best yacht glasses

Yachting Monthly

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Best polarized sunglasses for sailors: 9 pairs tested

• Theo Stocker
• September 19, 2022

A decent set of polarized sunglasses are essential on the water. Theo Stocker explains why they’re so vital, and tests nine pairs

Product Overview

Bright sunlight, little shelter, white decks and sails, and glare reflected off the water all make being at sea a hostile environment for our eyes. We all know the discomfort of squinting into sun, trying to pick out the next navigation mark or up at the sails on a bright day.

Even in overcast conditions, the amount of light around can be visually tiring. With all this light comes harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Many sunglasses for sailors will have a brown tint, as this helps increase contrast, and will be fairly dark to block out bright sunlight, with a transmission rating of just 10-15%

Exposure over a few years can contribute to corneal damage, cataracts and macular degeneration amongst other conditions, and as sailors, we are more exposed than most. Far from being a mere fashion accessory, a proper pair of sailing sunglasses that blocks out the harmful rays and makes it easier for us to see is essential.

Most sailors will opt for polarized sunglasses. If you haven’t tried them before and don’t know what the fuss is about, ask to try someone else’s next time you’re out on the water. Tip your head on one side to see what things look like with dark glasses, then look normally to see how much additional glare the polarization cuts out and you’ll be amazed.

They do have some downsides, however, including the frustrating characteristic that they can make it hard to see digital screens and instrument read-outs at certain angles. Like buying clothing or footwear, finding the right pair of sunglasses is a hugely personal choice.

Polarized sunglasses for sailors: 9 pairs tested

Tribord 100 Floating Sunglasses

Best on test

Specifications Lens: Brown mirrored polarized Hinge: Screw Weight: 25g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 139 x 48 x 135 Colour options: Frame: dark grey

As the cheapest shades in our polarized sunglasses for sailors test, we weren’t expecting much from these, but were pleasantly surprised when we took them out of the box as they looked and felt pretty good for such a budget pair.

The mirrored polycarbonate lenses sit in an understated frame with in-built buoyancy, making these one of only two floating sunglasses on test. There is no grippy rubber on the nose or ear pieces, but the arms do hook behind the ears with holes to attach a strap.

The mirrored lenses looked good. A stainless steel screw secures the hinge. This is why we considered these the best pair of polarized sunglasses for sailors. Credit: Theo Stocker

Amazingly, these were some of the most secure sunglasses on test, requiring over 500g force to pull them off, perhaps in part thanks to these being the narrowest glasses we tried.

For this reason, they also felt a little tight, and were marginally less comfortable than others in the test. The lenses weren’t the best on test, but they were only just shy of our top three performers.

Good lens clarity and light reduction made these capable sunglasses for sailors. Credit: Georgie Stocker

With a warm brown tint, they provided good definition with little distortion, and transmission of just 11%. The polarization was effective, cutting out 69% of reflected glare (a little shy of their claimed 80%). Given the price and strong all-round performance it’s hard to see how you could go wrong with these.

Buy Tribord Floating at Decathalon

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Tifosi Swick

Specifications Lens: Polarized smoke Hinge: Screw Weight: 26g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 143 x 50 x 138 Colour options: Frames: Satin Vapour, Satin black/neon

This Italian sports brand has been increasing its offering for watersports optics, and we tested two pairs. The Swick is the more lifestyle-oriented pair, with a flatter frame. Offered in a range of colours, the green stripe on ours had a matt rubberised finish, though these weren’t actually rubber.

Comfortable enough to wear all day, reasonably securely. Credit: Georgie Stocker

Comfortable to wear and on trend, these were a medium-sized pair of sunglasses. The rubber nose pads were a nice touch lacking on other glasses. The performance of these sunglasses was perfectly adequate, in line with a pretty modest price tag. Everything worked fine, although no area excelled in our test.

Some of the lightest lenses on test, with a grey tint, we measured a transmission of 15%, and a polarized glare reduction of 61%, so at the lower end of our selection.

The arms are textured and have a matte finish. The grey lenses are not mirrored. Credit: Theo Stocker

Security on the head was moderately good, requiring 130g to pull them off – still better than some of the more expensive models.  Mirroring on the lenses would have been a nice touch, as would proper rubber grips. There are lots of other models and colourways in the Tifosi range to choose from, making this an inexpensive brand worth looking at.

Buy Tifosi Crit at Tifosioptics.com

Buy Tifosi Crit at Tifosi-optics.co.uk

Tifosi Crit

Best sports glasses

Specifications Lens: Enliven Offshore Polarized Hinge: Screw Weight: 29g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 146 x 44 x 124 Colour options: Frame: Matte Smoke

These wraparound sports sunglasses are a different animal to the other Tifosi shades we tested, and have a higher price tag to reflect this, though still pretty reasonable. Half-lens frames mean that lenses can be swapped for different conditions, and vents prevent sweat up on hot days.

Rubber ear socks and adjustable rubber nose pads make these grippy on the head, without being tight or uncomfortable.

The Enliven Offshore polarized lenses can be popped out and swapped for different conditions or sports. Credit: Theo Stocker

The lens curve (32mm) ensures your vision is fully covered. Slightly deeper lenses would have been nice to block out some of the light coming off the deck. Green-brown in tint, the lenses were the second most effective on test, with light transmission measured at 10.3%, these easily dealt with a bright day afloat.

Polarization was a close second, cutting out just over 73% of the remaining light, and blocking all but 0.1% of our UVA torch light.

Peripheral vision was well covered, though some light got in under the lenses. Credit: Georgie Stocker

Grip on the head was reasonable but not much more than those without rubber, the grips perhaps compensating for the wider more comfortable fit. Style wise, these might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they do their job well and would double up for other sports.

Buy Tifosi Crit at Amazon (UK)

Oakley Leffingwell

Best lenses

Specifications Lens: Prizm Deep Water Polarized Hinge: Screw Weight: 28g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 148 x 52 x 136 Colour options: 7 lens/frame combinations

American brand Oakley have long led the way in innovative, top-quality sunglasses, and have a price-tag to match. One of their many new models is the Leffingwell, which comes with frames made from a plant-based plastic.

The Prizm polarized lenses are among the best on the market for contrast and colour on the water; they can be replaced if scratched and Oakley also offer prescription lenses.

The lenses were the best we tested. Credit: Georgie Stocker

The design leans more towards lifestyle, and lacks some of the brand’s sportier elements. Put these glasses on after wearing a cheap pair of sunnies, and you’ll notice just how clear and crisp the image is, with no distortion at the edges, and how the warm brown tint boosts contrast and colour.

While they didn’t seem dark, they had the most effective light reduction, with just 9.1% transmission (Oakley rate them at 12%), and the polarization cut out a huge 72% of glare.

The textured arms didn’t offer much grip for a pair of polarized sunglasses for sailors. The hinges have metal screws – many Oakleys have pop hinges. Credit: Theo Stocker

For sailing, they would benefit from rubber ear socks as the textured arms didn’t offer great grip (the lowest on test). Despite the fairly flat curve of the frames, however, the lenses give surprisingly good peripheral cover.

Buy Oakley Leffingwell at Oakley

Buy Oakley Leffingwell at Amazon

Dirty Dog Axle

Specifications Lens: Brown Polarized Hinge: Screw Weight: 28g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 145 x 49 x 130 Colour options: Frames: Blue, black, tortoiseshell; Lenses: Brown, grey, green grey mirrored

Don’t be put off by the name. Dirty Dog have been around for years, and make glasses that many sailors have used for a long time, such is their build quality. With a whole wealth of styles available, we were testing a ‘unisex’ style, although the fit and shape were rather wide.

The polyamide frames are meant to retain their original shape, so should resist stretching and loosening over time. This pair had tortoiseshell frames and brown polarized lenses.

The fit is unisex and one of the wider styles on test. Credit: Theo Stocker

Without a mirrored finish, these have a more understated appearance, but a generous wraparound (31mm depth) means these offer excellent cover to the field of vision.

On test, these proved secure to wear (190g force) required to pull them off, despite not having any rubber grips. They fitted snugly to the face, leaving few gaps for glare, and didn’t feel like they’d fall off easily.

There’s a metal-screwed hinge, but the flexible frame should resist stretching and loosening over time. Credit: Theo Stocker

A brown tinted lens gives 12.3% transmission, which is good for a range of conditions, and the polarization performed well, cutting out 68.2% of the glare. UV protection was good too. They don’t float, and you’d need a slide-over strap to avoid losing them, but this is a solid pair of glasses that should last well without trying to be flashy.

Buy Dirty Dog Axle at Amazon

Gill Kynance

Specifications Lens: Grey Polarized Hinge: Pop Weight: 23g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 141 x 49 x 133 Colour options: Black

Gill produce a range of polarized sunglasses specifically for sailing. Having tested their floating Fusion sunglasses in the past (which are excellent, by the way), we were looking at the entry-level Kynance model in this test.

Still polarized, but aimed more at lifestyle than performance, the cheaper price tag reflects this. With pop hinges to avoid rusting hinge screws, these should be more impact-resistant.

Pop hinges won’t rust, but they didn’t go back together easily. The lenses are only slightly tinted. Credit: Theo Stocker

However, when we popped the hinge out, it felt loose after refitting. Rated for 8-18% light transmission, we found these the lightest in our test at 15% transmission. That’s no bad thing if you want them for everyday wear and aren’t always in full sunshine.

Good looks but comparatively basic in both performance and build quality. Credit: Georgie Stocker

The polarization did its job, cutting out 63% of the glare, and grey tinted lenses cut out 98.8% of our UV torch’s light – the 1.2% it did let through could well just be visible purple light. With 140g force to pull these glasses off, they aren’t the most secure, but also not the worst.

These are a reasonable pair of shades at a reasonable price, and will serve well on and off the water, but they don’t reach the standards of the best glasses in this test.

Buy Gill Kynance at Amazon

Bollé Holman

Specifications Lens: HD Polarized Offshore Blue Hinge: Screw Weight: 24g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 142 x 46 x 135 Colour options: Blue, red, black

Bollé are synonymous with top-notch optics in skiing, sailing, and for safety goggles. They have a huge amount of expertise in making high-quality lenses, and the Holman are no different. Another brand that has hundreds of styles to choose from, the Holman is one of the few styles they offer designed for sailing that float.

Unlike most floating sunglasses, however, they don’t have bulky buoyancy built in, but are made of nylon frames that are inherently buoyant, allowing the frames to be as slim as those that don’t float.

The blue-tinted lenses worked well in bright light out on the water. Credit: Theo Stocker

Bollé’s HD polarized Offshore Blue lenses are some of the only ones in this test with a blue, rather than brown or grey tint, it is claimed to give better contrast on the water.

This worked well, and we were surprised how vibrant colours remained despite the cooler tint. They were the second darkest lenses on test, blocking transmission of all by 10.8% of the light.

The lightweight nylon frame makes these an inherently buoyant pair of polarized sunglasses for sailors. Credit: Theo Stocker

The polarization, in contrast, was more light-touch, with a further reduction of glare of just 58.2%. The frames offered a good degree of wraparound (26mm) without appearing too sporty, and leaning towards the narrower side, these were a more genuinely unisex style.

The hooked arms and snug fit meant they were pretty secure too, even without any rubber grips.

Buy Bollé Holman at Amazon (UK)

Buy Bollé Holman at Amazon (US)

Buy Bollé Holman at SmartBuyGlasses.co.uk

SunGod Sierra SKO

Best everyday polarized glasses

Specifications Lens: 8KO Polarized Blue Green Hinge: Pop Weight: 22g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 143 x 53 x 145 Colour options: 7 standard options, or 12 frame colours. 8 lens colours, fully customisable

SunGod is the new kid on the block when it comes to cool sunnies, and are bang up to date with their styling and company ethics. With just a handful of styles, but lots of customisation options, you can create your own glasses online and receive them the next day.

While entry-level options for the Sierras start at £55, the top-end 8KO nylon polarized lenses are double the price.

Comfortable enough to be worn every day. A little more wraparound would help though. Credit: Theo Stocker

A lifetime guarantee means they will be repaired free of charge (except for scratches and loss), and replacement lenses are available.

The lightest on test, these glasses are made with a flexible frame designed to withstand knocks and bumps, and the pop hinges will come apart rather than snapping, for you to clip back together. They felt strong and secure.

12 frame colours, 8 lens colours and a range of icon badges are available. Pop hinges prevent breakages. Credit: Theo Stocker

With just 12mm of wraparound depth, these were also the flattest on test, meaning less of your peripheral vision is protected, but the brown tinted lenses gave good definition.

Extremely comfortable to wear for long periods, these would be great everyday sunglasses that also have surprisingly good grip. A polarization score of 74.6% nudges these ahead of the rest, although this is on slightly higher transmission of 13.8%.

Buy SunGod Sierra 8KO at SunGod

Sungod Renegade 8KO

Best sustainable glasses

Specifications Lens: Blue Smoke 8KO Polarized Hinge: Pop Weight: 26g Dimensions (W x D x L mm): 147 x 52 x 142 Colour options: 7 standard options, or 12 frame colours. 8 lens colours, fully customisable

SunGod know how important image is and have got their styling on trend. They have also put massive effort into the company’s green credentials, with green energy used in manufacture, all recyclable packaging used during carbon-offset delivery, a lifetime repair guarantee and recyclable materials.

They also offer frames (and since we tested, lenses) made from recycled plastic, which was unique for the sunglasses we tested.

SunGod’s recycled plastic frames made them the most eco-friendly polarized sunglasses for sailors on test. Credit: Theo Stocker

This is a great step towards circular-economy. With slightly more wraparound than the Sierras, the Renegades have good deep lenses, with a warm brown tint that increases vibrancy without being intrusive.

We did find that the Silver Blue 8KO lens coating on the inner surface was a bit too reflective, producing distracting reflections in certain conditions, but we were told this is a problem with this specific lens, and isn’t an issue on other options.

On-trend styling and a flatter design. Credit: Theo Stocker

Build quality felt among the best on test. With one of the lower grip factors on test, some rubber coating or a strap would be necessary with these. UV protection (99.8%), polarization (67%) and transmission of 13.9% all put the lenses in the middle of the pack.

Buy SunGod Renegade at SunGod

Polarized sunglasses for sailors: Conclusion

With hundreds of styles of polarized sunglasses for sailors out there, and many brands, there’s no shortage of choice. Not all are created equal, however, and if you’re going to be spending long hours on the water, then having shades that stay on your head, protect your peripheral vision, and cut out direct light and reflected glare is essential.

When it comes to lenses, you get what you pay for on the whole, and cheaper glasses will save in this area, as well as the quality of their construction. We were surprised on both counts, however, by the cheapest pair on test from Tribord, which performed consistently well in all areas, to make it the test winner.

Unsurprisingly, the Oakley’s lenses were standout best on test, and another style from that brand could well perform better in other areas on the water, if you are willing to dig a bit deeper into your pockets. The SunGod Sierras with the 8KO BlueGreen lenses performed well across the board, bringing them in second.

SunGod has also done more than any other brand about its environmental impact in considering the full life cycle of their products. The sporty Tifosi Crit impressed with lenses suited to bright light and lots of movement on deck.

How to choose the best polarized sunglasses

Looking straight into the sunlight, the far horizon and navigation mark is still visible, thanks to the polarization. This is looking through the Oakley Leffingwell Prizm lens.

Everyone’s face is different, and finding ones that fit comfortably and securely in a style that you like will take a certain amount of trying on. Most brands carry multiple styles, however, that use the same ideas and technologies to suit a range of wearers.

The main considerations include:

• Style: Flatter ‘lifestyle’ sunglasses (very on trend this year), or sportier wrap-around glasses that cover more of your vision
• Lens darkness: The amount of light allowed through, as a transmission percentage
• Lens tint: Different colours suit varying light conditions and can increase or reduce contrast
• Security: Strap attachment, grippy rubber on the nose and ear socks, or floating in water
• Construction: Screwed or pop hinges – the latter will pop apart rather than snap if sat on
• Repair: Whether damaged parts, such as scratched lenses, can be replaced
• Sustainability: Increasingly, glasses are available made of recycled materials with sustainable manufacture, shipping and packaging, and end-of-life disposal considered
• Prescription lenses: If you wear prescription glasses, you will need a pair of sunglasses that can be fitted with prescription lenses.

How do polarized sunglasses work?

Polarized sunglasses are a bit like magic. It is often said that they ‘block out reflected light’, but how does this really work?

It helps to understand what your new glasses will and won’t do. Light travels in waves. These waves oscillate along different planes – imagine waves coming at you each aligned vertically, horizontally, and all the angles between, through a full 360º.

For this example, it is easier to visualise just the vertical and horizontal waves. The lenses of polarized glasses are coated with a polymer, the molecules of which form vertical slats.

Credit: Maxine Heath

The waves oscillating vertically can pass through the lens but any that aren’t vertical are blocked out, reducing the amount of light transmitted. When light is reflected off a surface or refracted through a material, it becomes polarized.

Light bouncing off flat water would be polarized, so that just the horizontal waves parallel to the surface of the water are reflected. When these reach vertically polarized lenses, the light is blocked. This means that they are very effective at cutting out glare off the water.

The downside is that light from your instruments can be refracted through their screens, polarizing it parallel to the surface of the glass, so you might need to tilt your head to see the screens clearly.

How we tested the best polarized sunglasses

We focused on how well the glasses work on the water rather than style or individual fit. We have tested to see whether each pair of sunglasses deliver what they promise in terms of light reduction, polarization, weight, whether they float and how robust they are.

