Product Details
Color Details
Size DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
Are the Smith Operator's Choice Elite sunglasses ballistic-rated?
Can I get prescription lenses in the Smith Operator's Choice Elite?
What is ChromaPop+ technology and how does it help in tactical situations?
How is the Operator's Choice Elite different from the regular Guide's Choice?
Do these sunglasses have anti-fog coating?
What size face do the Operator's Choice Elite sunglasses fit?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Smith Optics Elite 203372 Operator's Choice Elite Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- MIL-PRF-31013 ballistic rating and ANSI Z87.1 compliance for tactical/shooting use
- Anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings standard on all lenses
- Megol no-slip pads designed for high-activity tactical operations
- Rectangle wraparound design offers excellent coverage and peripheral protection
- ChromaPop+ polarized options for enhanced color and contrast in tactical environments
- Proven Operator's Choice platform based on the iconic Guide's Choice frame
Read the full comparison
Smith Operator's Choice Elite vs Guide's Choice: Tactical vs Fishing Performance
The Operator's Choice Elite and the Guide's Choice share the same DNA—in fact, the Operator's Choice Elite is Smith's iconic Guide's Choice frame re-engineered to meet MIL-PRF-31013 ballistic and ANSI Z87.1 safety standards. If you're deciding between these two, the choice comes down to your primary use case: tactical/shooting applications or fishing/outdoor recreation.
The Operator's Choice Elite is built for operators, law enforcement, and competitive shooters who need certified ballistic protection. The carbonic lenses meet military-grade impact standards and come standard with anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings. The hydrophilic Megol nose and temple pads are designed to stay in place during high-intensity activity, and the frame is available in tactical colors like Matte Black and Tan 499. At $125-$239, it's also more affordable than the Guide's Choice.
The Guide's Choice ($207-$327) is optimized for fishing and water sports, with a wider range of ChromaPop lens tints tailored to different water conditions. It doesn't carry ballistic certification, but it offers a slightly more relaxed fit and a broader selection of frame and lens colors for everyday outdoor use.
Bottom line: If you need ballistic-rated eye protection for shooting, tactical operations, or high-impact activities, the Operator's Choice Elite is the clear choice. If you're primarily fishing or want more lens color options for varied outdoor conditions, the Guide's Choice is the better fit.
Operator's Choice Elite vs Longfin Elite: Comparing Smith's Tactical Lineup
Both the Operator's Choice Elite and the Longfin Elite are part of Smith's Elite tactical collection, meaning they both meet MIL-PRF-31013 and ANSI Z87.1 standards. The difference is in frame style and intended use.
The Operator's Choice Elite is based on the Guide's Choice fishing frame, giving it a rectangle wraparound shape with an 8-base curve that provides excellent coverage and a secure fit for medium to large faces. It's designed for operators who need proven performance in tactical environments, with ChromaPop+ polarized lenses that enhance color and contrast for target identification and environmental scanning.
The Longfin Elite ($119-$185) offers a slightly more lifestyle-oriented look while maintaining full tactical certification. It's a good option if you want ballistic-rated protection that doesn't look overtly tactical for everyday wear.
Our recommendation: If you're looking for a tactical frame with a proven pedigree and superior optical performance via ChromaPop+ technology, the Operator's Choice Elite is the stronger choice. If you prefer a more casual aesthetic with the same safety ratings, consider the Longfin Elite.
At a Glance
Smith Optics Guide's Choice Sunglasses
Pros:
- MIL-PRF-31013 ballistic rating and ANSI Z87.1 compliance for tactical/shooting use
- Anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings standard on all lenses
- Megol no-slip pads designed for high-activity tactical operations
- Lower price point ($125-$239 vs $207-$327)
Cons:
- Fewer lens color options compared to the Guide's Choice lineup
- 8-base wraparound curve may feel more aggressive than the Guide's Choice fit
- Tactical styling may not suit casual everyday wear as well
Smith Optics Elite Longfin Elite Sunglasses
Pros:
- Rectangle wraparound design offers excellent coverage and peripheral protection
- ChromaPop+ polarized options for enhanced color and contrast in tactical environments
- Proven Operator's Choice platform based on the iconic Guide's Choice frame
- Better suited for medium to large faces with 62mm lens width
Cons:
- May have a more aggressive tactical look compared to the Longfin's lifestyle styling
- Fewer frame color options in the Operator's Choice Elite lineup
- 8-base curve may not suit those preferring a flatter, more casual fit