THE latest technology from SMITH has arrived in the Rose Blue Mirror lens. I tested them out in the Solomon Islands in offshore, estuary and a variety of light conditions. Here is why I think this is their most versatile lens yet.
For many years, anglers have been conscious of having a pair of glasses that fit specific conditions. For example, low/high light or estuary/offshore/rivers. If you wanted to streamline your selection to just one pair. I would be recommending the new SMITH Rose Blue mirror glass lens.
Glass is widely accepted as the higher-performing material, including its scratch-resistant benefits. The only question mark on glass lenses was the added weight. SMITH have produced a lens that is lighter than other options I have tried.
The new lens from SMITH has its leading technology, Polachromic and Chromapop. They are the first eyewear manufacturer to be able to combine all of these assets onto a glass lens. The Polachromic element cuts glare with polarisation with the adaptive photochromic lens, where the tint adjusts to the level of light. So in brighter conditions, the lens darkens to reduce the intensity, and in low light, the lens softens to brighten the world. I found this to be an awesome feature in the Solomons, tropical weather is unpredictable and ever-changing. Intense and focused thunderstorms may roll into clear skies in a matter of minutes. I could feel the lens changing to accommodate the conditions. It improved my visibility, especially top water fishing on flats and casting into snags. My depth perception was enhanced, and my eyes were never squinting at targets.
ChromaPop increases the range of the spectrum in green, red, and blue. Distinguishing colours and giving the angler a completely new perspective. The world looks better with ChromaPop; the Solomon Islands’ stunning scenery was somehow enhanced. But where I found the most benefit was sight casting. Identifying the live coral and bommies that I wanted to place a cast. The different shades of blue gave a greater understanding of how deep the surrounding waters were. Very effective.
The Riptide frame is lightweight, compact and very comfortable. Traditionally, anglers may steer towards a frame that does not allow any light to pass through the sides, mainly wrap-around styles. The Riptides do have a slight gap between rim and face; however, SMITH have technology that allows the UV to continue through the lens and not refract back into your eyes. I never felt like I needed more coverage on this trip. Plus, with the lightweight, I didn’t really feel like they were a burden or annoyance at any stage. I have very sensitive eyes, and they did not sting the entire trip, which was spent outdoors and on the water all day, every day for a week.
I like the Riptide frame because it is an everyday lens that you can be seen in public with. The flexible hinges mean that headaches from the pressure of the arms of the lens pushing inwards aren’t an issue. They are also constructed with Evolve bio-based frame material, reducing the footprint of this premium eyewear.
I highly recommend SMITH Rose Blue lens as your next pair of fishing sunglasses. If you want the lens in a different style to the Riptides, they are also available in the Backcast, Hookset and Guide’s Choice frames.
More info at smithopticsaustralia.com