We have measured

• The light reduction in LUX of the lens, looking into direct sunlight, with a cardboard tube between the meter and the lens to block out glare and ensure a consistent reading distance
• UV transmission, using a black light (UVA) torch. All glasses claim 100% UV reduction. Our figures didn’t quite match that, but UV LED torches also emit some visible purple glare, which would account for the discrepancy
• Polarization, by measuring the LUX reduction between vertically and horizontally rotated lenses, whilst aimed at a flat metal surface reflecting direct sunlight, replicating water glare
• The force in grams required to pull the sunglasses from the wearer’s head, using luggage scale attached to the central nose bridge
• The weight and dimensions of each pair, including how flat or wrapped around they are, measuring the linear distance from the nose bridge to a line between the rear edge of the lenses
• Whether they float in water
• We have also added our subjective opinion on whether we liked the look, feel and quality of each pair.

We used a LUX meter to measure ambient light and then light reduction from the lens. By aiming it at reflected light, and rotating the lenses through 90º, we could see how well the polarization worked. And the LUX meter also measured light from our UV black light torch, and how much the lenses blocked out.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated sailing page for more marine products.

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Top Sunglasses for Boating and Fishing

• By Randy Vance
• May 8, 2022

Sunglasses with polarized lenses have been an important piece of navigation equipment since they came on the market 40 years ago. With polarized filtered lenses, side glare from windshields, water and shiny surfaces is eliminated.

In more recent years, popular thinking says blue-mirror and gray-base lenses are best for offshore, and copper or amber-base lenses with green, gold or copper mirror are best inshore in brackish, brown or green water.

Lens density is a critical choice if you can only own one pair. And for as much as $300 a pair, the trick is selecting the right one for most situations.

Frame style plays a big role in glare reduction. Light leaking in around the sides can cause lens flare, making glasses a liability in some cases. You’ll need to choose frames that wrap closely around your face, leaving as few gaps for light as possible.

We tested three pairs from each brand represented: one for offshore blue water, one for inshore, and one for low-light conditions. In each brand, we brought our two faves to you in this report. The frames we chose might not work for you, but the lens colors served us well, and we think you’ll appreciate them too.

WileyX says its sunglasses are built for protection, durability and performance. Its offerings span from fashion to ballistic impact protection and are sought by anglers, boaters, motorcyclists, shooters and military personnel. The lenses are ANSI-tested and approved for clarity and, if you choose models with ballistic qualities, they can take a high-speed impact from a small-caliber projectile. We proved they would deflect a BB at 400 feet per second with only a dimple in the lens.

Our Twisted glasses ($180) came with a gray matte frame and blue-mirror and gray-base polymer lenses. This color combo is most sought after by bluewater boaters and anglers because it transmits neutral colors while cutting glare, making fish and underwater obstacles easier to spot. For offshore anglers, the wide temples combat side glare and enhance clarity when trying to spot gamefish. In clear, blue water, they provided a definite contrast advantage over the copper lenses.

For boaters and inshore anglers, an alternative might be the Peak style ($190), with narrower temples that don’t block peripheral vision, and copper lenses that transmit more light but cut blue light to enhance greens, yellows and reds without an uncomfortable color shift. These lenses are curved to wrap around the eye without distorting image transmission. They also bring more light to the eye, giving the benefit of polarizing contrast in overcast days.

costadelmar.com

Costa (previously known as Costa del Mar) has a long and exemplary history of providing quality performance eyewear for fishermen, hunters and boaters. Its 580 lenses are designed to block low blue light that diffuses clarity over distance. Available in many colors to suit water conditions, the 580s come in 580P for polycarbonate and 580G for glass. 

The Santiago is part of the Untangled Collection, which features frames made from recycled discarded fishing nets collected before they can be lost in the ocean, which helps remove the lethality of ghost nets from the water. Santiago sunglasses ($226) sport a large-frame, face-hugging style useful in any region. We tested 580G blue-mirror, gray-base lenses that are the choice of boaters and anglers in clear blue water. In our test, they provided a high-contrast, true-color view in blue water and did surprisingly well in inshore water. The Untangled series uses glass for its sustainability and recyclability, and even the frames and hinges of this stylish series are recyclable.

Costa’s Rincondo glasses ($267) in gloss-black frames boast 580P green-mirror lenses with a copper base. They definitely beat out the blue-mirror-and-gray glass combo in green and brown water. Naturally, they took a back seat to blue mirror and gray in blue water, but still assisted in scoping out detail in clear blue water. The included hard case and microfiber cleaner cloth keep them looking good and help maintain a clear view.

bajiosunglasses.com

Bajio is a fledgling brand in a tough, competitive market of fashion eyewear, with stringent technical standards for performance. Blocking blue light below 445 nanometers and filtering the harshest yellow light at 580 nanometers is the specialty of Bajio’s line. The company reaches across generations with an eye for the millennial, so that’s important. You won’t find the brand talking technology much, but its customers demand that industries today work sustainably to clean up a damaged world. So, Bajio chooses low-impact, durable, and fully recyclable or biodegradable materials at every turn.

Nippers ($249) are available in black or tortoise frames, and ours had a violet-mirror and red base. Bajio’s Lapis lens technology is designed to reduce the bad blue wavelength below 445 nanometers and the hottest yellow at 580. This reduces haze over long distances and increases clarity. The red lens base is responsible for clarity, and Bajio’s engineers’ profound accomplishment in lens technology is the polarizing film. We found it effective in both backwaters and blue water, but with an edge in backwaters.

Bajio’s Bales Beach sunglasses ($249) employ glass lens technology—the choice of most anglers due to scratch resistance—and their blue-mirror, gray base also blocks bad blue light, important for protecting the eyes of the younger crowd from screen time. Glare-killing polarizing technology eases eyestrain and makes obstacles visible below the water. These will be the choice of coastal boaters in blue water. The eight-base curved frame hugs the face, enhancing peripheral vision while sealing out stray light. The roughly 1/2-inch-wide temples shield side glare without inhibiting peripheral vision.

Hobie Eyewear

hobieeyewear.com

Hobie glasses are a “started in a garage” success story by a water-loving boater and surfer who wanted something better for his sport. The polycarbonate lenses have five coatings: a hardness coating inside and out to combat scratching, a coating to prevent water spotting, a mirror layer, and a polarization filter to reduce side glare and confine light transmission to horizontal beams. Frames are made of Ultem and TR-90 materials. Spring-loaded hinges open precisely, and co-molded temples and nose pads are bonded to the frames for durability and to secure a friction fit.

The Huntington frames we tested in the blue-mirror polar lenses ($109) were ideal for a larger face. They provided good side-glare protection from the face-hugging curve of the lens without peripheral-blocking wide temples. The twist to our Huntington style is it offers the owner seven different interchangeable clip-lens options ($40 to $50 each). Blue-mirror polar lenses were great for blue water and seemed to transmit more light, which is helpful in lower light. The green-mirror copper lens worked best in brown water.

The Bells frames ($120) came with magnetic clip lenses and are available in five different flavors. We liked the green-mirror copper for inshore, and found the magnetic clips far easier to change than the standard clips of the Huntington. The smaller frame and more rounded lenses are an ideal fashion statement, but still effective for most boaters with a narrower face. Both frames boasted narrow temples, allowing better peripheral views.

Flying Fisherman

flyingfisherman.com  

Flying Fisherman—founded in the Florida Keys, one of the greatest fishing destinations in the world—launched as a value-based brand and was often the quick replacement for forgotten or lost premium sunglasses. Its low-price niche of $20 to $30 provided clear, polarized vision in angler-style lenses and became popular. Recently, the brand expanded into fashion and higher-end models (from $70), incorporating high-tech lenses and mirrored lenses (from $80).

Rip Current Matte ($80) is an excellent example. The nylon frames boast large lenses, and simple but reliable molded hinges with stainless-steel hinge screws. We tested them in Smoke Blue Mirror, a green-base lens that proves most effective in blue water, but filters colors to provide good contrast in green and brown waters. Even at that price point, they provided good clarity and eye comfort.

Mojarra Matte frames ($80) are gray with green-mirror and amber-base lenses. Recessed nose pads and temple pads are co-injected in Grilamid TR-90 that’s heat- and impact-resistant. The lenses provided the best contrast and clarity in brown water, but were surprisingly strong in blue water too. With both glasses hitting the wallet at $70 (suggested retail), these warrant consideration as either primary or backup eye protection.

mauijim.com

Maui Jim is one of the last independent sunglass manufacturers in the world and at the top of its game. The company uses proprietary polymers for its nonglass lenses. In glass, its manufacturing process renders extra-thin, extra-durable, optically correct lenses. PolarizedPlus2 lenses stop 99.9 percent of glare and 100 percent of harmful UV light. They are guaranteed for life against defects, and friends who accessed customer service have reported pleasing results.

The Akau ($189) came with olive-matte temples and is available in six more colors. It weighs less than 1/3 ounce, and features minimal, hollow nose pads for ventilation and comfort. The high-transmission (HT) lenses are the thinnest, lightest material available and offer great contrast and polarizing clarity that relaxed the eye in bright sunlight in spite of the higher light transmission. These would be the ideal lenses for fishing backwaters, and we thought the lenses provided a better look beneath brown water than copper lenses.

Another Maui Jim choice is the Huelo 449 ($229), which uses Maui’s proprietary Maui Pure polymer lens for clarity that rivals glass. The bronze base starts with red mirror at the top and shades to orange at the bottom. The PolarizedPlus2 lenses block more light from above and allow in more light from below for added clarity. The matte-black frames offer a face-hugging, durable fit, and the thin temples preserve peripheral vision. They are a great option for inshore and offshore boaters.

Ocean Waves

oceanwaves.com

Ocean Waves offers handmade glass lenses in various densities and colors that cover the light spectrum, from low-light fishing and boating with its Luminator lens to fishing in high sun with gold-mirror and gray-base glass. Surfers and fishermen founded the company 40 years ago in Atlantic Beach, Florida, near Jacksonville. Frames and lenses are handmade in Atlantic Beach and can be custom-fit to hug the face. They offer the optimal durability and optical clarity you can only get with glass polarized lenses.

Ricochet frames ($259) arrived in light, stylish tortoise with Luminator glass lenses in purple mirror and amber. Ocean Waves says they are enhanced to gather light, making them ideal for cloudy days, sunrise and sunset. We found them great for driving, as well as fishing or navigating. Amber lenses are often favored for high contrast in brown or murky water. Thin temples allowed optimal peripheral vision. Their underwater contrast was excellent. Even in full sun, light-blocking density was just about right—you won’t have to remove them to tie knots or read a GPS chart.

Pablo Beach frames ($259) are definitely an offshore boater’s go-to. Blue mirror over dark amber lenses provided high contrast in blue water and soothing coolness in the blazing sun. The frames are definitely for anglers; navigators might find that the glare-blocking wide temples block too much peripheral vision.

Read Next: Three Types of Sun Protection for Boaters

redfinpolarized.com

Redfin is one of a few new brands we’ll see in 2022. As the marketplace changes due to acquisitions, personnel move to new opportunities. Redfin is an example of that. The company might be new, but its engineering is strong. Stylish Italian frames, stainless-steel hinges and Zeiss lenses will put these sunglasses on the top shelf with competitors you know and trust. We didn’t expect this upstart brand to test so well.

Sanibel frames ($229) are made of black-matte material with molded-in nose pads. Green-mirror and amber-base lenses provided peel-back-the-water clarity to shallow bottom structure, and delivered glare and light protection above water. Neutral gray lenses might shift the colors a little less, but these clearly distinguished between all shades in our test view. Redfin says coatings protect lenses from water spotting, and make wiping off oily residue and fingerprints easy.

Redfin’s Tybee frames ($229) in tortoise make an eye-catching fashion statement, but still provide polarizing protection and filter blue and yellow light for clarity. Narrower temples preserve peripheral vision and are ideal for a smaller face. Molded-in nose pads add comfort, resting easy on the face and minimizing pressure points after a full day on the water. Oil, sweat and water-spot protection coatings help make them easy to clean.

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The 8 Best Sailing Sunglasses

Great sailing sunglasses will protect a sailor's eyes against the sun and the harsh marine environment while also being stylish and comfortable.

There are a large number of sailing sunglasses on the market today to choose from.

The best sailing sunglasses are:

• Best Overall : Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses
• Best For Men : Sungait Sailing Sunglasses
• Best For Price : Torege Polarized Sunglasses
• Best With Patented Technology : Maui Jim Sailing Sunglasses
• Best For Women : SUNGAIT Vintage Retro Sailing Sunglasses
• Best For Kids : Aoduoke Sports Polarized Sunglasses
• Best For Watersports : SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Sunglasses
• Best For Style : Oakley Clifden Sunglasses

These sunglasses come in all different prices from $15 to $320 so there are sunglasses available for every budget.

Whether you are racing a sailboat and want the best boating experience possible or just want to relax on a sailboat in beautiful sunshine, there are types of sunglasses that will suit every sailing environment.

You'll also not want these glasses to corrode with the seawater so we've only listed the ones that are 100% durable during all sailing climates.

Below are the best sailing sunglasses reviews.

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission.

1. Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses

The best overall sailing sunglasses are the Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses manufactured by the eyewear brand Costa Del Mar in Florida, America and sold worldwide. We rate these sunglasses 4.9/5 stars.

The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses comes in a package that includes sunglasses, a zipped costa case to store the sunglasses safely and a cleaning cloth to clean the sunglasses.

These sunglasses are designed for men only. They are not designed for children or teens as these sunglasses are too large for them.

The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses are priced between $90 to $250 at most retailers. The prices of these sunglasses vary based on the color and material chosen.

The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses come in 11 different color options including:

• Black frame with grey lenses
• Gunmetal frame with copper green mirrored lenses
• Gunmetal frame with grey-blue mirrored lenses
• Gunmetal frame with grey polarized lenses
• Matte black frame with blue mirrored lenses
• Matte black frame with copper green lenses
• Matte black frame with grey-blue mirrored lenses
• Matte grey frame with green mirrored lenses
• Tortoise frame with copper green mirrored lenses
• Tortoise frame with copper brown lenses
• Tortoise frame with grey-blue mirrored lenses

The blue mirror lens color is the best-colored sunglasses for off-shore sailing and the days with the brightest sunlight.

The copper-green colored sunglasses are the best for mixed sunlight conditions where the sunlight is not extremely bright.

The grey-colored lenses sunglasses are the best all-around sunglasses for all weather environments with a natural contrast.

The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses are constructed of co-injected nylon frames and patented 580p lightweight polycarbonate polarized lenses. These sunglasses offer 10% light transmission.

The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses can be used for sailing, fishing and general boating activities. They are not used when swimming in the seawater as it is difficult to keep them on your head.

The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses come with a 2 year warranty against manufacturer defects. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear.

The dimensions of the Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses are a lens width of 59 millimeters, lens height of 35.9 millimeters, bridge is 18 millimeters and the arm length is 130 millimeters.

The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses has zero safety recalls since they were first introduced.

According to Costa Del Mar, their costa glass lens is 20% thinner and 22% lighter than the industry's average polarized glass lens while still blocking 99.9% of glare.

The pros of the Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses are:

• Polarized lenses help protect eyes against glare : Polarized lenses are great when sailing because they protect eyes against blue light rays and ultraviolet rays and any reflective glares
• The lenses are scratch-resistant : The lenses have a super thin protective coating that protects the lenses against scratches
• There is a 2-year warranty : The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses come with a 2-year warranty for added peace of mind
• 100% UV protection: These sunglasses provide 100% protection against harmful sun UV rays
• They are waterproof : The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses are waterproof and can withstand harsh seawater with their strong and durable nylon frame construction

One con of the Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses is they are made for men only and are not unisex.

Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses On Amazon →

Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses On Walmart →

2. SUNGAIT Men's Sailing Sunglasses

The best sailing sunglasses for men are the SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses manufactured by the eyewear brand SUNGAIT in Chengdu, China and sold worldwide. We rate these sunglasses 4.8/5 stars.

The SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses comes in a package that includes the sunglasses, a glasses cloth to clean the lenses and a glasses bag to safely store the sunglasses.

They are designed for men only. They are not designed for kids or teens because they are too loose on younger people's faces and do not fit correctly on them.

The SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses are priced $40 at most retailers.

The SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses come in 4 different color options including:

• Gold frame with green lenses
• Gunmetal frame with grey lenses
• Silver frame with grey lenses

The grey-colored lenses are the best option as they provide optimal contrast in all weather environments.

The SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses are constructed of AL-MG alloy metal frame, soft rubber temple covers, inner concave and convex anti-skid lines to prevent the glasses from falling off and high-quality TAC polarized lenses.

The SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses can be used when sailing, fishing and doing general boating activities. They are not used for swimming activities.

The UV400 protective coating blocks 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays.

The dimensions of the SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses are a lens width of 62 millimeters, lens height of 47 millimeters, the nose bridge is 18 millimeters, the frame width is 144 millimeters and the leg length is 140mm. These sunglasses offer 10% light transmission

The SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses has zero safety recalls since they were first introduced.

The pros of the SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses are:

• They are cheap : These sunglasses can be purchased for under $40 at most retailers so they are not expensive and are budget friendly
• They have multi-purpose uses : They can be used when sailing and out on the water or for other activities like golfing, fishing, etc. They are not restricted to just using it when sailing
• They have adjustable hinges for a better and more comfortable fitting : These sunglasses come with adjustable hinges which allow for a more comfortable fit on most face shapes
• They are durable : The high-quality metal frame is durable and can withstand the harsh marine environment when out sailing. These glasses can last for over 2 years

One con of the SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses is they do not come with a warranty.

SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses On Amazon →

SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses On Walmart →

3. Torege Polarized Sailing Sunglasses

The best sunglasses for the price is the Torege Polarized Sunglasses manufactured by the eyewear brand Torege in America and sold worldwide. We rate these sunglasses 4.7/5 stars.

The Torege Polarized Sunglasses are priced under $30 at most retailers making them one of the cheapest sailing sunglasses on the market. These sunglasses come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects.

The Torege Polarized Sunglasses comes in a package that includes the sunglasses, a glasses cloth to clean the lenses and a glasses bag to safely store the sunglasses.

The Torege Polarized Sunglasses come in 11 different color options including:

• Black frame with red lens
• Black frame with rainbow lens
• Black frame and blue lens
• Grey frame and light rainbow lens
• Transparent frame and blue lens
• Transparent grey frame and green lens
• Transparent grey frame and orange lens
• White frame and blue lens
• White frame and ice blue lens
• White frame and orange lens

The blue lens Torege sunglasses are great for reducing glare and improving contrast and these blue-colored lenses have a light transmission of 50% to 60%.

The yellow lens Torege sunglasses are great for enhancing contrast and these yellow-colored lenses have a light transmission of 86%.

The black lens Torege sunglasses are great for glare reduction and these black-colored lenses have a light transmission of 15%.

The Torege Polarized Sunglasses are constructed of a detachable scratch-resistant polarized lens, non-slip no pressure rubber nose pad and a rimless polycarbonate frame. They are durable and light weighing just 5 ounces.

The Torege Polarized Sunglasses are stylishly designed for both men and women. They are not designed for children or teens as the sunglasses will not fit on their faces comfortably.

The Torege Polarized Sunglasses can be used when sailing, fishing and enjoying all outdoor boating activities. These sunglasses block harmful UVA and UVB lights.

The dimensions of the Torege Polarized Sunglasses are a lens width of 120 millimeters, arm length of 160 millimeters and a sunglasses height of 43 millimeters.

The Torege Polarized Sunglasses has zero safety recalls since they were first introduced.

The pros of the Torege Polarized Sunglasses are:

• The lenses are interchangeable : The lenses in these sunglasses can be easily detached and changed from one color to another with ease so buyers have plenty of lens color options to choose from without having to buy new sunglasses
• It can be used for multiple activities : These lightweight sunglasses can be used when doing multiple activities like sailing, watersports and general boating activities and there are no limitations on when they can be used
• 60-day free returns : If you are unhappy with the sunglasses, Torege will offer a great 60-day free return for added peace of mind
• They are unisex : These sunglasses can be worn by both men and women and they are not limited to one gender
• Great anti-fog ventilation : These sunglasses come with a uniquely crafted ventilation system that helps prevent the lens from fogging when sweating
• They are comfortable : The ultra-flexible ergonomic design makes these sunglasses fit comfortably on your face

One con of the Torege Polarized Sunglasses is the yellow-colored lens gets glary in extremely bright and sunny weather which can make it difficult to see.

Torege Polarized Sunglasses On Amazon →

Torege Polarized Sunglasses On Walmart →

4. Maui Jim Sailing Sunglasses

The best sailing sunglasses with patented technology is the Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses manufactured by the eyewear brand Maui Jim in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii and sold worldwide. We rate these sunglasses 4.6/5 stars.

The Maui Jim Ho'olipa Sunglasses are priced between $220 and $250 at most retailers. They come with a 2-year warranty against manufacturer defects. These sunglasses offer 15% light transmission.

The Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses comes in a package that includes the sunglasses, a small tri-fold case to securely store the sunglasses and a microfiber cleaning cloth for cleaning the sunglasses.

According to Maui Jim, their patented PolarizedPlus2 lenses wipe out 99.9% of glare and block 100% of harmful UV rays while boosting colors and enhancing the view.

Maui Jim Ho'okipa sunglasses come in 4 different color options including:

• Gloss black frame with bronze polarized lenses
• Gloss black frame with neutral grey polarized lenses
• Smoke grey frame with blue polarized lenses
• Tortoise frame with rose polarized lenses

The rose-colored polarized lenses are the best color Maui Kim sunglasses for offering the clearest views and it helps to enhance the view on the sunniest and brightest days.

The Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses are constructed of rimless oleophobic coated polarized lenses, a saddle-style bridge with adjustable nose pads, a grilamid temple, a stainless steel pin hinge and lightweight injected nylon frames. These sunglasses weigh 3 ounces.

The Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses are designed for both men and women. They are not designed for children or teens as the sunglasses will not fit on their faces comfortably.

They can be used in all marine activities including sailing, fishing or just lounging onboard a boat. They are not used when swimming.

The dimensions of the Maui Jim Ho'olipa Sunglasses are a lens width of 64 millimeters, bridge width of 17 millimeters, temple length of 130 millimeters and a sunglasses height of 39 millimeters. They weigh 3 ounces.

The Maui Jim Ho'olipa Sunglasses has zero safety recalls since they were first introduced.

The pros of the Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses are:

• They are waterproof : The Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses come with an oleophobic coating which helps to prevent smudges, fingerprints and water or oils from sticking to the lens
• They are unisex : These Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses are unisex and they are not limited to one gender
• The sunglasses come with a great two-year warranty : Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses come with a 2-year parts warranty for added peace of mind
• They are available in prescription : The Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses are offered in prescription too so people with poor eyesight can also wear them and the glasses are not limited to just people with good eyesight

One con of the Maui Jim Ho'okipa Sunglasses is they are not cheap with a price tag of between $220 and $250.

Maui Kim H'okipa Sunglasses On Amazon →

Maui Kim H'okipa Sunglasses On Walmart →>

5. SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses

The best sailing sunglasses for women are the SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses manufactured by the brand SUNGAIT in Chengdu, China and sold worldwide. We rate these sunglasses 4.5/5 stars.

Most retailers price the SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses at $20 to $30. They come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. These sunglasses offer 15% light transmission.

The SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses comes in a package that includes the sunglasses, a glasses cloth for cleaning the glasses and a sunglasses bag for safely storing the glasses.

SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses comes in 12 different color options including:

• Black frame with pink lens
• Amber frame with green lens
• Black frame with grey gradient lens
• Transparent grey frame with grey lens
• Transparent grey frame with blue mirror lens
• Black frame with blue lens
• Brown frame with brown gradient lens
• Amber frame with brown gradient lens
• Amber frame with grey lens
• Transparent brown frame with light brown lens
• Tortoise frame with green lens
• Transparent frame with green lens

The grey lenses are the best color for blocking the brightest sunlight and offer the best protection against UV rays.

The SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses are constructed of TR90 material for the frame which is extremely durable, flexible and lightweight, an integrated nose piece for the nose to fit comfortably and a screw bolt hinges.

They are designed for women. They are not designed for teens or children as the frame will be too big for younger people.

The SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses are used in sailing, watersports, fishing and many boating activities. They are not used when swimming.

The dimensions of the SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses are a lens width of 55 millimeters, the bridge width is 19 millimeters, frame width of 140 millimeters, sunglasses height of 49 millimeters and leg length of 137 millimeters.

The SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses has zero safety recalls since they were first introduced.

The pros of the SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses are:

• They are cheap : These sunglasses cost only $20 to $30 which means they are one of the cheapest on the market
• Great lifetime breakage warranty : These sunglasses come with a great lifetime breakage warranty for added peace of mind
• It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee : SUNGAIT offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for people that are unhappy with the product which is a great benefit and gives a buyer added peace of mind
• It offers great UV400 protection : These sunglasses offer great UVB and UVA protection for your eyes

One con of the SUNGAIT Vintage Retro Sunglasses is the sunglasses are not unisex and are only designed for women.

SUNGAIT Vintage Retro Sunglasses On Amazon →

SUNGAIT Vintage Retro Sunglasses On Walmart →

6. AODUOKE Outdoor Kids Sunglasses

The best sailing sunglasses for kids are the Unisex AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses manufactured by the eyewear brand AODUOKE and sold worldwide. We rate these sunglasses 4.4/5 stars.

There is no warranty with these sunglasses. These sunglasses offer 20% light transmission. The price of the AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses ranges from $15 to $25 at most retailers.

The AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses comes in a package that includes the sunglasses, an adjustable strap, a small zipped bag, a glasses cleaning cloth and a polarized test card.

The AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses come in 10 color options including:

• Black frame with green lenses
• Black frame with blue lenses
• Black frame with orange lenses
• Black and red frame with grey lenses
• Blue frame with grey lenses
• Navy blue and yellow frames with grey lenses
• Pink and green frame with grey lenses
• Pink and purple frame with grey lenses
• White and red frame with green lenses

Grey lenses are the best color lenses because they provide the best UV protection and offer the best protection against sun glare.

The most popular selling color of the AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses are the black and red frame color with grey lenses.

The AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses are constructed of polycarbonate TAC polarized lenses and silicon gel rubber frames which help with impact resistance and two holes in the arms of the sunglasses to attach an adjustable strap where necessary. The sunglasses weigh 2 ounces.

The AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses are designed for both boys and girls aged between 4 to 12 years old. They are not designed for adults as they are too small for larger faces.

They are used in sailing, fishing, watersports and general boating activities for kids. They are not used when swimming.

The dimensions of the AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses are a lens width of 57 millimeters, sunglasses total width of 118.1 millimeters, legs length of 120 millimeters, nose width of 17 millimeters and frame height of 36.8 millimeters.

The AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses has zero safety recalls since they were first introduced.

The pros of the AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses are:

• The sunglasses come with a great adjustable strap to help with the fitting : The adjustable strap helps make the sunglasses fit comfortably on children's faces and the strap ensures the sunglasses don't fall off them when they are playing onboard
• They come with a great 30-day money-back guarantee : If a buyer does not like these sunglasses, they can get a great 30-day money-back guarantee so this gives buyers added peace of mind
• The rubber frame material allows for more flexibility : The rubber frames help with the flexibility of the sunglasses which helps prevent the sunglasses from cracking or breaking easily
• It offers 100% UV400 protection : The TAC polarized lenses offer 100% protection against UVA & UVB rays

One con of the AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses is they can only be worn by kids and not adults. As they are stylish, it would be great if they offered adult versions too.

AODUOKE Kids Sunglasses On Amazon →

AODUOKE Kids Sunglasses On Walmart →

7. SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses

The best sailing sunglasses for watersport activities are the SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses manufactured by the eyewear brand Seaspec in Florida, America and sold worldwide. They comes with a 1 year manufacturer warranty. We rate these sunglasses 4.3/5 stars.

SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses are priced between $35 and $65 at most retailers. These sunglasses offer 15% light transmission.

A SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses package includes the sunglasses, a small sunglasses pouch and a sunglasses cloth for cleaning the glasses.

The SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses come in 3 color options including:

• Neon green frame with grey lenses
• Tortoise shell frame with grey lenses

The SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses are constructed of high-quality polarized lenses, an adjustable and elastic nylon strap and plastic frames. These sunglasses weigh 3 ounces.

The SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses are designed for both men and women. They are not designed for children as they will not fit comfortably on a child's face.

They are used for sailing, fishing and especially watersports activities while out boating. They are not used when swimming.

The SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses come in two sizes which are small to medium and medium to large. These sizes fit most adult face sizes.

These sunglasses offer 100% protection against UVA and UVB rays.

The SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses has zero safety recalls since they were first introduced.

The pros of the SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses are:

• They are cheap : These sunglasses can be bought for less than $65 at most retailers so they are not expensive and are within most people's budget
• They are waterproof and shock resistant : These sunglasses are waterproof and can work fine in corrosive seawater. They are also shock resistant and can withstand force
• They come with a ventilated anti-fog design : These sunglasses come with a ventilated frame design which is great for preventing the lenses from fogging up and ensuring the best clarity when out on the water
• They fit comfortably : These sunglasses fit comfortably with the adjustable strap ensuring they remain on your head during extreme watersports or rough sailing conditions
• They come with a great 1-year warranty : These sunglasses come with a 1-year manufacturer defects warranty for added peace of mind

Two cons of the SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses are they do not come in multiple color options with only 3 colors available and the adjustable strap is not removable.

SeaSpecs Extreme Sports Sunglasses On Amazon →

SeaSpecs Extreme Sports Sunglasses On Walmart →

8. Oakley Clifden Sunglasses

The best sailing sunglasses for the style are the Unisex Oakley Clifden Sunglasses manufactured by the eyewear brand Oakley in California, America and sold worldwide. We rate these sunglasses 4.1/5 stars.

The price of Oakley Clifden Sunglasses ranges from $250 to $320 at most retailers. They come with a 2-year warranty against manufacturer defects. These sunglasses offer 20% light transmission.

The Oakley Clifden Sunglasses package includes the sunglasses, a pouch for storing the sunglasses, lens cleaner spray and a microfiber cloth for cleaning the sunglasses.

The Oakley Clifden Sunglasses come in 4 different color options including:

• Black frame with polarized black lenses
• Black frame with polarized snow black iridium lenses
• Blue frame with polarized deep water blue lenses
• Polished black frame with polarized ruby lenses

The polarized black lenses are best-colored sunglasses for protecting the eyes from 100% of UVA and UVB rays. The grey-colored lenses offer the highest contrast in lighting and provide a clear and enhanced view.

The Oakley Clifden Sunglasses are constructed of no-slip nose pads which help increase the grip around the nose, polarized prizm lens technology which is patented to Oakley and a plastic frame. These sunglasses weigh approximately 4 ounces.

The Oakley Clifden Sunglasses are designed for both men and women. They are not designed for children.

These sunglasses can be used when sailing or enjoying boating activities out on the water. They are not used when swimming.

The dimensions of the Oakley Clifden Sunglasses are a lens height of 51.1 millimeters, frame width of 129.9 millimeters, arm length of 146 millimeters, bridge width of 17 millimeters and lens width of 54 millimeters.

The Oakley Clifden Sunglasses has zero safety recalls since they were first introduced.

The pros of the Oakley Clifden Sunglasses are:

• They are stylish and fashionable : These sunglasses are the most stylish and fashionable on the market to wear when sailing with a unique complete eye protection design
• There is great built-in impact protection : The lenses can withstand a lot of force and shock without breaking
• A prescription can be added to the sunglasses : Prescription lenses can be added to these sunglasses which is an added benefit for those with poor eyesight

One con of the Oakley Clifden Sunglasses is they are expensive with a price tag of $250 to $320.

Oakley Clifden Sunglasses On Amazon →

Oakley Clifden Sunglasses On Walmart →

Top Sailing Sunglasses Comparison Table

What to consider when purchasing sailing sunglasses.

The factors to consider when buying sailing sunglasses are:

• Type of material : You'll want material that can withstand the harsh environments of sailing and material that isn't corrosive in seawater. The sunglasses above are all protected against seawater corrosion
• Durability : The seawater can cause damage to sunglasses and getting a pair of sunglasses that are durable is an important factor to consider. Ensure the sunglasses can withstand damage and are durable to last a long time
• Price : The price of sunglasses is an important factor to consider when buying sunglasses for sailing. People have different budgets but this top sailing sunglasses list has sunglasses in every price range
• Size & Fit : You'll want to make sure you get the right size of sunglasses for your specific face. This is very important for both comfort and style. All the sunglasses above come in multiple sizes and genders so make sure to get the right size specific for you to avoid disappointment
• Style & Design : The style and design of the sunglasses are factors to consider when buying sunglasses. People have different preferences so inspect the photos of the sunglasses thoroughly before buying them
• Lightweight : This is a matter of preference but still worth mentioning. Some people prefer heavier sunglasses but for performance and comfort, lightweight sunglasses are the best option when sailing
• Waterproof : Sunglasses that are waterproof is an important factor when buying them as a buyer will need sunglasses that can cope with corrosive seawater

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Sailing Sunglasses

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about top sailing questions.

What Are The Best Sailing Sunglasses Brands?

The best sailing sunglasses brands are:

• Costa Del Mar

Are Top Sailing Sunglasses Expensive?

No, a person can buy a pair of great sailing sunglasses for as little $15 to $25 in some instances.

What Is The Cheapest Top Sailing Sunglasses?

The cheapest top sailing sunglasses are AODUOKE Outdoor Kids Sunglasses which cost between $15 and $25.

What Is The Most Expensive Top Sailing Sunglasses?

The the most expensive top sailing sunglasses are Oakley Clifden Sunglasses which cost between $250 and $320.

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Best Warranty?

The top sailing sunglasses with the best warranty is the SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses with a lifetime warranty.

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Lowest Light Transmission?

The top sailing sunglasses with the lowest light transmission are the SUNGAIT Men's Polarized Sunglasses and the Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses with a light transmission of 10%.

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Highest Light Transmission?

The top sailing sunglasses with the highest light transmission are the AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses and the Oakley Clifden Sunglasses with a light transmission of 20%.

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Most Color Options?

The top sailing sunglasses with the most color options is the SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses with 12 color options.

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Least Color Options?

The top sailing sunglasses with the least color options is the SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses with 3 color options.

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The Best Sailing Sunglasses

• By Cruising World Editors
• Updated: September 6, 2017

Costa Del Mar Kiwa

Suited to medium-wide and large faces, the aviator-style Costa del Mar Kiwa sits comfortably on the face and won’t fall off when the action picks up. The Kiwas are both functional and stylish – perfect for a day on the water, and shoreside activities afterward. The Grey Polarized Polycarbonate lenses tested cut glare off the water, without sarificing color intensity and vibrance. With the wear and tear of days on the water sure to take a toll on your eyewear eventually, the Costa del Mar warranty can’t be beat. Every pair is backed for life, and in the event of a defect or damage, Costa del Mar will replace or repair your pair for just a small processing fee.

