Ketchum, ID (Thursday, January 23, 2003) - Expanding its line of performance eyewear, Smith Sport Optics has introduced distortion-free polarized models to its Slider Series of patented interchangeable lens sunglasses.

The Mainline, Empire, Voodoo, and Slider O1 are now available in a polarized lens package at a suggested retail price of $159. The new polarized models feature distortion-free polarized Carbonic lenses, which reduces glare from water, pavement, and other flat surfaces.

As with every pair of Sliders, the new models ship with three sets of interchangeable lenses and the option of 10 additional lens tints. Each of the lightweight, shatter-resistant, Carbonic lenses incorporate Smith's proprietary Tapered Lens Technology® for distortion-free vision. Simply explained, Tapered Lens Technology® (TLT) ensures that all light, no matter from what angle it strikes the lens, travels straight to the eye, eliminating distortion and providing exceptional optical acuity and depth perception.

Polarized lens tints included in the new package are GP15, which is ideal for bright conditions, and the new RCP36 lens that combines rose and copper base tints to provide the absolute best vision under the widest variety of conditions. Also included is the Y68 lens for increased visual acuity in extreme low light conditions. The Slider frames are made of Grilamid nylon, the toughest, most resilient material available and the hydrophilic Megol nose pads help to ensure that the sunglasses stay comfortably positioned on the face.