The Gatorz Marauder is a precision-made pair of sunglasses that looks overbuilt but feels amazing. While I was skeptical about metal frames and their ability to be comfortable when worn all day long in the summer heat, they not only feel great on your face, but the lenses are superbly clear.

Gatorz Marauder Sunglasses

$160.00

Pros:

• Unique looking and feeling aluminum frames are very versatile
• Adjustable frames for a custom fit
• Comfortable and secure on your face
• Excellent lens clarity
• Made in the USA!

Cons:

• Susceptible to bending out of shape
• Aluminum frames can get hot in sun

View on Amazon View at Gatorz

08/15/2023 01:22 pm GMT

I didn’t know anything about Gatorz Eyewear and I had never handled any of their products until I received the Marauder. I didn’t really know what to expect, but I was surprised by what I found. 

Stick with me for this hands-on review of the newest member of the Gatorz family, the Marauder. 

Hands-on Review of Gatorz Marauder Polarized Sunglasses

Gatorz sent me a pair of Marauders to try out in order to write this hands-on review as they launched their product. That said, this article is not sponsored and I wasn’t paid for my favorable opinion. 

In the past month I have worn the Gatorz Marauder on road trips, riding my bike around town, and backpacking in the High Uintas of Utah. What you read here is my honest and objective opinion based on my own experience with these sunglasses.

When evaluating sunglasses, we consider five main criteria: comfort, design, coverage, function, and value. Each model of reviewed sunglasses is given a score between 1 and 5 for each category. The average of these five scores is the Outdoor Empire score. This helps us remain as objective as possible when comparing one product to another.

Comfort

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

I have a hard time leaving my house without a pair of sunglasses on. I spend a lot of time outside for both work and play, and I hate squinting. Combine that with my narrow tolerance for what I consider comfortable when it comes to clothes, hats, shoes, or glasses, and my wife says I’m hard to please with said things.

It’s function over fashion for me. And above function comes fit and feel. The slightest bit of over tightness or concentrated pressure on my skull behind my ears from the temples of a pair of shades, and I’ll put them down forever.

So when I unboxed the Marauder, saw they were metal, and put them on for the first time, I didn’t think the two of us were going to get along.

But never fear, Gatorz had a handy little card in the package and an even handier YouTube video showing you how you can adjust (ahem, bend with care) their frames for a custom fit.

Boy howdy, it worked! I flattened out the temples a bit, opened up the frames from the nose outward, and bent out the nosepiece to accommodate my asymmetrical beak.

The result was a snug fit that doesn’t squeeze too tight and doesn’t bounce around my face while hiking or jumping on the tramp with the kids. 

However, I was also skeptical of the weight of metal frames. But that too was a non-issue. Even after 12 miles of hiking in the backcountry, I didn’t feel a dull ache on my nose or temples from these shades.

They are as comfortable as the best of them.

Design

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

It’s hard to stand out in the somewhat commoditized world of eyewear. And while the Gatorz Marauder hasn’t reinvented the wheel here, it has offered a unique look and feel that appeals to their core target customer of manly men. Special forces, former military, competition shooters, hunters, and everyday Americans will like their style.

The billet aluminum frames with a Cerakote coating look like a custom gunsmith job on a rifle. And what really stands out is how thin the frames are.

I don’t know how they manage to install lenses that are just as thin as the frame, but they do. Even the temples are a fraction of the thickness of an average pair of sunglasses. You really notice this because, once you’ve got them adjusted to your head just right, they don’t press against and push the backside of your ears outward which can be uncomfortable and look goofy.

Redundant stainless steel hinges with the exposed “rivets” on the outside look cool too. While I personally could do without the shiny 3D logo, these shades still look as sleek as they feel.

They don’t have super comfy spring hinges, but the aluminum frames are pretty forgiving so I never felt like I was going to break them by accident.

Coverage

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

The primary purpose of sunglasses is to protect your eyes from the sun, but many will sacrifice this for style points. The Marauder, however, does the trick just fine.

I don’t give it full points here because some alternative eyewear like the Smith Guide’s Choice or Smith Castaway simply has larger lenses and wider temples that block out the sun even better. But for a good hybrid pair of shades for both everyday and active use, the Marauder does a great job.

They wrap nicely around your face, but not too much. The shape of the lenses provides decent protection from side glare, but do let some indirect sunlight bounce off your cheekbones and then up to your eyes from below the lenses.

The good thing is they do more than the bare minimum, they keep the pesky side glare out when you’re driving, and the polarized lenses provide fantastic UV protection.

Function

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Gatorz Marauders take a little manipulation in the beginning to get the right fit, but from then on they do their job. They even stay securely on my hat when I take them off indoors.

While this hasn’t happened to me yet, I imagine if you sat on these or if they took a hard fall and bent, it would be hard to get them back to their original shape. Unlike some acetate or plastic frames which can be pretty forgiving, aluminum may take the hit, but show the scar.

The clarity of the lenses was better than I anticipated and made me realize some of the other sunglasses I like are lacking a bit in that department. My pair has the Polar Green Mirror lenses, which look both green and blue depending on the angle. With more of an amber base, this is a great finish for a mix of light conditions and activities.

For full bright sunny days of offshore fishing, you may want the Polar Blue Mirror lenses whereas for overcast days of sight fishing on the fly in mountain streams you might want the Polar Gold Mirror. Whatever your interest or style, Gatorz offers a nice selection of lens options, but just the one frame color.

Knock on wood, but so far my lenses are not scratched, scuffed, or delaminating. A frequent weakness of polycarbonate lenses like these is the mirror finish which can rub off in unattractive patches. But only time will tell if that happens to the Marauder.

While I haven’t had a chance to test them yet, the ANSI/MILSPEC Marauder looks to be an awesome, albeit pricey, option for eye protection while shooting. They come with ballistic-rated lenses for impact resistance.

One downside about the aluminum frames is that when it’s really hot out, or when you leave them on the dash of your car while you run into the store, they can be scalding hot when you put them on. It’s not a deal breaker, but I did grab a hot surprise a couple of times.

Value

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Value is relative and when it comes to a nice pair of sunglasses, $200 +/- is becoming the norm. That is where the Marauder falls which makes it neither a steal nor a ripoff.

The only accessory you get with the Marauder is a soft microfiber pouch. Other glasses I’ve bought in this price range usually include a hard case and maybe a leash. This adds a little more value and it would be nice to see that from Gatorz.

One standout detail that is worth a few bucks is that Gatorz makes their sunglasses in the USA. I’m not sure about the lenses and I’d have a hard time believing it if they said none of their components come from another country. But in a high-margin industry where literally everyone manufactures their products overseas and just saying “assembled in the USA” is unique, it’s refreshing to see these sunglasses are made 100% domestically. This certainly plays a part in their appeal to hard-working and defending Americans.

Bottom Line

Outdoor Empire Total Score: 4.4

While I probably would not have thought to purchase a pair of Gatorz eyewear before, they are certainly on my radar now. 

The Marauder is an excellent option for every day, work, and outdoor use. They look good, feel good, and do what they need to do. I won’t hesitate to wear them hunting, fishing, or to the county fair.

The fact that they are made in the USA is the cherry on top.

But if you’re looking for some dedicated fishing sunglasses, you might find a pair you like better in our Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses article.

Gatorz Marauder Sunglasses

$160.00

Pros:

• Unique looking and feeling aluminum frames are very versatile
• Adjustable frames for a custom fit
• Comfortable and secure on your face
• Excellent lens clarity
• Made in the USA!

Cons:

• Susceptible to bending out of shape
• Aluminum frames can get hot in sun

View on Amazon View at Gatorz

08/15/2023 01:22 pm GMT

The post Gatorz Marauder Sunglasses Review appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

For the past several months I’ve worn a pair of Smiths on this list every day. I’ve worn them surf fishing in Florida, tenkara fishing in Idaho, and bowfishing. Besides that I’ve had them on during regular life stuff like commuting, road trips, hiking, biking with the kids, backpacking, camping, and general outdoorsing.

We know it’s hard to find gear advice you can trust. At Outdoor Empire we aim to provide honest, objective, hands-on reviews rather than just regurgitating information found somewhere else on the internet.

Recommendations at a Glance

The Smith Guide’s Choice sunglasses for men provide excellent coverage while looking stylish, as does the Smith Joya for women. These are Outdoor Empire’s top picks for the best Smith fishing sunglasses due to their quality build, scratch-resistant ChromaPop lenses, and comfortable fit.

Get the full scoop in our video review if you’d rather watch than read!

If you want the quick and dirty, here is a summarized list of the best sunglasses for fishing and recreation on the water that are made by Smith Optics.

1. Best overall for men: Guide’s Choice
2. Best overall for women: Joya
3. Most versatile: Redding
4. Most luxurious: Castaway
5. Best looking for when you’re not on the water: Barra
6. Super cute option for women: Rockaway
7. Most unique design: Deckboss
8. Best for horse lovers: Longfin (it’ll make sense later)

What Matters Most to You in Fishing Sunglasses?

Comfort: Fishing sunglasses should fit snugly on your face so they don’t fall off in the water or bobble on your nose when you’re cruising in a boat at full speed. They should also not give you a headache, or any other ache, during a full day on the water.

• Most comfortable for men: Guide’s Choice or Redding
• Most comfortable for women: Joya or Rockaway

Coverage: The primary job of sunglasses is to protect your eyes from the sun. While most do a good job at keeping the direct sunlight out, many struggle to block out indirect light that sneaks in through the sides or from below. Shades with the best coverage wrap around toward your temples and have fairly large lenses.

• Best coverage from the sun: Castaway or Guide’s Choice

Loss Prevention: Many of us are prone to losing our sunglasses because we either set them down somewhere and forget them when we leave, or because they fall off of our hat or head and plunge into the water below. I, for one, have been there, done that. If this is a concern for you, a good leash or neck strap system will save you from wincing into the sun halfway through a fishing trip. And it will save you some dollars that you don’t have to spend on a replacement pair.

• Best included leash system: Castaway, Joya, or Rockaway
• Best for third-party leash integration: Deckboss or any of the above

Price: Indeed, polarized fishing sunglasses can get expensive, especially if you add nice scratch-resistant glass lenses. When it comes to Smith sunglasses, nothing is cheap. Retail prices range between $160 and $260. The best way to save some money on Smiths is to get polycarbonate lenses instead of glass, and watch for when they go on sale.

• Least expensive Smith fishing sunglasses: Barra and Longfin (but not by much)

Best Smith Fishing Sunglasses of 2023: Outdoor Empire Reviews

I bought nearly every pair of sunglasses Smith makes for fishing, except for the new Spinner and Boomtown, because I’m just not that cool!

If you’re cool, those shades will probably make you even cooler. But for the rest of you, keep on reading and you’ll surely find a pair that you’ll be stoked to wear.

At Outdoor Empire, we look at five criteria when comparing fishing sunglasses to one another: comfort, design, coverage, function, and value. 

Each product gets a score between 1 and 5 for each category. The average of these category scores is the Outdoor Empire Score. This way of ranking helps us be as objective as possible.

