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A shield from
glare for anglers, Smith’s VTi Interchangeable Performance Optics (continued)
 Durability:
Thus far the VTi has been two for two, hitting home runs in both the operation
and ergonomics, but would they also excel in the durability department? When
examining durability of optics with interchangeable lenses we take a look at the
durability of the frame and lenses on their own. The VTi frame is so light that
it weighs almost the exact same amount (.5oz) as the lenses themselves.
A clear view of the hydrophilic
megol nose pads
When the lens shields are
removed from the frame then it becomes apparent how little structure there is in
the center of the glasses, this would seem like the weakest area of the optics,
but Smith addresses this cleverly. If the VTi had made used of separate right
and left lenses the sunglasses would not feel half as rigid as they currently
do. By implementing a single shield the lens actually acts as a bridge between
both sides. This increases the optical viewing area while providing a secondary
structure to the frame itself. The lens shields themselves are formed out of
carbonate, and while they are not as resistant to scratches than some treated
glass lenses they make sense for the VTi as weight reduction is a major goal in
the design
With the lens shield on the VTi
remains extremely sleek
Price & Applications:
The single piece lens shields that come with the VTi are exceptional. These are
lenses that you would actually use in many angling applications. The only way
that I could see a better total package is if Smith bundled a third shield in
the package, and if that shield was a polarized black lens for extremely bright
conditions. Performance has a price, and that price is $179.00 for the VTi. This
ranks on the high end in comparison to the other optics that I have tested, but
comparing apples to apples the VTi is absolutely worth the extra money.
The VTi can be cleaned with the
included carrying bag/cloth
The VTi addresses
performance and ergonomic concerns with clever design and use of exotic
materials. At first when I inspected the frames I thought the VTi’s titanium
design might seemed somewhat gimmicky and cosmetic, but after fishing with the
VTi I found the Ti implementation simply brilliant. This is by far the most
comfortable pair of optics that I have ever fished with bar none.
The titanium temples are screwed
into place
The VTi makes sense for
many anglers including saltwater fishermen that have to deal with spray and want
an easy to clean design, bass fishermen looking for a pair of shades that is
comfortable wear all day long, and fly fishermen looking for a secure pair of
shades with customizable lenses to help them navigate shady streams and sight
fish.
The VTi delivers exceptional
interchangeable lens performance, great ergonomics, and is still durable. This
is a serious pair of optics that will satisfy even hard core anglers
Warranty: One of
the major worries with expensive optics is breaking the frames, rendering them
useless. The Smith VTi comes with a lifetime warranty that covers all problems
related to defects in materials and workmanship. If the VTi fails in the field
you can send them back to Smith Optics which will repair or replace the
sunglasses….and no, scratched lenses are not a manufacturer defect.
Ratings:
|
Smith Action Optics VTi
Ratings (?/10) |
| Construction/Quality |
The
VTi is very well built and has well reinforced edges, these sunglasses will
last a long time under normal operation. The VTi makes use of Titanium to
reduce weight and increase durability over thermoplastic |
9.5 |
| Performance |
Exceptional performance when it comes to fishing and standard operation. The
shields are easy to change, and the clever design uses the shields as
reinforcement to the frame itself. The shields are large enough to block out
glare and protect your eyes from wind at the same time |
9.5 |
| Price |
The
VTi is on the expensive side of the optics we have tested, but it is worth
the money |
8 |
| Features |
The
VTi has plenty of features ranging from the interchangeable shields to the
Megol grips and temples which ensure the VTi stays firmly on your face
during activities that require a lot of movement |
8.5 |
| Design
(Ergonomics) |
Top
notch ergonomics! The VTi is among the most comfortable sunglasses we have
ever worn. They weigh in at only 1oz, and after a few minutes it is easy to
forget they are even there at all. |
9 |
| Application |
The
VTi is great for bass anglers, fly fishermen, and even saltwater anglers.
When not on the water the VTi is great for other outdoor sports including
cycling, which requires plenty of protection from wind |
9 |
|
Total Score |
8.91 |
Pluses and Minuses:
|
Plus
Minus |
| J
Excellent fishing friendly features
|
L
Hard carrying case a bit big |
| J
Extremely light, comfortable |
L
Cost of ownership reasonably high |
| J
Shields eyes from glare and wind |
|
| J
Durable design, exotic materials |
|
| J
Great for other outdoor sports as well |
|
| J
Lifetime Warranty |
|
Conclusion:
The VTi does what no other
pair of sunglasses we have tested in the last three years has, it doesn’t just
meet expectations in performance, ergonomics, and durability, it actually excels
in all these categories. The straightforward design not only makes the shields
easy to change, but it increases frame durability and rigidity, During the tests
I often failed to remember I was even wearing shades, as the VTi is both
extremely balanced and possesses a low total weight. The only downside that I
really found with the complete package was that the carrying case is a large if
you do want to carry the extra shields with you. If you know what general
conditions you will be fishing in advance then you can always carry the VTi in
the provided soft bag, just make sure to no crush it with your tackle. Even when
stressed the single lens design coupled with the titanium hybrid frame can take
as
much of a beating as the most hardy pair of shades. Designed with anglers in
mind, the Smith Optics VTi delivers an unprecedented balance of features,
performance, comfortable ergonomics, and durability, all wrapped in an ultra
sleek package. Smith Optics got this one right, sporting plenty features sure to
please anglers the VTi is a worthy recipient of our Editors Choice Award.
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