Cycling goggles with panoramic lenses: Smith Shift Split Mag put to the test
In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
Back in 1965, orthodontist Dr Bob Smith, who spent his winters as a ski bum in the mountains of Utah and Colorado, had the idea for ski goggles with thermal lenses and breathable foam. Smith is now not only a major player in the ski business, but also offers solutions for cycling. The Americans have a very special one in their programme with the Shift Split Mag.
Smith Shift Split Mag offers interchangeable system with magnetic clip
This has a magnetic clip system that allows the temples to be separated from the rest of the glasses. This allows the filters to be changed particularly elegantly, which brings us to the features. In addition to a generously sized hard case and the obligatory goggle bag, Smith also supplies a clear interchangeable lens.
A small drawback to the otherwise very successful interchangeable system: you must not forget to put the nose bridge on the replacement lens, otherwise it will be uncomfortable. The clean, rubberised bridge can be adjusted in two ways using a click system and thus adapted to the individual nose shape.
Enormously wide field of vision of the Smith Shift Split Mag
The huge panoramic windscreen - there is hardly a larger one in the entire test field - alternates between categories 1 and 3, with a very clear initial tint. The field of vision seems almost endless. The frame, which also has small ventilation slits towards the lens, is never in the field of vision. However, the Smith is quite high, which can get in the way of low-lying helmets. The high fit also leaves a clear gap down to the cheekbones, through which draughts can slip.
Overall, the Smith sits lightly and comfortably on the head, but above all without any pressing edges. However, due to its sheer size and the less taut temples, it can sit a little wobbly on shaking routes. The Shift Split Mag is really only something for large heads.
Protection from airstream not optimal
The Smith can't really capitalise on the advantage of its huge panoramic windscreen when it comes to wind protection. This is probably also due to the low curve of the windscreen. When travelling at speed, the wind swirls around the eyes a little more than with the more protective models from Evil Eye or Julbo. On the other hand, the anti-fog protection is excellent. Smith has given the Shift Split Mag an effective coating.
In terms of tinting speed, you're not buying a racehorse with the Smith, but you're not buying a lame horse either. Both values - darkening and brightening - are pretty much in the middle of the test field.
Info & price of the Smith Shift Split Mag
- Price315 Euro >> available here
- Made in: k. A.
- Weight: 26,2 g
- Width / temple length: 150 / 136 mm
- Nose bridge width / lens height: 17 / 62 mm
- Adjustability: temples, double nose bridge
- Filter colour / filter class: brown mirrored / 1 - 3
- Light transmission measured: 49 - 11 %
- Fitfor wide faces, variable nose bridge
- Equipment / special featuresClear interchangeable lens; hardcase softcase; microfibre bag / magnetic lens change system with filter; front ventilation
- Alternatives: 7 frame and filter colours
Evaluation & test summary
- Self-tinting (40 %): Grade: 2.8
- Visibility & protection (25 %): Grade: 1.3
- Fit & comfort (25 %): Grade: 2.3
- Equipment (10 %): Grade: 2.0
- Overall grade: 2.2
Huge field of vision, ample features, good adjustment. However, the fit and tinting speed are only moderate.
Thanks to its huge panoramic lens, the Smith offers the best view and sufficient protection from wind and flying objects. Its brown filter enhances contrasts, but is quite dark and tones rather slowly. You can switch to the clear lens using the magnetic clip. Top: good anti-fog protection. Even on wide faces, the Smith sits almost too loosely and very high due to its low tension. Wobbly frame.
