Hot!
- ChromaPop lens enhances contrast and natural color, making details pop, especially in dappled sunlight
- Comes standard with one clear lens and one ChromaPop™ lens
- Large shield, with a slight wraparound fit, provides superior protection from debris, dust, and wind, as well as an unobstructed field of vision
- Smith MAG™ system magnetic clip design for a quick and simple way to swap out lenses
- Vents at the brow line help with airflow and reduces fogging
- Megol temple and nose pads prevent slipping
- 2-position nose pads for a custom fit
- Temple fits a rearview mirror
- Lightweight at only 28g
- Hardshell zipper case protects sunglasses when not wearing them
Not!
- Only fits medium and large faces
- Pricey
Price: $269 (on sale at the time of this review $215.20)
Colors: Black, Matte Terra/Poppy, Matte Stone/Moss, Matte Bone, Aurora/Dew, Neon Yellow, White
Frame: Uses Smith MAG™ for quick lens changes and high-impact TR90 nylon frame
Weight: 28g
Dimensions: 139mm width, 60mm height, 125mm temple length
Fit: Medium to large face
Lens Coating: Smudge and moisture-resistant coatings
Availability: Online or retail
How Obtained: Sample from company
RBR Sponsor: No
Smith Expands on its Shift MAG Line
Smith Optics recently added to its Shift MAG line of sunglasses by introducing the Shift Split MAG. The “Split” name comes from the removal of the lower portion of the frame. So it’s similar to the Shift MAG I reviewed in March 2021 but with half the amount of frame, plus one ounce lighter. I think this new design has a really “cool” look, and the neon yellow sample the company sent is my favorite.
This model has the same large shield for superior unobstructed visibility and protection from debris. Being a contact lens wearer, I appreciate the added coverage. Also, the lens is treated with smudge and moisture-resistant coatings to keep it cleaner.
The Shift Split MAG is made to fit riders with medium and large faces; unfortunately, my face is very narrow, so even the Megol temple and two-position nose pads were not enough to keep the sunglasses from slipping down my nose. I wish Smith would make a similar model for narrow faces, as I’d like to be able to wear them post-review. However, for those of you with a medium to broader face, you’re in luck!
Lens Swaps Out Quickly
All versions of the Shift Split MAG come with a clear lens. Using the proprietary Smith MAG™ system, you can easily swap lenses in seconds. Several models of Smith sunglasses use this magnetic system, and I’m amazed at how easy it is to switch to a clear lens and back again, depending on the light condition.
What Comes in the Box?
The Shift Split has you covered for various light conditions since it comes with one ChromaPop and one clear lens. The hardshell zipper case is standard and stores the sunglass frame and two lenses, plus a large storage pouch that doubles as a microfiber cleaning cloth.
Bottom Line
Smith’s superior optics combine with a fashionable frame make the Shift Split MAG an excellent pair of cycling sunglasses. Yes, they are pricey, but you’re paying for better-quality optics than the cheaper brands. One ride will prove it.
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.
My one(!) disagreement with Smith is the case. It approaches the size of a small valise and is not practical for packing (or even keeping if your cupboard is already a bit crowded). I love their actual product though – I’ll likely never upgrade because the things seem to last forever!
I use a different brand of wrap around sunglasses. There are no holes or slits for air circulation. This causes sweat to dribble down on the inside of the lens. My point is, if your evaluating which sunglasses to buy, you might be better off with glasses (such as the ones reviewed above) that have vents for better air circulation.