Short Cast: Smith Optics Serpico Polarized Sunglasses

  I purchased the Smith Optics Serpico sunglasses (using a media discount) last year for our trip to Norway and Sweden (check out those posts here, here, here and here!).  I've been wearing them almost everyday since, so I thought I'd write up a quick review.  You can check them out by following this link to the Smith Optics website.

Style:

  I tend to prefer older styles of almost everything.  I'm not into trends that come and go, but timeless style.  So, of course, I jumped at the chance to get classic aviator-style sunglasses infused with modern lens technology.  I opted for the gunmetal frames with polarized gray lenses.

Fit:

  I've never really paid much attention to the fit of sunglasses before (I usually just buy the $5 polarized glasses from the big box store), but all of the frames on the Smith Optics website are labeled for fit.  It's not really clear (at least it wasn't to me) how their fitment ratings worked.  The Serpicos are labled as "medium fit/ large coverage".  That turned out to be a little small for me, but they've stretched a bit with time and I've become accustomed to the fit.  If I were to buy another pair, I'd look for a larger fit.

Durability:

  Due to the price of these glasses, compared to what I typically wear, I've probably taken better care of them.  They have held up very well over the past year.  The lenses have not scratched (knock on wood) and the frames haven't overly stretched.  The finish on the frames still looks as good as the day I took them out of the box.

Price:

  Even with the discount coupon I received, these glasses cost way more than what I typically spend on anything non-prescription.  With the retail price on their website being $129, I think these glasses are a good bit cheaper than similar from comparable brands.

Overall:

  Overall, I've really enjoyed these glasses.  They look good, they've held up very well and the polarizing does a fantastic job of cutting glare on the water.  I wish the fit was a little better for me, but that's not Smith's fault.

Recommendation:

  If you're in the market for a new pair of higher end polarized sunglasses, I really don't think you could go wrong with Smith Optics.  I've spoken with several people who have Smith's with the Chroma-Pop lenses and different frame styles and everyone seems to love them.  I can't speak to the other lenses from Smith, but if you're on a budget, I think the $5 big box store glasses work just as well and won't make you cry if you drop them in a creek.  Granted, the cheap glasses won't last nearly as long and stay looking near as good as the Serpicos, but with the lower price could be replaced as needed.

  I'm going to continue wearing my Smith Optics Serpicos.  I really do love these sunglasses!  I'd love to hear your thoughts!  Are expensive lenses better in your opinion? Or, do you get by on a $5 pair?  Thanks for reading and have a great day!