Smith Optics Archive 207142 Mono Lake Sunglasses
Smith Optics Archive 207142 Mono Lake Sunglasses
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Smith Optics Archive 207142 Mono Lake Sunglasses

207142003636N - Chromapop Polarized Black

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DESCRIPTION RATINGS & REVIEWS PRESCRIPTION GUIDE

The Smith Optics Archive 207142 Mono Lake Sunglasses bring back a 1991 icon with serious upgrades. Originally worn when grunge ruled the airwaves and adventure meant something different, these aviator-style frames have returned with ChromaPop lens technology that makes the original look quaint by comparison. This is prescription-ready eyewear built for people who want one pair that works everywhere—the beach, the road trip, the dog walk, the drive home.

ChromaPop Lens Technology: See What You've Been Missing

ChromaPop isn't marketing speak. Your retina struggles to distinguish where blue and green light overlap, and where red and green cross over. ChromaPop filters these crossovers, allowing for greater definition, natural color, and clarity. Colors look richer. Details you'd normally miss—texture in water, shifts in terrain, the actual green of grass—become obvious. The polarized versions cut glare on bright days while the smudge- and moisture-resistant coatings keep your view clear when you're sweating or near water. All lenses provide 100% UV protection.

The Mono Lake comes in ten lens options spanning ChromaPop Polarized Violet Mirror, Black, Brown, and Gray Green, plus non-polarized ChromaPop Brown and Gray Green. The Violet Mirror lens cuts water glare for fishing, while the Gray Green offers neutral color for all-day wear.

Retro Shape, Modern Comfort

Medium fit, large coverage, 6-base lens curvature, modest wraparound fit, Megol nose pads provide non-slip grip so glasses stay put, adjustable corewire for a customized fit. The Evolve bio-based frame material is lightweight and durable, made to reduce environmental impact while remaining tough enough for real use. Surprisingly light for their size, these frames won't slide down your nose on hot days thanks to those Megol pads, and the adjustable nose bridge lets you dial in the fit.

Prescription-Ready Aviator Sunglasses

The Mono Lake accepts prescription lenses, so you don't have to choose between clear vision and sun protection. Add your Rx at checkout and get the same retro aviator look with the optical clarity you need. The full-rim construction and single-bridge design provide a stable platform for a wide range of prescriptions.

Each pair ships with an Archive Collection fleece pouch. The Mono Lake is unisex and works across a broad range of face shapes, though the large coverage means smaller faces may find them oversized. Smith backs these frames with their standard limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.

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Customer Reviews

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K
Kurtis Kwekel
Light weight and stylish

I love these glasses. Sometimes you can’t feel them on your face and give you great coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Smith Mono Lake sunglasses prescription-ready?

Yes, the Smith Mono Lake sunglasses are prescription-ready. You can add your prescription lenses at checkout. The full-rim aviator frame with 6-base lens curvature accommodates a wide range of prescriptions, and you'll get the same ChromaPop color enhancement and UV protection with your custom Rx lenses.

What is ChromaPop lens technology and how does it work?

ChromaPop is Smith's color-enhancing lens technology that filters the specific wavelengths where blue/green and red/green light overlap—areas where your eye naturally struggles to distinguish color. By eliminating this color confusion, ChromaPop delivers sharper contrast, more natural color, and better definition so you see details you'd otherwise miss. It's especially noticeable in outdoor environments with variable lighting.

What size face do the Mono Lake sunglasses fit?

The Mono Lake has a medium fit with large coverage, making them suitable for medium to large faces. The 6-base lens curvature provides a modest wraparound fit, and the adjustable corewire nose bridge lets you customize the fit. Reviewers note they stay put on a wide array of face sizes, though they may be too large for smaller faces.

Are the Mono Lake lenses polarized?

The Mono Lake is available in both polarized and non-polarized ChromaPop lens options. Polarized versions (ChromaPop Polarized Black, Brown, Gray Green, Violet Mirror, and Slate) cut glare and enhance color and contrast—ideal for water sports, driving, and bright conditions. Non-polarized ChromaPop lenses still boost color and detail without the glare reduction.

What is Evolve frame material?

Evolve is Smith's bio-based frame material made from over 53% renewable, non-GMO castor plants (Rilsan Clear). It's lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendlier than traditional petroleum-based plastics. Evolve frames maintain their shape and strength through temperature changes and daily wear, making them ideal for active use.

