Navigating the plethora of cycling sunglasses can be daunting, especially for women who often find many models designed for broader, male facial structures. However, the Smith Optic’s Bobcat and KOO ALIBAI sunglasses are two excellent choices, offering options that, in addition to being stylish and functional, are also designed with a woman’s slimmer face in mind. In this review, I share my experience and opinion on how these sunglasses measure up in terms of comfort, visibility, and overall performance. Whether you’re a gravel grinder or a roadie, finding the right shades is essential for protection, performance, and style points.
Smith Bobcat Sunglasses
Price: $219
Fashion + function = fabulous
The rad design of the frames first attracted me to the Bobcat sunglasses, but what sold me on them was the fit and the performance. I needed an oversized shield that didn’t overwhelm my face but provided coverage from dusty gravel rides. I’m a contact wearer, and the last thing you want is dust getting into your eyes. The larger shield also gives me an unobstructed field of vision.
At only 25 grams, these frames are also lightweight. You don’t even know you’re wearing them. It’s the first thing someone says when I hand them my pair to try on. The frame is made from Smith Optic’s proprietary Evolve™ material, incorporating 53% bio-based material into their injected polymer sunglasses. I’ll be honest. I had to Google bio-based material, which turns out is derived from living (or once-living) organisms. According to the company, Smith sunglasses are the largest eco-friendly sunglasses collection in the world.
The standard ChromaPop lens provides excellent detail and clarity, which is great when trying to find that perfect line. The Bobcat sunglasses include a bonus clear lens, which is ideal for night riding.
What Comes in the Box?
The Bobcat is available with different combinations of frames and ChromaPop lenses. The hardshell zipper case is standard and stores the sunglass frame, a second shield, and a large storage pouch that doubles as a microfiber cleaning cloth.
I found it difficult to swap out the lenses; if you do it often enough, I’d be afraid of cracking the frame or the lens. Personally, if I know my ride will take me to sunset, I use a photosensitive lens that adjusts to the light.
Also, the Smith website mentioned the Bobcat has “strategic venting to increase airflow for reduced fogging,” but I could not find any vents even at the browline. I did experience some fogging at stoplights during cooler, humid days. But the lenses cleared once I started rolling again.
KOO ALIBI Sunglasses
Price: $190 – $245
Outstanding Comfort, Stability, and Style for Narrower Faces
KOO’S new ALIBI sunglasses feature shorter arms to fit the female facial structure comfortably. The shorter arms prevent the discomfort of helmet overlap, which can press the sunglasses into the sides of the rider’s head.
There’s an absence of rubber on the end of the sunglass arms. Instead, the arms have a grooved pattern that helps keep the sunglasses securely in place. The package includes an Asian nose pad, which, when swapped with the standard pad, accommodates riders who might need extra support due to a less pronounced nose bridge, ensuring the sunglasses stay firmly in place.
The ALIBI sunglasses are feather-light, adding to their comfort. At a meager 25 grams, I forgot they were on.
Compared to other of Koo’s models, like Demos and Spectro sunglasses (the brand’s alternate core cycling sunglasses), the frame and uni-lens of the ALIBI sunglasses are noticeably more compact and sit more proportionately on narrower faces.
Excellent Visibility in All Types of Lighting
I tested the white matte frames equipped with a photochromic lens. The half-frame design provides an unobstructed view, which is essential for navigating the road or checking stats on a bike computer. The high-quality Zeiss uni-shield lens ensures clear visibility under different lighting conditions. The photochromic lens adapts swiftly to sunlight variations, making these sunglasses ideal for day and night cycling.
Available in eight color options and various lens choices, the ALIBI caters to different preferences, including options for those who do not require photochromic lenses. (Check out KOO’s website when selecting which lens suits your needs.)
The uni-lens is made from highly scratch-resistant material and offers extensive coverage. This is crucial for protecting the eyes from debris — a significant benefit for contact lens wearers like myself. Additionally, two vent slits at the top enhance airflow, helping to prevent fogging.
What’s in the Box?
KOO ALIBI sunglasses have a microfiber cleaning cloth that doubles as a storage pouch. However, I was surprised that these sunglasses were pricier, and I expected them to include a hardshell storage case. Also in the box is the optional Asian nose pad I mentioned earlier.
As initially seen in RoadBikeRider.com.
Sunflowers and Pedals 