Jun 26, 2024
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/624
Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Guide Book, Stonefly Nets, Drifthook Fly Fishing
Today, we’ve got Mike Simboski and Allie Flake from Smith Optics to tell us all about choosing the right glasses for fishing. Hear about the history of Smith Optics, tips for picking the best lenses, and some affordable options.
Plus, we’ll dive into ChromaPop lenses and discover which
glasses are the all-time best sellers.
Episode Chapters with Allie Flake and Michael Simboski on
Smith Optics
2:46 – Allie has been in the eyewear industry for over 15 years.
She worked for various brands like Oliver Peoples, ROKA, and Costa
Del Mar. She’s been with Smith as their eyewear category manager
for four years.
4:44 – Mike always wanted to work in the outdoor industry. During college, he interned for a sales agency in Utah that repped Smith Optics and other brands. He worked with them for about six years. Smith restructured their sales force two years ago, and Mike got the dream job.
9:40 – Smith Optics started with Dr. Bob Smith in 1965 in Sun
Valley, Idaho. He wanted better ski goggles to stay on the slopes
longer., so he used his dentistry tools to create a thermal lens
with breathable vent foam.
The idea was inspired by double-paned windows that didn’t fog up. Smith started with snow gear and later expanded to eyewear in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
13:15 – For 2025, they will focus on creating new and
exciting styles while staying affordable. They’re adding more
budget-friendly water activity options without compromising
quality.
Finding the Perfect Glasses
17:32 – Mike explains that you can easily find where to try on
Smith Optics glasses by using the dealer locator on their
website.
19:00 – Allie explains how to pick the best lenses for your
fishing needs. The choice depends on factors like the type of fish,
environment, and weather.
Smith Optics also offers polycarbonate lenses for those who prefer
lighter options or have different budget needs.
21:42 – Mike suggests matching the lens color to your surroundings, like using brown or green for places with lots of browns and greens. He also notes that blue mirror lenses are great for saltwater fishing.
ChromaPop Technology
25:41 – ChromaPop filters out specific colors to enhance clarity,
depth perception, and true color. Allie mentions that by next year,
all their lenses will feature ChromaPop. This technology has been
around since 2014, and they’re now expanding it to all their
products, not just sports gear.
Core Line: Sunglasses Made from Recycled
Bottles
35:00 – Smith’s Core Line is a range of sunglasses made from recycled water bottles. Each pair uses about three or four bottles. The lenses are also eco-friendly and made from bio resin nylon.
Tips for Choosing the Right Fishing Sunglasses
40:00 – Mike mentions the importance of choosing the right
size of glasses. He also highlights the benefits of using an
integrated leash to prevent losing your glasses.
Glass lenses are available in various styles for those looking for the best clarity. Mike and Allie both recommend the Lowdown XL 2 as a versatile, everyday option.
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/624