1. Best Overall for Men: Smith Guide’s Choice

• Outdoor Empire Score: 4.6
• MSRP: $199-$259
• Fit: Medium to large
• Click here for our detailed review

PROS: Super comfortable, durable frames, great color options, look good for more than just fishing, excellent at keeping the side glare out

CONS: Included leash system will make you angry[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View on Amazon” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSmith-23040008662QG-Guides-Choice-Sunglasses%2Fdp%2FB0992KSXP8%3F%26linkCode%3Dll1%26tag%3Dsmith-fishing-sunglasses-20%26linkId%3D14ea84275cf672701494aed219b1a4ce%26language%3Den_US%26ref_%3Das_li_ss_tl||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View at Smith Optics” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fsmithoptics.pxf.io%2F3PKA5y||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Compare prices at: Optics Planet, Sportsman’s Warehouse

Even though I’ve had multiple pairs of Smith sunglasses available to me, I kept going back to the Guide’s Choice. They just feel right on my face. There is no shortage of nice features like spring hinges, well-positioned rubbery pads, a snug fit that doesn’t squeeze, flexible frame material, and excellent sun protection. They even keep that pesky glare out when you’re driving and the sun is low on the horizon to your left. The only thing I don’t like is the included leash system. If you plan to use it, expect expletives to pour out of your mouth while you struggle to attach or detach them. I rarely use neck straps and am content to just use my Chums when I do, so this wasn’t a dealbreaker for me. Besides that, these shades check all the boxes and are hard to beat. That’s why we granted them our Empire Crowned award!

2. Best Overall for Women: Smith Joya

• Outdoor Empire Score: 4.6
• MSRP: $199-$259
• Fit: Medium to large (women)
• Click here for our detailed review

PROS: Comfortable, stay on face well, included PivLock leash, stylish option for women

CONS: Ours had a lens defect, but Smith covered it under warranty without issue

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View on Amazon” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSmith-Joya-ChromaPop-Polarized-Sunglasses%2Fdp%2FB0992N5XR1%3F%26linkCode%3Dll1%26tag%3Dsmith-fishing-sunglasses-20%26linkId%3D51a0a2f0774848a810af147776740b45%26language%3Den_US%26ref_%3Das_li_ss_tl||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View at Smith Optics” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fsmithoptics.pxf.io%2FyRKgDB||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

The Smith Joya sunglasses are both attractive and functional. They fit well, gently hugging your face and gripping your nose and temples just right so they don’t fall down or slip off easily at all. Even when actively moving around. While extremely similar to the Rockaway, the Joya provides better coverage from the sun thanks to a slightly wider lens that is more square at the bottom. They aren’t a full wrap design, so you may still get a little indirect sunlight from the side, but they are super comfortable and have great color options. You’ll love the way they look through the lenses. They are super clear, and bright, and the colors really pop. And the PivLock leash system is super handy, easy to use, and will save your shades from an unwanted dive. These are my wife’s first choice and our top pick for women!

3. Also Great: Smith Redding

• Outdoor Empire Score: 4.4
• MSRP: $199-$259
• Fit: Medium
• Click here for our detailed review

PROS: Lightweight even with glass lenses, full wrap provides great coverage, high-end feel and construction

CONS: Style does not appeal to everyone, doesn’t stay put on top of head when not in use

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View on Amazon” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSmith-Redding-Sunglasses%2Fdp%2FB0992N5TZC%3F%26linkCode%3Dll1%26tag%3Dsmith-fishing-sunglasses-20%26linkId%3D525631b461bdf621db28f358c965bf5b%26language%3Den_US%26ref_%3Das_li_ss_tl||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View at Smith Optics” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fsmithoptics.pxf.io%2FLPLav3||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Compare prices at: Sportsman’s Warehouse

While they may not be the sexiest of Smith’s fishing sunglasses, the Redding is an extremely comfortable and versatile pair of shades. Not only are they great for a day on the water, but I have worn these everywhere from road trips to neighborhood walks. They have some of the smaller lenses compared to others on this list. This makes them a great candidate for people who want more scratch-resistant glass lenses, but don’t like the weight that comes with glass. I have glass lenses in mine, and I love them. Except for the fact that when I move them up from my eyes to the top of my head to step indoors, they fall back down onto my nose. It’s not a big deal, and they’ll stay on a hat or I can hang them on my collar. I like the simple design with the narrow temples and oval lenses, but some might think that’s too 2002. But that was a good year for me and I love the Redding!

4. Stylish and Attractive: Smith Rockaway

• Outdoor Empire Score: 4.4
• MSRP: $199-$259
• Fit: Medium to large (women)
• Click here for our detailed review

PROS: Attractive design for women or men with smaller faces, comfortable, great color options, handy PivLock leash system

CONS: Smaller lenses provide limited coverage from the sun

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View on Amazon” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSmith-Rockaway-ChromaPop-Polarized-Sunglasses%2Fdp%2FB0992KVH7B%3F%26linkCode%3Dll1%26tag%3Dsmith-fishing-sunglasses-20%26linkId%3Df209a7e7f9c3cef7f3d788956c2c19fa%26language%3Den_US%26ref_%3Das_li_ss_tl||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View at Smith Optics” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fsmithoptics.pxf.io%2Fe40vo6||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

The Rockaways feel the same on your face as the Joyas. They grip well to your face, but don’t feel like they’re sticking to it. With an attractive round-shaped lens, they look fantastic on and off the water. However, this smaller lens does sacrifice a bit of protection from the sun, especially from the sides and below. These too have the useful PivLock leash included along with spring hinges and ChromaPop lenses that make seeing what’s in the water possible. We find the opal fade color option particularly alluring.

5. Almost Perfect: Smith Castaway

• Outdoor Empire Score: 4.2
• MSRP: $199-$259
• Fit: Medium to large
• Click here for our detailed review

PROS: Best sun coverage of all, high-end look and feel, PivLock leash system included, amazing visual clarity

CONS: Really heavy with glass lenses, PivLock leash incompatible with a hoodie

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I wanted the Smith Castaway to be my favorite because they look and feel awesome. They provide excellent coverage thanks to the large size and rectangular shape of the lenses that hug your face right and join the top of your cheekbones almost perfectly so no glares can sneak in. The PivLock leash, spring hinges, well-placed megol rubber pads, and nice included hard case all give the Castaway a high-end vibe worthy of the price tag. Perhaps they would have been our number one pick if they didn’t sit so heavy on your nose due to the weight of the glass lenses. I’d feel the slightest ache after a short time wearing them. When I was outside all day surf fishing in Florida or bowfishing in Idaho, I had to take them off frequently and rub the bridge of my nose to ease the discomfort. However, with polycarbonate lenses, they could very well have earned a nearly perfect score. If you love glass lenses and are already accustomed to the extra weight, this may be a non-issue for you. This is a fine pair of fishing shades.

6. For Casual Anglers: Smith Barra

• Outdoor Empire Score: 4.0
• MSRP: $179-$239
• Fit: Medium to large
• Click here for our detailed review

PROS: Look good, see good, multipurpose, slightly cheaper than other Smiths

CONS: Too much side glare, auto-lock hinges prone to breaking

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View on Amazon” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSmith-Barra-Sunglasses%2Fdp%2FB0992KQKCV%3F%26linkCode%3Dll1%26tag%3Dsmith-fishing-sunglasses-20%26linkId%3Dc7d81ec1b0dea51a43993b71734037f4%26language%3Den_US%26ref_%3Das_li_ss_tl||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”View at Smith Optics” color=”warning” size=”sm” align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fsmithoptics.pxf.io%2FjW7XEb||target:%20_blank|rel:nofollow”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Compare prices at: Optics Planet

Smith Barra sunglasses don’t wrap around your face like other fishing sunglasses. This lets them sit flatter on your face, which is arguably more stylish than wraps nowadays. However, the Barra sacrifices some coverage to look so good. Especially against indirect sunlight sneaking in from the sides, despite the discrete blinders molded into the frames. I frequently noticed that blinding glare on the inside of the Barra lenses that obstructed the otherwise crisp, clear view you have through Smith’s ChromaPop lenses. It’s not the end of the world, though. And for those who want one set of shades for everything, the Barra might be a good option. Be gentle with them, though. My brother-in-law has a pair and the sidearms busted clean off. They’re not quite as durable as some. But they sure are handsome!

7. Best for Custom Fit: Smith Deckboss

• Outdoor Empire Score: 4.0
• MSRP: $199-$259
• Fit: Large
• Click here for our detailed review

PROS: Customizable fit temples, ideal for larger faces, unique lens shape with great coverage

CONS: Can bounce on your nose if not adjusted right, a little big for average size face

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The Smith Deckboss comes in some wicked bad color options and the unique shape of the lens is both functional and awesome looking. I have the bronze mirror polarized ChromaPop lenses which were awesome for surf fishing and on bright sunny days backpacking. The frame is pretty durable, but stiffer than other Smiths and they don’t have spring hinges, so I didn’t find them quite as comfortable as some. And before I realized you could bend the ends of the ear pieces up and down and side to side for a more secure fit, they would bobble on my nose while hiking which was a bit annoying. But that’s really a moot point with proper adjustment. I can see these being an excellent choice for guys who can both beat me up handily and have a hard time finding a comfortable pair of sunglasses.

8. Honorable Mention: Smith Longfin

• Outdoor Empire Score: 3.8
• MSRP: $179-$239
• Fit and coverage: Medium
• Click here for our detailed review

PROS: Lightweight, comfortable fit

CONS: Not the best coverage, blinders on sides cause your life partner to chuckle at you

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Compare prices at: Optics Planet, Sportsman’s Warehouse

The Smith Longfin is the mullet of fishing sunglasses. They look really good and clean-cut from the front, but the profile view takes a special breed to appreciate. Since they don’t wrap around as much as some shades, Smith added these rubbery blinders on the sides to try and shade your eyes from sun rays at your side. Like on the Budweiser horses. They do a marginal job. You still get a fair amount of side glare, and even some from below since the lenses aren’t huge. But just like a yep-nope haircut, it’s all business in the front. And these babies look good to head-on traffic. They are super comfortable like a mudflap as well. I know from experience on both sides of the metaphor.

How to Choose the Best Lenses for Smith Sunglasses

While color combos may vary from frame to frame, Smith offers similar lens options for all the above models. But how do you choose?

We’ll explain some key differences that exist among Smith sunglasses lenses below that should help you dial in your preferences. Most models are even available with prescription lenses.

ChromaPop vs Techlite

ChromaPop is Smith’s trademarked name for a multi-coating process they use on many of their nicer, more expensive sunglass lenses. 

All the sunglass models they advertise for fishing have ChromaPop lenses. Though, a few models that have been around for a while also have an option for their Techlite lenses.

Techlite is simply Smith’s trademarked name for a lightweight performance sunglasses lens type. Before they introduced ChromaPop, Techlite was their best of the best. It’s still a good option you can find in the Guide’s Choice and a couple other models, but after using ChromaPop lenses, it’d be hard for me to use something else.

What makes ChromaPop unique is that they help your eyes distinguish between different colors more easily, especially between red and green, and blue and green, which the retina struggles to decipher. ChromaPop filters these colors specifically so that everything appears more vibrant.

The effect is high contrast between colors which results in a bright, vivid, clear picture of whatever you are looking at. The colors really do pop!

I was visiting Yellowstone National Park this summer with family. While at the Grand Prismatic hot spring I passed around my Smith ChromaPop shades to the whole family so they could see the stark difference in color and appearance with them on. Lots of oh, wow’s!

Glass vs Polycarbonate

Smith’s lenses are all made of either glass or polycarbonate, a type of transparent plastic. Both are designed to be durable and maximize clarity. You’ll pay $60 more for glass lenses in a pair of Smiths.

So what are the advantages of one or the other and which should you choose?

Glass lenses have the advantage of being more durable and scratch-resistant. They are also often credited with better clarity, though personally, I find this latter claim to be a nominal benefit at best. I can’t really distinguish any added clarity, so I only consider the extra durability as the advantage here. 

The main downside of glass lenses is the weight. They are significantly heavier than polycarbonate lenses. And this becomes amplified on fishing sunglasses that are designed with large lenses to provide extra coverage from the sun.

