Product Details
Color Details
Size DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
What magnification strengths are available for the Smith Guide's Choice Bifocal sunglasses?
Are the Smith Guide's Choice Bifocal sunglasses polarized?
What is ChromaPop lens technology and how does it help with fishing?
Can I get prescription lenses in the Smith Guide's Choice Bifocal frames?
What is the frame made from and is it durable?
How do bifocal fishing sunglasses work compared to regular readers?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Smith Optics Performance Water 320012 Guide's Choice Bifocals Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Available with ChromaPop Glass polarized lenses for superior scratch resistance and optical clarity
- Wider range of lens tint options including low-light yellow and polarchromic (light-adaptive) lenses
- Can be fitted with full prescription lenses if you need distance correction
- Larger frame provides more coverage and sun protection for bigger faces
- Same ChromaPop polarized lens technology and Evolve frame material
- Better fit for those who find the standard Guide's Choice too small
- Smaller frame designed specifically for narrow to medium faces
- Same ChromaPop polarized technology and premium features as standard model
- Better fit prevents slipping on smaller face shapes
Read the full comparison
Smith Guide's Choice Bifocal vs. Standard Guide's Choice Models
The Guide's Choice Bifocal is part of Smith's acclaimed Guide's Choice family, which includes standard, XL, and S (small) versions. The key decision comes down to whether you need integrated bifocal readers and how the frame size fits your face.
Bifocal vs. Standard Guide's Choice: The bifocal model is purpose-built for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts who need reading magnification but don't want to carry separate glasses. If you're over 40 and find yourself reaching for readers to tie knots, rig tackle, or check your phone, the bifocal version eliminates that hassle entirely. The standard Guide's Choice offers more lens options—including ChromaPop Glass for superior scratch resistance and polarchromic (light-adaptive) lenses—but requires you to manage separate reading glasses for close work.
Frame Size Considerations: The Guide's Choice Bifocal uses the medium-to-large standard frame. If you have a larger face or want maximum coverage, the Guide's Choice XL provides a bigger fit, though it's not available with bifocals. Conversely, the Guide's Choice S suits smaller faces but also lacks the bifocal option.
Our Recommendation: If you need readers for close-up tasks and spend long days fishing or on the water, the Guide's Choice Bifocal is the clear winner—it's more convenient and keeps you focused on the activity instead of managing multiple pairs of glasses. Choose the standard Guide's Choice only if you don't need magnification or require a full distance prescription. For fit, try the bifocal first; if it's too large or small, you can size up or down with the XL or S models, though you'll lose the bifocal feature.
At a Glance
Smith Optics Guide's Choice Sunglasses (Standard)
Pros:
- Available with ChromaPop Glass polarized lenses for superior scratch resistance and optical clarity
- Wider range of lens tint options including low-light yellow and polarchromic (light-adaptive) lenses
- Can be fitted with full prescription lenses if you need distance correction
- Slightly lower starting price for basic lens options
Cons:
- No integrated bifocal—requires separate reading glasses for close-up tasks
- Less convenient for anglers who need to frequently switch between distance and near vision
- ChromaPop Glass lenses are heavier than carbonic bifocal lenses
Smith Optics Guide's Choice XL Sunglasses
Pros:
- Larger frame provides more coverage and sun protection for bigger faces
- Same ChromaPop polarized lens technology and Evolve frame material
- Better fit for those who find the standard Guide's Choice too small
- Available in ChromaPop Glass for premium optical performance
Cons:
- Not available in bifocal configuration—no integrated reader option
- Larger size may feel bulky on medium or smaller faces
- Higher price point, especially with glass lens options
Smith Optics Guide's Choice S Sunglasses
Pros:
- Smaller frame designed specifically for narrow to medium faces
- Same ChromaPop polarized technology and premium features as standard model
- Better fit prevents slipping on smaller face shapes
- Lighter weight due to smaller lens area
Cons:
- Not available with bifocal readers—standard lenses only
- Less coverage may allow more peripheral light
- Smaller lens area provides narrower field of view