I have tried a few different running eye wear solutions including last year’s Outside Magazine’s best sunglasses pick 2009, the Julbo Trail, Spy Sunglasses, Ray Ban, and more. I saw the Smith Optics display at my local running store and at REI but I never really considered them.
I was at an REI picking up supplies for the GORE-TEX® TransRockies run and saw a woman in running gear trying on Smith sunglasses and figured I would give them a try since she already had the case unlocked. When I tried on the Threshold Sliders I was surprised how good they felt on my face. I did not think they were good looking sunglasses in the case, but I was buying something for running not a fashion show. I looked in the little mirror and they didn’t look all that bad. I asked the lady trying them on if she was a runner and if she had worn Smiths before. She said yes to both questions and went on to say how much she liked her current pair but, she had trashed them and was looking to replace them. She also said that the glasses looked good on me, I was sold. I am a sucker for a compliment.
After purchasing them I realized they came with four sets of lens. This was an awesome surprise. I was a little skeptical of switching out lens and how sturdy the glasses would be. I have had the glasses for 2 or 3 months now and they are holding up great. I have also used 3 of the four sets of lens on different occasions. I use the rose color lens the most. On really bright sunny days I use the darker polarized lens, and on my bike on cloudy days I have used the clear lens (the sunglasses fit great with the bike helmet bonus!).
The glasses are extremly comfortable on the face even after 4 hour runs. They also do a good job when it comes to fogging up. I have had no issues with fogging and we have had some record breaking temps in Maryland this year along with high humidity.
I bought these glasses for running but I find myself using them for everything. When I am heading out I reach for the Smith Thresholds every time. I wish I found these earlier. I love them and highly recommend these sunglasses for running. You will end up using them for everything else too.
Smith Optics Threshold
The THRESHOLD is an extremely lightweight sunglass that includes megol nose pads and an adjustable temple. The Patented interchangeable lens system creates a sleek and subtle design allowing easily interchangeable lenses perfect for the running trail, golf course, or weekend ride. Offering over a dozen replacement lenses to choose from, the Threshold can be tailored for any light condition.
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Great review, thanks Thomas. I use Jawbones for bike and run but am always on the lookout for new options in this department. Will add them to the shopping list… Interchangeable lenses just make so much sense and getting 4 with the purchase is brilliant. Thanks again, and best wishes for all of your ongoing training, too.
I wasn’t sure if I would use the extra lens choices, but I really have been. Definitely check them out.