Smith Pivlock V2 Max Review

February 26, 2012
Smith Pivlock V2 Max
GEAR INSTITUTE RATINGS
89
Lens Clarity
8
Helmet Compatability
8
Coverage / Wind Resistance
9
Fit / Comfort
7
Overall Performance
8
Value
9

The Good

  • Very lightweight and comfortable.
  • Solid wraparound design with good coverage and element resistance.
  • Good optics with an open field of vision.
  • Easy-to-use lens changing technology.
  • Excellent price/value relationship with three lens options included.

The Bad

  • The white nosepad piece in this sunglass caused some visual disturbance and reflections on the back of the lens.
  • This sunglass became slightly uncomfortable when worn under the added bulk of a winter hat.
THE VERDICT

This multi-sport sunglass delivers excellent bang for the buck with a performance package and three lens options for varying light conditions—all for $159. Though slightly uncomfortable during long workouts, it features solid optics, good coverage and wind resistance, and an appealing eco story.

FULL REVIEW

The Pivlock V2 Max is a solid performance sunglass with a wealth of value-enhancing features. First off, the Pivlock V2 Max package features a much researched and easy-to-use interchangeable lens system. Each sunglass comes with three lens options, including a lens for bright light conditions, a lens for low light, and a clear lens.

Smith’s Carbonic TLT lenses had good optical clarity, providing definition in both bright and low light conditions, even when worn while doing activities in the snow. Smith’s hydroleophobic lens coating, which is designed to repel dirt and grime, also worked well—we spent little time cleaning the lenses.

With a three-position adjustable nosepad, the Pivlock V2 Max offers the chance for a more custom fit. The hydrophilic “Megol” material in the temple and nosepads also worked as promised to grip better to skin when sweat comes into play (as opposed to increasing slip).

The downsides? We experienced a slight amount of reflection in the lens from the white nosepad piece; it also created a bit of visual disturbance. When worn under a winter hat, this sunglass also tended to put an uncomfortable amount of pressure on the nose and head where the temples came into contact.

The Pivlock V2 Max does gets style points for its sleek, sculpted looks. Constructed of Evolve, a 53 percent bio-based material derived from castor plants, it also has eco cred.

 


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