Smith Fuel V.1 Max M Goggles

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I bought these for downhill 3 seasons ago but started wearing them for enduro as well after getting dust in my eye racing in Rossland a couple of years ago. As someone who wears contacts, a little dust in the eye can ruin a day on the bike very quickly. I find that not only do I get great protection with these, but I actually see the trail better because they don't bounce around on my face while going over rough stuff like glasses do. I never noticed this until I started wearing goggles, but the strap just holds them tighter onto your face than glasses could ever hope to be, even with rubber arm and nose pads which I consider a must on riding glasses.

I also can't say enough about the blue and red sensor mirror lenses. The blue ones are amazing in low-medium light, deep in the forest, under cloud, in fog, even in moderate sunshine, these lenses are stellar. Depth perception and contrast is improved and glare is reduced due to the mirror. They aren't totally mirrored however, so if you are looking for that look, the red sensor mirror fits the bill. The red ones do a fine job in the trees and low-moderate light as well, but are excellent in bright sun. These are my go-to lens at the bike park while I'm riding the lift and its not going to be too cloudy. They would be absolutely fine in any condition, its just that the blue sensor lenses are amazing in lower light are more of an all-around lens.

After 3 full seasons of DH, enduro, and trail rides, the frames are still in great shape, including the foam and strap. I have replaced the lenses after each season, just from micro scratches from wiping dust off them 50-60 times each season. I consider this normal for bike lenses.

I did find that they fogged up on me on really sweaty or damp days, but after reading some reviews of the Smith Squad goggles which don't have foam above the lattice that covers the vents on top of and under the frames, I removed the foam here on my Fuels and experienced dramatically improved airflow which has helped them stay fog free. I was initially worried that dirt and dust would get through and into my eyes, but because the top of the frame sits under my helmet, this has never been an issue. For reference I use them with a Bell Super 2R and a Fox Rampage Carbon helmet.

Would I buy these again? Yes, though I like the look of the Smith Squad a bit better and wouldn't have to do any modifications to the foam. Overall, an excellent goggle, and great value, just make sure if you only have one lens, get the blue sensor mirror.