The Kiwas are available in numerous frame colors including tortoise and matte black, with both glass and polycarbonate lenses. The Kiwa can also be customized with prescription lenses.

costadelmar.com • $169

Kaenon Avila

The Kaenon Avila is a versatile pair of sunglasses that will suit a variety of face types and shapes. While designed for women with a medium to full face, the slim fit keeps them snugly on your face – even after a full day of racing – without feeling like they are stuck. The B-12 Gold Mirror lenses does an exceptional job reducing glare, making it easy to see approaching puffs on the water. The lens color is easy on the eyes, eliminating the need to squint through your glasses, even in bright sunlight. The large lenses block peripheral light like a wrap frame, ensuring a full field of vision without full wrap styling. The Avilas are covered by a one year warranty from Kaenon in the event of damage to the lenses or frames.

The Avila is available in Matte Tortoise, Black and Driftwood, with grey, rose, and gold lenses and can be customized with prescription lenses.

kaenon.com • $199

The Revo Otis sunglasses fit perfectly on an average face size, and are extremely light. The large, rounded lenses offer exceptional coverage of your field of vision, blocking out any peripheral light. The Green Water Serilium lenses are made of a shatterproof polycarbonate, specifically coated to repel water and sweat. The mirrored coating uses the same technology to reflect light that NASA uses to protect satellites to keep your eyes safe. The lenses greatly reduce glare, and also enhance color, making these sunglasses valuable even on cloudy days. Revo offers a two-year warranty on its glasses in the event of damage, and has partnered with the Brien Holden Vision Institute to donate $10 from every purchase to protect against vision impairment in children and adults.

The Otis is available in brown, black and grey frames, with blue, green, brown and grey serilium lenses available.

revo.com • $189

Smith Wayward

The Smith Wayward is a very light and comfortable pair of sunglasses. They have a Wayfarer-style shape with nice big lenses that provide a lot of coverage. Testers with both wide and narrow heads (also both male and female) found them to be very comfortable and well proportioned. The Waywards are “Evolve” frames, made from 53% bio-based materials – a win for the environment, and your eyes. The Polarized Bronze Mirror lenses are ideal for inshore sailing, when you are looking for fish below the surface, or spotting coral heads in an anchorage. The front mirror reflects light, while on the inside, an anti-reflective coating prevents glare from the sides. The ChromaPop lenses also are water and oil repellent, making them more durable than other Smith lenses. The Waywards feature Smith’s unique lifetime warranty; send your damaged glasses back and if they can’t repair them, they’ll give you a discount on a new pair.

The Smith Waywards are available in matte black, black, and tortoise frames, with a variety of polarized lens colors.

smith.com • $169–$249

Under Armor Assist Storm

The Under Armor Assist Storm sunglasses were made for activity. The medium-sized sunglasses fit well and sit snugly on the face through a day or sailing, boating, or golfing. The sunglasses are equally at home off the water, too, and a versatile enough style to wear on shore to your next summer soiree. The grey polarized lenses suppress glare well, even when salty from spray, but do slightly reduce the clarity of vision. The Under Armor sunglasses also feature a lifetime warranty. Overall the glasses are great for a highly active person looking for a versatile pair of glasses to wear both on and off the water, with a great price tag.

The Under Armor Assist Storm sunglasses are available with black frames and grey polarized lenses.

underarmor.com • $75

Maui Jim Swept Away

The Maui Jim Swept Away glasses are a good fit for wider faces. The glasses are snug but not tight, and secure no matter how much they are bounced around. The Swept Away frame is a stylish design and offers a large field of vision, but does lack side protection from additional glare. The SuperThin glass lenses provide crisp and clear views, both up close and at a distance. The trade off for the improved optics comes at the cost of heavier glasses. Maui Jim offers a 30-day money back guarantee if you shop on their website, plus a two-year warranty. They are renowned for their excellent customer service and repair support. Overall the Swept Aways are a great looking pair of glasses more at home ashore, but perfect for a calm day on the water as well.

The Swept Away is available with blue-grey, blue-pink, tortoise, and ruby frames, and grey, bronze and rose lenses. The Swept Away can also be customized with prescription lenses.

mauijim.com • $299

Oakley Sliver

The Oakley Sliver is a modern, classy pair of square sunglasses. The Slivers rate high in both comfort and style. The frames are light and sit high on the temple and have a good grip on the face. The square frames are ideally suited to big-boat sailing, where the risk of snagging your sunglasses on a small line are minimal. The light-grey tones of the Prizm lenses brought great accents in low-light scenarios, and helped our tester’s ability to clearly see wind on overcast days. The blue-sky bright sun sparkle off the water was reduced, but still intense after a long day. Definition was good and glare negligible. The Shallow Water lenses are best suited to a mixed-cloud cover day. Overall, the Oakley Slivers are a solid set of shades for big-boat sailors that can serve double purpose for the boat and the yacht club. Given their strength in the mixed-cloud setting, they’re a good all-around package.

The Oakley Slivers can be customized to suit your specific needs, and are also available in a variety of preset options for both frame and lens color.

oakley.com • $180

Gill Squad Junior

The perfect pair of sunglasses for any junior crew member. The Gill Squad Sunglasses sit comfortably on the face of our 9 year-old tester. The blue lenses reduced glare, and offered wrap-around protection on the sides. Reading and spotting puffs on the water were all made easier through the polarized Gill lenses. A key feature of the Squad Sunglasses is the built-in floatation. With built-in buoyancy, you will never lose these sunglasses overboard. In addition, once our tester saw how cool he looked in them, they stayed on all day!

The Gill Squad Floating Sunglasses are available with a blue frame and blue polarized lenses.

gillna.com • $70

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Best Sailing Sunglasses for Serious Sailors

Protecting your eyes and enhancing your vision are vital parts of the sailing lifestyle. Sailing without sunglasses can cause long-term eye damage. Sailing involves looking at bright white sails, white decks, and the unrelenting ocean, all of which cause damaging glare. Battling glare, UV rays, and sunshine cause eye fatigue. Whether you are racing or just out for fun, great sailing sunglasses are a necessity and an important part of your sailing kit. 

Table of Contents

Sailing sunglasses – polarized lenses or regular, high quality construction, comfort and fit, mirror finishes.

• Grey lenses 

Bronze lenses

Rose lenses, green lenses, yellow lenses, blue lenses, lens construction – glass or polycarbonate lenses, gill corona sports sunglasses, maui jim waterman sunglasses, bolle anaconda polarized offshore sunglasses, costa del mar fantail sunglasses, maui jim stingray sunglasses, oakley holbrook polarized sunglasses, kaenon avila sunglasses, costa del mar waterwoman sunglasses, gill race vision bi-focal sunglasses, calcutta outdoors prowler, suncloud milestone polarized sunglasses.

• Don’t Set Sail Without Your Polarized Sailing Sunglasses 

Sunglasses for Sailing FAQs

How to find the best sailing sunglasses.

What makes some sunglasses more suited for sailing and watersports than others? Buyers will want to find high-quality lenses. Polarization is key to protecting your eyes from water glare. In addition, check to ensure that sunglasses filter out harmful UV rays and are comfortable for all-day use. 

Polarized sunglasses help block the glare that reflects from the water’s surface. In addition, they help boaters see through the water. So, if you are looking to avoid coral heads or catch fish while you sail, polarization can be a life-saver. 

Polarized sunglasses reduce eye fatigue and damage and protect your eyes from UVA and UVB rays. Polarized sunglasses help you stay out on the water all day without squinting or getting headaches. The Maui Jim website has good information on the benefits of polarized sunglasses for a life on the water.

Sailors should look for good quality sunglasses that can stand up to saltwater. Inferior sunglasses have coatings that easily fail and peel off after exposure to harsh elements. Brands such as Maui-Jim and Costa Del Mar are higher-quality and have durable materials in addition to superior optical clarity. As with the best sailing binoculars , high-quality sunglasses make a world of difference in reducing eye fatigue and providing a lifetime of dependable service onboard.

A comfortable fit is essential for all-day wear. Many sailing sunglasses have standard over-ear attachments. Some feature rubberized or grippy nose bridges for additional security, while some have wrap-around straps for the ultimate security. Try on several pairs to see which sunglasses fit the best, will stay secure during your sail, and feel comfortable. 

Lens Coatings

An anti reflective coating helps cut down on the sun’s glare in bright sunlight that could be of great help if you are living on your boat . Hydroponic and water-resistant coatings shed water so you can keep your vision even after getting soaked by a wave or rain. Some coatings also resist saltwater, which is great for ocean sailors. 

Mirror finishes are fashionable. Other sailors looking at you will see themselves reflected. Often, exterior mirror finishes come in several colors, such as blue, green, or pink.

Lens Colors

After picking the frame style you like, you’ll often have a choice in lens colors. Some lens styles, like the mirrored style, are purely for fashion, while other colors change how you see the world. Choose your lens color based on the conditions you usually face when sailing. 

Grey lenses

Grey lenses protect against bright sunlight. Grey lenses are advised if you sail in bright conditions and deep water. Grey lenses are the best at accurately depicting colors. 

Bronze lenses enhance contrast and make the colors pop. These lenses are good if you sail in shallow water and want to look out for coral heads, judge the depth of the water, or watch for fish or marine life. 

Rose-colored glasses do exist and are great at enhancing contrast. Rose-colored lenses are perfect for fast-moving sports like dinghy racing or fishing.

Green lenses enhance colors and contrast and are great for low light conditions. They provide better contrast than grey lenses and more accurate colors than bronze glasses. In addition, green lenses reduce glare and are good on cloudy, foggy, and sunny days. 

Yellow lenses are often favored by pilots looking for the best clarity. Yellow lenses help sailors focus on moving objects in hazy and low-light conditions. Yellow lenses filter out harmful blue light that causes eye strain. 

Blue lenses reduce glare and improve color perception. These glasses are good in misty and foggy conditions.  

Lenses can be made with glass or polycarbonate. Glass lenses are the best for super-clear optics but are heavier and easier to shatter. If razor sharp vision and precise optical alignment are your priorities, pick glass.

On the other hand, polycarbonate lenses are more durable and lighter than glass and appropriate for eye protection since they are shatterproof.

Sailing Sunglasses Reviews

Best all-around sunglasses for sailing.

Gill makes world-class foul-weather gear, but they also make fabulous sunglasses that won’t break the bank. So if you are looking for high-quality yacht sunglasses that stand the test of time and float, look no further than Gill sunglasses.

Gill is well-known in the sailing world for making foul weather gear and other clothing items like sailing bags for serious sailors. Gill created their Corona Sunglasses to be a perfect pair of sailing glasses that provide serious protection for sailors’ eyes. These polarized sunglasses block 100% UV radiation, including UVA, UVB, and UVC radiation. 

Gill Corona sunglasses provide glare-free protection so you can keep focusing on what’s important. They have a hydrophobic coating that sheds water and salt. In addition, these high-tech sunglasses have an oleophobic coating that resists sun lotion, skin oil, and fingerprints. 

Gill Corona sunglasses float, so if you drop them from your dinghy or while climbing onto the boat, you can grab them instead of sacrificing them to Davy’s locker. The lenses allow eight percent to eighteen percent light transmission, making these sunglasses great for bright sunny days on the water. 

Gill’s Corona sunglasses are fashionable, too. There are several frame color choices, and the style suits smaller and medium-sized faces. 

• Several frame colors
• Hydrophobic and oleophobic coating
• Great for bright sunlight
• Good for small and medium-sized faces

• gned to exceed EN safety standards. Glare-free vision. Clear contrasts. Reduced eye fatigue. Filter category 3 lenses allowing 8-18% light transmission and are useful in bright sunlight

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

High-Quality Sailing Sunglasses Reviews

If you are serious about protecting your eyes, don’t settle for cheap knock-offs. While quality sunglasses can be pricey, the investment is worth it. Many high-quality brands like Maui Jims offer warranties and low-cost lens replacements to protect your investment.  

Maui Jim is one of the most well-regarded sunglasses brands out there. Many hard-core sailors use Maui Jim’s high-quality polarized sunglasses to protect their eyes on and off the water. Maui Jim Waterman sunglasses have remarkable scratch-resistant lenses. They reduce 99.9% of glare and have water-resistant and oleophobic treatment. 

The Waterman’s best feature is the wrap-around head strap. Instead of standard over-ear frames, these sunglasses have a secure strap. So if you are dinghy sailing or racing, these sunglasses won’t fly off at a critical moment. 

Sailors can choose from several Maui Jim lens options. The neutral grey-tint lenses are great for bright light. The High Contrast Lens Bronze glasses offer a warm tint for everyday use. 

The Maui Rose lens has a rose tint for high contrast. Finally, the Maui HT lenses offer contrast and color for low light conditions. And this pair makes a great gift for your sailor’s friend .

All Maui Jim glasses have a Bi-Gradient lens to reduce the brightest light at the top and bottom of the sunglasses. This technology effectively reduces squinting. 

• Several frames and lens colors
• Water-resistant and oleophobic coating
• Wrap-around strap for adventurous sailors
• Two-year warranty

• Click the Maui Jim link above to visit our brand store, where you can find our entire catalog of sunglasses

Bolle Anaconda sunglasses are polarized and optimized for offshore use. Bolle Anaconda sunglasses feature polycarbonate polarized lenses to reduce water glare. The anti-fog coating resists fogging, scratches, and chemicals. 

The nose pads, adjustable nosepiece, and temple tips feature the comfortable and grippy Thermogrip material. Thermograip grips even when wet, so you’ll have a secure and comfortable fit. 

• Polarized lenses
• Plastic lenses and frame
• Thermogrip 
• Anti-fog, anti-chemical, anti-scratch coating

• The anacondas curved arms hug your face to keep your sunglasses right where they belong. This progressive design is perfect for those with medium to large faces looking for a wear-everywhere sunglass thats extremely versatile and comfortable.

The Costa Del Mar Fantail sunglasses are ready to hit the water with you. These sunglasses are polarized and co-molded. 

The Costa Del Mar Fantail glasses have lightweight, impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses. The lenses block harmful blue light, reduce harsh yellow light, and enhance the beneficial red, green, and blue lights. 

The co-injected nylon frames are extra durable and crafted with an environmentally-friendly process. In addition, the frames are resistant to heat and cold. 

The Costa Del Mar Fantail sunglasses come in an amazing 30 combinations. Choose your frame color and lens color for a unique and stylish look. 

• Durable frames and lenses
• 30 lens and frame options

• 100% UV PROTECTION: All Costa Del Mar Eyewear lenses block potentially harmful high-energy visible blue light rays and protect against 100% of Ultraviolet rays (up to 400nm).

Maui Jim sunglasses feature Polarized Plus2 lens technology that excels at shielding your eyes from harsh light, glare, and harmful UV rays. The lenses are water-resistant and oleophobic to resist chemicals and fingerprints. 

You can choose from neutral grey lenses or HCL bronze lenses. The neutral grey lenses are great for harsh bright light, and the HCL bronze lenses have a warm tint that is great in changing light conditions. The lenses are made with SuperThin glass that is shatter-resistant, scratch-resistant, and lightweight. 

The Stingray sunglasses have wrap-style lenses that increase protection from the sun. The frames are crafted with lightweight injected nylon and are very durable and comfortable. 

• Polarized Plus2 technology
• Water-resistant and oleophobic
• SuperThin glass lenses
• Neutral grey or HCL bronze lenses

Oakley is a well-known brand that produces stylish, top-quality sunglasses. However, most of their sunglasses aren’t polarized, so be sure to check out the specs before investing. Oakley’s Holbrook sunglasses feature a lightweight, stress-resistant frame that offers all-day protection and comfort. The frame features injection-molded thermoplastic for strength and flexibility and won’t shift or deform over time. 

Sailors can choose from several frame colors, such as black or matte brown tortoise. 

The Plutonite lenses with Prizm Sapphire Polarized lenses block 99% of reflected glare. The lenses are durable and feature protection against high-velocity impact. Oakley’s Prizm technology enhances colors and improves contrast. The lenses offer 100% UV protection against UVA, UVB, and UVC light. 

• Prizm lens technology
• Lightweight

• Oakley Plutonite Lenses offer 100% UV Protection filtering of all UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400 millimeter. Oakley’s lightweight Plutonite lens material offers superior comfort, clarity & protection against impact and ultraviolet radiation.

Kaenon Avila sunglasses feature polarized lenses and full coverage to protect your eyes. Kaenon Avila sunglasses are attractive with a butterfly silhouette. These stylish sunglasses will keep you looking amazing while offering superior protection and high-quality features and materials.

The SR-91 lens is an advanced polarized lens with amazing clarity, lightweight construction, and impact resistance. The stainless-steel hinge is high-quality and won’t rust. 

The Variflex nose pads are recessed and hypoallergenic. These high-quality nose pads have extra grip and won’t slip even during the toughest of tacks. 

• Stainless steel high
• Attractive design
• One-year warranty

• AVILA SUNGLASSES: Unfurl with Avila’s wrapped butterfly silhouette and curved flowing temples that offer full coverage with a unique sense of style. This womens style best suits a medium to large face size.

These polarized sunglasses are made for a harsh life on the water. They feature polarized lenses and offer 100% UV protection. Costa’s 580G glass lenses are known for their scratch-proof clarity and block harmful light while enhancing colors and contrast. These glasses are perfect to use in the harsh sun while out on the water.

The co-injected nylon frames are durable and manufactured with an environmentally friendly process. 

The Costa Del Mar Waterwoman sunglasses come in 15 options. Choose from a variety of frames and lens options. 

