ABOUT THE SMITH XC SUNGLASSES
Smith uses its Evolve™ technology in the creation of the XC’s frames. The XCs feature a 100% bio-based nylon frame that is made up of at least 55% castor oil. Not only does this create a light and durable frame, but it also has a less negative impact on the environment. Smith also uses Megol nose pads for extra grip, helping keep the XCs in place.
The XC’s frames have a medium to large fit and boast full-coverage lenses. While the lenses are relatively large, they have a more moderate wrap-around fit, not curving as close to the face as some of Smith’s other offerings. This is of course part of their style and aesthetic, but has its drawbacks as a result.
As is common with the Smith brand, the XCs have a smudge-resistant ChromaPop™ lens for clarity and UV protection. Smith offers nine different lens and frame options for the XC; however, customers are locked into their first choice. Unlike typical Smith cycling sunglasses, the XCs do not have an interchangeable clear lens. Instead, the lens flips up, making low-light missions and quick indoor trips possible, with some steeze thrown in. They retail for $175 for the standard ChromaPop lens variants, or $215 for the polarized versions.
THE DIRT
I’ve been able to test quite a few pairs of Smith sunglasses over the past few years, and I can confidently say I am a fan. From the frames to the lenses, it is clear that Smith puts quite a bit of care and quality into the glasses they make. I’m a massive fan of the clarity and definition of ChromaPop lenses, and any time material used to make the frames has less of an impact, that’s something I can get behind.
The XCs were comfortable and stayed in place well. While I figured I’d use the flip-up lens feature more, I found that taking my sunglasses off when I walk into a building is too tough a habit to break. Flipping them up while riding my bike meant dust and wind directly in my eyes, so down they stayed.
I have two pairs of Smith XC sunglasses — one with a ChromaPop Low Light Copper Lens (pictured) and the other with a ChromaPop Black Lens. As you might imagine, each is good in the proper lighting. The Black Lens takes the edge off but still delivers plenty of definition in the shadows during bright days, and the Low Light Copper Lens makes features pop on overcast days. However, the lack of interchangeable lenses meant going between two complete pairs of sunglasses.
While that wasn’t the end of the world, I did find that the XCs let quite a bit of wind and dust (sometimes) into my eyes. The lenses don’t wrap around my face nearly as much as other Smith sunglasses, and wind easily got behind them. This resulted in tearful rides, especially if there was any fast descending. After a while, I was having to reach for different glasses to ride in.
The Wolf’s Last Word
Because the Smith XC sunglasses allowed too much wind to get behind the lenses, I won’t be using them for much outside of easy rides. When it comes to high-speed descending, something like the Smith Wildcat is my go-to. When it comes to looking rad, I’ll reach for the XCs. 
Price: $175
Website: Smithoptics.com
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ABOUT THE WOLF
The local boy — Travis was born and raised in Bend, OR. Skateboarding consumed his life until his high school years (yes, he can still kickflip), but was replaced by mountain biking…then rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and finally back to mountain biking. After a stint in the big city, Travis returned home, trading a teaching career to be an okay mountain biker and above-average journalist. He is an outspoken 90s grunge fan, cornering poor souls in conversations about the meaning behind the lyrics of Alice In Chains’ “Would.” Most days, Travis hopes to be outside, whether that is on an early morning ride or a hike with his family (the best days include both).
Rank: Contributing Writer
Size: 5’8” / 172cm | 195lbs / 88kg
Social: @travis_reill_writes
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