We've always liked Spy's style. It's not just that they have cool (and often pimpy) designs, talented sponsored athletes and orange as a corporate color. It's got to be that huge 18-wheeler truck they roll out to events, sitting there like a beacon to all who need eye protection.

So when we unpacked a new pair of Scoop XC sunglasses that were waiting at our offices upon our return from a world cup mountain bike race (where sponsored downhiller Sabrina Jonnier had just won the four-cross), we poked and prodded the product. And now we're happy to share the love with you our reader.

Spy calls their Scoop XC sunglasses (which are updated versions of the popular Scoop) "the ultimate lightweight sport sunglass," featuring their patented Scoop venting. What this means is there's a little air vent on the sides of the lenses, ostensibly to keep the air flowing and prevent fogging up on sweaty workouts.

The shades also feature Hytrel rubber nosepads and temples for maximum grip, which work really well to prevent sliding when you're fogging up the lenses with sweat. The only problem with the nosepads is the fit on this tester's handsome Greco-Roman nose - it's a bit small and leaves a big gap under the eyes. Actually the glass is best for smaller heads, as the temples are on the short side as well.

Lens-wise the Scoop XC uses ARC prismatic polycarbonate lenses and Trident polarized lenses - depending on the model you buy. Polarized lenses are ideal for water sports, and cut glare dramatically. Remember; only use polycarb lenses if rocks are going to be flying at your eyes - you don't want real glass shattering into your eyeball.

Speaking of which, the shatter-resistant Grillamid frame with Spy's patented scoop technology and 9-base ARC polycarbonate lenses should last a long time. And if not, there's a one-year warranty and the lenses are fully interchangeable.

Like any good lens, the Spy blocks 100% of UV and harmful blue light, while transmission ranges from 8% to 92% of available light, depending on the lens. Our bronze lens blocks more of the greens and blues, while a rose lens will allow a bit more of that end of the spectrum. It all depends on your preferences.

We also like that the Spy has a minimum amount of optical "shifting" - that annoying warping that happens when you pass the lens back and forth in front of your eyes - it means the lens is magnifying or distorting your field of vision. It can literally make you dizzy when you're wearing the glasses, so it's nice that these lenses do very little of that.

The Scoop XS comes in a wide variety of frame and lens choices (ours is a flat black frame with bronze lenses) and is available at leading sport and optical retail stores. You can also purchase lens replacement kits.

Msrp: $70 - $120 (for polarized lenses).
www.spyoptic.com // 760-734-6779

— Reviewed & Written by Ari Cheren, MountainZone.com Gear Editor

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