• Costa 580G glass lenses
• Durable frame
• Trendy design

Prescription Sailing Sunglasses

If you want to protect your eyes from harsh glare and read your nautical chart, you might look into a pair of prescription sailing glasses or bifocals. 

Gill’s Race Vision Bi-Focal sunglasses provide the same great specs and protection as their regular sunglasses while adding in prescription strength reading glasses. Choose from the +1.5 or the +2.5 strength. 

Gill Race Vision Bi-Focals are polarized and scratch-resistant. The hydrophobic coating sheds water and salt so you can keep your focus. These sunglasses also float, so you can retrieve them in a sunglasses overboard drill. 

• Scratch-resistant
• Hydrophobic coating

• gned to exceed EN safety standards. Glare-free vision. Clear contrasts. Reduced eye fatigue. 100% UV 400 protection. Filter category 3 lenses allowing 8-18% light transmission and are useful in bright sunlight

Sailing Sunglasses Budget Buys

While your eyes are worth protecting with an expensive pair of sunglasses, you might be looking for a backup pair or need a budget buy for occasional use. In that case, consider adding a budget buy to your sailing kit. 

Calcutta Outdoors Prowler sunglasses are polarized and have a sturdy polycarbonate frame. They are comfortable for all-day wear, lets say while chilling on your yacht or sailboat . The frame is fade-resistant and ready for tough sailing conditions. The frames have a stainless steel hinge that’s saltwater resistant and long-lasting.

Calcutta Outdoors Prowler sunglasses feature 100% protection against damaging UVA and UVB rays.

Calcutta Outdoors Prowler sunglasses come in several frame and lens options. Choose from black, timber, and gray frames. Lenses are available in blue, blue mirror, and grey. 

• Several frames and lens color options

• SUN PROTECTION: The Prowler sunglasses feature durable 1.0mm Triacetate (TAC) Polarized lenses that virtually eliminate blinding reflected glare. Keep your eyes sheltered with 100% UV ray protection.

Suncloud Milestone sunglasses have a wrap-around style for extra protection. The lightweight plastic frame is durable. The lightweight polycarbonate lenses are scratch-resistant and impact-resistant. Sunclouds are a good budget buy for those looking to spend a fun day out on the water. 

The Suncloud Milestone sunglasses come in several frame and lens color options. Sailors can choose from a black or tortoise frame. Lens options include grey, bronze, green mirror, and blue mirror. 

• Fashionable
• Variety of frame and lens colors

• Polarized Polycarbonate Injection Molded Lenses

Don’t Set Sail Without Your Polarized Sailing Sunglasses

The best nautical sunglasses keep you looking good and good at looking. Sunglasses are a vital part of a sailor’s gear. It’s worthwhile to invest in at least one high-quality pair of sailor sunglasses so you can enjoy your days on the water. 

Are polarized sunglasses good for sailing?

Polarized sunglasses are essential gear for sailing. Polarized glasses help block the water’s glare so you can see through the water instead of being blinded by the glare.

What should I look for in sailing sunglasses?

Sailing sunglasses should be polarized and made of high-quality materials that stand up to saltwater and harsh sailing conditions. 

Are Gill sunglasses good?

Gill sunglasses are a good investment for sailors looking to protect their eyes. Gill sunglasses are polarized, reduce glare and eye fatigue, and they float. 

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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5 Best Sunglasses for Boating

Time on the water can be hard on the eyes, which is why boaters need to invest in good pair of boating sunglasses that are designed specifically for the boating lifestyle.

There have been numerous advances in sunglass technology, and progress has been made with lightweight nylon lenses and thermoplastic and bamboo frames that float in case they go in the drink.

Most sunglasses brands offer multiple models but here, we’ve picked out five styles at a range of price points that will work for most anglers , sailors , watersports enthusiasts , and all-purpose boaters .

These are a few of the best boating sunglasses on the market today, listed in no particular order.

Explore Different Boat Types & Activities

1. Costa Del Mar: Untangled Collection

A sunglass maker with a mission is Costa Del Mar that offers their Untangled Collection with frames made of recycled fishing nets (learn more about Costa's Untangled Collection in 5 Eco-Friendly Boating Products Making a Difference ).

Four styles are available including the wide-framed Baffin and Pescador models, as well as the narrow Victoria and Caldera versions that are more suited to smaller faces. The tumbled manufacturing process creates durable frames that can handle the boating lifestyle and each pair offers the promise of cleaner, less tangled oceans.

The lenses are polarized glass and come in grey, blue, green and copper while the frames are generally a dark grey.

Price: $199 to $219; CostaDelMar.com

2. Shady Rays X Series

If you like to buy from companies with a great attitude as well as a purpose, check out Shady Rays. Not only does this company offer 10 styles in assorted frame and lens colors, they also have a unique approach to business. They’ll replace broken or lost glasses up to two times for just a shipping/handling fee.

The X Series has a choice of four lens colors and three finishes and features a wrap-around frame with polycarbonate lenses. They come in the original ($48) or extreme ($64) versions, the latter having the option to have prescription lenses added. To top it off, they provide 10 meals to the hungry with every purchase. 

Price: $48 to $64; ShadyRays.com

3. Rheos Nautical Gear: Bahia

Another brand of floating sunglasses that offers quite a few styles and lens colors is Rheos Nautical Gear. Their nylon lenses are light and excellent at cutting glare whether from the water or from bright sails. Their Bahias series has four finish/lens color options including the stylish gunmetal/emerald combination.

These polarized glasses offer 100% UVA and UVB protection, and are fairly impact-resistant in case they go flying mid-tack. A portion of sales is allocated to nonprofit organizations that defend coastlines and waterways and at $55, these glasses are a bargain.

Price: $55; RheosGear.com

4. EveryDayBoater: Cuda

EveryDayBoater (EDB) offers four styles each with four lens color choices including blue, green, grey and amber. Their aviators may be cool, but boaters will most likely opt for their Dorado or Cuda models that offer more protection on the face.

EDB’s Cuda glasses have quality gloss TR-90 plastic frames and premium polarized glass lenses, and they’re sized for small to medium sized heads, so they’re good for women. They provide 100% UVA and UVB protection and come with a rubber nose pad, a case, a strap, a microfiber cleaning cloth and a limited lifetime warranty all for $119.

Price: $119; EveryDayBoater.com

5. DRAGON: Vantage LL H20 Polar

Constructed with an injection molded thermoplastic with a low density, the Dragon H2O Series glasses can float, are scratch resistant, and are also oleophobic which means they repel dirt, dust and oil so they’ll minimize smudges from sunscreen.

The Vantage LL will fit larger male faces well since they’re more substantial but they’re still lightweight and sporty. The Clark Little Signature Vantage has the iconic Hawaiian photographer's imagery on the inside of the temple. These glasses offer 100% UV protection and have color-optimized nylon lenses.

Price: $205; DragonAlliance.com

Read Next: 10 Best Gifts for Boaters for Any Occasion

You May Also Like:

• 5 Eco-Friendly Boating Products Making a Difference
• Sunscreen & Sun Safety Tips for Boaters
• The Ultimate Boating Accessories Guide
• Holiday Gift Guide for Boaters
• Find the Right Boat for Your Lifestyle

Editor's Note: Pricing is recent as of last date of publish; Dec. 8, 2020.

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The Ultimate Guide to Prescription Sailing Sunglasses

Prescription sailing sunglasses are required for those that have difficulty seeing and need eye protection from harmful UV rays. But what pair of sailing sunglasses are right for you?

After you read through, you’ll be able to decide what offers maximum protection and is the perfect pair. In addition, you’ll learn about why polarized lenses are needed while sailing.

For any water sports or activities on the open water, your eyes must be protected from UV rays. Bright sunlight, over time, can damage your eyes.

How to Choose the Best Prescription Sailing Sunglasses for You

There are plenty of different options to consider for prescription sailing sunglasses. Finding the best sailing sunglasses for you will come down to style, comfort, but also a handful of other factors.

Prescription sunglasses will vary from one brand to the next, so it’s best to have a few options to compare. When used for sailing, you’ll want to consider sunglasses that are great for long hours on the water.

Style and Comfort

One of the easiest decisions you’ll be making for a quality pair of prescription sunglasses for sailing is how it looks and feels on your face. Trying them on or at least measuring your face when shopping online will help in the process.

While wearing them, you need to consider the nose pads to make sure they don’t fall off of your nose when moving around or when they become wet.

The best sunglasses can handle a variety of conditions. You’ll be in wet conditions when you set sail, whether it’s rain, ocean spray, or sweat and you don’t want them sliding off your nose.

With UVB and UVA rays, you’ll need polarized lenses in order to be considered for the best sunglasses. UVA rays can pass through the cornea, lens, and retina of your eyes, while UVB rays can still cause eye damage and eye strain.

The sun is the primary concern to be protected from above, however, there are other issues at hand. For example, the reflection from the water’s surface, bright white from your boat or sails, and glare from handrails or various objects that could harm your vision.

The shape of the lens makes a difference in deciding what sailing sunglasses are best. The ones that have fewer angles (round) might be easier to see out of, but they might not protect against glare as well.

Sunglasses that have flat lenses are not as great at repelling UV rays being reflected from the water. Curved lenses are great for protecting the eyes from debris, but provide the worst sharpness on objects at a distance.

Lens Colors

Choosing the right colored lenses for sailing is crucial to seeing in difficult conditions. All sunglasses for sailing have some kind of lens color to help aid your vision. There are many different colors to choose from, which makes it important to understand the differences between them.

Choosing gray lenses is the easiest and most universal color for polarized lenses. They don’t have much distinction in other colors when viewing and they are great for most all light conditions.

Materials Used

The material of the lenses makes a difference, with some being glass and others being polycarbonate or plastic.

Glass offers the best scratch resistance and views, but has less stability if they’re dropped or hit. Plastic has a solid combination of eye protection and clear visibility but scratches much easier.

You could also opt for photochromic technology so that your lenses change when the sun’s rays do. This allows you to have one pair of glasses versus two. Either way, you’ll need a pair you can trust to offer the best eye protection with quality materials.

Lightweight and Ultra Durable

Having sunglasses that are lightweight means you’ll forget you’re wearing them, or at least they aren’t a heavy feeling on your head.

Not all sunglasses are created equal, so lightweight ones also need to be durable.

You’ll want sunglasses that are shock resistant and have less resistance to wear and tear from daily use. Reading reviews on the desired pair help tremendously in this aspect.

Waterproof and Easy to Clean

Since your pair of prescription sunglasses are being used while sailing, this means you’ll likely have saltwater on them often.

You’ll not only want waterproof capabilities but something that is easy to clean and can handle these conditions.

Can Polarized Sunglasses for Sailing Have Prescription Lenses?

Depending on the brand of choice, you can easily have polarized sailing sunglasses with your prescription in them.

Most brands offer an easy time navigating their website to order a specific pair of sunglasses and add the prescription manually.

If your prescription is a difficult one, you might not be able to enter this information as easily.

Instead, it’s best to chat with the company you choose and send them your prescription information to narrow down the results.

How Much Do Prescription Sunglasses for Sailing Cost?

Prescription sailing sunglasses are going to cost you a pretty penny if you believe that you have to have the most expensive option. However, you’ll want to find the best bang for your buck in order to get the perfect pair.

You can expect to pay between $150 to $500 on average depending on the brand. The reason some may cost more than others is due to materials, prescription strength, frame, and lenses.

A Quick Guide to Choosing the Best Sailing Sunglasses

A good pair of prescription sailing sunglasses needs to cover all the bases for sailing. This means choosing ones that fit the important features and criteria above (polarized, shape of lens, durability, etc).

Before you jump straight into a popular pair of sunglasses, check the price tag. How much it costs for some prescription sailing sunglasses is one of the first things consumers notice.

Having a budget in place is key to narrowing down what you can afford so you don’t have to waste time.

Neutral Colors for Lens

If you don’t have time to carefully decide which colored lens is best for you , go with gray or blue. These are the most universal at blocking out UV rays no matter the time of day.

Neutral colors, in general, are also a good choice. Most consumers might not care what color lens they have as long as it helps to protect their eyes from the light while they sail.

Anti Reflective Coating

Mirrored coating is a great option for those that want to reflect light away from their eyes in addition to polarized lenses . Blue mirrored lenses are popular, along with green and silver.

While these aren’t required for ultimate comfort, some of the best sunglasses have them. It might take a bit longer to order these online, so consider this if you’re eagerly waiting for your pair to arrive.

Final Thoughts

Prescription sailing sunglasses are essential for blocking out harmful UV rays, glare, and other conditions like wind, water spray, and the sun’s reflection on your boat.

Having protection from these various elements makes the world of difference between typical gas station sunglasses and ones specific to your situation at sea.

The best sailing sunglasses will likely be based on budget, with a handful of other key features. It’s important to do your research and find a quality pair that keeps your eyes protected.

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10 Best Sunglasses For Boating

Technological innovations in the marine industry have led to the production of new and advanced equipment. For instance, nowadays most boating sunglasses are made of nylon lenses. These are lightweight and their frame is made of thermoplastic and bamboo so they float and do not sink in water.

Table of Contents

Why do you need a good pair of boating sunglasses?

Strong sunlight and Ultraviolet rays can be harmful to eyesight, so buying the best boating sunglasses that are specifically designed for boaters, is important to protect the eyes.

If a person sets out on the sea without proper sunglasses, they could get photokeratitis, also known as “snow blindness.” Ophthalmologists have said that it is a condition seen among people who are in the sea for a longer duration without proper glasses.

Water reflects a lot of sunlight which increases the burden on the eyes. While the symptoms of this disease such as redness or discomfort might last for some time, it could also cause permanent damage to the eye.

The American Optometric Association has stated that excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays can lead to the development of eye diseases such as cataracts, pinguecula, macular degeneration, pterygium and even cancer as the skin on the eyelid is thin.

The market is flooded with numerous models, with different shapes, sizes and materials, but it is important to know what features to look for before choosing the best boating sunglasses.

Important features of boating sunglasses

Go for Non-Corrosive, durable and sturdy material

Saltwater is corrosive and excessive sun’s heat in the waters can soften sunglasses made from acetate, as it has less heat tolerance. One should refrain from buying metal frames that will easily corrode in water. It is advisable to go for sunglasses made of a material such as nylon. It is comfortable, sturdy and non-corrosive.

Excellent coverage

Water reflects light and the glare from it could cause pain in the eyes. Many sunglasses have all the features except providing proper coverage. Hence, sunglasses that give a side coverage or those that fully cover the eyes are ones boaters should buy. Good coverage would prevent the light from reaching your eyes from the frame’s corners and offer great protection.

While looking for perfect sunglasses, comfort is important. Since they would be worn most of the time, they should be comfortable. Most manufacturing companies use good quality rubber on the nose and near the arms of the frames to make the glasses more comfortable and to prevent them from becoming loose and falling off. Some expensive ones also have a channel to prevent sweat from accumulating near the eyes and nose.

Kind of lenses

Sunglasses are either made from glass or polycarbonate plastic. Both these materials have their advantages and disadvantages, that should be considered.

Lenses made of glass offer more clarity in vision however they are heavy, can break easily and are costlier than their plastic counterparts.

Polycarbonate plastic lenses provide great protection from ultraviolet rays and are more durable, lightweight and less expensive. But they do not provide excellent vision clarity as glass and are not scratch-resistant.

Weighing their pros and cons, plastic ones seem to be the better deal. Also, most boaters opt for plastic sunglasses.

Polarised or non-polarised sunglasses

Polarised glasses are darker than non-polarised ones but they prevent intense sunlight from damaging the eyes. They offer better eye protection, and better clarity so that boaters can see the objects with greater visual detail. These sunglasses filter glare and give excellent visual clarity at sea. Hence, boaters should opt for polarised sunglasses.

Opt for mirrored lenses

Mirrored lenses also help to eliminate glare.

Sunglasses consist of numerous tints that are useful in different conditions.

• The blue-tinted ones are perfect when the sunlight and glare are intense.
• Green ones are ideal for fishing and boating as they offer good contrast.
• Silver lenses can be used on land as well as in water to eliminate glare. They also provide comfort to tired eyes.
• Copper lenses- are the best option for cloudy days as they offer increased transmission of light.
• Yellow lenses should be used at dawn and dusk as they offer increased contrast and better clarity in low light.

Now that we are aware of the requisite features, let us have a look at the best boating sunglasses.

1. Costa Del Mar Men’s Fantail 580p Rectangular Sunglasses

Costa’s Fantail 580 P sunglasses for men are quite popular in the market. The company’s 580 lens technology allows the enhancement of colours.

These lenses come in 7 different tints as well. Most importantly, it offers excellent polarisation and significant glare reduction. They also prevent the harmful UVA/UVB and UVC light from reaching your eyes and also filter out excessive blue light.

They are made of a resin frame and a plastic lens with a width of 59 millimetres and a height of 14 millimetres. The bridge is 14 millimetres and the sunglasses arm measures 127 millimetres.

Costa’s 580 Polycarbonate sunglasses offer vision clarity, they can take a heavy impact and are also scratch-resistant. They are lightweight and can be worn without any discomfort for a longer duration.

These Matte-black and blue mirrored polarized sunglasses are perfect for the hot, bright days in the seas. These sunglasses use co-injection technology. They have a bio-based nylon frame that makes them strong and durable. They are manually assembled and have a limited lifetime warranty.

• Polarised lens
• Offers 99.9% glare reduction
• Colour enhancement
• Excellent vision clarity
• Impact and scratch-resistant
• Lightweight
• Frames are close to the eyes, tight fit
• Small frame
• Arms are tight
• Loose rubber nose piece
• Not full coverage

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2. Maivnz Floating Polarized sunglasses for men

Having a TPX frame, sleek and stylish design, Maivnz floating sunglasses are perfect for all kinds of water sports. These come with a triacetate cellulose lens and a UV protective coating.

