You save 0%
Color
Free Shipping
Price Match
Easy Returns
Licensed Opticians
The Smith Venture Sunglasses bring modern lens technology to the classic glacier glass silhouette. Built for alpinists, backcountry skiers, and mountaineers who demand serious eye protection in high-altitude environments, these round-frame sunglasses transform from technical glacier glasses to everyday shades in seconds thanks to removable TPU side shields and nose piece.
ChromaPop Glacier Photochromic: Adaptive Clarity from Dawn to Dusk
At the heart of the Venture is Smith's ChromaPop Glacier Photochromic lens technology. Unlike standard photochromic lenses that struggle in cold temperatures, these UV and visible light-activated lenses adapt dynamically across a 7-45% visible light transmission range with minimal temperature sensitivity. The lens shifts from a low-light copper base tint to dark gray as conditions brighten, maintaining full ChromaPop contrast and color enhancement throughout the entire tint range. Anti-fog and hydroleophobic coatings keep your view clear when you're working hard on the uphill, while anti-reflective treatment reduces eye strain during long days in the alpine.
ChromaPop technology filters light at specific wavelengths where color confusion occurs—particularly where blue and green, and red and green overlap. The result is sharper definition of terrain features, enhanced contrast that helps you read snow texture and spot crevasses, and truer color that reduces eye fatigue. Whether you're navigating wind-loaded slopes or picking your way through a glacier's crevasse field, the optical clarity gives you the visual information you need to move confidently.
Glacier-Ready Protection, Street-Ready Style
The removable TPU side shields block peripheral light reflecting off snow, rock, and ice—critical protection when UV radiation intensifies at altitude. The shields snap on and off easily, and the removable nose piece adds extra coverage when conditions demand it. Pop them off after your descent, and the Venture's iconic round frames look right at home around town. The medium fit and 4-base lens curvature provide solid coverage without the goggle-like bulk of oversized glacier glasses.
AutoLock hinges hold the frames open for easy one-handed on-and-off—a practical detail when one hand is occupied with an ice axe or trekking poles. Megol temple and nose pads deliver non-slip grip even when you're sweating, and QuickFit temples adjust for a customized fit. The frame is constructed from Smith's Evolve bio-based material, keeping weight down while maintaining durability. An adjustable retainer strap (included) keeps the glasses secure during high-speed descents or windy ridgelines.
Built for the Mountains, Ready for Prescription
The Venture is prescription-ready, so you don't have to choose between vision correction and alpine-grade eye protection. The sunglasses come with a performance hard case and microfiber bag for safe storage. Available in multiple frame colors and lens options including ChromaPop Glass Polarized and ChromaPop Polarized variants, the Venture adapts to your preferred aesthetic and light conditions. Lens measurements: 56mm width, 48mm height, 19mm bridge, 145mm temple length.
"I could identify more details in the matted twists and tangles of snow-laden Ponderosas than with my polarized sunglasses at noon on a sunny day." — Mountain Weekly News reviewer
From summit bids to spring ski tours to casual wear, the Smith Venture Sunglasses deliver the optical performance and versatile protection that serious mountain athletes demand—wrapped in a frame that looks as good glissading down a snowfield as it does relaxing post-adventure.
Product Details
Product DetailsModel
VentureShape
Gender
Bridge Type
Rim Type
Age Group
Color Details
Color DetailsColor Code
206728Z1P530WColor Description
Matte Bone - Chromapop Glacier Photochromic Copper Gold Mirror
Frame Color
BlackColor Code
206728003536NColor Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Glass Polarized Black
Frame Color
BrownColor Code
206728N9P53QEColor Description
Matte Tortoise -chromapop Glass Polarized Bronze Mirror
Frame Color
BlackColor Code
20672800353PSColor Description
Matte Black - Chromapop Glacier Photochromic Copper Blue Mirror
Color Code
206728S9W53L5Color Description
Pacific Sedona - Chromapop Polarized Brown
Frame Color
BlackColor Code
20672880753L7Color Description
Black - Chromapop Polarized Gray Green
Color Code
2067283MR53DFColor Description
Wild Child - Chromapop Polarized Violet Mirror
Color Code
206728SIF536NColor Description
Matte Moss - Chromapop Polarized Black
Color Code
206728HGC53GHColor Description
Chromapop Glacier Photochromic Copper Opal Mirror
Color Code
206728U1F53Z8Color Description
Matte Flint - Tarmac TortoiseLens Color
ChromaPop Slate
Color Code
2067284JC530WColor Description
Matte GravyLens Color
ChromaPop Glacier Photochromic Copper Gold Mirror
Color Code
206728YZ4537ZColor Description
Matte Gold DustLens Color
ChromaPop Glacier Photochromic Rose Gold Mirror
Size Details
Size DetailsSize
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Size
00
Communication was timely on shipping and the sunglasses are amazing, and at a much cheaper price than anywhere else I could find. I’ll buy again in the future!
