary from $245 to $305, depending on frame choice.
For details on the specific frames, check out my past reviews:
As for the new ChromaPop PhotoChromic lens – it’s a great option when riding in varying or changing light conditions. Remember, the PhotoChromic lens will not change inside a car as the UV rays don’t penetrate the treated windows.
Smith Motive Sunglasses
Price: $175-185
Frame Colors: Wild Child, Matte Black, Black, Bone, Pacific Sedona, and Crystal
Lenses: Two lenses – one for bright sun and a clear option for low-light or night rides
Frame: TR90 nylon
Weight: 28 grams
Dimensions: 55mm Lens Height x 74mm Lens Width x 6mm Bridge width x 130mm Temple Length
Fit: Medium fit, large coverage
Lens Coating: Smudge and moisture-resistant coating
Enhance Your Ride with Smith’s Motive Sunglasses
Smith’s Motive sunglasses are specifically for cycling, with features designed to enhance visibility, comfort, and protection when riding on the road, gravel, or singletrack. The individual ChromoPop lenses provide a clear view of the road or trail, allowing you to ride with confidence. Even when you start to sweat, the glasses stay put and won’t bounce thanks to the non-slip Megol temple grips and adjustable nose pads, which also help to customize the fit and manage airflow effectively.
When the pace picks up, the strategically placed dual vents at the brow line allow plenty of airflow to keep you cool and prevent moisture buildup. The auto-lock hinges keep the frames open, facilitating easy, one-hand removal of the glasses. Smudge and moisture-resistant coatings let you easily clean and clear optics.
The TR90 frame is lightweight and highly durable. Available in six colors/patterns, I tested the Wild Child variant with its fun, eye-catching mix of purple, red, and black. Other available colors include Matte Black, Black, Bone, Pacific Sedona, and Crystal. Although the frames fit comfortably on my narrow face, they are ideally suited for those with a medium head width.
Included in the Box
The Motive frame comes with ChromaPop bright light lenses installed and interchangeable clear lenses. The compact hard shell zipper case keeps your sunglasses safe, and the microfiber pouch included inside is perfect for storage and cleaning.
Bottom Line
Smith’s Motive sunglasses are an excellent choice for cyclists seeking enhanced clarity, comfort, and protection on various terrains. The combination of ChromoPop lenses for superior visibility, adjustable features for a secure fit, and ventilation makes them exceptionally functional. Additionally, their durable, lightweight design and availability in multiple colors ensure style and longevity.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.