Smith Optics Goes Back to the Future With New XC Shades
Smith Optics is revving up the DeLorean and heading back to the future — and we’re jumping on board for the ride. The American sports- and eyewear brand is premiering a new pair of shades, the XC sunglass, a remake of a 1983 silhouette design from the brand’s archive. Packing plenty of synthpop-infused, ’80s retro punch, the bold and bright shades channel Smith’s signature dynamic DNA into a compact, wearable format. Designed for optimal performance at the skatepark, on the slopes, and beyond, the XC is available in five eye-catching colorways.
With a handy flip-up 4-base spherical shield lens, the XC is ready for all types of weather. Starting at $169, each pair boasts Evolve™ bio-based frame material, and comes in a Smith Archive Collection fleece pouch. In terms of the shades themselves, Smith once again used its signature ChromaPop™️ lens technology, which delivers enhanced color, clarity, and definition, and includes smudge and moisture-resistant coatings. Lastly, Megol nose pads provide a no-slip grip when reacting to sweat and moisture, so you can hit that half-pipe totally worry-free.
Born in Sun Valley, Idaho, Smith Optics was founded in 1965 by devoted skier, Dr. Bob Smith. Keen to improve the state of ski performance wear, he developed the first snow goggle featuring a sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. Smith would hand-build the goggles in his garage and sell them out of his van on weekend ski trips in Utah and Colorado. Having branched out into helmet production, the brand is now going stronger than ever — and it’s ready for its next adventure.
To test out the shades and get some styling inspiration, we teamed up with creative outdoor enthusiasts Paul Hepper, Hannah da Silva, Lukas Ludwig, and Jess Tran. Check out their fits:
Paul’s ’80s-infused fit has him looking ready to step onstage as the fourth member of a-ha. Take on us!
Hannah’s fit keeps things simple — functionality and simplicity is key to survival in the great outdoors, after all.
Lukas puts the Berg in Berghain. Berg is German for mountain, in case some of you have been lazy with the Duolingo lately.
Jess’ spotted bodysuit and Smith shades combo is frisky and fun — anybody else getting Kim Possible vibes?
Head to the great outdoors with a pair of Smith XC shades, available online now.
