Tifosi is on a roll these days, with a full lineup of quality sunglasses at affordable prices. Earlier this year, the Tifosi Rail wowed us with a huge, lightweight shield that’s perfect for cycling and running. Now, the new Swank XL comes in with classic styling at a bonkers price point. But, how do they perform in the wild?
Tifosi Swank XL Sunglasses Features:
- Light and durable Grilamid TR-90 frame
- Shatterproof polycarbonate lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Hydrophilic rubber nose pads
- Integrated hinges
- Available with prescription
- Weight: 25 grams
- Width: 140mm
- Available in a wide variety of frame/lens colors (blackout/smoke tested)
- MSRP: $29.99 ($54.95 for polarized)
Inexpensive, adventurous sunnies
While the name might suggest that The Swank XL will be way oversized, they really aren’t. In fact, they are just the right size for a classic pair of sunglasses on most faces. Yes, they are an upsize to Tifosi’s Swank model, but they are really on par with the Bolle Score, Bolle Slate or Kaenon Clarke. The extra size, bumps the price up $5 for to an ultra-affordable $29.99. Those familiar with Tifosi may not be surprised, but there’s a lot going on with these budget sunnies.
Classic styling with a nod to adventure, the Swank XL fits perfectly on my face and they stay put — no matter the activity. While some sunglasses get uncomfortable after a few hours, these lightweight frames never caused pressure points or face fatigue. I wore them with and without hats just fine and the fit is rock-solid and comfortable. The Grilamid TR-90 frame does flex to accommodate various face widths, but be sure and compare the overall frame width (140mm) to your current pair should you have a really wide fit.
During a three-day camping trip to Flaming Gorge Reservoir, I wore these constantly. I used them fishing, hiking and milling around. Honestly, they just disappeared with use and I didn’t think much about them. With a nice field-of-vision, I am protected and can see clearly everywhere. As I compared these lenses with a wide variety of lenses I have, the smoke color is good for a variety of light conditions, but clarity and color enhancement is lacking. But, for $29 a pair, these lenses exceeded my expectations.
I know that the Tifosi branding on the left lens is subtle, but it is also annoying because it catches my eye on the regular. My plea to sunglass manufacturers is this… don’t put branding on your lenses.
When all is said and done, the blackout Swank XL’s are outperforming all of my expectations and I don’t lose sleep thinking about treating them with extra care because they are easily-replaced. For kids or that forgetful spouse, the Swank XL is an easy choice. If you do spend more time on the water, the $54.95 polarized option would be an easy recommendation as clarity will improve, but you’ll also have a hard time seeing your smartphone or other screens. So, better in one way, but with some tradeoffs.
The Good
- Outstanding price point
- Grippy nose rubber keeps them in place
- All day comfort
- Lightweight
- Acceptable optics for the price
- Stylish for men or women
The Bad
- Tifosi branding on the upper left lens is annoying
- Don’t expect optics to match the best lenses on the market
The Bottom Line: Tifosi Swank XL Sunglasses
Right-sizing the Swank to make the Swank XL is a good choice for Tifosi. These are classic sunglasses that can do everything you want — all at an affordable price. With several colors to choose from, you can easily find something that fits your style.
Buy Now: Available from Tifosi