How do the Mono Lake sunglasses compare to the Lowdown 2?

The Mono Lake has a 6-base aviator shape with large coverage and a modest wraparound fit, while the Lowdown 2 features a flatter 4-base rectangular lens curve and a more casual, lifestyle-focused design. The Mono Lake offers more sun coverage and a retro aviator vibe, whereas the Lowdown 2 is lower-profile and works better for everyday urban wear. Both are prescription-ready and available with ChromaPop lenses.

Compare With Similar Frames

How the Smith Optics Archive 207142 Mono Lake Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.

Read the full comparison

Smith Mono Lake vs. Lowdown XL 2 vs. Riptide: Which Smith Sunglasses Are Right for You?

Choosing between Smith's lifestyle and active sunglasses comes down to fit, coverage, and how you'll use them. The Mono Lake, Lowdown XL 2, and Riptide all feature ChromaPop lenses and prescription-ready frames, but each serves a different purpose.

Mono Lake: Retro Aviator for Everyday Versatility

The Mono Lake is a 1991 Archive reissue with a 6-base aviator shape, large coverage, and a modest wraparound fit. It's built for people who want one pair that works everywhere—driving, hiking, beach days, road trips. The medium fit suits medium to large faces, and the adjustable nose bridge lets you dial in comfort. Outside Online called it their favorite everyday sunglasses after testing two dozen pairs, praising its stay-put feel and glare-busting optics. If you want distinctive retro style with modern lens tech, the Mono Lake delivers.

Lowdown XL 2: Casual Rectangular for Daily Wear

The Lowdown XL 2 takes a different approach with a flatter 4-base rectangular lens curve and a lower-profile design. It's more casual and urban-focused, with a shape that works under helmets and in everyday settings where you don't need maximum sun coverage. The XL version fits larger faces, and the 4-base curve accepts a wider range of prescriptions than the Mono Lake's 6-base. Starting at $149, it's also slightly more affordable. Choose the Lowdown XL 2 if you prefer understated rectangular styling over the Mono Lake's bold aviator look.

Riptide: Performance Frames for Active Days

The Riptide is Smith's performance option, with spring hinges that expand at the temples for a snug, flexible fit during runs, bike rides, and high-movement activities. It's available with ChromaPop Glass lenses for superior scratch resistance—ideal if you're hard on your gear. Italian-made frames and a focus on athletic performance make the Riptide the choice for serious outdoor athletes. The trade-off? A higher price (up to $307) and styling that's more sport-focused than the Mono Lake's versatile everyday vibe.

The Verdict

Pick the Mono Lake if you want retro aviator style, large sun coverage, and a frame that handles everything from the beach to the ski hill. Choose the Lowdown XL 2 for a lower-profile rectangular shape that's more casual and prescription-friendly. Go with the Riptide if you need performance features like spring hinges and scratch-resistant glass lenses for active pursuits. All three offer ChromaPop clarity and prescription compatibility—it's just a matter of fit, style, and how hard you'll push them.

At a Glance

Smith Optics Lifestyle 201514 Lowdown XL 2 Sunglasses

Pros:

  • Flatter 4-base lens curve accepts wider range of prescriptions
  • Lower-profile rectangular shape for casual everyday wear
  • Slightly lower starting price ($149)
  • Bio-based Evolve frames with Megol nose pads

Cons:

  • Less sun coverage than Mono Lake's aviator shape
  • 4-base curve offers less wraparound protection
  • More common rectangular styling vs. Mono Lake's distinctive retro aviator look

Smith Optics Active 203682 Riptide Sunglasses

Pros:

  • Spring hinges provide extra flex and snug fit during activity
  • Available with ChromaPop Glass for superior scratch resistance
  • Performance-focused design for runs and bike rides
  • Italian-made frames

Cons:

  • Higher price range (up to $307)
  • More athletic styling may not suit casual everyday wear
  • Performance features may be overkill for casual users

Smith Optics Lifestyle 201044 Lowdown Slim 2 Sunglasses

Pros:

  • Slimmer fit ideal for narrow to medium faces
  • Lower-profile design for understated style
  • Similar price range ($139.75–$217)
  • 4-base flat lens curve for everyday comfort

Cons:

  • Less sun coverage than Mono Lake's large aviator lenses
  • Rectangular shape lacks the Mono Lake's retro aviator character
  • Smaller frame may not suit larger faces

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