Polycarbonate lenses have the advantage of being lightweight, while also being very durable. The downside is that they are more prone to being scratched and scuffed, or having the multi-coated layers wear off from being tossed around or stored improperly.

It’s a tradeoff between weight, cost, and scratch resistance. If you are really hard on your sunglasses, glass lenses might be worth the extra cash. But if you generally take good care of your stuff and store your shades in a hard case, you’re probably fine with the standard lenses. 

If you’re like me and are sensitive to extra weight on your face or pressure on your nose, but you want the benefits of glass, consider a pair of shades with smaller lenses like the Redding or Longfin. 

Lens Color

When it comes to lens colors within Smith’s fishing sunglasses product lineup, it’s important to note that there are really only two base colors that all Smith lenses have: brown or gray.

Any other color, including mirrored lenses, are simply additional coatings on top of the brown or gray that are designed to better accommodate different light conditions or aesthetics. One exception is the low-light yellow lenses, which are their own thing.

For example, if you’re getting the blue mirror lenses, you’re actually getting gray-based lenses with a blue mirror finish. Green mirror lenses have a brown base, as does the bronze mirror finish.

Yet, Smith markets each different finish as ideal for different conditions. For example, the blue mirror finish is said to be best for the brightest sunny days on the water. While the brown lenses are intended for a wider range of moderate to bright conditions, especially overcast.

In my experience with a variety of different lens colors from Smith, I’d say the advertised lighting conditions are accurate. The blue mirror lenses I have on the Castaways were awesome for surf fishing on a cloudless day. And the brown lenses on my Guide’s Choice or Reddings are my go-to for everyday wear and any-condition fishing.

Key Features and Analysis

Every person is likely to have different preferences when it comes to fishing eyewear. Many will put more emphasis on fashion than function and vice versa. 

We selected some of the more universal decision-making criteria people will consider when they’re about to hand over a couple hundred bucks for a pair of premium sunglasses. We compared every pair on this list against each other based on the same attributes to ensure it’s an apples-to-apples comparison.

Comfort

Guide’s Choice 5 | Joya 5 | Redding 5 | Rockaway 5 | Castaway 3 | Barra 5 | Deckboss 4 | Longfin 5

When it comes to how comfortable a pair of sunglasses is, characteristics like weight, flexible frames, and grip are all factors. Not only do you want the shades to feel good on your face, but you want them to stay put on your face so they’re not falling off when you’re reeling in a lunker.

Key points that factored into the comfort of Smith fishing eyewear were:

• Placement of the rubber-like megol grip pads
• Thickness and flexibility of the temples
• Overall weight, including that of the lenses
• Spring hinges, or lack thereof
• Snugness of fit

All of the sunglasses on this list are comfortable to very comfortable. 

The Guide’s Choice, Joya, Redding, Rockaway, Barra, and Longfin felt great to me. No concerns. The first four of those have spring hinges which make for a snug, but pressure-free fit on the temples.

Due to the fact that they are slightly larger frames that would do better on larger faces, the Deckboss was slightly less comfy for me. I gave the Castaway the lowest marks, but only because with glass lenses they are so much heavier than the others. You feel the added pressure on the bridge of your nose when wearing them for extended periods of time.

Design

Guide’s Choice 5 | Joya 5 | Redding 4 | Rockaway 5 | Castaway 5 | Barra 4 | Deckboss 4 | Longfin 3

For design you want to look at any unique features of the eyewear and whether the style is a look you like.

Examples of what we considered when rating the design of each pair include:

• Earpiece/temple size
• Hinge quality and function
• Whether the actual fit aligns with the advertised fit
• Look and feel
• Leash design or compatibility
• Lens and color options

Each of the Smiths on this list has well thought out designs by a company that has made quality eyewear for years. Color options are generally good, though the Guide’s Choice offers the most combinations. The Longfin got a demerit due to the somewhat hoaky and marginally-effective blinders.

Coverage

Guide’s Choice 5 | Joya 4 | Redding 5 | Rockaway 3 | Castaway 5 | Barra 3 | Deckboss 4 | Longfin 3

Sun protection is the primary purpose of sunglasses and is especially important for anglers and people who spend their time on the water all day. Water reflects the sun’s rays from below in addition to above and from the sides. You need to make sure your shades cover all the angles well to protect your eyes, avoid headaches, and be able to see what you’re doing out there.

The best fishing sunglasses in terms of coverage have a more substantial “wrap”. This refers to how much the frames of the eyewear curve from the bridge of your nose backward toward your temples. Often, more stylish or trendy sunglasses don’t wrap much at all and sit flatter on the front of your face. This leaves a big gap between the sides of your shades and the side of your head. UV rays can easily sneak in either directly (like when you’re driving with the sun on your left), or indirectly (reflecting off the water).

I tend to favor sunglasses that wrap more for activities that are generally done in full exposure to the sun, like fishing or boating. 

Shades like Smith’s Guide’s Choice or Castaway provide the best coverage. Not only do they have Smith’s 8 base wrap (as opposed to a lesser 6 base wrap on the Barra, Longfin, Joya, and Rockaway), but they have thick temple pieces that block out additional rays. In my experience with these sunglasses, it is rare that you ever have annoying sunlight glaring off the back of your lenses and into your eyes.

The same cannot be said for the Rockaway, Barra, and Longfin, despite efforts to add “blinder” like pieces to the frames to reduce glare from the sides and above. They just aren’t really effective in my experience.

Function

Guide’s Choice 4 | Joya 5 | Redding 4 | Rockaway 5 | Castaway 4 | Barra 4 | Deckboss 4 | Longfin 4

The reason we looked at function was to assess how well the design and unique features of a particular pair of sunglasses served their intended purpose.

Do the blinders on the Barra or Longfin really keep the rays from the sides and above out? Not really.

Does the PivLock leash system work well on the Castaway, Joya, and Rockaway? Absolutely, yes. Only the stiffness of the cable sticks out the back and if you’re wearing a hoodie, it’ll probably push your glasses off your face.

But is the leash system on the Guide’s Choice easy to use? Not at all. It’s supposed to connect directly into cutouts in the ear pieces once you remove the megol pads. Nice feature, but it works terribly. I broke fingernails and cussed like a sailor trying to get it connected. Then I misbehaved similarly when I removed it.

Thankfully, a set of Chums or Croakies will do the job just fine for any pair on this list.

Make sure the sunglasses you buy work as you expect them to and that any advertised gimmick serves a useful purpose. No one needs fishing sunglasses with a bottle opener on them, but we do need them to stay put on our faces without bobbling around while we race our boat to the best cove.

Value

Guide’s Choice 4 | Joya 4 | Redding 4 | Rockaway 4 | Castaway 4 | Barra 4 | Deckboss 4 | Longfin 4

We granted the same score of four out of five to all the Smith sunglasses we evaluated for this review. Since they all come from the same manufacturer, sell for pretty much the exact same price, and offer the same added benefits like warranty and customer service, there is not a lot of contrast here.

Sunglasses from Smith Optics are not cheap. But if you’re still reading this article, you know that and you’re probably still interested in them. In which case, they are worth what you pay for them.

In all cases, you can find competitive eyewear of similar quality and function for a lower price, which is why they got fours and not fives. But the alternatives won’t have the cool Smith branding you probably love. And they may also lack the excellent customer service you get from Smith.

Warranty and Customer Service

Smith guarantees the quality of their sunglasses for two years from the date of purchase. My experience suggests that they’ll stand by this guarantee.

One pair of sunglasses we purchased, the Joya, had a defect. After a month or two of regular use, the lenses began to delaminate and you could see lines running across them (polarized feature gone bad). This was visibly unappealing and caused a good portion of your view to be blurry.

We reported this to Smith through their regular online warranty claim process. They said it would take 1-2 weeks to get a response. We received approval within two business days that included a coupon code of equal value to the Joya. In order to activate the code, we had to destroy the sunglasses by either busting off the arms or scratching an X into each lens, then send photos. While I was unimpressed by the wastefulness of this process, I was pleased with the quick turnaround and no-hassle process.

Final Recommendations

Guide’s Choice 4.6 | Joya 4.6 | Redding 4.4 | Rockaway 4.4 | Castaway 4.2 | Barra 4.0 | Deckboss 4.0 | Longfin 3.8

If you just buy one pair of the Smith fishing sunglasses we reviewed in this article, chances are that you will love them.

But having tried ALL of them, I can wholeheartedly recommend the Guide’s Choice as my favorite all-around pair of sunglasses for fishing and outdoor recreation. The fit, the feel, the look, the coverage, and the functionality are superb. Just ignore the leash that comes in the package.

The Smith Redding is also a safe choice that won’t disappoint and it doesn’t look as bulky as the Guide’s Choice. But if you don’t mind the added weight of glass lenses, get the Castaway because they are beautiful and awesome.

If you’re not sure what color to get, I recommend the matte tortoise frames with the brown polarized ChromaPop lenses if you want one pair of sunglasses that can do it all. But if you’re looking for a dedicated pair of fishing sunglasses, the blue mirror lenses do offer added clarity and deeper visibility into the water. This is especially true for avid anglers who fish a lot offshore or in bright sunny conditions.

For ladies, I recommend the Joya if you intend to fish with them. But if you want a cute pair of all-around shades and don’t mind a little less coverage, I love the look of the opal fade Rockaway on my wife!

Why Trust Us?

We know it’s hard to find gear advice you can trust. At Outdoor Empire we aim to provide honest, objective, hands-on reviews rather than just regurgitating information found somewhere else on the internet. Our process is continuously evolving and improving.

Here are a few reasons you can trust our advice in this article:

• We actually acquired every product mentioned in this article.
• We objectively tested and ranked each product listed here.
• Besides “testing”, we used this gear in real life for an extended period of time.
• We spent our own money on products and expenses related to this article.
• While we occasionally accept product samples or discounts to help stretch our gear budget further so we can produce more gear guides, we do not accept paid or sponsored reviews.
• The opinions, experiences, and results expressed in this article are our own, authentic, and unbiased. Nobody paid us for our favorable opinion.
• We recommend the same products to you that we do to our friends and family.

Want More Gear Advice?

If you want to see alternatives to Smith sunglasses for your fishing and water adventures, be sure to check out our article on the overall best polarized fishing sunglasses.

Besides that, check out these other helpful gear guides:

• Spinning Reels
• Surf Fishing Rods
• Fishing Gear Guide for Beginners

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The post Best Smith Sunglasses for Fishing and Water Sports 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

The Smith Guide’s Choice sunglasses fit snugly and comfortably on medium to large faces. While the included leash is frustrating to use, the ample coverage and good looks make up for it. Aptly-sized lenses that wrap keep both direct and indirect sunlight out of your eyes, including side glare.

Benefits

• Light weight and quality build make them super comfortable
• Lens shape and wraparound frame keep the glare out well
• ChromaPop lenses really make colors pop, even in the water
• Great for everyday use, not just fishing

Drawbacks

• Attaching and detaching the included leash is a nightmare
• Cost a pretty penny (like most Smith sunglasses)

We have awarded the Smith Guide’s Choice sunglasses with our Empire Crowned badge for being an outstanding piece of gear! This award is based on real-world testing and comparison to similar products.

Smith Guide’s Choice

$187.99

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:05 pm GMT

Compare prices at: Optics Planet, Sportsman’s Warehouse

Hands-on Review of Smith Guide’s Choice Polarized Sunglasses

Despite having more than half a dozen Smith sunglasses at my disposal the past several months, I wore the Guide’s Choice the most. And not just for fishing. I’ve worn them to the grocery store, walking the dog, and running around doing regular life stuff. 

