Smith Parallel Sunglasses

Smith’s Parallel sunglasses keep it simple while keeping you stylish. Lightweight, sleek, comfortable and interchangeable, the Parallel provides all the features you want in a set of cycling sunglasses and nothing more.

I first came across the Parallel sunglasses last year when my previous cycling sunglasses were finally lost after years of being scratched, dropped and stuffed somewhere in my riding pack.

Knowing that interchangeable lenses were high on my list, I began the hunt. There’s a lot of options out there nowadays – some that I feel are overly complicated. Anyone who knows me knows that I’m a huge advocate to simple solutions to our problems. When I found the Smith Parallel, I knew they were the ones. Providing the fit worked for my head I was sold.

After six months behind Parallel sunglasses I can safely say that the fit is spot on. I wear these in combination with my iXS Trail RS Helmet which when set up correctly has a very snug fit. The arms easily slide under the helmet and stay comfortable for the longest of MTB missions.

Supplied lenses are made using Carbonic “TLT” Tapered Lens Technology which claims to “correct light distortion”. I have no idea what this means, but what I can say is that vision through these lenses is always clear and glare free, even during those sunrise and sunset rides where the sun is right in your eyes. Every set is supplied with 3 pairs of lenses – clear, “Ignitor” amber and your choice of tinted lens.

A key point for mountain bikers is that these lenses are impact resistant – something I hope I never test, but good to know in case it happens. Hydrophobic lens coating repels water, oil and dirt, but they will still need a clean eventually. For those who like a bit of colour, you can buy replacement lenses for the Parallel frames – as you can see, I run a blue lens in mine on sunny days. For those interested in longevity, Smith Optics continue to make replacement lenses well after the frames are out of production, so if you may need new lenses in years to come, I believe this is a safe brand to stick with.

Smith sell the Parallel, Parallel Max and Parallel D-Max. They all fit the same, the only thing that changes is the width of the lens, providing either more or less coverage. This really is personal preference – I much prefer the sleek look of the standard Parallel rather than the “full coverage” look of the D-Max. Choose as you will.

Each pair of Smith Parallel sunglasses comes with a soft lined hard case with space for your spare lenses – perfect for when you are travelling with the bikes. One thing that is missing however, is something to clean your lenses with. Luckily my iXS Sports Division Jerseys come with a built in lens wipe to keep them clean, but without this I would have to buy cleaning cloth. Not a huge deal, just irritating, you know?

All in all, I’m stoked with my Smith Parallel sunglasses – they are all I want in biking glasses while still being simple and uncomplicated – perfect for me!

For more info on the Parallel sunglasses or the rest of the Smith Optics range, check out their website at http://www.smithoptics.com or get a great deal online at Jenson USA!