Smith Bobcat Review – Full Wraparound Glasses for Lightweight Trail Riding
Lightweight glasses with a slender fit
Key Details of Smith Bobcat
Product: Smith Bobcat
RRP: $295 AUD
Website: smithopticsaustralia.com
Best For: Cyclists and skiers with smaller heads
Lens: Chromapop Opal Mirror (30% VLT), includes clear lens
Fit: Slender, wraparound with Megol temples and nose pads for grip
Use Case: Trail riding, road riding, running
Notable Feature: Excellent compatibility with Smith Forefront 2 helmet
I have been testing out the Smith Bobcat in Matte Amethyst with Chromapop Opal Mirror lens for a few months now. Here’s the lowdown on these lightweight, comfortable specs.
READ MORE: Mountain Bike Sunglasses Group Test
Smith pitches the Bobcat as an option for cyclists (and skiers) who are looking for a full goggle-like coverage option with a ¾ frame, in a slimmer fit. The Chromapop Opal Mirror lens allows for 30% visible light transmission (VLT), making them a solid option for open and light trails or big days on bright, alpine mountains. If you are riding in heavily forested areas, these glasses also arrive with a clear lens.
The Bobcats are available in a range of other colour and lens options, however the Matte Amethyst/Opal Mirror lens features the highest VLT; if you’re looking for a lightly tinted lens option these may not be for you!
Smith Bobcat On the Trail
The fit of the Bobcat glasses is definitely on the slender side, with an anatomical wraparound style they really hug my small head. The Megol temples and nose pads also add some extra grip to keep the glasses in place, even on the roughest of descents.
The coverage of the wraparound fit and large lens is fabulous – something that can be difficult to find for a rider with a smaller head. The Chromapop lens was durable and a really great all-rounder. I found myself reaching for the Bobcats on many early road rides and runs in addition to on the mountain bike. The only time I felt a bit annoyed with the lens was in deeply forested areas. It must be noted I definitely prefer a much lighter lens, though, so I would foresee that many others wouldn’t have this issue.
Our take
Overall I have been super impressed with the Smith Bobcat. They are definitely a pair of glasses that grew on me over time, to the point where now they are my go-to pair regardless of if I am on the trails, the road or my two feet. They integrate well with Smith’s Forefront 2 helmet, are super lightweight and have stood up to some solid abuse over the past few months and still look as good as new.
If you are after sunglasses that are lightweight with full coverage for a smaller head, check out the Smith Bobcat.