They’ve been dropped, dirty, sweaty, polished, and put at risk of destruction by the hands of small children. Yet, they have persevered. And I really like them. 

Let me tell you why.

When evaluating sunglasses for fishing we look primarily at five different criteria. Below you’ll find what those are along with our assessment of the Smith Guide’s Choice for each. 

The sunglasses are given a score between 1 and 5 for each category, then the average score becomes the overall Outdoor Empire score which we use to objectively compare one product to another. Enjoy!

Comfort

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

Suffice it to say that these sunglasses are extremely comfortable! They fit well, stay put, and you hardly notice they are on, even if they are all day.

The rubbery megol nose and temple pads kept them in place whether I was riding a motorcycle or wading in a stream fly fishing. No bouncing or annoying slippage that requires constant adjustment.

I also prefer spring hinges, which these have, because they adjust nicely to any face and don’t squeeze your temples at all.

The Smith Guide’s Choice is made for a medium-large fit. I’ve got a medium-sized face and while I usually lean toward more minimalist designs, these did not feel too big at all and I loved how they felt on my face. Plus that slightly larger fit provides some extra coverage from the sun.

Design

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

There are tons of frame and lens color options with the Guide’s Choice, perhaps more than any other fishing sunglasses from Smith. So you’re bound to find something you like. 

My pair are matte tortoise frames with the ChromaPop polarized brown polycarbonate lenses, which I find to be a great all-around color. They go well with whatever you’re wearing, but more importantly, the brown lenses are super versatile. Whether fishing freshwater or saltwater in bright sun or overcast conditions, the brown lens is an excellent option if you’re a one pair of sunglasses kind of guy.

I really like the lens shape. It’s not alien-like at all. The lens design is both good looking and functional. You can pick from Smith’s ChromaPop or Techlite lenses. Both are great and polarized, but ChromaPop is their newer technology with better color contrast. Techlites are lightweight and highly scratch resistant.

While I haven’t tried glass lenses in the Guide’s Choice, I have in other Smith sunglasses like the Redding and the Castaway. Given the size of the Guide’s Choice, I feel like glass lenses would be heavier than I find comfortable. But you may not be as sensitive to that, or perhaps the higher scratch resistance properties of the glass is worth the tradeoff to you.

The ear pieces are pretty fat as they sweep back over the temples, but I think they look cool on these without being obnoxious. Unlike cheap plastic frames, these have some flex and grip well to your temples. The fatness subsides over the ears so there is no discomfort at all.

Coverage

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

I underestimated how much I would appreciate good coverage in a nice pair of sunglasses. And the Guide’s Choice nails it on sun protection. I credit this to a combo of their wrapped design, the shape of the medium-large lenses which cover well beneath the eyes, and the broadness of the ear pieces over the temple.

With Smith’s 8-base wraparound design, these curve back toward your temples which helps keep indirect light out of your eyes. This really comes into play when you’re driving a car or on a boat and the sun is at your side. 

Without the wrap and the fat sidearms of the Guide’s Choice sunglasses, the sun could easily sneak in and reflect off the backside of your lenses and into your eyes. I hate when that happens and all you see is the silhouette of your car door instead of the road in front of you.

The good news is, I didn’t experience this at all with the Guide’s Choice! Whereas I did somewhat with some of Smith’s other fishing sunglasses like the Longfin and the Barra.

Function

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Overall, the Guide’s Choice functions like you would expect from a pair of not cheap high-end sunglasses. In my experience with them, they get excellent marks in visual clarity on water, UV protection, comfort, durability, and scratch resistance.

There is just one little flaw these have that kept the Smith Guide’s Choice from getting full points from us when it comes to function, and that’s the included leash. The way the leash connects to the sunglasses is indeed secure, but the expletives that will spill out of your mouth when you try and attach them will negate any kudos you may have given to this little feature.

First, you have to remove the rubbery megol pads at the ends of the earpiece, then you have to insert the ends of the leash into the exposed holes. Once done with the leash, you have to do the inverse. By the time you are halfway through the process you will have damaged or deformed the leash and/or the megol pads, your fingernails will be broken, and you’ll be ordering Chums online.

If you’re considering the Guide’s Choice because of the included leash, think again. Pretend like it’s not there and plans to buy an aftermarket leash. Because it’s maddening to make it work unless you have tiny elf hands and the patience of Mother Theresa.

Value

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

The Guide’s Choice is an expensive pair of sunglasses, like all Smiths, which makes it pretty average when it comes to value. We don’t give it full points here because you can indeed find quality options from other brands that offer just as much bang for fewer bucks.

I also wish the Guide’s Choice used the PivLock leash system Smith puts on newer model sunglasses like the Castaway. That would add a bit more value to the package at that price.

However, Smith is an awesome brand that usually hooks you up when you have problems with their products. So if the price fits your budget, it’s indeed a good buy for quality gear.

Bottom Line

Outdoor Empire Total Score: 4.6

Smith Guide’s Choice

$187.99

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:05 pm GMT

Compare prices at: Optics Planet, Sportsman’s Warehouse

Out of eight pairs of Smith sunglasses I have been testing and wearing every day for the past several months, the Guide’s Choice is my all-around favorite. That’s why we have awarded them with our Empire Crowned badge.

They are versatile, durable, functional, and offer lots of different style options that will appeal to different people. They fit most faces and they provide excellent protection from the sun.

However, if you like a more minimalistic design you might consider the Smith Redding. Or if you want quality Smith lenses at a slightly cheaper price, the Deckboss might be a good alternative for you.

As long as you’re cool with buying any old neck strap (if you even care), the Guide’s Choice will not disappoint. I highly recommend these sunglasses for anglers and outdoorsmen. They can be your only pair of shades or just another nice arrow in your quiver.

For more reviews of Smith sunglasses for fishing, read about all our top picks here!

Or if you’re curious about some non-Smith options, check out this comparison of the Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses.

The post My New Favorites: Smith Guide’s Choice Sunglasses Review appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

The Smith Castaway sunglasses have a high-end look and feel with well-appointed features like spring hinges and Smith’s PivLock leash system. Wrapping around with thick ear pieces and large ChromaPop lenses, they provide excellent protection from the sun for anglers and outdoor recreationists.

Benefits

• Best sun coverage of all Smith’s fishing sunglasses
• High-end look and feel
• Comfortable fit with spring hinges
• Easy-to-use PivLock leash included
• ChromaPop glass lenses are both highly durable and provide excellent color clarity

Drawbacks

• Glass lenses make them heavy and uncomfortable for some people (like me)
• PivLock leash doesn’t play nicely with a hoodie
• Not inexpensive

Hear me out about my experience with them so you can decide whether or not to pull the trigger on them yourself.

Smith Castaway

$168.35

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:10 pm GMT

Hands-on Review of Smith Castaway Polarized Sunglasses

In preparation for this Smith Castaway review, I wore these sunglasses a LOT. I’ve worn them while surf fishing in Florida and bowfishing in Idaho. I’ve also worn them on my daily commute, on bike rides, and playing soccer with my kids.

This review is based on my experience using the product regularly for months alongside many similar products so I can compare the strengths and weaknesses of each.

There are five different criteria we consider when evaluating sunglasses for fishing. For each category we give a pair of shades a score between 1 and 5, 5 being the best. The average of all the category scores becomes the total score we use to objectively rank different pairs of sunglasses relative to each other.

Comfort

Outdoor Empire Score: 3

Smith Castaway sunglasses are comfortable in nearly every way, but there is one aspect of them that I couldn’t get over – the weight.

The glass ChromaPop lenses provide excellent clarity and color contrast, but they’re heavy compared to a polycarbonate lens. And given the size of the lenses on the Castaway, the weight of the glass is considerable, in my opinion. 

I would feel the added pressure on the bridge of my nose within minutes of putting them on. It was bothersome enough that I was inclined to take them off frequently to rub and rest my nose. And if I wore them for an extended period of time, I’d get a dull headache. This made me hesitate to take them over my other sunglasses when I knew I’d be out on the water or the trail all day.

However, this is not necessarily a dealbreaker and may be a non-issue entirely for some folks.

Aside from that, I loved everything else about how the Castaway fit. The ear pieces hug the temples snugly and securely. They don’t bounce or slip easily so they stay put when you’re doing something active. The rubber pads on the nose and temples are well-placed to help with that.

With a lighter-weight polycarbonate lens, I’d probably be giving full marks for comfort.

Design

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

The design of the Smith Castaway is well thought out and looks amazing. The fit, the placement of the rubbery megol pads, and the spring-hinged temples feel as good as they look.

I have the tortoise frames with the ChromaPop glass polarized blue mirror lenses which are designed for super bright sunny days on the water. I confirm they are awesome in those conditions from the ocean to mountain streams. I love the blue lenses, though I’d prefer a matte tortoise frame.

While there aren’t as many color options as Smith’s Guide’s Choice, the Castaway has the most popular color combos.  Lens and frame options tend to evolve over time with Smith, so if you don’t see something you like right away, give it a few months. Hopefully, they’ll provide some additional options, including some with lighter lenses.

One major improvement on the Castaway compared to the Guide’s Choice, however, is the leash. The Castaway comes with Smith’s PivLock cable leash system. There are holes in the ear pieces that would work with any leash, but the included PivLock neck strap snaps in and out smoothly and easily.

Coverage

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

The size and shape of the lenses are both cool-looking and effective at keeping the sun out. Neither direct nor indirect light has a chance of hitting your eyeballs, even from the sides or below.

Out of eight pairs of Smith fishing sunglasses we tested, the Castaways arguably provide the best coverage of all. The undersides sit super close to your cheeks without being annoying and they go up and wrap around toward the temples, giving your face a warm hug. 

The wrap combined with the size of the lenses and the thick earpieces make for a whole lot of sunblocking power that I very much appreciated while driving or standing in the surf.

Function

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

The Castaways look, function, and feel like premium sunglasses without a doubt. 

Butterfingers, dads, and the unfashionable will love the PivLock leash system that adds some reassurance when you’re on the water and don’t want to lose your expensive sunglasses. 

The only thing that’s not ideal here is that the leash itself is pretty stiff. It sticks out behind your head and if you’re wearing a hoodie it will push the glasses off your face. Not a big deal when you’re not wearing a hoodie, and you could always find a third-party leash if this bothers you.

Value

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Like most Smith sunglasses, the Castaway is not for those on a tight budget. They cost a pretty penny, but they do come with a soft case, a hard case, and a leash. And you can frequently find them on sale which can make the cost very palatable. 

While this is par for the course with Smiths, there are other great options from different brands for less money.

Bottom Line

Outdoor Empire Total Score: 4.2

Smith Castaway

$168.35

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:10 pm GMT

The Smith Castaway feels the fanciest and most modern of all the Smith sunglasses I’ve tried. If the lenses were a bit lighter and perhaps they were a little cheaper, they’d definitely be my top pick. But that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be yours.

If you’re used to heavier glass lenses and appreciate the additional scratch protection they provide, the Castaways are probably going to be your favorite Smith fishing sunglasses.

But if you’re a minimalist, don’t like big lenses, or need a more affordable option you might consider the Smith Longfin or Redding.

A nice thing about the Castaways is they look good enough you can wear them anywhere for anything. This versatility makes them a good option for guys who only want one pair of shades for everything.

If you’re not quite satisfied with the Castaway and want to check out other options from Smith, we reviewed a bunch of Smith shades here.

We review lots of non-Smith shades in our Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses comparison article as well.

The post Smith Castaway Sunglasses Review appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

So what’s the difference? And which ones should you get?

