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Gear Review: Spy Optic Allure Sunglasses
Spy Optic Allure Sunglasses
MSRP: $100-150, depending on options
Materials: 100% UV-protected polycarbonate lenses, Grimalid frame
Overview
I have a bad track record with sunglasses. If I don’t lose them in record-setting time, I break them in a variety of creative ways. Losing sunglasses is my own fault, but finding a durable, Maggie-proof pair could potentially solve my other issues. These tough shades have lived up to the hype. They’re burly, durable, and comfortable for everything I’d done outside this summer. This pair boasts Spy’s proprietary 100% UV “Happy Lens,” which they say enhances contrast and color, in a shade which boosts your mood. This could totally be true, but I’m usually pretty happy when I’m outside, so I can’t speak to the general population.
Fit
I have a narrow face, so I went with this model, as it’s advertised specifically for women. The fit is fantastic—not tight enough to give me a headache, but not too loose that I had an issue with them slipping off. They have stellar coverage, but aren’t too wide or bulky. The lens shape is simple: slightly square with rounded edges, in a classic, flattering fit for a variety of face shapes.
Activity
I’ve worn these primarily for hiking and backpacking, with some unfortunate instances of trail running thrown in there. One of the best things about these shades is that they actually stay on your face, even on top of multiple days of sweat, bug spray, and sunscreen. Thanks to rubber nose pads plus patches of the same rubber on the stems, they stayed in place throughout the sweatiest days and bounciest descents. I never had to shove them up my nose with a grubby finger, which was nice.
Durability
The durability of these sunglasses is what I’m here for. I’m not saying to not be careful with them… but I’m pretty tough on gear, and they still look essentially brand new after weeks of use and abuse. The pin hinges never bent or snapped, and the frames still sit straight and balanced. The frame itself is an ultra-durable Grimalid (a polymer composite—check out the link for more info) and makes them incredibly resistant to snapping and bending. Perfect for clumsy people who put their gear through hell.
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