Last year i went to Entebbe, Uganda on an official tour. While clicking a few pictures and posting it on social media accounts via the Remini App, I got bored and went to the Dior perfume counter. I actually wanted to have Dior Homme Intense but that was not there. And then i said to myself, why not try something new, as Dior Homme Sport 2021, a reiteration/ reformulation after 2017, was the one that I hadn’t checked.
Hence, this review will educate you on the differences and similarities between the last reformulation. i would talk about how it smells. Is there any change in performance from the last one? and the holy grail question of how it competes against Chanel Allure Sports, which it is compared to often.
Dior Homme Sport 2021 – A Quick Overview
Dior Homme Sport 2021 is a woody, spicy fragrance. It came out in 2022. Don’t worry; It’s not a typing error! The perfume’s name says 2021, but it actually came out in 2022.
This is the fourth reformulation and thankfully it’s better than 2017 one.
So let’s have a quick look at some of the characteristics of the perfume, and after that, we’ll go straight into the details.
- A citrusy and cool fragrance for men
- Plays with themes of freshness and sensuality
- The fragrance is available in 70 and 120 ml Eau de Toilette
- Not an ideal pick for those who prefer sweeter compositions
The Notes
Dior Homme Sport probably has the most unique trail out of most perfumes I’ve come across in a long while. The perfume opens with Bergamot and citrus notes to kick off with a blow of freshness. In the heart, the playful release transitions into Elemi and Pink Pepper, which continues the fresh vibe. The fragrance concludes with woody base notes that come from Olibanum and Amber.
Bottle And Box Presentation
The perfume comes in a white cuboid-shaped box placed on a black holder kind of thing that looks like a stand to place the box. I think it was the only thing out of the box! (Pun not intended)
Other than that, the packaging is relatively standard. Now, coming to the bottle. If you’ve seen or used the Dior Homme 2020, this new design won’t charm you as much because it’s pretty much similar. But it’s a classy remodel, I’d say. Loved it personally! The sophisticated bottle is made from pure glass and is an actual work of design, style, and timeless elegance.
Last, but not least, it is topped with the signature cap of the line; A classy black cube-shaped cap with the words “DIOR HOMME” in white. I felt that the idea of choosing white on black was quite a good one. It really gives it a classy look!
How Does Dior Homme Sport 2021 Actually Smell Like?
As I’ve already mentioned above, the trail of this fragrance is quite unique. Let me break it down for you phase by phase:
Opening of Dior Homme Intense 2021 – A Blow Of Absolute Freshness
The opening features an intense burst of citrus and bergamot notes, which are strong yet not very pungent. I must appreciate that although the fresh citrus opening settles down, it never really goes away.
You will feel the citrus until the late dry-down, but obviously not sharp at all at that point. It is a lovely and familiar scent that you’ve seemingly encountered many times before.
Another thing I’d like to address here is that I see some people complaining about the scent being too lemony. I would like to remind you people that not only is the perfume intended for warmer weather (when most people look for that citrusy and refreshing sensation), but it is also a “sport” addition. Considering this is a sport release, we should expect it to be a light and fresh blend.
Heart – A Heavenly Cool Down
Although the perfume has a powerful opening, it cools down to a pleasant heart of Elemi and Pink Pepper. Elemi’s scent is often described to have a touch of uplifting sweetness. The Elemi notes are pleasant and provide an excellent background, so the other notes can be highlighted.
I’ll describe it as having just the right amount of sweetness, which is the reason I said earlier that the trail of this perfume is really unique. If you’ve used other versions of the line, you definitely find it way better. This is because the heart is less flowery and smells much more masculine.
The dry down did not disappoint at all; the fragrance really kept its performance! Kudos to Dior for that!
Base Notes of Dior Homme Intense 2021 – A Woody Conclusion
The woody base notes feature Amber and Olibanum, which is quite an excellent combination, in my opinion. Olibanum which is also known as Frankincense, is extracted from the Boswellia carterii tree. The extract has a complexly woody aroma that lends itself well to many different varieties of fragrances.
If paired with myrrh or presented as a single-note scent, Frankincense can be a bit peppery and sharp. But, in the case of Dior Homme Sport 2021, the combination with amber has resulted in pure magnificence. I feel that it allowed Frankincense to portray its spicy nature without feeling too dry or bitter.
Projection And Longevity of Dior Homme Intense
Honestly speaking, the projection of this scent is just Ok. Moderate for the first 2-3 hours and sitting close to skin for the next 4–5 hours. Although the projection is moderate, it never seems to make me nose-blind to it.
Speaking of longevity, it can last around 5-6 hours easily, which is not great, but not bad either. I’d suggest you apply a few puffs only unless you’re obsessed with the way this smells.
All in all, the projection and longevity are both adequate for a summer scent. In case you are wondering how Chanel Allure’s longevity is as compared to Homme Sport 2021, then the later is a winner.
Dress And Occasion
The scent has a calm and summery feel, so it’s best to be worn with casual attire on summer days out. E.g., on a beach picnic or lunch with friends. Remembering that the scent has a lemony odor, I won’t suggest wearing it with formal attire. At least I won’t. And as the name of the scent says, it’s best to wear while playing sports.
For office i would recommend Nishane hacivat on summer days and Dior Homme Intense during the winters.
Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Citrusy and cool for hot summer days
- Bright and clean yet very masculine
- Pocket friendly
Cons:
- Not suitable for people who prefer sweeter compositions
- Projection and Longevity are a question mark with respect to price
- It may seem too mature for a sport scent to some
Verdict
My verdict on this scent is pretty straightforward. It is a very good buy, but subject to where you wear it and whether you like citrusy scents or not. I personally loved it, and that, I think, is pretty much clear through this review. Another thing that you must remember is that it is not the best purchase for younger guys. It smells phenomenal, but it has a distinct mature vibe in the undertone. In easy words, this is not something a guy in their 20s should be wearing. This is for someone who’s 35+.