The Smith Joya sunglasses are nearly identical to the Rockaway. They both provide excellent visual clarity with ChromaPop lenses, fit comfortably on most women, and look stylish. Where they differ is in lens shape and coverage, with the Joya being slightly larger than the Rockaway.

Benefits

• Both are super comfortable
• Both are designed specifically for women anglers and water lovers
• Stylish with great color options
• Included PivLock leash system helps to not lose them

Drawbacks

• Rockaway provides less coverage than the Joya
• Our Joyas had a defect, but Smith covered it under warranty right away
• On the pricey side of the fence

Both the Smith Joya and Rockaway sunglasses are outstanding pieces of gear based on our real world testing and comparison to similar products.

View Joya on Amazon

View Joya at Smith

View Rockaway on Amazon

View Rockaway at Smith

Hands-on Review of Smith Rockaway and Joya Polarized Sunglasses

It didn’t make much sense for me to wear these sunglasses myself in order to review them since they are really designed for women. So my lovely wife, Megan, stepped in and has been wearing these sunglasses for all manner of activities over the past few months. 

From a beach and Disneyworld vacation in Florida to lake days in Idaho, she’s had a chance to get a solid feel for each model.

Spoiler alert: there is very little difference between the Smith Joya vs Rockaway, which is why we lumped them together in a single review.

To find out what she thought and what I observed about them, keep reading.

There are five criteria we look at when comparing fishing sunglasses at Outdoor Empire: comfort, design, coverage, function, and value. We grant a score between 1 and 5 (5 being the highest) for each category, then average them together for the overall Outdoor Empire score. This is how we rank different products as objectively as possible.

Comfort

Joya Score: 5 | Rockaway Score: 5

The Joya and the Rockaway feel exactly the same in terms of comfort. That’s a good thing because they are both extremely comfortable.

These are lightweight sunglasses made of high-quality materials. The rubbery megol pads on the nose and temples are well-placed and keep the shades secure on your face. 

Spring hinges are built into the temples which make them flex-adjust to just about anyone’s face. The medium-large fit applies to a woman’s face. My wife thinks they fit very well but they’re a bit small for me.

Design

Joya Score: 5 | Rockaway Score: 5

When it comes to design, the Joya and Rockaway are 90% the same. The only difference is the shape and size of the lenses.

The Rockaways have smaller and rounder lenses, whereas the Joyas square off slightly on the bottom and are wider at the top. My wife prefers the look of the Joya.

Smith’s polarized ChromaPop lenses are legendary, especially among anglers and water junkies. They come in glass or polycarbonate options as well as a variety of color schemes, as do the frames.

They both have the exact same temple pieces, same mold and everything. These have holes at the end to accommodate Smith’s PivLock leash retainer system which works great. It’s easy to attach and detach the included leash, but you could also use any third-party leash. In any case, this is a great way to not lose your shades in the water. We’ve all been there!

Coverage

Joya Score: 4 | Rockaway Score: 3

Both sets have Smith’s modest 6 base wrap, which means they don’t wrap around your face completely. This is a small sacrifice of some coverage in favor of style.

Compared to most of the men-oriented fishing shades options like the Castaway or the Guide’s Choice, neither the Joyas nor the Rockaways provide as much sun protection.

Between the two, the Joyas do the best job here, with the Rockaways providing the least coverage of any of the Smith fishing sunglasses we tested. But as my sister confirmed, the Rockaways are indeed super cute! Especially in that opal fade color.

If you are a woman with a very slender face, the Rockaway will probably suit you just fine. But the Joyas will keep the glare out better, especially from the side and below.

Function

Joya Score: 5 | Rockaway Score: 5

It’s a wash when it comes to functionality between the Rockaway and the Joya, except for coverage as mentioned above.

They both have the very useful PivLock leash system and similar features throughout.

Besides that, they both look great wherever you are, whether it’s on the fishing boat, on the beach, or strolling around town. Very versatile!

Value

Joya Score: 4 | Rockaway Score: 4

Neither pair of sunglasses here is cheap, but they are both great looking and great feeling. If they fit your budget, you won’t be disappointed.

However, full disclosure, we had a problem with the Joyas we received. After a couple months, the polarized lenses got messed up. You could visibly see lines or striations in the lenses when holding them out in front of you. When you wore them, your vision was blurred where the coatings were starting to delaminate.

We submitted a warranty claim directly to Smith Optics. They say it takes 1-2 weeks to respond, but we had an approval within two business days. They sent us a code to order a new pair at no cost. We just got a lemon, but I’m glad to see they stand by their warranty!

Bottom Line

Outdoor Empire Total Joya Score: 4.6

View Joya on Amazon

View Joya at Smith

Outdoor Empire Total Rockaway Score: 4.4

View Rockaway on Amazon

View Rockaway at Smith

Because the Smith Joya and Rockaway were clearly designed at the same time and so similarly, it is hard to declare a real winner. The Joya scored slightly higher because it provides better coverage, which is beneficial to anglers. That’s why it’s our top pick for women out of all the Smith fishing sunglasses.

If you’re debating between the two, it really comes down to the shape and size of the lens, and that’s it.

For people who want more coverage or have a medium to large face, the Joya is the best choice. But for women who only fish occasionally, have petite faces, or don’t mind a little glare sneaking in here and there, the Rockaways are indeed an attractive option.

Despite our hiccup with the Joya defect, my wife still prefers them.

To see how these two options stack up against other Smith fishing sunglasses, check out our top picks article here.

Or you can get more ideas from our Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses comparison article.

The post Smith Joya vs Rockaway Sunglasses Review appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

The Smith Barra sunglasses sacrifice an ounce of function for a pound of fashion. Even still, they are entirely functional polarized fishing sunglasses thanks to the exceptional color contrast and glare resistance of the ChromaPop lenses.

Benefits

• Stylish looks with great color options
• Versatile both on and off the water
• Cheaper than other Smith fishing sunglasses

Drawbacks

• Too much side glare
• Non-spring hinges are a bit fragile

I’m more of a function over fashion guy, so they weren’t my first pick, but read on because they might be yours!

Smith Barra

$194.00

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:21 pm GMT

Compare prices at: Optics Planet

Hands-on Review of Smith Barra Polarized Sunglasses

I’ve had the Smith Barras for a few months now and have worn them for everything from my son’s soccer games to fishing on the water. After comparing them to half a dozen alternatives, I’ve got an opinion.

Below you’ll find my assessment based on the main criteria we use to compare fishing sunglasses. These sunglasses were given a score for each category which were then averaged for a composite score. 1 is the poorest and 5 is the best.

Comfort

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

Smith Barra sunglasses are very comfy. They aren’t too heavy (at least with the polycarbonate lenses) so you can wear them all day and not be annoyed. 

They fit just right on my medium-sized face and they feel good too with their flexible grippy ear pieces that hug your temples.

Even when I was fishing or riding my bike over a bumpy bridge I noticed they stayed put well on my nose and didn’t dig in.

Design

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Smith was definitely trying to make a pair of fishing sunglasses that look cool when they designed the Barra. And I think they did quite well. Of all the Smith fishing and water sunglasses I tested (8 pairs), these look the coolest on a man.

They have a modest 6-base wrap according to Smith Optics. This means they curve around your face slightly but not a ton. The disadvantage of a frame that sits flatter on your face is the risk of side glare, especially when you’re on the water. 

To combat that, Smith molded in some blinders. These are a twinge goofy looking, though not quite as dorky as others, like on the Smith Longfin. At a glance, you don’t really note them.

There are no spring hinges on the ear pieces, but they do auto lock in to place. This means they don’t adapt to your face gently, rather, they maintain a fixed position. The risk here is breakage. 

My brother-in-law has a pair of Barras as well and I saw them laying on his kitchen counter with both earpieces busted off this past weekend. So be gentle if you get some.

Coverage

Outdoor Empire Score: 3

When it comes to protection from sunlight, the Barra is not the best compared to other Smith fishing sunglasses. 

The 6 base wrap, or lack of significant wrap around your face, lets in a lot of glare from the sides. Despite the effort put into the blinders, I still noticed a fair amount of indirect sunlight sneaking in from the sides and reflecting off the face side of the lenses and back into my eyes. This was especially noticeable when driving.

The lenses on the Barras are large and do a good job at protecting your eyes from direct, head-on sunlight, but I personally prefer more wrap to keep the glare out.

Function

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Overall, the Smith Barra sunglasses function well, but as suggested above, they sacrifice a bit of sun blocking performance for style points.

One thing that bugged me a bit was that with a couple hats I wore (baseball cap style), the curved bill of the hat would hit the top of the frames. This created an annoying tug of war between the two and either my hat was up too high on my head, or my glasses were pressing down too much into my nose. This was a dealbreaker for me at first (I wear hats a lot), but I soon realized it wasn’t every hat, so not a big deal.

Smith’s lenses won’t disappoint. The polarized ChromaPop lenses that come on all Barras do enhance color contrast and make for a great image both on the water and off. I really liked the green mirror finish on mine and I’m glad I had polycarbonate instead of glass. I think glass lenses would feel too heavy on these.

Value

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Like the others, but lacks a hard case or leash for a few bucks less.

The Barra is one of the less expensive fishing sunglasses options from Smith, but that doesn’t make them cheap. And unlike some other Smiths, the Barras only come with a microfiber pouch and don’t include a soft case or a leash.

Indeed, they are made of quality materials and just feel nicer than a pair of gas station shades. But you can also find good sunglasses for less.

That said, if they fit your budget, they’re a nice pair of sunglasses.

Bottom Line

Outdoor Empire Total Score: 4.0

Smith Barra

$194.00

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:21 pm GMT

Compare prices at: Optics Planet

Smith Barra sunglasses are great looking shades that can serve multiple purposes. They’re made for fishing and water sports, but they look good off the water too.

If you’re willing to sacrifice a little coverage for style, you’ll be pleased with the Smith Barras. But if you wear a lot of curved bill caps and prefer sunglasses that wrap around your face, consider another pair of Smiths from our list of the best Smith sunglasses for fishing.

And if you want to take a look at some non-Smith options, our Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses comparison article should have something for you.

The post Smith Barra Sunglasses Review (Fishing with Style) appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

The Smith Deckboss sunglasses provide a flexible and customizable fit that is comfortable for medium to large-sized faces. While they might not rest snugly on your nose if improperly adjusted, it’s easy to fix and they have a unique style and lens shape compared to alternatives.

Benefits

• Great fit for larger faces
• Large lenses that wrap provide excellent coverage
• Earpieces are adjustable for a custom fit and are leash-ready
• Funky lens shape and color options

Drawbacks

• A little too large for medium to small faces
• Can bobble on your nose if not adjusted

Smith Deckboss

$80.00

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:10 pm GMT

Hands-on Review of Smith Deckboss Polarized Sunglasses

In preparation for this Smith Deckboss review, I’ve worn these sunglasses to do a lot of things over the past few months. 

From backpacking through the Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho to tenkara fishing alpine lakes, I’ve done outdoorsy things with them. Besides that, they’ve accompanied me on many a bike ride, commute, and neighborhood walk with the kids.

When we evaluate fishing sunglasses at Outdoor Empire we look at five different categories of criteria. These are listed below along with our analysis of the Smith Deckboss shades. For each category, we give the sunglasses a score between 1 and 5 where 5 is among the best relative to its peers. Those scores are averaged to give the overall Outdoor Empire score.

Comfort

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Notwithstanding their larger size, the Smith Deckboss sunglasses feel good on the face and are not too heavy. At least with the polycarbonate lenses, they are pretty lightweight and the sidearms grip snugly against your temples.