Got my shades with big discount in a week or so, very responsive and transparent tracking info
I returned this item & am waiting for response as the blue mirror lenses were very see through and not appropriate for high sun activity as advertised
Excellent lightweight
These glasses are awesome! Gonna order another pair!
California Proposition 65 Proposition 65 is a California regulation that requires special warnings to be presented to customers if a product contains certain quantities of chemicals or toxicants known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. The following warning applies to the products linking to this page:
WARNING: Reproductive Harm – https://www.p65warnings.ca.gov/Free Shipping within the contiguous US only (excluding Hawaii and Alaska) on all Orders over $100.
At DesignerOptics.com we are committed to the highest quality of service.
We ship products to all 50 US states as well as to many other countries around the world. We take all the measures to ship our items in a timely manner, directly to your door, almost anywhere in the world.
In stock products usually ship within two business days, but may take up to five business days*. When an order ships you will receive a confirmation email with the tracking information. You can also track your order by logging into your account.
We provide FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $100 We also offer overnight and second day delivery shipping options. Please note that when using next day or second day delivery it still takes 48 to 72 Business hours for the order to be processed.
The Designer Optics Low Price Guarantee is simple:
Designeroptics.com matches the price of all retail competitors and major online retailers.
How it works:
Place the frames in your cart
Before placing your order in add the following the comments box, Add the URL (web address) of the page where you found the lower-priced item,
Your credit card will not be charged until we have confirmed with you by phone or by email that your item qualifies for our Price-Match Guarantee.
Please Follow those easy steps for returns
1- Please fill out this form Return Authorization Form to get an RMA # you will receive a RMA # with instruction on how to return them within 48 to 72 Business hours from the time you submitted the form. Wait for our confirmation e-mail before shipping back the return
2- Send the product back to us following the instructions indicated in our e-mail and to the address we will provide you.
3- Make sure to confirm with us via e-mail the shipping date, the shipping service you used and the tracking number whenever you have
4- Include details of the return and how you would like for us to go about it (refund, store credit, exchange, etc). Designer Optics is not responsible for items damaged along the way.
Please allow us 3 to 5 business days from when items are received for us to process the refund. The amount to be refunded will not include shipping charges. if the order consists of 3 or more frames we will charge a 20% Restocking fee. otherwise only the shipping will be deducted.
Some exclusions may apply. Please note prescription lenses are final sale. We also do not accept returns on beauty products due to health and safety concerns. For more information please go to Returns
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 Venture sunglasses prescription-ready?
Yes, the Smith Venture sunglasses are prescription-ready and can be fitted with prescription lenses through certified optical labs. The frame design accommodates prescription lenses while maintaining the glacier-glass functionality, including compatibility with the removable side shields and nose piece. Check with your optician to confirm lens options for your specific prescription.
How do the ChromaPop Glacier Photochromic lenses work?
The ChromaPop Glacier Photochromic lenses are UV and visible light-activated, adapting from 45% to 7% visible light transmission. Unlike traditional photochromic lenses, they're less temperature-sensitive, so they transition reliably even in cold alpine conditions. The lens shifts from a low-light copper base tint to dark gray in bright conditions while maintaining ChromaPop's color-filtering technology throughout the entire tint range for enhanced contrast and clarity.
Can I remove the side shields and nose piece?
