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The Smith Optics Guide's Choice Sunglasses deliver professional-grade performance for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts who demand the clearest possible view on the water. Designed with input from fishing guides, these polarized fishing sunglasses feature an aggressive 8-base wraparound frame with wide temples that provide superior coverage and block peripheral glare—essential for spotting fish and reading water in challenging conditions.
Available with ChromaPop Glass Polarized lenses, the Guide's Choice offers Smith's clearest, most scratch-resistant optics with highly efficient polarization and anti-reflective coatings. The Low Light Yellow lens variant (30% VLT) is specifically engineered for dawn, dusk, and overcast fishing, brightening your surroundings and enhancing contrast when natural light is limited. The rectangular full-rim frame is crafted from lightweight Evolve bio-based material (53% bio-based content) and features premium Italian spring hinges, Megol nose and temple pads for a secure non-slip grip, and an integrated detachable leash. Medium fit with 62mm lens width, 17mm bridge, and 120mm temples. 100% UV protection.
Product Details
Product DetailsModel
Guide's ChoiceShape
Gender
Bridge Type
Rim Type
Age Group
Color Details
Color DetailsColor Code
00362L5Color Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Glass Polarized Low Light YellowFrame Color
Black
Color Code
HGC62L5Color Description
Matte Tortoise - Chromapop Glass Polarized Brown
Color Code
08662QEColor Description
Tortoise - Chromapop Glass Polarized Bronze Mirror
Color Code
08662UIColor Description
Tortoise - Chromapop Glass Polarized Green Mirror
Color Code
HGC62QGColor Description
Matte Tortoise - Chromapop Glass Polarized Blue Mirror
Color Code
00362QGColor Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Glass Polarized Blue MirrorFrame Color
Black
Color Code
WR962UIColor Description
Tortoise - Chromapop Polarized Green Mirror
Color Code
N9P62L5Color Description
Matte Tortoise - Chromapop Polarized Brown
Color Code
RIW62UIColor Description
Matte Cement - Chromapop Glass Polarized Green MirrorFrame Color
Gray
Color Code
FRE62UIColor Description
Matte Cement - Chromapop Polarized Green MirrorFrame Color
Gray
Color Code
00362L7Color Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Polarized Gray GreenFrame Color
Black
Color Code
00362QEColor Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Glass Polarized Bronze MirrorFrame Color
Black
Color Code
00362UIColor Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Glass Polarized Green MirrorFrame Color
Black
Color Code
003626NColor Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Glass Polarized GrayFrame Color
Black
Color Code
12462QGColor Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Polarized Blue MirrorFrame Color
Black
Color Code
20494701T62QGColor Description
Chromapop Glass Polarchromic Yellow Blue Mirror
Color Code
204947SIF626NColor Description
Chromapop Polarized BlackFrame Color
Black
Color Code
204947FJM62QGColor Description
Chromapop Glass Polarized Opal Mirror
Color Code
204947N9P6278Color Description
Chromapop Glass Polarchromic Brown Green Mirror
Color Code
204947UHX62QGColor Description
Chromapop Glass Polarized Opal Mirror
Color Code
204947003627VColor Description
Guide's ChoiceLens Color
ChromaPop Glass Polarchromic Rose Blue Mirror
Color Code
2049474QI62G0Color Description
Matte Meteorite CrystalLens Color
ChromaPop Low Light Rose Blue Mirror
Color Code
204947U1F624JColor Description
Matte Flint - Tarmac TortoiseLens Color
ChromaPop Glass Polarized Dark Blue Mirror
Color Code
204947DKH626NColor Description
Matte FathomLens Color
ChromaPop Polarized Black
Color Code
2049474JC62QEColor Description
Matte GravyLens Color
ChromaPop Polarized Bronze Mirror
Size Details
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I was expecting a yellow low light lens per the photo in the description. I received a dark black lens.
Always been a fan of Smith sunglasses. Designer Optics offers them at a good price
Easy to order, fast shipping and quality product
Was excited to receive my glasses and appreciate these high end features, upon receipt I appreciated the packaging and the glasses case was nice. But upon taking out the glasses and unfolding the frames I was surprised at the overall quality lacking. The arms are both lose and wiggly. Then if you hold either side of the frames a gently twist you expect nothing to happen. Wrong, they creak and flex very easily, sounds like the lenses are undersized for the frame. The lens color and overall fit and size are good, no complaints there. Matt color looks cool, and I like the style, just wish the overall quality was better.
The shipping time was excessive. Waited almost two weeks before receiving the order.
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At Designer Optics, our skilled and experienced lab opticians play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and accuracy of your eyewear. With over 30 combined years of experience and full licensure, they review each prescription carefully and are equipped to answer any questions you may have.
Our state-of-the-art lab is equipped with the latest technology and equipment, including advanced edging and cutting technology, to produce lenses that are precise and accurate. Whether you need full frame or rimless lenses, our team is dedicated to providing the best possible results.
For personalized support, simply send an email to Support@designeroptics.com to request a call back from one of our friendly opticians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Smith Guide's Choice sunglasses available with prescription lenses?
Yes, the Smith Guide's Choice can be fitted with prescription lenses through authorized optical retailers like SportRx. Prescription options include single vision, progressive, and lined bifocals in various lens materials and colors. Smith also offers dedicated prescription versions (Guide's Choice Rx) starting at $99, and these are eligible for HSA/FSA reimbursement.
What is the difference between ChromaPop Glass and ChromaPop polycarbonate lenses?