When I wore them on a backpacking trip they seemed to bounce a bit on my nose, like they are a little off balance and weigh too much on the back of the ear pieces. 

However, I should have read about them a bit more because as it turns out the frames have super flexible temples that can be adjusted for a more comfortable fit. That solved most of the issues.

I do wish they had spring hinges for the temples, but instead, they have autolock hinges. That works fine, I just like the flexible fit of spring hinges.

Design

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

The design of the Deckbosses is noticeably different than other Smith fishing glasses. The lens shape is a slightly irregular, funky shape as opposed to a classic oval or rectangle.

Despite the lack of spring hinges in the ear pieces, they do have holes in the ends to accommodate just about any leash or neck strap you might want to use.

The most unique feature is the flexible QuickFit temples that I discovered a little too late. These do indeed enable a more customized fit than other Smiths. You can bend them down and around your ears or inward for a sung hug of your head.

As with all Smith fishing sunglasses, the ChromaPop lenses are amazing. They provide excellent color contrast that you will definitely notice if you switch between your old sunglasses and these.

There is a decent variety of color options for frames and lenses, but not as many as other models like the Guide’s Choice. I have the matte gravy frames with ChromaPop polarized bronze mirror lenses. These definitely stand out and are pretty unique. Though this color scheme is not quite as versatile as others. It makes you look like you’re trying a little too hard to be cool if you’re just wearing them to the theater.

Coverage

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

The Deckbosses are made to fit larger faces and provide large coverage. I have a medium-sized face and they definitely felt a tad wide for me, but the sun protection was great.

While they let a little more glare in from beneath your eyes compared to others like the Castaway, they provide sufficient coverage.

Though if you have a small or medium-sized face, other options like the Redding or Guide’s Choice might be a better fit.

Function

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

As previously mentioned, it took me a while to figure out the flexible temple thing. It’s not entirely intuitive, but it is functional. It can certainly reduce the nose bobble.

Besides that, the design is pretty straightforward and does the job that sunglasses are designed to do.

Value

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Smith Deckboss sunglasses are not cheap, but they are on par with other Smiths. You can save some money going with the regular ChromaPop lenses as I did. They are made of polycarbonate instead of glass and they help cut down on weight too.

These shades only come with a basic soft case. I’d like to see at least a hard case included at that price point. 

If they fit your budget and your face, they’re a decent buy.

Bottom Line

Outdoor Empire Total Score: 4.0

Smith Deckboss

$80.00

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:10 pm GMT

The Smith Deckboss is a nice pair of shades with a unique look to them. While they’re not my favorite, they might be yours. They are certainly high quality.

I recommend them for guys with larger faces or those who want a dedicated pair of fishing sunglasses. But if you’re looking for one pair that does it all, or you’ve got a smaller face, I’d recommend the Smith Redding or Guide’s Choice.

We reviewed several pairs of Smiths and you can get the whole scoop in our roundup review on Smith Fishing Sunglasses. 

If you’re interested in something besides Smith shades, check out our Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses comparison article.

The post Smith Deckboss Sunglasses Review appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

The Smith Longfin sunglasses are among the most comfortable of all of Smith’s fishing sunglasses. They are lightweight with durable, flexible frames, and the ChromaPop lenses provide excellent clarity and color contrast. Though they do let some glare in behind the lenses.

Benefits

• Comfortable medium-size fit
• Medium coverage lenses look good from the front
• Gray green lens option is excellent in all conditions

Drawbacks

• Blinders look funny
• Quite a bit of indirect sunlight sneaks in

Smith Longfin

$129.99

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:15 pm GMT

Compare prices at: Sportsman’s Warehouse

Hands-on Review of Smith Longfin Polarized Sunglasses

This review of the Smith Longfin polarized sunglasses comes after months of regular use. From surf fishing to day hikes, I’ve done way more than just wear these for a photo op.

The main criteria we use to compare fishing sunglasses along with my assessment of the Smith Longfins can be found below. We give a score between 1 and 5 for each category, then average them together for a total score.

Comfort

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

Of all the Smith sunglasses I’ve tested, the Longfins were perhaps the most comfortable. 

They are extremely lightweight with no pinch points and since the lenses are not enormous, they don’t feel obnoxiously large on your face.

The ear pieces are nice and grippy and fit snugly around your temples without feeling too tight. They really just feel good and fit well on my medium-sized mug.

Design

Outdoor Empire Score: 3

With Smith’s 6 base curve they have a modest wrap but sit somewhat flat on the front of your face. This gives them a nice modern look from the front but leaves the sides vulnerable to glare.

While the Longfins sacrifice some coverage for style, they don’t totally nail the looks they seem to be shooting for. Smith added some blinders to the sides that are awfully similar to the blinders worn by the Budweiser horses. They’re black and rubbery like the nose and temple grips. And since they’re not molded into the frame, they just look a little goofy. My wife tells me how it is and she was the first to chuckle and point this out.

A variety of colors for both the frames and the ChromaPop lenses give you lots of style options. I had the basic flat black frames with the gray green lenses.

The Longfins feel a bit more “plasticky” than other Smiths and they don’t have spring hinges. But they are also on the low end of the price range.

Coverage

Outdoor Empire Score: 3

Like the Smith Barra, the Longfin sacrifices a bit of coverage for style. As advertised they provide a medium fit with medium coverage.

Despite the less-than-cool-looking blinders designed to keep the side glare out, I still noticed quite a bit. Especially while driving. They also let some indirect sunlight in through the front underside.

These do provide sufficient sun protection for fishing onshore or off, just not as much as the alternatives like the Smith Castaway or Guide’s Choice.

Function

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

No question that the Smith Longfin polarized sunglasses work well, especially with Smith’s awesome ChromaPop lenses. The polarized gray green polycarbonate lenses I have are awesome in nearly every lighting condition, even if they don’t look the coolest.

The flexible ear pieces are thin and grippy on the temples, so they never felt like they were going to fall off and they’re super comfortable.

The goofy side blinders provide marginal benefit and there isn’t anything terribly interesting that stands out in regards to the functionality of these sunglasses. But I like them nonetheless and found myself wearing them more than I expected I would.

Value

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

While the Longfin is a cheaper pair of sunglasses than most Smiths, they lack things the others have like a hard case, a leash, spring hinges, or nicer materials. 

That said, they are durable, comfortable, and come from a reputable brand that stands by their products, so you’ll get what you pay for.

Bottom Line

Outdoor Empire Total Score: 3.8

Smith Longfin

$129.99

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:15 pm GMT

Compare prices at: Sportsman’s Warehouse

The Smith Longfin polarized sunglasses are excellent for fishing, water sports, and fun in the sun. However, you’ll probably want to have another pair for when you’re not with your fishing buddies because your lady might not be able to resist making horse jokes when she sees the blinders.

Much like my own silhouette, the Longfins look better from the front than they do from the side. But don’t let that hold you back if you like a lightweight, comfortable pair of shades that do the job they’re designed to do.

If you’re interested in the alternatives I mentioned, check out our roundup of the best Smith fishing sunglasses where we pitch a bunch of different pairs head to head.

There are lots of options besides Smith. We review a lot of the best in our Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses comparison article.

The post Smith Longfin Sunglasses Review appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

Smith Redding sunglasses are comfortable, lightweight, and durable. While the look and price point may not appeal to everyone, they provide excellent protection from both direct and indirect sunlight. Fishermen and outdoor recreationists will find them functional both on and off the water.

Benefits

• Lightweight and comfortable
• Smallish lenses, but with great sun and glare protection
• Excellent color contrast and water visibility with ChromaPop lenses
• High-end feel in materials, spring hinges, and lenses

Drawbacks

• Don’t like to rest on top of head when not on eyes
• Style does not appeal to everyone
• Like all Smiths, they’re not cheap!

Smith Redding

$125.00

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:26 pm GMT

Compare prices at: Sportsman’s Warehouse

Hands-on Review of Smith Redding Polarized Sunglasses

We tested multiple pairs of fishing sunglasses and I kept coming back to the Smith Reddings as one of my favorites. I’ve worn them a ton while out on the water, around camp, and mowing the lawn. 

I really like the more minimalistic frames and lenses the Reddings offer compared to many others, but still with good coverage.

Let’s take a look at the main criteria I looked at and how the Smith Redding performed. The sunglasses were given a score for each category where 1 is the poorest and 5 is the best.

Comfort

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

I loved how the Smith Redding sunglasses fit on my face. I have a medium sized oval-shaped face and my nose is rather broad where glasses rest, and these fit perfectly.

The Reddings grip well to your face and don’t bounce around or slip down easily, even when active like hiking, fishing, or running. Never once have they fallen off my face by accident.

They are also very lightweight, even with the glass lenses. Compared to other Smith sunglasses I tried with glass lenses, these don’t feel heavy on your face. You can wear the Reddings all day long and be comfortable.

Design

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

I tried a lot of different Smith sunglasses designed for fishing and watersports. What stood out to me about the Redding was the relatively small lens size. By no means is it too small, I should clarify. Frankly, I think they strike a perfect balance of sun protection and size.

They definitely wrap more than some, which I prefer. Though if you are anti-wrap, you may not be so keen.

The narrow ear pieces maintain a classic look and feel. I like that they have spring hinges as well.

The frames are made of what feels like a high-end material. They have a little flex without braking and they’ve been very durable. I’ve stuffed them into bags, tossed them on the dash, even dropped them on the dirt and in the water a few times without issue.

Smith lenses are amazing, especially those with ChromaPop. The colors do indeed pop noticeably. That combined with the polarized feature makes them amazing for fishing, very easy to see into the water. Compared to some cheap polarized sunglasses I have, these are better for both water and color contrast.

A good variety of frame and lens color options can suit most anybody and any lighting condition.

Perhaps one thing that is less appealing to some people about the Reddings is the alien-like oval shape of the lenses. There’s not really a modern wow factor with these when it comes to looks. They’ve got sort of a late 90’s, early 2000’s vibe. But that’s when I was in my prime, which is probably why I like them!

Coverage

Outdoor Empire Score: 5

When it comes to coverage and protection from the sun, which I think we can all agree is the primary objective here, Smith Redding sunglasses are amazing!

They wrap around your face well with an 8 base wrap according to Smith Optics. That allows them to provide great coverage without a lot of bulk. 

The lenses sit closer to your face than others I’ve tried, which eliminates glare from the sides or below.

Whether I’m driving or fishing on a sunny day, the Reddings do a fine job at keeping both direct and indirect sunlight away from my eyes.

Function

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Smith Redding sunglasses grip well to your face, nose, and temples with strategically placed non-slip pads.

The spring hinges are quite functional and help accommodate a wider range of face shapes. They also help avoid accidental breakage.

The small footprint on the face is both functional and appealing to me. 

I appreciate the bit of flex in the frames as well as the slightly downward curved and narrow ear pieces. These also accommodate just about any sort of leash or neck strap you might want to use. They’re not fat and you can remove the rubber pads to reveal holes for differnt types of leashes.

There is only one thing I really don’t like about the Reddings that holds them back from being perfect for me. The combination of the slightly heavier glass lenses and the spring hinges make it so the sunglasses won’t stay on the top of my head without falling back down onto my nose. 

So when I walk in a store or some place where I need to take them off temporarily and try to stick them on my head, they don’t want to stay there. So I usually end up carrying them in my hand, which is inconvenient.

This is quite a minor thing, but bugs me just a bit. When I’m wearing a hat, they sit on my hat just fine. And I suspect if I had the regular polycarbonate lenses, this wouldn’t be an issue because they’re lighter.