These black framed sunglasses lens width is 2.45 inches. They are made from an unsinkable plastic material so you don’t have to worry about losing your glasses in water.

Made from great quality TAC polarized lenses, these sunglasses offer high visual clarity. These glasses are transparent, impact and scratch-resistant and anti-reflection.

The TPX material used for making these glasses is lightweight and highly flexible. They are comfortable and also durable. Apart from wearing them while at sea, they can be worn as regular sunglasses too. They come with a lifetime warranty and a month’s money-back guarantee.

• Polarized and UV protection
• High transparency
• Stylish and lightweight
• Wrap-around design
• Ideal for water sports- fishing, boating, sailing etc
• Full coverage
• Not great quality
• Loose frame

• FLOATING DESIGN- Our polarized fishing sunglasses are designed with a special buoyancy material that allows them to float on water, ensuring that they won't sink if they accidentally fall in the water. This feature makes them perfect for anglers who love to fish in rivers, lakes, and oceans.
• BEYOND POLARIZED- These fishing glasses feature high-quality polarized lenses that help reduce glare, making it easier to spot fish in the water. They also provide superior clarity and color contrast, allowing you to see more clearly underwater to gain a competitive edge when fishing.
• UV PROTECTION- Our floating sunglasses offer 100% UV protection, safeguarding your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays. This feature is particularly important for water enthusiasts, where they are exposed to more intense UV radiation. So you can enjoy more time kayaking, surfing, paddling, beach or boating with high-performance water sports sunglasses from maivnz.
• DURABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT- Our polarized sunglasses are made from high-quality ultra-lightweight materials that are resistant to scratches, impact, and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting use.They are incredibly lightweight and comfortable to wear, perfect for enthusiasts who spend long hours on the water.
• NO RISK TO BUY-All maivnz customers can enjoy worry-free after-sales and perfect customers’ shopping experience. In case of any problem,please contact our customer service team at any time and we will help you solve the problem until satisfied. We are at your service anywhere.

3. Hornet Watersports Floating Sunglasses with polarised lenses

Hornet Watersports sunglasses have polarized lenses and a mirror coating. These black matte glasses have air chambers that allow them to float on water. Having a sporty design, they are ideal for your boating, fishing, canoeing and kayaking trips. You could also flaunt them while relaxing on a beach.

They are regular size and unisex. They offer 100% protection from UV rays and keep your eyes safe.

They make a great gift, as they come with a custom-made box and a special microfiber case.

• Floats on water
• Sporty and stylish design
• Ideal for water sports
• Protects the eyes
• Poor quality
• uncomfortable

• Floats on Water: Our sunglasses have special air chambers that enable the frame to float on water. Not only do they float on water, but they are also comfortable, light, and durable.
• Sporty Design: Whether you are kitesurfing, fishing, boating, paddling or just relaxing on the beach, these sunglasses will protect your eyes and float in the water reducing the chances of losing your sunglasses
• Unisex and One Size Fits All: Our floating sunglasses that are polarized are designed to fit both men and women.
• Polarized and UV 400 Protection: Our polarized lenses provide 100% UVA and UVB protection, reduce glare, and will protect your eyes.
• Gift Idea: Each purchase comes with a custom-designed box, microfiber case, and unisex sunglasses. These sunglasses make for a great gift for any boating or watersports lover.

4. INFI Polarized Sunglasses for men

The INFI polarized sunglasses are made of TR90, a thermoplastic. Produced through the latest Swiss technology, this material is the best for making sturdy eyewear. The TR90 frame of these sunglasses is flexible, extremely lightweight, highly durable and comfortable.

The lens is made of nylon and has a mirror coating. They can take ground and water impact and use a special technology that prevents the lens from getting smudged easily.

The lens width is 57 millimetres and the height is 41 millimetres. The Bridge measures 20.4 millimetres and the arms are 128 millimetres. These lenses do not break easily and offer UV protection by filtering UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400nm. Thus, they offer a clear and sharp vision.

• Made from the latest Swiss technology
• TR90, nylon frame
• Durable, lightweight, sturdy, flexible
• Do not smudge easily
• UV protection
• Clarity and sharp vision
• Impact-resistant
• Not stylish
• Too dark lenses
• Oversized lenses
• Small fitting, tight frame

• ►INFI mens fishing sunglasses are treated with special technology to solve the problem of lens cleaning
• ►Polarized sunglasses The lens are made of Unbreakable.offers the highest degree of protection
• ►High quality TR90 material Frame is both lightweight and sturdy for all-day comfort
• ►INFI driving polarized sunglasses giving you a clear and glare-free vision.
• ►UV Protection filtering 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400nm

5. KastKing Hiwassee Polarized Sports Sunglasses for Men and Women

KastKings Hiwassee polarized sunglasses are made from high-quality, latest Grilamid,using German and Japanese materials. The glasses have a 1.00 mm thick polarized lens. The width of the lens is 2.5 inches.

These sunglasses are scratch-resistant and anti-glare. The TAC or triacetate lenses offer excellent eye protection, are lightweight and comfortable.

They fit perfectly and do not slip as they have anti-slip nose pieces and temple pads. They are tested with double decentering to see that there is no optical distortion.

These sunglasses are extremely flexible and heat resistant. They are tough and malleable, which makes them a comfortable fit. They provide UV protection and exceed all U.S. ANSI standards.

These sunglasses come with a custom case for keeping them and Prym 1 Camo microfiber pouch and a microfiber cloth for cleaning them.

• Made of high-quality Grilamid frame
• Scratch and impact resistant
• Triacetate lens
• Do not slip
• Comfortable, durable
• Can be used in water and also for running or driving
• Lens spotted after being in saltwater
• Too long temples
• Very light colour tone for bright sunny days
• Require constant cleaning

• KEY FEATURES - Polarized lenses reduce glare - Impact resistant TAC lenses protect your eyes from flying objects - Lightweight, durable, and comfortable Grilamid frames – Anti-slip nose and temple pads - Block 100% of the harmful UVA and UVB rays
• OUTSTANDING LENSES – 1.0mm polarized lenses are comparable to the thickness you would find on much higher priced sports eyewear. KastKing TAC (Triacetate) lenses pass a double decentering test to ensure there is no optical distortion which can cause eye strain and headaches. KastKing Polarized reading sunglasses help reduce glare caused by reflected light to improve vision and comfort.
• PREMIUM FRAMES – Made from the same Grilamid material commonly used in military and medical applications, KastKing sunglass frames are lightweight, extremely flexible, and heat and UV resistant. Grilamid frames are well known for their astounding strength, lightweight comfort, shape integrity, and impact resistance. This virtually indestructible ultra-lightweight and malleable material translates to a very comfortable fit and the tacky nose and temple pads prevent slipping.
• BASE LENS COLOR and UV PROTECTION – Smoke lenses are ideal for bright sunlight with the most realistic color reproduction and also work well in medium light and partial shade. Brown lenses increase contrast and depth perception, ideal for partly cloudy to sunny conditions. Copper lenses provide excellent contrast and depth perception, best suited for moderate to low light. KastKing sunglasses block 100% of the harmful UVA and UVB rays and meet or exceed all U.S. ANSI standards.
• PROTECT YOUR EYEWEAR – KastKing includes a molded custom hard case for storage and a custom Prym1 Camo microfiber pouch which can be used for cleaning as well as storing your sunglasses. To avoid lens scratches and lens coating damage, clean your lenses with a clean microfiber cloth or lint free cloths and fresh warm water. Never dip them in saltwater or dry with a paper towel.

6. Rheos Eddies Sport Style Floating Polarized Sunglasses

Rheos eyewear is specially designed for those who love water sports. The Rheos Eddis sunglasses consist of a composite frame and nylon optic lens that are clearer than glass. They are polarized and unsinkable. They have an anti-fog coating too.

The lens width is 3 inches and the bridge and arm measure 20 millimetres and 119 millimetres respectively. These sunglasses are lightweight and super comfortable. Rheos is a part of ‘ 1% for the planet’ and so a part of the profit from the sale of its sunglasses go to organizations that protect coastlines. These sunglasses are specially designed in Charleston and come with free returns and a lifetime warranty.

• Strong and stylish
• Floating sunglasses
• Polarized nylon lenses
• Comfortable
• 100% UV protection
• Clearer than glass
• Not very durable
• Not a proper fit
• Not high quality

• FLOATING SUNGLASSES: Our lightweight frames don’t sink, so you can do more of what you love without worry. The unisex Eddies sunglasses are built for the ultimate sportsmen and women. Enjoy every moment in the water with the unsinkable Rheos Eddies sunglasses.
• WRAPAROUND FRAME: The Eddies feature a wraparound frame that complements both men and women that enjoy sport performance sunglasses. The comfort grip nose and ear pads offer additional stability and a secure fit. These sunglasses measure 64mm lens width, 41mm lens height, 125mm arm length, and 14mm bridge width.
• POLARIZED NYLON OPTICS: Our Marine lens features a smoke base tint with a VLT of 12-14% making it a great choice for bright sunny days; ideal for open ocean fishing, beach days and everyday wear. All Rheos lenses are polarized with 100% UVA- and UVB-ray protection. Our nylon optics are clearer than glass lenses for best in class clarity on and off the water. With the anti-fog and anti-smudge lens coatings, your sunglasses will stay clear even in challenging conditions.
• WATER SPORTS FRIENDLY: Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, deep sea fishing, surfing, or kayaking, the Rheos Eddies Sunglasses are created to enhance your experience. These sunglasses reduce glare, provide UV protection and feature a floating frame, making them perfect water sport sunglasses.
• CRAFTED FOR EVERYDAY WEAR: These floating sunglasses are buoyant, comfortable, and designed to reduce glare- especially on the water. Crafted for everyday wear on both water and land, these polarized sunglasses are incredibly lightweight and won't cause tension headaches or fatigue. Spend more time outside with a tailored fit that keeps up with your lifestyle.

7. MALIDAK Polarized Floating Sunglasses for Men and Women

Malidak sunglasses come with a sporty composite frame and triacetate cellulose lens with a UV protection coating and reduced reflection, allowing you to see the underwater fishes. The arms measure 55 millimetres.

They are made of the latest TPX material which makes them nearly unbreakable. They have hollow channels that make them float on water. They are perfect for boating, fishing, voyaging, drifting and surfing.

They come in ‘three-point wrap-around design, suited for American faces. The ductile silicone nose pads sit comfortably on the nose and the non-slip rubber foot does not easily slip from the cheeks. The sunglasses come with a lifetime warranty and you can even return them within 30 days.

• UV Protection
• Special wrap-around design for American faces
• Lifetime warranty
• Easy returns
• Colour distortion

• 【Floatable Frame】 MALIDAK floating sunglasses for women men is made of newest breakable TPX material with special hollow design, making it float on the water without sinking. Great for outdoor water sports like sea fishing, voyaging, drifting and surf-riding etc.
• 【72 Hours Anti-Sea Water Effect】Polarized pool sunglasses' lenses not only offers you anti-glare & UVA/UVB protection from the sun, but also helps you eliminate the reflection of water waves, more clearly seeing the fish float and fishes under the water. Besides, the lens have high effect in anti-sea water corrison for at least 72 hours.
• 【Three-point Wrap Around Design】MALIDAK floating sunglasses adapts three-point design, which is specially designed for the face shapes of Americans, you can wear the pool sunglasses for men more suitable and comfortable.
• 【Exquisite Details】Ductile silicone nose pads can reduce the pressure of the nose bridge. Soft rubber non-slip foot set fits your cheek perfectly when you do intense exercise. Sturdy and durable hinge provide you a longer usage of the sunglasses water sports.
• 【Lifetime Warranty & 30 Day Money Back Guarantee】MALIDAK provides lifetime after sale service for all MALIDAK products. All Customers can return and get refunded in case the purchasing is not satisfactory for any reason.

8. DEAFRAIN Polarized Sunglasses for Men and Women

Deafrain HD polarized sunglasses are just right for boating, fishing, beach and also Driving and Outdoors. The lens width is 2.52 inches and they weigh only 0.25 g so you can hardly feel them.

They are 1.00 millimetre Tac scratch-resistant and offer excellent UV protection. They also provide high contrast, detailed and sharp visual clarity.

They are made from Swiss Grilamid TR90 material that makes them lightweight, flexible and durable. It has a wrap-around frame that is suitable for all types of face shapes.

They come in various colours such as green and blue that are ideal for bright sunny days. They have rubber temples and provide full coverage. The sunglasses come with a microfiber cloth, a carry pouch and a UV testing card and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

• Scratch-resistant
• HD polarized lens
• Perfect colour contrast
• Excellent visual clarity
• Feel sharp at the edges

• EXCELLENT HD POLARIZED LENS- 1.0mm Polarized Tac Scratch-Resistant Lenses –100% Full Spectrum UV protection against the sun's harmful rays. DEAFRAIN Polarized Lens delivers high contrast, crisp definition, and peak visual acuity. Not only perfect for your weekend adventures, but also an excellent choice for your weekday commute.
• SUPERIOR SWISS TR90 FRAMES- Constructed from virtually indestructible SWITZERLAND Grilamid TR 90 material, ultra-lightweight, flexible, yet strong and durable. The classic wrap-around frame is suitable for any face type. These great features make DEAFRAIN polarized sunglasses an excellent choice for outdoor and water sports activities.
• LENSES COLOR OPTIONS- Smoke lenses are ideal for bright conditions – they dim the bright sunlight to ease the strain on your eyes. Green Lens are good in bright conditions, and they work particularly well in moderate-light or partly cloudy conditions. Blue Lenses are ideal for bright sunny conditions and also work well when you are in medium light conditions.
• PERFECT for SPORTS- Rubber Touch Temple and Full-Wrap Fit provide a comfortable but solid grip. Extremely Strong, durable and ultra-lightweight, only 25.0 g, which makes you hardly feel them on your face while ensuring you all-day comfort. - Perfect for Driving, Hunting, Fishing, Boating, Beach, and Outdoors. Sporty, Function, Comfort and Protection, this is the one you've been asking for.
• 30 DAY MONEY BACK SERVICE- All DEAFRAIN polarized sunglasses are backed by 30 Day Money Back and a Lifetime Limited Service. Customers can return and get refunded in case the purchasing is not satisfactory for any reason. Risk-Free Try! -Supplied with cleaning cloth, soft carry pouch, UV testing card, and high quality protective hard case.

9. KUGUAOK Polarized Sports Sunglasses for Men

Kuguak Polarized glasses are anti-glare, anti-reflection and offer great visual clarity. They are designed to block the intense light so that you can see a natural view with colour enhancement. They are made of durable plastic and come with a UV protection coating. The lens width is 2.48 inches while the bridge and arm measure 44mm and 63mm.

The sunglasses come in a hard shell packaging along with a soft cloth and a polarized test card. They can be used for all watersports and outdoor activities. The frame is light and comfortable and doesn’t fall off easily. It comes with a lifetime breakage warranty.

• Made of durable plastic material
• Lightweight and flexible
• Fashionable
• Groovy nose piece
• poor Reflective coating

10. WYND Blocker Vert Motorcycle & Boating Sports Wrap Around Polarized Sunglasses

The WYND multipurpose sunglasses have many features. Their frame and lens are made of plastic and have 100% UV400 protection. The polarized lenses take care of intense and scarred light. The TAC technology makes them high-performance lenses that are impact-resistant and don’t break easily.

The height and width of the lens are 40mm and 60 mm respectively.

It also has a removable wind-resistant eyeliner and these sunglasses can be transformed into goggles as they come with an extra backstrap. The rubber earpieces offer a solid grip and prevent them from falling off. They are ultra-lightweight and specially designed for those who love watersports and other outdoor games.

They come with a microfiber bag that can be used for cleaning the lens too.

• Can be transformed into goggles
• Blocks wind
• Excellent eye protection
• Clear, unaltered vision
• poor peripheral view
• Liner not heat-resistant

• TAC POLARIZED LENS - 100% UV400 protection coating blocks 100% harmful UVA & UVB rays while the polarization restores true colors and elimnates reflected, glaring, and scattered light. TAC (Triacetate Cellulose) technology provides a high-performance hard coated polarized lenses which have impact resistant and anti-scratch properties.
• PRODUCT DIMENSIONS - Lens Height - 40mm; Lens Width - 60mm; Temple Length - 130mm; Nose Bridge - 25mm; Frame Width - 140mm
• WYND BLOCKER VERT FEATURES - Removable wind resistant eye liner; Option to convert to goggles with included backstrap; Rubberized ear pieces help maintain stability and grip on users head; Lightweight design ideal for motorcycle and cycling bicycle, driving, running, fishing, racing, skiing, climbing, trekking, boating and/or other outdoor activities.
• INCLUDES - WYND Blocker microfiber bag which can also be used as a lens cleaner; Backstrap to convert from glasses to goggles
• Lifetime guarantee against defects - please contact the WYND Blocker brand owner with any concerns

These are some of the boating sunglasses you can opt for.

You may also like to read –

• Top 11 Books On Boating
• 10 Best Sailing Watches

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The 15 Best Sunglasses For Sailing 2024

Choosing the best sunglasses for sailing can make the difference between a really enjoyable day on the water and a disastrous one!

Whether you’re relaxing on the deck in the Caribbean or beating into waves off the UK coastline, a pair of decent sunglasses for sailing will protect your eyes from dangerous UV rays, and stop you squinting into the light for hours on end.

