These Squad XLs are virtually the same as Smith’s standard Squad goggles – a good thing – but about 10mm deeper and wider, to increase the field of vision. They fit into full-face helmets without fuss, and work just as well with open-face lids (although if you need goggles solely for that purpose, the compactness of the originals is appealing).
The vented lens and lattice frame structure work well to prevent fogging, while the triple-layer face foam is very comfortable. The fact you get two lenses makes the price easier to swallow, and means you should be covered for all light conditions.
Pricing: £85
Distributor: www.smithoptics.com
About MBUK's Most Wanted (2020)
For the January issue of Mountain Biking UK magazine we put together a glossy guide to our Most Wanted gear for 2020, containing some of the most incredible, highly desirable mountain bike kit on the market. It seemed a shame not to share it with our website users, so now we’re posting each category online too.
The selection process wasn’t easy. We were determined to pick products that genuinely stood out, so just narrowing down the categories was hard. Then our test team discussed the pros and cons of each bit of kit that had been shortlisted – and had some heated debates over which should make it in!
You can rest assured that all of our Most Wanted gear has been given this accolade for good reason. It’s either performed amazingly in our tests (in which case we’ve provided links to the original review) or, in the case of just-released kit, has wowed us on the trails during initial rides and shown huge potential.
Cast an eye over the gear and you’ll notice that a lot of it doesn’t come cheap. That’s because these are our Most Wanted products, and not necessarily the parts and accessories that represent the best value for money. We know that not all readers will be able to afford them, but think they’re worth showcasing. Firstly, because they show just how far MTB kit has come. But also because innovation and improvements at the top end of the market inevitably trickle down to lower price points within a couple of years, for the rest of us to enjoy.
