Some Christmas gifts get tucked away in a drawer or closet. A well-chosen pair of sunglasses is more likely to end up near the front door, in the car, or in a golf bag, ready for winter trips, sunny days, and everyday outings.
Sunglasses can also be a surprisingly personal gift. Frame shape, fit, and lens choice matter as much as the name on the temple. Smith’s lineup offers a range of styles with practical features, including proprietary ChromaPop lenses that enhance color and contrast and polarized options that reduce glare from water, snow, and pavement. Those features are worth considering, but not every frame or lens configuration offers the same combination.
These five editor’s picks suit different tastes and routines, from an understated everyday classic to frames best for an active itinerary. Start with the person on your Christmas list: what they like to wear, where they spend their time, and which sunglasses they already reach for.
Lowdown 2 — Unisex
For someone whose wardrobe favors classics over passing trends, the Lowdown 2 is a sensible place to start. Its understated Wayfarer shape is easy to picture in everyday life, with a medium fit and generous coverage that balance wearability and protection.
The practical details deserve attention. Lightweight Evolve bio-based frames feature Megol nose pads for non-slip grip, while AutoLock hinges hold the glasses open for one-handed handling. These small conveniences may matter more over time than a striking first impression.
From the first tee to the clubhouse, Smith Optics Westward sunglasses deliver a clean, versatile look built for an active day outdoors
Lens choices include Carbonic and color-enhancing ChromaPop options, so gift buyers should check the specific configuration rather than assume every Lowdown 2 has identical optics. Among these selections, this is a straightforward choice for someone who prefers one versatile pair to a collection of more specialized varieties.
Westward — Unisex
The Westward takes the classic approach in a different direction, with round frames that give it a little more personality. Smith pairs that silhouette with ChromaPop lenses, making it worth considering for someone who treats sunglasses as part of an outfit rather than simply something to grab when the sun comes out.
Its appeal is largely a matter of taste: distinctive enough to feel like a thoughtful gift, yet not so unusual that it requires a particular occasion. Of these featured selections, it is the most natural starting point for someone who already gravitates toward rounded eyewear. For a recipient who consistently wears angular frames, the shape may be a less certain choice.
Felina — Women’s
Felina’s rounded cat-eye brow adds a more dressed-up option without sacrificing practical features. Its medium fit and coverage suit everyday wear, while ChromaPop lenses enhance contrast and natural color. Polarized configurations also reduce glare, a useful feature for beach days and bright commutes.
Adjustable corewire temples allow the wearer to fine-tune the fit, and replaceable Megol nose pads help keep the frame in place. Lightweight Evolve bio-based construction with smudge- and moisture-resistant lens coatings round out the specs.
For holiday gifting, the Felina is the best choice for someone who already prefers a subtle shape and wants sunglasses that work with both casual and more polished afternoon outfits. The styling is the main draw; the adjustable fit is a practical reason to keep it on the shortlist.
Riptide — Unisex
For an adventurer, a secure, comfortable fit matters more than a fashion-forward frame. The Riptide addresses that with spring hinges that flex at the temples and Megol nose and temple pads for a non-slip grip. Its modest wraparound shape offers medium coverage, while Smith’s detailed specifications indicate a medium-large fit—a distinction worth noting before buying it for someone with a smaller face.
Lens selection is another consideration. ChromaPop options enhance color and contrast, while ChromaPop Glass polarized versions combine glare reduction with high scratch resistance. Santa’s elves should pay attention to which version they are choosing rather than treating those features as standard across the range.
The Riptide is a great match for someone whose days move between errands, outdoor recreation, or spending time near the water. It earns its place on this list through its combination of coverage, grip, and lens choice.
Truss — Unisex
The Truss earns consideration through adjustability and everyday versatility. QuickFit adjustable temples help personalize the fit, while Megol nose and temple pads provide grip. Its medium fit, extensive coverage, and lightweight Evolve bio-based frame may appeal to someone who wants substantial coverage without the feel of bulky eyewear.
AutoLock hinges provide convenient one-handed operation. Like the Lowdown 2, this is a modest feature, but it could prove beneficial if you put the glasses on and take them off repeatedly throughout the day.
For someone whose priority is comfort, the Truss belongs under the Christmas Tree, with their name on the package. The adjustable temples are useful, though they don’t eliminate the need to consider the recipient’s usual frame size and preferences.
A Personal Pick: Arvo
Just outside the top five is a model I’ve recently grown accustomed to wearing: the Arvo, particularly in Matte Ash Marble with ChromaPop Polarized Opal Mirror lenses.
For those who wear single-vision prescription lenses or progressives, the Arvo RX brings a stylish option to the discussion. I’ve found the lenses well suited to a round of golf, and the distinctive frame finish paired with the brown-based lens gives it its own identity. The lens is designed for medium-to-bright conditions.
The frame also offers wraparound coverage, spring hinges, and non-slip nose and temple pads. It blends relaxed styling with practical grip, fitting the person whose casual afternoon often includes time outdoors.
smithoptics.com lets you browse styles and explore virtual try-on options. Treat that as a starting point for narrowing the choices—not a substitute for paying attention to what the person on your list already enjoys wearing.