And the glass is supposed to be more scratch resistant and have its benefits, so it’s a tradeoff.

Value

Outdoor Empire Score: 4

Value is somewhat relative because $200 may be a lot for one person and nothing for another. But since these sunglasses do fall in that range, and there are lots of options for less, I have a hard time giving a full five stars to these on value. So I give these a pretty average score on value.

You can probably get better bang for your buck with something else. But Smith has the cool brand and reputation that allows them to charge that much.

The Redding sunglasses are definitely cool and high quality. So if they fit your budget, they’re definitely worth it.

The good news is, these have been available for a few years now and if you keep an eye out, you can probably find them on sale.

Bottom Line

Outdoor Empire Total Score: 4.4

Smith Redding

$125.00

View on Amazon View at Smith's

08/15/2023 10:26 pm GMT

Compare prices at: Sportsman’s Warehouse

Overall, the Redding is great for anglers and outdoorsy people who don’t like the look of huge sunglasses. They provide great coverage and protection from glares, they’re comfortable, and they’re high-quality.

And for those who want or need glass lenses, these are a great choice because the smaller lenses make them not too heavy. Just be ye warned, they might not stay on top of your head when not in use on your eyes!

If you want to check out some more polarized sunglasses options from Smith that are great for fishing and water sports, be sure and check out our Best Smith Fishing Sunglasses article!

And for more options than just Smith, you should be able to find something you like in our Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses comparison article.

Note: Smith Optics provided these sunglasses to Outdoor Empire as a free sample to try out. However, the opinions expressed in this review are entirely our own.

The post Smith Redding Sunglasses Review appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

We’ll also provide some recommendations on what to look for when shopping and considering the top manufacturers.

It is rare that you see a serious angler without their favorite pair of sunglasses close at hand. While everyone will have a favorite pair that they never leave the dock without, you can be sure that each and every pair share one feature—they are polarized.

Polarized fishing sunglasses do more than protect your eye against the sun’s glare and harmful UV rays. They also improve you vision. Colors are clearer, and fish are easier to spot, even when in the water.

Whether you are shopping for a forever pair, the ones that will last for many seasons to come, or a cheaper pair to get you through this season, you will still want to make sure you are getting what you need.

Comfort, style, and performance are expected, no matter the cost. With that in mind, we have scoured our sources and identified the best of the best, even at the lower end of the price range.

The 8 Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses In 2020: Outdoor Empire Reviews

1. Best Under $50 #1: DUCO Polarized Sports Sunglasses
2. Best Under $50 #2: Flying Fisherman Buchanan
3. Best for the Money #1: Smith Optics Guides Choice
4. Best for the Money #2: Costa Del Mar Fantail
5. Best Overall #1: Costa Tuna Alley
6. Best Overall #2: Oakley Split Shot
7. Best for Fly Fishing: Maui Jim Banyans
8. Best for Sight Fishing: Oakley Holbrook Pros

Category	Best cheap	Best for the money	Best overall
Product	Flying Fisherman Buchanan	Smith Optics Guides Choice	Costa Tuna Alley
Fit	Medium	Medium to large	Large
Frame Specs	62 lens width x 12 nose width x 120 Temple length	62 lens width x 16 nose width x 120 Temple length	61.8 lens width x 13 nose width x 114.8 Temple length
Weight	1.2 oz	1.6 oz	1.28 oz
Available Lens Colors	- yellow-amber - smoke - copper - amber	- bronze - brown - blue	- green - gray - blue - copper
Warranty	1 year	Lifetime	Limited lifetime
Cost	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

1. Best Cheap Polarized Sunglasses Under $50

Unfortunately, far too many anglers opt to buy non-polarized lenses. Their reasons may vary, but they often include concerns about price.

While it is true that polarized fishing sunglasses can be more expensive than regular sunglasses, that does not need to be the case. The following models may not cost as much as others ,but that does not mean you shouldn’t consider them when shopping for your next pair.

DUCO Polarized Sports Sunglasses with Interchangeable Lenses

Maybe you are in need of polarized sunglasses for your next fishing trip but do not want to break the bank doing so. Maybe you are always losing your sunglasses or need a spare pair for the boat, so spending a lot of money just doesn’t make sense.

No matter the reason, DUCO is here with a pair of well-made, lightweight, polarized fishing sunglasses that will deliver quality at a low price.

These polarized sunglasses have a lightweight design that’s perfect for a long day on the water. The low profile and close-to-the-face design provides increased coverage and visibility without being so bulky as to prohibit long term use.

Plus, you get the advantage of three different lenses—standard gray, yellow for low light, and Revo Blue for offshore. All three lens colors provide 100% UV400 protection and block UVA and UVB rays.

PROS

• Lightweight, making all day wear more comfortable
• Flexible plastic frames that will withstand hot and cold temperatures as well as the occasional accidental mistreatment
• Includes three different lens colors to meet all your fishing needs
• 30-day money-back guarantee and lifetime-breakage warranty

CONS

• One size only tends to be on the smaller side and a tight fit for larger facial profiles
• Does not include a carry case or cleaning cloth

Flying Fisherman Buchanan

The Buchanan polarized fishing sunglasses may not be the most expensive option available, but that does not mean that you will be settling when you select these as you main fishing sunglasses.

Flying Fisherman’s goal is to provide quality, stylish sunglasses that you’ll be proud to wear at a fraction of the cost you would spend on competitors’ models.

The polycarbonate frames are lightweight, comfortable and durable. The lenses rely on triacetate technology to provide increased visibility in a variety of conditions.

These lenses also protect against 100% of UVA and UVB rays, eliminate glare, and are resistant to scratching. The polycarbonate frames are lightweight, durable, and comfortable enough to wear all day.

PROS

• Style and function at a fraction of the cost you pay for others
• Five frame and lens combinations to choose from
• Designed by anglers for anglers, field tested under real world conditions

CONS

• Does not include carry case or cleaning cloth
• Lenses are not interchangeable

View on Amazon

2. Best Polarized Sunglasses For The Money

For some anglers, money is less of a concern than quality, but that does not mean they are willing to spend more than necessary. The following polarized sunglasses are sure to provide the best value without sacrificing features.

Smith Optics Guides Choice

The main reason you wear sunglasses is to protect your eyes. The reason you wear polarized lenses when fishing it to increase visibility. Rarely do you find a pair of sunglasses the allow you to achieve both without compromise. That is, until Smith brought you the Guides Choice.

Fishing guides rely on their sunglasses to provide the top-level visibility that both they and their clients need to find the fish. The ChromaPop polarized lenses boost color, increase contrast, and cut glare resulting in superior vision and protection.

No more eye fatigue, UV damage, or that feeling that you have been staring into bright light all day.

The snug fit and wraparound frames protect from side glare, and the Megol nose and temple pads, premium spring hinges, and detachable leash assure that your glasses will stay in place all day and won’t be lost should you need to drape them around your neck for a minute.

Related: Best Smith Polarized Fishing Sunglasses Reviewed

PROS

• High-quality materials and construction built for long time use
• Visibility and clarity that is hard to beat
• Includes leash, hard carry case, and cleaning cloth

CONS

• Style is great for fishing but may not be suitable for other activities, such as driving, since these glasses limit side vision
• Price is high (this is an investment intended for long-term use)

View at Optics Planet

Costa Del Mar Fantail

One of the complaints customers have with many Costa models is the oversized frame—they are great at providing protection but not a good fit for anyone without a large face. The Fantail is the answer to that complaint and then some.

The lightweight frames are slightly smaller than other models, providing a better all-around fit. Also, because they are flexible enough to wear over a cap, they can still be worn by people with larger heads.

Like all Costa models, the Fantail is available with their groundbreaking, high-end 580G lens technology, which ensures superior visibility and clarity. Those wishing to save some money can also opt for 400 or 400P polycarbonate options, both of which still offer all-day comfort and protection.

The co-molded arms include non-slip bottoms, resulting in increased comfort without the need for an overly tight fit. Of course, they are also offered in a wide range of color combinations to meet your personal needs and style.

PROS

• Fits a wide range of customers well
• Costa 580G lenses available
• Frame and arm design allow for a better fit without being overly tight
• Frame flexibility means placing them on top of your head, even when wearing a hat, will not stretch the glasses
• Includes a hard carry case, cleaning cloth, and lifetime warranty

CONS

• Does not include air vents found on many of Costa’s other models
• Numerous color combinations can make it difficult to select the best look for your specific situation

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3. Best Overall Polarized Sunglasses For Fishing

If you could buy the best polarized sunglasses, regardless of the price, what would they be? Most serious anglers have asked themselves this question at least once. Should you find your bank account flush, here are some of the sunglasses that should be at the top of your list.

Costa Tuna Alley Polarized Fishing Sunglasses

Costa is one of the leading producers of polarized fishing sunglasses. No, they did not make fishing shoes or shirts and then get into the fishing sunglass industry—this is where they started.

The Tuna Alley is one of their latest offerings and one of their finest, certainly an option to consider if you plan on investing on a quality pair of fishing sunglasses.

Built from the ground up to meet an angler’s needs, the Tuna Alley starts with heavy duty TR-90 nylon frames for lightweight durability in a wide range of temperatures. Integral hinges ensure a tight fit for added comfort and protection against loss.

A patented ventilation system helps prevent the lenses from fogging. The lenses themselves are Costa’s own patented 580G style, which refers to the light spectrum they are designed to block.

Although the lenses block 100% UV rays and are scratch and impact resistant, this added light resistance is what allows them to provide superior clarity.

PROS

• Designed specifically for anglers, tested under real world conditions
• High-quality material and construction make these sunglasses ones you will wear for many seasons to come
• Superior clarity, impact resistance, and 100% UV blocking
• Prescription-ready

CONS

• Those with a smaller face will find it harder to get a good fit
• There are so many lens / frame combinations available, it can actually be difficult to select the right one.

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Oakley Split Shot Polarized Fishing Sunglasses

Oakley has long been a leader in providing quality sunglasses, but the Split Shot is their first design built specifically for those who spend their time on the water. When designing these glasses, they looked at what worked best and what anglers needed and then combined the two.

The result is one of the best polarized sunglasses for fishing available today.

Oakley started with lightweight, highly durable materials such as O Matter frames and Unobtanium nose bridge for their famous three-point fit and day-long comfort. Next, they added PRIZM lens technology for increased visibility and protection from harmful UV rays.

Then they added a low-profile shape that is hat compatible, a must for anglers who do not want their glasses knocked off over and over again. Finally, Oakley engineered a custom leash system and 20-inch steel cable for security when you need to remove the frames from your face.

PROS

• First Oakleys specifically designed for anglers
• Superior fit, comfort, and security
• PRIZM lenses provide high-level clarity and contrast in a variety of conditions

CONS

• As a new design, there are not long-term reviews by real users available yet
• Lenses for deep water and shallow water are not easily changes

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4. Best Fishing Glasses for Fly Fishing

Fly fishing enthusiasts depend on a lot of specialized equipment, and their sunglasses are no different. While your buddies who fish the local piers may have some great sunglasses, they just don’t seem to meet you needs. Here is the pair that we consider the best for casting a fly.

Maui Jim Banyans

Fly fishermen want the same protection and clarity that any angler seeks, but they also need something else—better visibility in low light. Every fly angler knows that the best fishing tends to occur during dusk and dawn, those times when light is low and visibility is worse, but the chances of catching a trophy are greatest.

Maui Jim uses High-Transmission (HT) lenses, designed to improve passage of light frequencies associated with contrast while still blocking those which are damaging. This will help you not only during prime fishing hours but also when fishing in heavily shaded areas or on overcast days.

