What is required of sports sunglasses is a wide field of vision, minimal wind interference, and light weight. While these points may not be considered very important in daily life, they become critical when it comes to sports, and cycling in particular. Especially in situations where speeds increase, instantaneous judgment is vital, and for that, a wide, clear field of vision is necessary. This leads to reliable safety while riding, and ultimately, to a stress-free and comfortable ride.
A great recommendation for sports sunglasses that possess these functional aspects in good balance, and also have an outstanding look, is this “PIVLOCK™ ARENA” from “Smith Optics”.
The other day I introduced their helmets, but Smith’s specialty is, after all, eyewear, as it is a brand that started with ski goggles. (By the way, we still have a small amount of special-priced helmets in stock. If you are interested, please check them out.)
Smith Optics PIVLOCK™ ARENA ¥23,000 (tax excluded)
Colors: REACTOR PINK, BLACK, MATTE WHITE
The large lens and its beautifully curved shape minimize wind interference and provide sufficient UV protection. The unique design is such that it seems more accurate to describe it as a lens with temples and nose pads attached, rather than a lens attached to a frame.
The nose pad is adjustable in two stages, allowing it to fit the face shapes of many people.
The lens is also designed to be very easy to change.
Three lenses are provided for each model.
These include a mirror lens excellent at cutting out strong sunlight and glare, an Ignitor lens superior in reproducing distance and contours of objects, and a clear lens optimal for nighttime or inclement weather. The Ignitor lens in the center of the photo, in particular, is a proprietary Smith technology that is reassuring when more accurate judgment of road conditions is required, such as in cyclocross races or trail rides, and it gives the PivLock a wide range of usage situations.
Incidentally, Smith’s Overtake helmet is shaped to allow for smart storage of your eyewear when not in use. This can be said to be an idea that comes only from a brand like Smith, which started with eyewear. Furthermore, the compatibility between the Overtake and the PivLock is outstanding.
I have personally owned the predecessor model to this PivLock Arena for several years, and it has served me well in various weather and riding scenes, from sunny to rainy days, and from long rides to trail rides.
Sunglasses are not just needed in the summer; they are necessary to protect your eyes from cold wind and the dazzling sunlight pouring down from the clear blue winter sky.
Please give Smith’s PivLock a try.