We’ve had the opportunity to test out a whole lot of sailing sunglasses (completely against our wishes, due to a combination of gravity and dolphins off the bow!) and we’ve also got a few rave reviews in the bank for future pairs.

We’re sharing our favourite sunglasses for sailing with you below – just don’t forget to grab yourself a sunglasses lanyard too so you don’t have to replace as many pairs as us!

Quick Guide To Buying Sunglasses For Sailing

• Why buy the best?
• What to look for in sailing sunglasses?
• Keeping your sunglasses safe
• The best sunglasses for sailing for men
• The best sailing sunglasses for women
• Prescription sailing sunglasses

Why Buy The Best Sunglasses For Sailing?

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.

It might be tempting to settle for wearing your everyday sunglasses when sailing but we’d advise against this.

You need sunglasses fit for purpose if you’re going to spend hours on the water, and most everyday sunglasses just won’t cut it.

Not only are you competing with rays from the sky while out at sea, but you also have the sunlight reflecting off the water, making glare a real problem if you don’t have the right equipment.

A lot of specialist sunglasses for sailing are pretty expensive (but worth the money in our opinion!) They’re designed for purpose and have a lot of ‘built-in’ features that make them superior.

If you plan on being out on the water frequently and for long stretches then spend well, spend once as the saying goes!

With that in mind, make sure you get yourself a lanyard to prevent them from falling off when you’re dolphin-watching – skip to our top suggestions for how to keep your sunglasses safe !

If you aren’t sure if sailing is for you yet, or you don’t plan on being out on the water very often, then we’ve included a few budget options that we got on well with when we first started sailing.

What To Look For In The Best Sunglasses For Sailing

Are Polarized Lenses Good For Sailing?

The short answer here is, yes absolutely. Polarized sunglasses are the best type of sunglasses for sailing and we would recommend against buying anything but.

Polarized lenses are vital in protecting your eyes from UVB and UVA rays that can be super damaging.

When choosing sunglasses for sailing this should be your top priority, and the great thing is that polarized sunglasses aren’t necessarily more expensive.

Asides from providing the best protection for your eyes, polarized sunglasses give sailors a hidden advantage! They are amazing at cutting through the sun flare on the water, giving you eyes on dangers lurking beneath the surface when coming in to anchor.

They honestly make such a difference to visibility under the water when you’re standing on the bow and we would never go sailing without a pair!

This isn’t to do with how stylish you look I’m afraid! The shape of the lens in the best sunglasses for sailing is important for another reason!

Flatter lenses are usually much better at preserving the contour and contrast of various objects BUT they have less resistance to glare.

Flatter lenses also typically struggle to keep out the rays reflected from the water.

If you have a choice, we would recommend going for curved sunglasses to keep your eyes protected.

We haven’t noticed a big difference in the contrast quality from pair to pair, though you may want to try both before you decide which is best for you.

What Colour Lenses Are Best For Sailing?

This isn’t all about fashion!

Just like when you go skiing you can buy goggles with interchangeable lenses for different weather, the same idea applies to sailing.

Different colour lenses provide different levels of visibility in changing weather, so if you’re serious about your sunglasses you might want to buy a few different lens colours to suit the conditions.

Most will want to opt for a pair that can cope well with all weather conditions, such as black/grey, and if you’re sailing in sunny countries then you might want to opt for blue/purple tints which are great at blocking glare.

For a more in-depth analysis, this is a really helpful guide .

Type of Material

Not only do your sailing sunglasses need to withstand being constantly battered by the sun, sea and wind but it’s also a good idea to make sure they’re shatterproof just in case you suffer any collisions with hard surfaces while out in a seaway!

The other thing you may want to consider is the fact that you might well lose a pair or two to the ocean, and if that happens it’s good to know you went with a more eco-friendly pair. We’ve listed a few for you below.

If you’ve ever been sailing, you know that it’s important to have a good pair of sunglasses. The sun can be very bright on the water, and the glare can be intense.

But it’s not just about style- sailing sunglasses need to be durable, too. They need to be able to withstand being dropped or stepped on, and they need to be able to resist salt water and wind.

After all, when you’re out on the water, the last thing you want to worry about is your sunglasses. So next time you’re looking for a new pair of shades, make sure to choose a pair that can stand up to the elements. Your eyes will thank you for it.

• Lightweight

Not all sunglasses are created equal – weight is an important factor to consider when choosing the right pair of sailing sunglasses.

Heavier sunglasses will tend to stay in place better, even when there’s a lot of movement on the boat. And since you don’t want your sunglasses slipping into the water, it’s important to choose a pair that won’t be easily dislodged.

That being said, the last thing you want is a super heavy pair of sunglasses that make using them and carrying them impractical.

So next time you’re shopping for sailing sunglasses, make sure to keep weight in mind – it could be the difference between a great day on the water and a disastrous one.

Anti-corrosion

We’ve lost many a cheap pair of sunglasses to the power of salt water and have vowed never to buy cheap again for this reason.

Let’s face it, whether you’re out on the open sea or just sailing around your local lake, the last thing you want is a pair of sunglasses that corrode easily.

Anti-corrosion helps to prolong the life of your sunglasses by preventing the frames from deteriorating. So if you’re looking for a pair of shades that will last, make sure to choose a pair with anti-corrosion protection. Most higher-end sunglasses will have this feature as standard.

Ok, ok, style shouldn’t be the main thing you look for but it’s impossible to ignore the fact you’ll want your sunglasses to suit you!

If you hate how you look in them then you’re far less likely to wear them! Buy a pair of sunglasses that you really love the look of.

Keeping Your Sailing Sunglasses!

When Adam and I first started living on board we must have lost about 5 pairs of sailing sunglasses to the sea.

Perhaps Poseiden saw them as a gift and has been kind to us because of this, but it’s far more likely he was pretty cross at us adding to the plastic in the ocean.

We felt terrible and even poorer.

Save your money and the ocean by getting yourself a lanyard to keep your sunglasses from falling into the ocean as you look overboard.

We found an added benefit is that you can store them easily around your neck when you take them off to go below. You don’t put them down for someone to sit on later, and you always have them on hand.

Sun Soul Sisters is a small business run by two sisters who design and hand-make their products and Emily’s fallen in love with the designs.

Not only are small businesses so much better for the environment, but you also won’t find anyone else out there with these unique designs! They deliver worldwide.

We particularly love the Goa rope designs made from vegan leather, which are waterproof and practical for watersports at anchor.

The Gili turquoise stone is lovely for sunset walks, and Emily’s favourite is the Langkawi shell design.

The Best 15 Sunglasses For Sailing

This is the part that you’ve been eagerly waiting for, so we’ll jump straight in.

The Best Sailing Sunglasses For Men

#1 sungod vulcans.

We’ll put out a full disclaimer here to let you know we’re thrilled to have recently become SunGod ambassadors.

BUT, we don’t make any money from you buying yourself a pair, so there really is no agenda here other than the fact we genuinely think these are the best sunglasses for sailing.

We’ve been using SunGod ski goggles for years now and absolutely love their products and company ethos, so we were (a little more than) excited when we got the opportunity to work with them and try out their sunglasses.

These sailing sunglasses are top-of-the-range. With the option of 8KO, anti-glare, and high contrast lenses for you to choose from. You design the sunglasses, with your choice of arm colour and material, lens colour, logo colour, shape, and lens type.

SunGod sunglasses are guaranteed for life. Yes, we have tested this several times! We sent back several pairs of damaged ski goggles over the years, no questions asked.

They also have a commitment to do better for the planet, making sunglasses that last and can be repaired to prevent waste, using recyclable packaging, and supporting numerous charities that help protect our Earth.

As you can tell we’re pretty crazy about them, and these are our sailing sunglasses of choice from now on. They tell their story a whole lot better than I can so go check them out and let us know what you think!

• ‍Sustainable company, lifetime guarantee
• Maximum protection from UV rays and glare
• Very durable and shock-resistant
• Can be custom designed
• ‍There is a limited choice of lens style

#2 Maui Jim Ho’okipa sailing sunglasses

Maui Jim sailing sunglasses are among the best – these are sunglasses worth paying that little extra for.

There’s a large range of different styles to choose from but we love the Ho’okipa sailing sunglasses for men.

They’re subtle but one of a kind and will go with almost any outfit. The embedded nose pads ensure ultimate comfort and the PolarizedPlus2® lenses eliminate 99.9% of glare and block 100% of harmful UV.

Plus, these Maui Jim sailing sunglasses are made from super-thin glass, providing the crispest optics available. They’re scratch and solvent resistant and made from shatter-proof polycarbonate. The blue/black lenses make them great for a range of different weather conditions.

These are a really quality pair of sunglasses but they don’t come cheap, so make sure you get yourself a sunglasses chain so you don’t lose them overboard while dolphin watching!

Buy now from West Marine

Buy now from Amazon

• Incredible optics
• Comfortable fit
• Durable and shatter-resistant
• Will suit everyone

#3 O’Neill Zepol Sailing Sunglasses

O’Neill sailing sunglasses are a great mid-range option. They have a fantastic reputation for making quality sporting products designed for harsh outdoor environments.

All O’Neill polarized lenses are made of polycarbonate, an ultra-durable, ultra-lightweight, impact-resistant material, and offer optimal polarization and visual clarity.

We love the fact that polycarbonate is a sustainable material with a minimal impact on the environment, being fully recyclable at the end of its life.

The Zepol sunglasses wrap around for full eye protection when sailing.

• Ultra-durable
• Available in wrap-around for maximum protection
• Some people find the fit a little tight

#4 Knockaround – Best Budget

If you’re looking for a budget option then these sunglasses for sailing are a great choice. They’re designed for outdoor use and are rugged and polarised, yet affordable!

They come in a range of different styles and lens tints so you find just the right pair for your needs.

• A range of lens tint options
• Not as long lasting as others on this list

#5 Calcutta

For another great affordable choice check out Calcutta’s range of sunglasses , just make sure you opt for one of their polarized options.

These Caymen sunglasses are perfect for all weather conditions with their blue-tinted lenses, and we love the look too! These sunglasses are also super lightweight so they’re a great option for long days onboard.

#6 Pelagic Sailing Sunglasses

Pelagic have really thought their sunglasses through and designed them perfectly for life on the water.

With features such as a hydrophobic coating applied to the lens to resist rain, dirt and dust, and oleophobic coating to repel sweat, sunscreen and skin oils these sunglasses will stay cleaner for longer.

They have a rugged design and are made for a life outside. They are designed to protect you from harmful rays and glare and have some really interesting extra features that enable this, alongside the polarized lenses.

#7 Sunski Polarized Sailing Sunglasses

We really like the simple, stylish look of these sunglasses , and obviously the fact they’re designed for outdoor use and polarized for the best eye protection possible!

If you’re looking for something simple that works then go for these sunglasses for sailing and you won’t be disappointed!

You should note however that some users have found they don’t fit very well. We think the price bracket probably makes up for this but you should be aware before you buy!

#8 Oakley Sunglasses

Oakley is well known for making quality outdoor products and their sunglasses are no exception. The dark lenses on this pair make them a great choice for all weather conditions, and the wrap-around arms mean maximum protection from harmful rays and glare.

Our favourites have to be the Holbrook Oakleys though, as they come in a wide range of styles with a choice of lens for all weather conditions.

The lenses are treated with an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare, and the frames are made from durable, lightweight materials that won’t slip or slide when you’re sweating.

With Oakley sunglasses, you’ll be able to stay focused on your sailing goals and enjoy the experience of being out on the open water.

• High-quality polarized lenses
• Maximum protection from glare and UV
• Available in a wide range of colors and frames
• Durable and lightweight
• ‍The frames feel a little less sturdy than others

#9 Costa Sailing Sunglasses

If you’re looking for quality sailing sunglasses made with the environment in mind then the Tasman Sea sunglasses from Costa are a great choice.

This bio-based resin offers a 70% reduction in emissions over petroleum-based resin, helping to reduce the overall carbon footprint.

They are, of course, 100% polarized, scratch-resistant, and ensure reflective glare and eye strain is minimized or eliminated altogether. The blue mirrored lenses are the way to go for offshore use with bright, full sun on open reflective water.

These sunglasses are on the pricier side but come with a lifetime warranty, so if you’re looking for sunglasses for life then these are the pair for you!

The Best Sailing Sunglasses For Women

#10 hananpa’a sunglasses.

Maui Jim sunglasses are a great way to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and glare, while still providing crisp vision.

They come with an embedded nose pad that ensures ultimate comfort all day long. These sailing glasses also feature super thin glass for improved clarity, as well as scratch-resistant polycarbonate material making them resistant against scratches which would otherwise leave stains.

Maui Jim provides high-quality products, but you will pay for the quality, so make sure you look after them out on the water!

#11 Women’s Oceanside Polarized Sunglasses

The O’Neill line of sunglasses is a perfect choice for any occasion, with designs that will suit your personal style.

These frames are flattering for most, with their simple style, and they provide excellent protection from harmful UV rays while offering superior clarity.

These sunglasses provide weightless comfort thanks to their durable material construction which features 100% recycled polycarbonate materials (which also makes them eco-friendly- yes please!)

#12 Deja View Women’s Sailing Sunglasses

Looking for a way to spice up your look? These fashionable frames have the statement silhouette of oversized sunglasses without taking things too far. With contoured tops and full coverage lenses, these shades will add some elegance while also making you stand out in any crowd (if there’s anyone around to see you in the middle of the ocean!)

These are the perfect option for low-light sunglasses, so if you’re sailing in areas that aren’t known for their sunshine then these are the sunglasses for you!

#13 The Isla

The Isla is a women’s specific frame combining performance with elegance featuring a proprietary XP-700™ Polarized Lens System.

It offers the latest optical technologies to create an ultimate visual advantage both on and off water. The design of this frames fits many facial types making it perfect for all face types, so it’s perfect if you can’t decide which style you prefer.

#14 SunGod Sierras

We’ve already raved about SunGod as a brand above, so go give it a read if you’re interested.

If not, go check out what the company themselves has to say, they say it much better than us! And while you’re at it, give the Sierra’s a once over. They’re Emily’s favourites. Now customise them to suit your style!

Buy now from SunGod

#15 Prescription Sunglasses For Sailing

Adam wears contact lenses some of the time, but they aren’t all that practical for sailing. He runs out when we’re on remote islands, or the wind and sea salt dry out his eyes and make them impossible to wear.

For this reason, he bought a really decent pair of prescription sunglasses for sailing that he can wear instead of his contacts and still protect his eyes!

Diff eyewear has a fantastic range of prescription sunglasses, but that isn’t the only thing we love about them!

Diff has partnered with Sightsavers to provide charitable glasses, testing, and more to people in need all over the world. They’re a great choice for anyone in need of prescription sunglasses for sailing.

So there you have it! Our top picks of the best sunglasses for sailing. If you’re looking for more advice on top sailing gear then check out our guide on essential sailing gear .

Hopefully this has helped you choose the perfect pair for you – do let us know what you went for in the comments below and shout if there’s any you think we’ve missed!

If you found this article helpful then please do follow us on the social media channels below for more sailing and travel posts, and feel free to share, it really helps us out. Thank you!

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• Search Search Hi! We’re Emily, Adam and Tiny Cat, liveaboard sailors travelling the world on our 38ft sailboat and writing about it as we go. We hope we can inspire you to live the life you’ve always dreamed, whether that’s exploring the world or living a more simple way of life in a tiny home. Find out more. Patreon
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Best boating sunglasses: Eliminate the glare and elevate your style

Quality sunglasses are an essential investment in protecting your vision on the water. Here’s how to find the best sunglasses for your boating lifestyle.

Sunglasses are often viewed as primarily a fashion statement, but to find the best boating sunglasses, you should consider vision health, safety, and sharpness as much as style.

There are a few critical options to think about when it comes to protecting your eyesight at sea. These include lens tint, coating, and materials, which in turn affect light transmission, ultraviolet protection, and impact resistance.

In other words, the frame style is less important than performance, except for boaters and anglers who may want wraparound sunglasses to minimize light leaks at the temples and heighten visual acuity.

New to boating sunglasses? Read our explanation of what to look for

Looking for gifting inspiration? Check out our guide to the best Christmas gifts for boaters

Recommended videos for you

8 of the best boating sunglasses on the market, costa del mar 580p/g fathom.

Best boating sunglasses for general use

The Fathom is a stalwart of the Costa Del Mar line. Incorporating Costa’s proprietary 580 lens technology, it is available either in polycarbonate or glass (580P or 580G).

The Fathom features an oval to slightly cat-eye shape with frame vents that prevent fogging and a scratch-resistant lens coating.

This is a medium-sized frame that looks good on just about anyone, although it is less well-suited to a narrow or large head shape. There are men’s and women’s versions.

The Fathom is available in blue or green tints with a VLT rating of about 10%, which makes it ideal for bright conditions, such as boating.

Reasons to buy

• A time-tested design suitable for any activity. • Lightweight and rugged frames. • Reasonably priced high-end sunglasses. • Low VLT rating (10%) to block light and reduce glare.

Reasons to avoid

• Frame style may be too tight for wide faces. • The glass lens version is slightly heavier than polycarbonate.

RRP: £135/$177

Buy from Amazon

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Smith optics guide’s choice.

Best boating sunglasses for blue water

Offshore boating demands reliable kit, and the Smith Optics Guide’s Choice brings best-in-class performance to the task.

The glass lens is super vivid and incorporates Smith’s ChromaPop technology, which means it separates primary colours (red, blue, green) for better definition.

It is available in a wide array of lens colours, but offshore conditions often call for a blue or green tint. For extra protection, mirrored coatings are beneficial on the brightest days.

