This is the first of a 3 part series I’m going to be doing on sunglasses from Tifosi Optics. Tifosi Optics “enthusiastically” makes eyewear of many types for many different activities, including golf.
Tifosi Slip Sunglasses
The Tifosi Slip model glasses are sunglasses with an interchangeable lens. The Slip model comes with multiple lenses for varying lighting and terrain conditions. You can easily switch lenses for the optimal clarity and focus while on the course.
Technology
The Slip is made from a nearly indestructible nylon which Tifosi calls “Grimalid TR-90.” This is a homopolyamide nylon with high bending strength, resistance to UV wear, low density (so it’s very light), and high resistance to chemicals. So not only are these glasses durable and strong on and off the course, you could use them in the event of a nuclear war.
The nose pads are ventilated to aid in slip resistance and comfort, even when you are perspiring. The pads are also fully adjustable for you to achieve the right fit and comfort.
Lenses o’ plenty
There are six total lenses which are available with the Slip series. Four of the lenses are “standard” sunglasses lenses: Clear, smoke, yellow, AC Red. If you purchase the GT (golf/tennis) version of the Slip, you get three interchangeable golf-specific lenses: GT object illumination smoke lens that enhances the wearer’s ability to pick up a ball in flight, the EC lens designed for use while putting, and an all conditions red lens for use on overcast days.
All of the lenses have a glare resistant coating which reduces glare and prevents eye fatigue. The lenses are also vented to eliminate the chance of them fogging up.
The lenses are also highly elastic so they bend instead of shattering when a lens impact occurs. That could come in handy on the course when some hack sprays a shot and nails you in the glasses.
No optical distortion
An important component of any sports lens is the need for “decentering” or elimination of optical distortion. Since lenses are curved there is the possibility of visual distortion or magnification. Such a distortion could effect your performance on the course and cost you strokes. The Slip lenses are decentered to eliminate any optical distortion.
Available colors
The Slips are available in seven colors: Iron, matte black, metallic blue, pearl white, metallic neon green, matte orange and matte black.
Lifetime warranty
Tifosi Optics is so confident in the materials and workmanship of their product that they offer a lifetime warranty. If there proves to be a defect or a problem in the entire lifetime of the product they’ll replace them. Impressive.
Accessories
Along with the multiple sets of lenses, the Slips come with a nice hard case. The hard case has a zipper and would easily fit in your golf bag to protect your glasses when not in use. The interchangeable lenses have their own storage pockets inside the case as well so you have them with you.
Also included with the Slips is a microfiber cleaning bag. The glasses can be stored inside this bag which also serves as a cleaning rag for the lenses.
On the course
I first adjusted the nose piece a bit and also the frames to fit my round head. No problems adjusting at all. Now the Slip fits perfectly.
On the course I didn’t know I was wearing the Slips because of how light they were and also due to the wrap around lens. Even wearing the stock lens I was able to see the ball, the greens and all the terrain very well.
I can easily switch out the lenses to see which ones work for that day’s conditions. Most of the time I did find myself with the stock lenses. I really like the GT (golf/tennis) lens as well. I found reading the greens and rolling hills of the course with the GT’s was great. In a perfect world I’d drive to the course with the standard lenses, tee off with the GT lenses and putt with the EC (extreme contrast) lenses. Perhaps some day Tifosi will develop a lens which changes with the push of a button for each scenario.
Conclusion
It’s easy to drop a few hundred bucks on some fancy sunglasses from some of the big names out there. But before you do, check out what Tifosi has to offer. I found the Slips on sale at Edwin Watts Golf for $49. For the price of one set of expensive sport glasses from a big name manufacturer you could literally buy 4-5 sets of Tifosi glasses. Those 4-5 sets would give you over two dozen lenses! Your choice: One style and stock lens from company A, or 4 styles and over two dozen interchangeable lenses from Tifosi. Sounds like a no-brainer to me.
HOGWire – Golf Industry News
God, love its curvous lines..
i noticed it a big look like Oakley half jacket series…