ChromaPop Glass lenses are mineral glass—heavier but offer superior optical clarity and exceptional scratch resistance, making them ideal for serious anglers who prioritize durability. ChromaPop polycarbonate lenses are 75% lighter than glass, more impact-resistant, and more affordable, though they're more prone to scratching. Glass is recommended if you're hard on sunglasses or want the absolute best clarity.
When should I use low-light yellow lenses for fishing?
Low-light yellow lenses are ideal for dawn, dusk, overcast days, and heavily shaded streams. They increase brightness and enhance contrast in dim conditions, allowing you to see underwater structure and fish movement when brown or gray lenses would be too dark. Yellow lenses typically offer 25-33% visual light transmission (VLT), making them perfect for early morning or late evening fishing sessions.
How does the Guide's Choice fit compare to the Guide's Choice XL?
The standard Guide's Choice offers a medium-large fit that works for most people, while the Guide's Choice XL is scaled up for larger faces and bigger heads. Both share the same 8-base wraparound design, ChromaPop lens options, Megol pads, and integrated leash. If you typically wear a size 8 hat or have an XXL head, the XL version provides better coverage and a more comfortable fit.
What makes the 8-base curvature important for fishing sunglasses?
The 8-base lens curvature creates an aggressive wraparound fit that offers exceptional coverage and blocks light from entering at the sides and top of the frame. This prevents backside reflections (where sunlight reflects off the inside of your lenses into your eyes) and provides superior peripheral light protection—critical for all-day comfort on the water and for spotting fish without glare interference.
Are Smith Guide's Choice sunglasses comfortable for all-day wear?
Yes, reviewers consistently praise the Guide's Choice for all-day comfort. The Megol nose and temple pads provide a secure, non-slip grip that actually increases with moisture and sweat. The premium Italian spring hinges self-adjust to your face for a customized fit. The lightweight Evolve frame material and balanced design mean you'll barely notice you're wearing them, even after hours on the water.
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Smith Optics Performance Water 204947 Guide's Choice Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Extra-large fit ideal for bigger heads (size 8 hat or larger)
- Same premium ChromaPop Glass lens options and 8-base wraparound coverage
- Better coverage and more secure fit for those who need the larger size
- Slightly lower starting price ($195 vs $207)
- ChromaPop polarized lens technology with excellent glare reduction
- Lightweight and comfortable for active water sports
Read the full comparison
Smith Guide's Choice vs Guide's Choice XL: Which Size Is Right for You?
The most common comparison customers face is choosing between the standard Smith Guide's Choice and the Guide's Choice XL. Both sunglasses share identical features—the same 8-base wraparound coverage, ChromaPop Glass lens options, Megol non-slip pads, Italian spring hinges, and integrated detachable leash. The only difference is size.
The standard Guide's Choice offers a medium-large fit that works well for most people. If you wear a typical hat size (7 to 7½) and have an average-sized face, this is your best choice. Reviewers note that even the standard version provides generous coverage and stays secure during active fishing.
The Guide's Choice XL is scaled up for larger faces and heads. If you typically wear a size 8 hat, have an XXL head, or find that most sunglasses feel tight or leave pressure marks, the XL delivers better coverage and all-day comfort. Forum discussions from anglers confirm that the XL is essential for those who genuinely need the larger fit, but it can feel loose or slip on average-sized faces.
Our recommendation: Unless you know you need a large or extra-large fit, start with the standard Guide's Choice. It offers the same professional-grade performance at a slightly lower starting price and fits the vast majority of anglers perfectly.
Smith Guide's Choice vs Riptide: Coverage vs Versatility
The Smith Riptide is another excellent water-sport sunglass featuring ChromaPop polarized lenses, but it's designed with a more versatile, lifestyle-friendly aesthetic. While the Guide's Choice was engineered specifically for fishing with input from professional guides, the Riptide takes a broader approach to active water sports.
The Guide's Choice excels with its aggressive 8-base wraparound design and wide temples that block peripheral glare—critical for serious anglers who spend long days scanning the water. The integrated leash system and Megol pads ensure these sunglasses stay put even in challenging conditions. If fishing is your primary activity and you want the absolute best tool for spotting fish and reading water, the Guide's Choice is purpose-built for that mission.
The Riptide offers a slightly lower entry price and a more modern, streamlined look that transitions better from the boat to everyday wear. However, it lacks the wide temple coverage and integrated leash that make the Guide's Choice the go-to choice for dedicated anglers.
Bottom line: For serious fishing performance, the Guide's Choice is the clear winner. Its design is optimized for on-the-water clarity and all-day comfort in the harshest glare conditions.
At a Glance
Smith Optics Guide's Choice XL Sunglasses
Pros:
- Extra-large fit ideal for bigger heads (size 8 hat or larger)
- Same premium ChromaPop Glass lens options and 8-base wraparound coverage
- Better coverage and more secure fit for those who need the larger size
- Identical Megol pads, Italian spring hinges, and integrated leash
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point ($215-$327 vs $207-$327)
- May be too large for average-sized faces—can slip or feel loose
- Heavier overall due to larger frame and lens size
- Not necessary unless you specifically need the XL fit
Smith Optics Riptide Sunglasses
Pros:
- Slightly lower starting price ($195 vs $207)
- ChromaPop polarized lens technology with excellent glare reduction
- Lightweight and comfortable for active water sports
- Modern styling that works well off the water
Cons:
- Less aggressive wraparound coverage than Guide's Choice
- Narrower temples provide less peripheral light blocking
- Not specifically designed with fishing guide input
- No integrated leash system like the Guide's Choice