Product Details
Color Details
Size DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
Are the Smith Arvo sunglasses prescription-ready?
What is ChromaPop lens technology and how does it work?
How much do the Smith Arvo sunglasses weigh?
What size face do the Smith Arvo sunglasses fit?
Are Smith Arvo lenses polarized?
What is the Evolve frame material made from?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Smith Optics Active 205887 Arvo Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- 8-base wraparound fit provides better wind and sun protection
- Better for active use—stays secure during hiking, running, and water sports
- Works well for narrower faces and nose bridges
- More casual, versatile style that works off the water
- Better fit for narrower heads and nose bridges
- Lighter weight (29g) for all-day comfort
- Slightly more casual aesthetic with less aggressive wrap
- Better for narrower faces based on customer feedback
- Proven 'daily driver' reputation in reviews
Read the full comparison
Smith Arvo vs. Lowdown XL 2: Wraparound Sport-Casual or Retro Flat Lens?
If you're choosing between the Smith Arvo and the Smith Lowdown XL 2, you're deciding between two different philosophies. The Lowdown XL 2 is Smith's best-selling lifestyle frame—a modern take on the classic Wayfarer with a flat 4-base lens and retro vibe. The Arvo, by contrast, has an 8-base wraparound fit that's more protective and sport-oriented.
Choose the Arvo if: You want better coverage for active use. The wraparound design blocks more wind and peripheral light, and the Megol grips keep them locked during hikes, runs, or water sports. Reviewers say the Arvo stays put better than the Lowdown during movement, and it works particularly well for narrower faces.
Choose the Lowdown XL 2 if: Style is your priority and you prefer a flatter, more casual look. The Lowdown is less sporty and pairs better with everyday outfits. It's also more comfortable for people who don't like the wraparound feel.
Both share ChromaPop polarized lenses and Evolve bio-based frames, so optical performance is identical. The Arvo is the better tool for outdoor activities; the Lowdown XL 2 is the better everyday accessory.
Smith Arvo vs. Guide's Choice: Casual Versatility or Fishing-Focused Performance?
The Guide's Choice is Smith's dedicated fishing sunglass, and customers often cross-shop it with the Arvo. One reviewer on Smith's site put it perfectly: the Arvo is ideal for someone with a narrower head who wants a more casual look without sacrificing performance.
Choose the Arvo if: You want one pair that works for fishing, hiking, driving, and daily life. It's lighter (29g), less aggressive-looking, and fits narrower faces better. You'll save money while still getting ChromaPop polarized lenses.
Choose the Guide's Choice if: Fishing is your primary use. The Guide's Choice offers more water-specific lens options, including ChromaPop Glass Polarchromic (which combines polarization, photochromic, and ChromaPop in glass lenses). It's also built with more coverage for serious anglers.
The Arvo is the daily driver; the Guide's Choice is the specialist.
Smith Arvo vs. Riptide: Subtle Style Differences in the Active Collection
Both the Arvo and Riptide sit in Smith's Active collection and share similar DNA: Evolve frames, ChromaPop lenses, and casual-to-active styling. The differences are subtle.
The Arvo has an 8-base wraparound curvature, while the Riptide has a 6-base (less wrap). The Arvo is slightly more protective and sporty; the Riptide is a touch more laid-back. Both work well for narrower faces, and both are lightweight and comfortable.
The bottom line: If you want maximum coverage and a secure fit for active days, go with the Arvo. If you prefer a slightly flatter profile with a more relaxed look, the Riptide is your pick. You can't go wrong with either—it's a matter of personal preference.
At a Glance
Smith Optics Lifestyle 201514 Lowdown XL 2 Sunglasses
Pros:
- 8-base wraparound fit provides better wind and sun protection
- Better for active use—stays secure during hiking, running, and water sports
- Works well for narrower faces and nose bridges
- More coverage and peripheral protection
- Slightly more versatile for outdoor activities
Cons:
- More sporty look may not suit all casual settings
- Wraparound fit can feel bulkier than flat-lens styles
- Less retro/lifestyle aesthetic compared to Lowdown's Wayfarer-inspired design
Smith Optics Performance Water 204947 Guide's Choice Sunglasses
Pros:
- More casual, versatile style that works off the water
- Better fit for narrower heads and nose bridges
- Lighter weight (29g) for all-day comfort
- Lower price point while maintaining ChromaPop quality
- Less aggressive look for everyday wear
Cons:
- Less specialized for fishing than Guide's Choice
- Guide's Choice offers more lens options optimized for water
- Not available with ChromaPop Glass Polarchromic (Guide's Choice exclusive)
- Less coverage for hardcore water sports
Smith Optics Active 203682 Riptide Sunglasses
Pros:
- Slightly more casual aesthetic with less aggressive wrap
- Better for narrower faces based on customer feedback
- Proven 'daily driver' reputation in reviews
- Spring hinges provide self-adjusting fit
- More color and lens combinations available (12 variants)
Cons:
- Riptide may offer slightly more coverage depending on face shape
- Both are very similar—choice comes down to subtle style preference
- Riptide has 6-base vs. Arvo's 8-base curvature (less wrap)