While the HT lens is available in a wide range of Maui Jim models, the Banyan incorporates a World Cup frame with a wider, wraparound style that provides additional side protection.

PROS

• Higher degree of visibility and clarity in low-light conditions
• Stylish, modern design is equally at home on the boat, beach, or out on the town
• Very lightweight for increased comfort during day long wear
• Replacement lenses and parts readily available

CONS

• Thin frame style is not as durable as other models
• Shape will not fit as many face types as some others, especially with the wraparound lens design

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5. Best Polarized Sunglasses for Sight Fishing

Sight fishing is all about vision. After all, it is nearly impossible to cast to a fish if you can not see that fish clearly. With that in mind, having the right pair of polarized fishing sunglasses available takes on a higher level of importance, right up there with having the right rod and reel.

Oakley Holbrook Pros

Oakley has made the list before, so it should come as no surprise that they are being mentioned again. The Holbrook Pros are unlike many of the other Oakleys that anglers consider. First, there is the style. These are more boardwalk than fishing pier with a mix of color and style unlike most other fishing sunglasses.

Then there is the price. Although they are not cheap, with average prices around $149, they are not in the $200–$300 range of many competitors. But that is not what makes them the best for sight fishing.

The Holbrook Pros utilize plastic frames for a lightweight, non-corrosive design that will stand up to salt spray and exposure to high temperatures.

The Plutonite lens material filters 100% of UV rays and protects against impact while still providing superior contrast. This contrast allows the wear to clearly and accurately pick out far-off targets without distortion. You can aim where the fish is, not where your glasses think the fish is.

PROS

• Great value without compromise in quality
• Wide range of frame/lens color combinations available
• Very stylish design suitable for both fishing and a night on the town

CONS

• Do not include nose or ear pads, which may result in unwanted slipping when sweating

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Here’s a review on another alternative, the Gatorz Marauder!

What are Polarized Sunglasses?

Polarized lenses work by realigning or blocking incoming light waves, making some less visible while increasing the contrast of others. This was at one time accomplished by including vertical stripes within the lens, which acted similarly to a venetian blind.

Modern polarization is accomplished through a combination of lens materials, filters, and color selection, which makes the lenses not only more comfortable to wear but also more affordable.

The difference between polarized lenses and normal sunglasses is readily apparent to anyone who wears them, especially in an outdoor setting.

Normal lenses block light waves equally, resulting in everything being darker. Polarized lenses, as mentioned earlier, will block specific light waves and amplify others. This result is improved vision.

Yes, the sun’s bright glare and harmful rays are still blocked, and you get the advantage of wearing sunglasses, but the amplification of desired light waves means your vision will better than when wearing normal sunglasses, often better than when not wearing any sunglasses at all.

Why Should You Choose Polarized Fishing Sunglasses?

As stated before, the main function of polarized sunglasses is the improved clarity they provide. This is the main reason that they were first popular with drivers and those involved in outdoor sports, such as boating, fishing, and skiing. Only a few decades ago it would cost you a tidy sum to go with polarized lenses.

Today they are pretty much the norm, and it is hard to find a pair of quality sunglasses, regardless of the target audience, that does not come with polarization. However, they still cost more than normal lenses, so why should you spend the extra money?

For the angler, clarity is a key to successful fishing, especially if sight casting, as you need to see the fish if you are to accurately aim your lure. A key way polarized lenses improve clarity is by reducing glare, especially glare reflected off the water.

The rays reflected off the water can be dangerous and even blinding, so this is a vital protection you will want. The reduction of glare also allows you to see below the water’s surface, so you’ll not only see the fish and their habitat but also obstacles and snags that may present a danger to you or your boat.

Many sunglass manufacturers now offer specially engineering polarization that enhances specific colors needed for specific activities.

For example, fishing sunglasses will improve the ability to see reds, yellows, and similar colors often associated with the small but important features needed to identify fish species and the lures you will use to target them.

Finally, there is the matter of eye fatigue and long-term eye health. Although polarization does not provide any additional UV protection, it does reduce the fatigue eyes experience to when exposed to bright sunlight. This in turn allows an angler to spend longer periods of time outdoors.

Over time, unprotected exposure to the sun can damage the eyes by burning the retinas or causing damage to the interior of the eye. Lenses with polarization and UV protection can help prevent this.

How to Make Your Selection

Selecting the perfect pair of polarized fishing sunglasses is a balancing act. You need to consider which of the features are most important, which you can do without, and how much you are able (or willing) to spend.

Lens Material

Manufacturers are always experimenting with new, innovative materials that are lighter, stronger, or more economical, but most lenses are constructed from one of four materials.

Glass

This is an extremely popular material for polarized lenses and offers crisper vision with almost zero distortion, high resistance to scratching, and the ability to accept prescriptions. However, glass lenses cost more than many other options, weigh more and are the less resistant to breakage.

Polyurethane

It is hard to beat polyurethane when it comes to manufacturing quality lenses. It provides superior clarity while also being impact resistant and flexible, which results in less danger should lenses pop out during physical activity.

Unfortunately, the production cost is higher than other options, so it is generally only found in higher-end models. Like other composite materials, it is also more susceptible to scratches.

Polycarbonate

This is one of the most popular lens materials in the market. These lenses are extremely durable, especially against impact damage, and they weigh far less than glass and thus more comfortable for long-term wear. The cost is also less than glass or polyurethane.

The downside is these lenses are more easily damaged by scratches, and clarity is not as good.

Acrylic

These are the lowest-quality lenses and suffer from almost all the combined disadvantages encountered with the other materials. Apart from weight, they are comparable to polycarbonate. They are suitable for occasional use or if the buyer is looking for a backup pair, something they can throw in the tackle box just in case.

Frames

Although polarized lenses are available in a wide range of frames, including rimless frames, the most common among anglers is the 8 Base frame. This style is recognizable for being thick and wrapping around the temples.

It’s popular because this enclosed style offers additional protection from harmful glare and rays. It also tends to provide a more stable construction that can withstand a bit more abuse.

As far as frame materials go, the most popular remain metal, acetate, and nylon.

Metal

Like glass lenses, metal frames were once the only frame option available, but they are no longer considered the best option for anglers. Any type of metal is more prone to corrosion and deterioration associated with exposure to water, salt, sand, and other contaminates commonly encountered while fishing.

Metal is also heavier than the other options available.

Acetate

Although this material is lighter and affected less by corrosion than metal, it is highly susceptible to changes in temperature, both hot and cold, which can result in deformation.

Nylon

As with polycarbonate lenses, nylon frames are the industry standard. Nylon tends to be the most forgiving when exposed to a wide range of temperatures, weighs less, and is the most resistant to breakage or stretching.

Lens Colors

Greys/Greens

Dark colors cut through glare and work well at reducing eye strain during medium- to heavy-light conditions. They’re not as good during reduced visibility, such as at dusk or dawn, as they will be difficult to see through.

Browns

This color works similarly to greys and greens, however, they tend to distort some colors. Because this distortion is minor, it generally does not interfere with wear. Copper tends to provide greater contrast than greys or greens and allows for better depth perception.

Yellow/Amber

Generally better for low-light conditions, including nighttime driving, yellow gathers light and improves brightness but does not improve contrast by itself.

Rose

If you need to perform in low-light conditions and need contrast, the best option is rose. It has similar performance to yellow, with the added benefit of improving contrast as well.

Visible Light Transmission

One feature that few buyers consider, but which greatly impacts function when fishing, is the visible light transmission, or VLT, rating. This is a measurement, indicated as a percentage, of how much light a specific lens allows to reach the wear’s eyes

The following describes the best use for VTS ratings:

• • 0–19% Bright, sunny conditions / open water
  • 20–40% All-purpose use, not best for sunny conditions, but better than not wearing sunglasses at all
  • 40%+ Low-light, overcast conditions
  • 80–90% Best as safety or shooting glasses rather than sunglasses

Coatings

Finally, we come to the issue of lens coatings. These may be standard on a particular model or available as an option. Not all available coatings are beneficial on polarized lenses or when engaged in fishing activities, but there are three you may want to consider.

Hydrophobic – Assists in repelling water and can assist in maintaining vision when operating a watercraft.

Anti-scratch – Will help protect lenses from unwanted damage

Anti-fog – Will help prevent lens fogging due to changes in temperature or during heavy physical activity.

Top Polarized Sunglasses Brands

Costa Del Mar

This company was born with saltwater running through its veins. Owner Ray Ferguson started the company in 1983 Daytona Beach by providing specialty sunglasses to NOAA, and by 1986 he had supplied sunglasses to the America’s Cup Challenge.

Thanks to these high-profile successes, and unofficial sponsorship by area surfers, Costa Del Mar soon became a household name among those who spend their lives on the water.

Today, they are without a doubt a top name in polarized sunglasses, especially those targeting anglers. Their TR-90 frames and 580G lenses are some of the most revolutionary on the market and provide some of the best protection, clarity, and color contrast available.

Smith Action Optics

Like so many leaders in their field, Smith Optics started with a problem that needed a solution: ski goggles that kept fogging. Owner Dr. Bob Smith was not looking to invent the perfect goggles or become a leader in the eyewear field.

He just wanted to spend more time on the slopes. The result was a revolutionary sealed thermal lens and vented foam goggle that would soon be on the head of every up-and-coming skier.

That was 1965, and today Smith Optics has taken that same time-tested need to solve a problem with them when designing polarized sunglasses for anglers. They go beyond polarization by adding ChromoPop, Techlite, and Polarchromic to their already popular line, resulting in reduced glare and some of the clearest lenses available.

Oakley

James Jannard started Oakley in his garage with $300, but his focus was motocross grips, not sunglasses. In fact, it would be over 10 years before the company’s now infamous Frogskins were released.

However, despite the wide range of unrelated products (something that Oakley still faces), these first sunglasses were a huge success and paved the way for Oakley to be a widely respect eyewear producer today.

Although widely used by anglers, the majority of Oakley brand eyeglasses are not specifically designed with the angler or even water-borne sportsman in mind. Oakley’s major following is among professional and collegiate athletes in a variety of sports, first responders, and the military.

They are one of the few eyeglass brands accepted for wear by US Army personnel when in uniform and are standard issue within some units. With the introduction of the Split Shot, Oakley officially entered the angler eyewear field.

Maui Jim

Like Costa Del Mar, this company was born on the water, although it was the opposite coast and a different ocean. Although it has been bought, sold, and moved numerous times over the years, MauI Jim’s roots can be traced to the 1980 beaches of Maui, Hawaii.

The sunglasses sold on that beach were so popular because they provided clear visibility and the protection needed in the hot tropical sun. By 1991, Maui Jim was offering polarized lens, and the rest is history.

Today, Maui Jim is headquartered in Peoria, Illinois, but that does not affect their ability to provide top-of-the-line sunglasses for those who enjoy time on the water. As of 2016, they offered over 125 styles, and in 2018 they added prescription lenses to their already successful line

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any polarized prescription sunglasses available?

Yes, polarization is available in prescription lenses, both as sunglasses and non-sunglass forms.

Although many of the higher end polarized sunglasses are prescription ready, this does not mean the stock lens can have a prescription added. Instead, you will need to have an insert added behind the stock lens or have it swapped by your eye doctor.

2. How important is it to wear sunglasses when fishing?

It is important to wear sunglasses any time you are outdoors as they protect you from dangerous sun glare and UV rays. They also improve your ability to see. When you are fishing, the need for sunglasses is amplified due to the long periods you will spend outdoors and the added reflection of sunlight off the water.

Plus, fishing requires you to accurately and clearly see fish and their location if you are to cast correctly.

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