Smith offers a wide range of eyewear for cyclists, with seemingly endless colour combinations between model and lens options. With the Smith Ruckus being my go-to eyewear on all my bikes, I was keen to try out the Defy model and see how they compared. Make sure to check out our Smith Payroll Mips helmet review.
Key Details of Smith Defy
- Model: Smith Defy
- Lens: ChromaPop Rose Gold Mirror (22% VLT) + Clear lens included
- Frame Colour: Matte Chalk Rose
- Fit: Medium to large, wraparound
- Protection: 100% UVA/B/C
- Interchangeable Lenses: Yes
- Best For: Road cycling, mountain biking, commuting
- Price: $225 AUD
- Stockist: smithopticsaustralia.com
- Tested By: Rider with petite head shape on road, MTB, and commute rides
This model has interchangeable lenses so you can keep your eyes safe no matter the conditions, including a slight wraparound fit making that niggly peripheral transition unnoticeable. As a female with a reasonably petite head, the medium to large size of the Defy surprisingly fit perfectly. While riding, these glasses fit like a glove. They did not move no matter how many sideways glances I made behind me while going downhill, where casual glasses would likely slip. They were very comfortable with no pressure points noticed at all.
The Chromapop Rose Gold Mirror lens is intended for medium to bright light providing 100% protection from harmful UVA/B/C rays, critical for Australia. With a 22% VLT or Visible Light Transmission, these lenses suit both variable and sunny conditions. This makes them a great option to enhance colour and clarity throughout a big day out on the road or mountain bike, or merely a Brisbane winter sunset commute home from the office. Polarized lenses are typically reserved for low VLT applications, so not a factor here.
Occasionally my day starts or ends in the dark or rain, so I used the clear lens supplied. I found changing out the lenses somewhat similar to goggles in the press fit, which was notably different from my other Smith glasses, and took some getting used to. The autolock hinges hold the frame open, which was super handy for putting the glasses on and off with one hand – so easy even my 2-year-old could nail it single-handedly.
Overall, these glasses are a great option for those looking for a medium-price point in performance eyewear and a massive upgrade for those wearing sunglasses from Bunnings. You can count on Smith to provide safe, comfortable, and stylish gear.
Pros:
- Price point
- Huge range of light conditions
- Comfortable and gorgeous classic Smith style
- 100% UVA/B/C protection
Cons
- Nil ventilation channel
- Lens change system not as flawless as other Smith models
