Brand: Smith Optics
Category: Climbing Sunglasses
Recommended by Philip Burnett, Weber State University Rental Manager — Ogden, UT
Highlights: long distance, stability, photochromic lenses
The Smith Bobcat sunglasses offer a perfect blend of goggle-like coverage and lightweight comfort, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who demand performance and style. With advanced ChromaPop™ lenses and a secure fit, these sunglasses enhance your vision while keeping you comfortable on any adventure. 1. ChromaPop™ lenses enhance color and contrast, providing superior clarity in various lighting conditions. 2. Interchangeable lens system includes a clear lens for low-light situations, ensuring versatility. 3. Designed for small to medium faces, offering large coverage with a slight wraparound fit. 4. Evolve™ bio-based frame material is both lightweight and durable, perfect for rugged use. 5. Megol nose pads and temples provide a non-slip grip, keeping the sunglasses securely in place during high-intensity activities. 6. AutoLock hinges allow for easy one-handed on and off, enhancing convenience. 7. Strategic venting reduces fogging, ensuring maximum visibility in changing weather conditions. The Smith Bobcat sunglasses are designed for outdoor activities such as mountain biking, skiing, and trail running, excelling in both bright and low-light environments. Ideal for adventure seekers and athletes, they perform best in varied terrains and weather conditions, making them a reliable choice for year-round use. Whether navigating rocky trails or enjoying alpine views, these sunglasses provide the clarity and comfort needed for an exceptional experience.
Price: $217 - $277
- Who it's for
- Skiers who deal with rapidly changing light conditions and want one pair of glasses that works from flat light to bright alpine sun. The full-coverage fit suits a range of face sizes, including smaller heads.
- What people are saying
- Hosts consistently praise the photochromic lenses for all-day wearability and the secure, stable fit. One host notes the large lens style looks odd but concedes it performs well.
- Worth noting
- Comes with an extra clear lens for night skiing. Multiple lens options are available.
Philip Burnett's review
Love photochromic lenses so I can keep my glasses on all day. These go all the way to clear to help with low viz days. I am still coming around to these large lens glasses, they look strange, but they work really well....
Recommended by Philip Burnett, Weber State University Rental Manager
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Bobcat for?
Skiers who deal with rapidly changing light conditions and want one pair of glasses that works from flat light to bright alpine sun. The full-coverage fit suits a range of face sizes, including smaller heads.
What do experts say about the Bobcat?
Hosts consistently praise the photochromic lenses for all-day wearability and the secure, stable fit. One host notes the large lens style looks odd but concedes it performs well.
What should you know before buying the Bobcat?
Comes with an extra clear lens for night skiing. Multiple lens options are available.
What does Philip Burnett say about the Bobcat?
Love photochromic lenses so I can keep my glasses on all day. These go all the way to clear to help with low viz days. I am still coming around to these large lens glasses, they look strange, but they work really well....
Why does Philip Burnett recommend Smith Optics?
Philip Burnett recommends the Smith Optics Bobcat for climbing sunglasses. Love photochromic lenses so I can keep my glasses on all day. These go all the way to clear to help with low viz days. I am still coming around to these large lens glasses, they look strange, but they work really well....
Is the Bobcat a good climbing sunglasse?
Yes — Philip Burnett recommends the Bobcat by Smith Optics as their climbing sunglasses pick. Love photochromic lenses so I can keep my glasses on all day. These go all the way to clear to help with low viz days. I am still coming around to these large lens glasses, they look strange, but they work really well....
Is the Bobcat good for long distance?
Philip Burnett recommends it for long efforts: Love photochromic lenses so I can keep my glasses on all day. These go all the way to clear to help with low viz days. I am still coming around to these large lens glasses, they look strange, but they work really well....
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What other hosts are saying
5 experts recommend the Smith Optics Bobcat.
Alyssa Clark, Mountain Adventurer with An Ultra Running Problem
These are my fav sunglasses right now. They stay on my face well, they don't mess with my depth perception and I love the color!
Recommended in Broken Arrow Triple Crown
Ben Corwin, Hutkeeper and mountain adventurer
The Smith Bobcat is a great, full coverage pair of sunglasses that fits many face types well. The photochromatic lenses help when transitioning from a sudden snow storm to high alpine sun, and everything in between.
Recommended in Teton Crest in a Day
Marisa Romeo, Mental Performance Consultant
I’ve brought these sunglasses with me on every long mountain ultra for years, and they’ve held up incredibly well. I love being able to swap out the lenses at crew stops depending on the conditions, which is especially useful during long races when you’re running through changing light. They’re perfect for exposed sections of trail and provide great protection without feeling like an extra piece of gear I have to think about. After years of use and countless miles, they’ve proven to be incredibly durable and reliable.
Recommended in Gear
Meg Cooke, Mountain Athlete, Materials Scientist
I have a small head, and these stay on. That's all you need to know right? Ok, a bunch of lens options and they come with an extra clear lens for night skiing hehe
Recommended in Eyewear
