Smith Wildcat Sunglasses Review: My Go-To Glasses for Mountain Biking
Why I use the Smith Wildcat for humid rides, shaded trails, and changing light.
Wearing the Smith Wildcat Sunglasses on a shaded singletrack trail in Alabama.
Smith Wildcat Sunglasses Review
When it comes to mountain bike sunglasses, I’m picky. I ride in a mix of deep tree cover and full sun—especially on trails in Alabama and Wisconsin. I grew up in the South and still ride there often, but I also hit trails further north and make regular trips to places like Bentonville and Pisgah. I’ve been testing the Smith Wildcat Performance Sunglasses with ChromaPop™ Photochromic lenses, and so far? I love them.
Smith Wildcat Sunglasses – Matte Black + ChromaPop Photochromic
I ride with these on every trail. No fog, no bounce,
and the lens adapts to changing light.
Do the Smith Wildcat Sunglasses Fog Up?
Mine haven’t. I’ve ridden with the Smith Wildcats in hot, humid conditions in Alabama, including slow climbs where I’m sweating and not getting much airflow. They’ve stayed clear, which is one of the biggest reasons I like them for mountain biking.
Smith Wildcat Sunglasses Facts
Medium fit with extra-large coverage
ChromaPop lens technology
Photochromic lens option for changing light
100% UV protection
Smudge- and moisture-resistant lens coating
Two-position adjustable nose pads
Megol nose and temple pads for grip
5-base cylindrical lens
Hybrid TR90 and TPU frame
Bonus clear lens included
Performance case and microfiber bag included
Lens height: 62 mm
Lens width: 140 mm
Temple length: 125 mm
ChromaPop Photochromic Lens
The ChromaPop Photochromic lens is probably my favorite part of the Wildcats. Mountain biking means constantly moving between different light conditions—open sun, shaded forest, clouds, and back again. The photochromic lens adjusts its tint as the light changes, so I don’t have to stop and think about switching lenses.
Smith’s ChromaPop technology is also designed to enhance contrast, color, and definition, making trail details easier to see.
The Wildcats also give me the extensive coverage I like without wearing goggles. Smith uses adjustable two-position Megol nose pads and Megol temples to help keep them from slipping, and they come with a clear interchangeable lens for really low-light conditions.
No lens swapping
Sharp contrast on roots, rocks, and ruts
Clear vision even in low light
Smith Wildcat Sunglasses on trail rocks—a nod to the techy, rugged terrain they help you read clearly.
The color balance feels natural, and the transition is quick and smooth—no weird tint, no over-darkening.
Smith also includes a clear lens with the Wildcats. I haven’t needed it yet, but it’s there if you’re riding in true low-light—like early morning, dusk, or under dense forest. It gives you full protection without the tint.
Durability & Daily Use
They’ve handled trail grit, sweat, rain, and being tossed into my gear bin more than once. Still no scratches or signs of wear. The lens coating is solid, and they clean up easy.
They also come with:
A clear lens for night or super low-light rides
A zippered hard case
A soft bag for storage
I haven’t needed the clear lens yet, but it’s a good option if you ride with lights or during dawn or dusk.
What I Like
No fogging, even in Alabama humidity
ChromaPop lens handles changing light without needing to swap
Secure, lightweight fit that stays put while riding
Full-coverage frame blocks wind, sun, and dust
Comes with a clear lens and solid accessories
Color range — I’ve got the Matte Black, but I’m eyeing the Matte Black + ChromaPop Polarized Blue Mirror. I love blue.
What I Don’t Like
The price. They're expensive, but considering how often I wear them mountain biking and how well they've held up, they've been worth it for me.
Are the Smith Wildcat Sunglasses Worth It?
If you ride humid trails, shady forest singletrack, or just want one lens that adapts without fuss—the Smith Wildcats are worth checking out. Fog-free, all-day comfort, and great lens clarity.
These have become my go-to mountain bike sunglasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Smith Wildcat sunglasses good for mountain biking? They've become my go-to mountain biking sunglasses. I especially like them on trails that move between shaded forest and open sun because I don't have to think about changing lenses.
Do Smith Wildcat sunglasses fog up? Mine haven't. I've ridden with them in hot, humid conditions in Alabama, including slow, sweaty climbs, and they've stayed clear.
Do Smith Wildcat sunglasses stay in place while riding? Mine do. I haven't had problems with them bouncing or slipping while I'm riding. Smith uses adjustable Megol nose pads and Megol temples to help keep them in place.
What are Smith ChromaPop Photochromic lenses good for? I like them for mountain biking because I ride in constantly changing light. They adjust as I move between tree cover, clouds, and brighter open sections, so I don't have to stop and change lenses.
Do the Smith Wildcat sunglasses come with a clear lens? Yes. Smith includes a bonus clear lens for low-light conditions. I haven't needed mine yet, but it's there for very dark trails, early mornings, or evening rides.
Michele Underwood writes Overland Girl, where she shares the gear she uses on real trips—from the Northwoods of Wisconsin to desert rides in the West. She values quality and craftsmanship and believes in buying less, but buying better. The gear she recommends is gear she uses herself.Some links on Overland Girl may be affiliate links. If you purchase through them, Michele may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.