Review: Smith Leadout PivLock Sunglasses
I prefer my sunglasses to have plenty of tech. But I don’t like them to look too flashy, since I also wear them casually for day-to-day activities. I’d rather not look like I’m going for the KOM on the Main Street STRAVA segment while I walk to get a coffee. However, I still appreciate the features that often accompany other futuristic, cyborg eyewear. For me, the Smith Leadout PivLock sunglasses are the best blend of form and function I could find. These sunglasses come with a hard-sided travel case, a microfiber sleeve, replacement nose pieces, and alternative low-light lenses.
Despite their framed design, the sunglasses offer a huge coverage area. Because of their moderate wrap, the frame is almost entirely out of view, but the gap is still large enough to promote airflow and reduce fogging. The frame itself is durable and has a little bit of play to ensure toughness and durability. Smith’s "ChromaPop" lenses offer a more natural color palette compared to other lenses. There’s not so much tint that it feels like my vision is distorted, but just enough to provide some extra contrast on bright, sunny days.
The biggest draw for me, and what gives these sunglasses their name, is the PivLock feature. Simply hinge the earpiece to allow the lenses to be removed and replaced hassle-free. That’s where the extra low-light lenses come in handy. I can quickly and easily swap in the perfect lens for the conditions. Even if the conditions change rapidly, I’ll be prepared with an alternative for the circumstances. Riding out on the trail, hiking on a summit, or just cruising around town, the Smith Leadout PivLock Sunglasses will be right in place.
smithoptics.com; $209.