Yes, both the TPU side shields and nose piece are fully removable, transforming the Venture from technical glacier glasses to casual everyday sunglasses. The side shields snap on and off easily using the AutoLock mechanism. This versatility makes them ideal for alpine activities where you need maximum protection, then casual wear around town after your adventure.
What is the fit and coverage of the Smith Venture?
The Smith Venture has a medium fit with medium coverage and a compact profile compared to other glacier glasses. The round frame measures 56mm lens width, 48mm lens height, with a 19mm bridge and 145mm temples. The 4-base lens curvature provides good coverage without excessive wrap. Reviewers note they fit medium to medium-large oval faces well, and the QuickFit temples allow for customized adjustment.
Do the Smith Venture sunglasses provide 100% UV protection?
Yes, all Smith Venture lens options provide 100% protection against UVA, UVB, and UVC radiation. The removable side shields add critical peripheral protection by blocking UV rays and glare reflecting off snow, rock, and ice from the sides—essential for high-altitude environments where UV radiation is significantly more intense than at sea level.
How do the Smith Venture compare to the Smith Embark?
The Venture has a compact, round frame with medium fit and medium coverage, while the Embark offers a larger, more rectangular frame with medium fit and large coverage. Both feature removable side shields and similar lens options. The Venture includes a removable nose piece (the Embark does not), and the Venture's round design is more versatile for casual wear. The Embark provides slightly more coverage for those who prefer a larger glacier-glass style.
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Smith Optics Sport u0026 Performance 206728 Venture Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Larger frame provides more coverage (medium fit, large coverage vs. Venture's medium/medium)
- Rectangular frame style preferred by some for technical alpine use
- Smith community favorite with over 300 reviews
Read the full comparison
Smith Venture vs. Smith Embark: Choosing Your Glacier Glass
Both the Smith Venture and Smith Embark are premium glacier glasses built for alpine environments, sharing the same price range ($207-$297) and access to Smith's ChromaPop Glacier Photochromic and polarized lens technologies. The decision comes down to fit preference, coverage needs, and how you'll use them off the mountain.
Frame Design & Fit
The Venture features a compact, round frame with medium fit and medium coverage—inspired by classic glacier glass silhouettes but sized for versatility. The Embark offers a larger, more rectangular frame with medium fit but large coverage, meeting in the middle between the Venture's compact design and Smith's oversized Pursuit model. If you prefer maximum coverage and a more technical look, the Embark delivers. If you want a glacier glass that transitions seamlessly to casual wear, the Venture's iconic round shape is hard to beat.
Protection & Features
Both models include removable TPU side shields that block peripheral light and glare. The Venture adds a removable nose piece for extra protection—a feature the Embark lacks. Field testers report the Embark's larger frame does a better job keeping snow out during uphill ascents, though some note the Embark's TPU shields are harder to fold and remove compared to the Venture's more user-friendly design. Both feature AutoLock hinges, Megol nose and temple pads, and adjustable retainer straps.
Versatility & Style
The Venture's round frames look equally at home on a summit bid and around town post-adventure. Remove the side shields and nose piece, and you have a stylish everyday sunglass. The Embark's larger, more rectangular design is optimized for technical use and less subtle for casual wear. With over 300 customer reviews, the Embark is a Smith community favorite for dedicated alpine use, while the Venture appeals to those who want one pair that does it all.
Why Choose the Venture?
Choose the Smith Venture if you value versatility, prefer a compact round frame that works both on the mountain and around town, want the added protection of a removable nose piece, and appreciate a classic aesthetic with modern performance. The Venture is the ideal choice for alpinists, backcountry skiers, and mountaineers who want serious glacier-glass protection without committing to a larger, more technical-looking frame for everyday wear.
At a Glance
Smith Optics Sport & Performance 204617 Embark Sunglasses
Pros:
- Larger frame provides more coverage (medium fit, large coverage vs. Venture's medium/medium)
- Rectangular frame style preferred by some for technical alpine use
- Smith community favorite with over 300 reviews
- Better snow protection on uphill ascents according to field testers
Cons:
- Larger size may feel bulkier for casual everyday wear
- No removable nose piece (Venture has this feature)
- Less versatile aesthetic when transitioning from mountain to town
- TPU shields reportedly harder to fold/remove than Venture's