Padded nose and temple components mean all-day comfort, and spring hinges adjust to a variety of face shapes.

In eyewear, base curve is a measurement of frame curvature. The Guide’s Choice has an 8-base curve, which is to say it offers a medium wraparound contour for a snug, light-blocking fit.

• Available in an extra-large frame. • There is a bifocal lens option. • Heavy-duty sunglasses.

• High-end shades with a high-end price. • The wraparound frame does not fit a narrow face well.

RRP: £151/$199

Buy from Amazon (US)

Buy from Amazon (UK)

Peppers Cutthroat Polarized Sport Sunglasses

Best boating sunglasses on a budget

A pair of sunglasses that retail for less than $50/£40 might not be your primary shades, yet it is always wise to keep an affordable backup pair in the console.

Sure, the Peppers Cutthroat lens is plastic, but it is polarized and reportedly very scratch resistant.

The lens features a UV-protection coating, and the large, wraparound frame blocks wind and prevents light leaks at the temples.

The Cutthroat is available in several lens tints and frame colors and is best suited to a large face shape. Most importantly, they float!

• Very affordably priced sunglasses. • Floating foam insets make them buoyant (if not unsinkable). • Full UV protection. • Comes with a hard-sided case and lanyard.

• Visual acuity is not on par with high-end sunglasses. • Less suitable for a narrow face.

RRP: £30/$39

Costa Del Mar Tuna Alley

Best boating sunglasses for anglers

Offshore anglers need their sunglasses to do one thing especially well — reduce glare. Whether you are pulling baits offshore or casting plugs in the bay, you need a lens that will enhance contrast and penetrate the water.

The Tuna Alley is Costa’s most advanced product, featuring a 580 glass lens for ultimate clarity and performance.

The rectangular frame offers more coverage than a rounded lens, and the temples are extra wide to block out ambient light.

Like the popular Fathom, the Tuna Alley also incorporates a series of vents to reduce fogging. It is available in multiple lens tints and frame finishes.

• A solid build that will stand up to offshore boating and fishing. • Wide lenses offer excellent coverage. • Lightweight despite their overbuilt quality. • Available with either glass or polycarbonate lens.

• May appear too bulky for a smaller face shape. • The glass lens versions are very pricey.

RRP: £142/$187

Buy from Cabela’s

Maui Jim Ho’okipa

Best boating sunglasses with lightweight frames

Although most boating sunglasses sport a frame with wide temples to block light, rimless shades are a good choice for someone looking for lightweight versatility at sea as well as on land.

Maui Jim’s Ho’okipa thin nylon frames reduce weight without sacrificing durability.

The polycarbonate lens is shatterproof with a VLT rating of 20%. Consequently, the Ho’okipa’s moderate light-transmission property makes for a good all-around lens.

While the Ho’okipa is available in multiple lens colors, the manufacturer’s Blue Hawaii tint is a great choice for boaters, especially in saltwater.

• Lightweight frames reduce fatigue. • A moderate wraparound style offers good eye protection. • Rubberized nose pads for comfort. • Unisex frames are suitable for men or women.

• More delicate than full-frame sunglasses. • Fairly expensive.

RRP: £152/$199

Buy from REI

Buy from West Marine

Shop on Amazon (US)

Smith Redding Low-Light Ignitor

Best boating sunglasses for low light

The most popular lens tints of blue, gray, brown and bronze work great in most conditions, but in low light you need a specialty lens that provides greater contrast and depth perception.

This usually means amber, rose, yellow, or even copper to provide greater definition at twilight and in overcast or foggy conditions.

Look for a high VLT rating that allows the maximum visible light through the lens while still affording protection. A VLT of 25% to 35% will get the job done.

Good low-light lenses also offer eye protection in conditions where you might otherwise not opt to wear sunglasses, such as early morning boating or fishing.

• A lightweight and durable frame. • Glass lens for ultimate clarity. • Available in prescription lenses.

• A specialty lens that is not optimal in bright conditions. • Expensive for a pair of single-purpose sunglasses.

RRP: £110/$140

Smith Parallel Max 2

Best boating sunglasses with interchangeable lenses

Staying on the water for extended periods ensures that you will encounter variable conditions, and interchangeable lenses make it possible to quickly adapt to shifting light.

While not as convenient as photochromic lenses that automatically darken or lighten in response to brightness, interchangeable lenses are fixed tints that you manually swap out.

The advantage is that you are not limited to one color range, and as a result, you can have as many lens tints as you are willing to invest in. That is a great option when you know a certain day is going to be predominately overcast and the next mostly sunny, or vice versa.

Interchangeable lenses also offer cross-functionality between boating and other outdoor activities, from biking and golf to tennis or trap shooting.

• Ability to swap lenses from one day to the next. • Lightweight rimless frames. • Smith’s Ignitor lens is excellent in low light. • Medium to large frame style fits most face shapes.

• Replacement lenses are $30 to $60. • Interchangeable lenses can loosen in their frame over time.

RRP: £114/$149

Ray Ban Original Wayfarer Classics

Best boating sunglasses for stylish seafarers

There is hardly a more timeless frame style than the Ray-Ban Wayfarer, which has been a worldwide hit since it was introduced in the early 1950s.

Yet that fashion-forward look is also perfectly suitable for watersports . Wide temple arms and large frames provide excellent sun protection and light blockage, while the glass lens offers exceptional clarity.

The frame comes in either a black or tortoiseshell finish, with multiple lens colors. It is also available in non-polarized versions or with mirrored coatings for extra glare reduction.

The Wayfarer is a unisex frame, which means it is available in various lens widths for both men and women.

• A classic fashion frame that is also suitable for boating. • Generous lens coverage in multiple sizes. • 100% UV protection. • Glass lens for heightened visual acuity.

• Not really a sport frame (but who cares, right?). • Beware of counterfeits. Most genuine Ray-Bans are made in Italy.

RRP: £124/$16

Buy it now on Amazon

Buy it now on Cabela’s

Buy it now on Ray-ban.com

What to look for in the best boating sunglasses

Overall, lens color is the first practical consideration. A dark lens (gray, brown, blue) is better for bright days, and a light-coloured lens (amber, rose, gold, yellow) is more suitable for low-light conditions, such as fog or twilight.

Gray lenses significantly reduce glare, so they are a good all-purpose choice suited to bright inshore or freshwater conditions. Boaters headed offshore, on the other hand, usually prefer a blue or green tint.

Lenses with a mirrored coating provide additional protection from bright sunlight, and other coating options may include UV protection and scratch resistance.

A frame with interchangeable lenses offers the greatest versatility, but it can be cumbersome to keep up with spare lenses.

Photochromic sunglasses change tint with brightness, which means they spare you the hassle of swapping lenses.

Quality sunglasses are essential for a day on the water. Photo: Alamy

As for lens material, glass provides superior clarity but less impact protection. Synthetic lenses, such as polycarbonate, offer a balance between sharpness and safety.

There are two common lens designations to look for. Firstly, consider the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) rating, which defines the percentage of visible light that can pass through a lens.

VLT numbers below about 20% are best for bright light, while higher numbers allow more light for overcast conditions.

Secondly, any pair of sunglasses worth owning should have a UV protection rating of 99% to 100%.

Fully polarized lenses are the norm for boating use, except in cases where they could interfere with polarized LCDs or instrument screens. The two polarizing surfaces can cancel each other out, making screens appear dark.

What are polarized lenses and how do they work?

The majority of modern sunglasses are polarized, but what exactly does that mean? In simplest terms, a polarized lens filters out light waves that are oriented in a given plane or polar axis.

Think of the snow-blinded explorer cutting narrow slits in a scrap of cardboard or patch of duct tape to fashion a pair of survival sunglasses. His makeshift eyewear has the same general effect as a polarized lens.

This is because, in their original state, light waves are chaotic and multidimensional. But when reflected off of a flat surface, such as a snowfield or the water’s surface, the waves can organize into a unified plane or axis.

Polarizing filters (and narrow slits) block rays that are not oriented parallel to their own axis. Like trying to push a key into a keyhole sideways, it’s a no-go. The result is reduced glare and eyestrain.

Despite their advantages, polarized lenses are not always preferable as boating sunglasses. LCD screens and even tinted windows can have their own polarization that effectively blocks all light when also viewed through a pair of polarized sunglasses. But for everyday protection out on the water, polarized lenses are the way to go.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.

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Best Sunglasses for Sailing – Top Eyes Protection!

It is important to wear sunglasses in the sun to protect the eyes from UV radiation and glare. However, by not wearing the right sunglasses, you may irritate and fatigue your eyes which can cause headaches and visual discomfort, especially on a boat. Why, in particular, on a boat? Well, simply because the sunlight is much more dazzling on the water’s surface than on land. To keep your eyes healthy, you need a good pair of polarized sunglasses to protect them from damaging UV rays. Sunglasses are not only designed to preserve the eyes but also to give a great stylish look!

Without further ado, let’s combine quality, protection, and beauty with the 13 best sunglasses for sailing in 2023

Post Updated: 18 January 2023

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Thanks.”

Table of Contents

1. Costa Del Mar Fantail Sunglasses

Costa Del Mar sunglasses will blow you away. The only thing you may regret after buying this pair of glasses is that you didn’t get them earlier. These are available with plastic or glass lenses. Glass is much more durable, clearer, and heavier than plastic lenses. Also, glass provides a better view, and it is scratch-proof, but if you want a pair for everyday recreational use, then the plastic lenses will be a good option. Costa Del Mar sunglasses are top-quality shade and clarity.

Average Rank: 4.7 out of 10

• Cheaper online than at a local retailer
• Top-notch clarity
• Easy to clean
• Excellent against the glare
• They fit great
• Give good depth
• They are polarized
• Block the light from getting in from the side
• Good looking sunglasses
• Lenses glass is heavier than plastic.
• Plastic lenses do not transmit light as well as glass lenses

2. Oakley Men’s Gascan Rectangular Sunglasses

If you want to stay fashionable and protect your eyes as well, then look no further than the Oakley Holbrook sunglasses. Whether it is to wear good-looking outfits or sporting clothing, these sunglasses will definitely give you a great stylish look. The Holbrook is available in hundreds of different options and customizations, allowing you to wear them with any outfit. These sunglasses boast a rectangular frame which adds an impressive appearance to any round face shape. Oakley sunglasses are lightweight, durable, and provide fantastic visual clarity. These pairs of sunglasses will add a touch of color to your everyday life!

Average Rank: 4.4 out of  5

• Polarized lens keeps the glare down
• Lightweight
• Extremely comfortable and durable
• High quality
• Comes with warranty documents and numbers to register them on Oakley’s website.
• A wide variety of lens colors
• Holbrook sunglasses were made with men in mind, but women can surely wear them as well.
• The lenses can scratch easily, so you need to be careful and keep them well.

3. Costa Del Mar Men’s Rincon 

It’s hard not to love the coastal Del Mar sunglasses because their quality is incomparable.

Whether fishing, boating, driving, hiking or any outdoor activity, you can count on the Rincon to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays while seeing clearly wherever you go and looking stylish!

These sunglasses are available in 580 G, glass, and 580p plastic. Both are great, but there are plusses and minuses in each model. For example, the 580G is scratch-proof, while the 580P is scratch-resistant but not 100% scratch-proof.

However, the 580 G is constructed with Costa’s lightwave technology offering superior clarity. The lenses are 22% lighter and 20% thinner than most polarized sunglasses on the market. The plastic and the glass lens are 100% polarized and provide 100% protection against glare and UV

The blue lens is specially designed for harsh sun conditions and gives the highest protection when out on reflective water. So if you go boating or fishing, the blue lens will be your best bet.

The frame is made of cool injected TR_90 nylon using a friendly bio-resin process. This material resists heat and cold, making these sunglasses super durable. In addition, the arms have some flexes, which adapt to all types of face shapes. Also, a piece of rubber between the nose and the ears adds extra comfort and prevents them from slipping when you bend over.

Another great thing about these sunglasses is that they come with a case to store them inside and a cleaning towel. The Ricon is an excellent pair of sunglasses for the price. They are lightweight, fit great, have a nice look, and, most importantly, protect your eyes.

• excellent clarity
• 100% polarized
• comfortable
• high quality
• provide 100% UV protection
• A few people said that the frame feels cheap
• Several users reported the lenses were big

4.WindRider UV-Protected Polarized Sunglasses

This is another great pair of sunglasses that offer excellent protection against harmful UV rays. These not only block glares exceptionally well, but they also look stylish, and on top of that, they are durable and comfortable. WindRider is one of the best brands that produce polarized sunglasses, so you can count on them to give you superb clarity.

These sunglasses have all the features needed to make any sailor and angler happy. They weigh only 4 ounces, which is extremely lightweight, making them super comfortable to wear for long hours.

Additionally, the lenses feature a hydrophobic coating and oil-repellent to allow the lenses to stay clean without fingerprints.

The frame on these sunglasses is adjustable and stays stable on the head, allowing you to move around without worrying about losing them. Windrider offers a lifetime warranty on these sunglasses, and if something breaks, you can count on this brand to repair or replace them. Another cool thing about the Windrider sunglasses is that they float on water.

These will give you peace of mind; if they fall overboard, they’ll float on the surface of the water. These come with a nice zippered case and microfiber lens cloth, and they are reasonably priced. These are the types of sunglasses that you can use for boating, fishing, and any watersport, even for driving.

 Average Rank: 4.6 out of 5

• Great polarization
• Prevent fogging
• Float on the water
• Adjustable frame
• Lifetime warranty
• A few users found the arm pieces a little tight on the sides of the head.

5. Kaenon Men’s Burnet Polarized Rectangular Sunglasses

Kaenon was founded by two brothers in 2001 who were disappointed with the sunglasses they found on the market and decided to create something beyond that of better quality. Kaenon sunglasses were made in Italy and designed with both men and women in mind. Kaenon never compromises on quality, which is why they have built such a good reputation on the market. These sunglasses are easy to wear and fit every type of face shape, providing incredible contrast and clarity thanks to their top-notch polarized lenses, hydrophobic “water-repellant,” and anti-glare film. Not to mention, they look beautiful!

 Average Rank: 4.3 out of 5

• Remarkably high-quality sunglasses
• Suits well all types of face shapes
• They sit comfortably on the face
• Excellent and strong construction
• lightweight
• Fantastic polarization for extended use
• Comfortable
• Water repellent
• They are a bit delicate, and the lenses may scratch easily. You need to be careful with them.
• They are pricey but worth every penny

6. Maui Jim Rimless Frame Polarized Lenses

With Maui Jim sunglasses, you’ll see clearer than you ever did before, thanks to its patent PolarizedPlus 2 sunglasses and its multi-layered lenses featuring three unique earth elements that provide higher transmission of the colors. Maui Jim offers about 125 different styles of sunglasses, and without exception, all of them are 100 percent polarized.

• Awesome polarization
• Very comfortable
• Great looking sunglasses
• High-quality product
• Beautiful colors
• Flexible frame
• Very clear lenses
• The frame is very flexible. This may be a disadvantage for some people and an advantage for others.
• The lenses are vulnerable to scratches, need to keep them well!

7 . Hobie Woody Readers Sunglasses

If you are looking for high-quality sunglasses at a relatively low price, then the Hobie is a perfect choice for you. Hobie sunglasses feature top-notch quality polarized lenses providing 100% protection from UVA UVB UVC rays giving you incredible visual clarity. Hobie Polarized lenses are resistant, lightweight, and repel water and oil. The frame is made of TR-90 Grilamid, which is well known for being a strong, lightweight, and durable material. To be honest, it is uncommon to find sunglasses of such high quality at such a good price!

Average Rank: 4.4 out of 5

• Extremely comfortable
• Polarized lenses
• High-quality sunglasses
• Some people may find it annoying to see the Hobie on the right side of the sunglasses.
• They may be smaller than other sunglasses brands.

8. Bolle Python Sunglasses

Founded in France in 1888, Bolle has been making high-quality and stylish sunglasses for over 130 years. Bolle specializes in a wide variety of sporting eyewear. Whether it’s skiing, cycling, or sailing, Bolle is making the perfect eyewear for that activity.

The Bolle Python is the perfect example of Bolle’s attention to detail in making the ideal sporting sunglasses. From the lenses to the frames, these sunglasses, in particular, are designed for sailing.

The lenses offer HD polarized lenses for super clarity. The HD lenses are also treated with a hydrophobic coating to prevent anything from latching onto the outside of the lenses. This coating is ideal for sailing, as it will keep your vision unobstructed while you cut through the water.

In addition to the hydrophobic coating, the lenses are also treated with an exceptional, industry-leading anti-fog coating. Bolle’s anti-fog coating gives their glasses a permanent resistance to fog, as well as scratches and chemicals. This coating is also applied directly to the lenses, which means it will last as long as the glasses and not chip off like some cheaper options that spray or dip their lenses.

The frames are also equipped with Thermogrip technology. The Thermogrip material is located at the temple tips, nose pads, and nose pieces. This material helps the frames maintain their grip on the face, no matter how wet the sunglasses or your face gets. Thus, making them perfect for water sports as they eliminate glasses slipping off the face when wet.

Average Rank: 4.3 out of 5

• The HD lenses with hydrophobic coating and anti-fog coating ensure your vision is kept clear during sporting activities like sailing.
• People who bought this product were thrilled with how durable the sunglasses were for their price point.
• Some buyers have mentioned that the glasses wear large on the face, especially on people with smaller head sizes.
• The size and features also add to the weight of the sunglasses, coming in at four ounces.

9. HUK Eyewear Full Frame Sunglasses

If you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on a pair of Costa del Mar sunglasses, the Huk is a fantastic option. You may not even want to buy a pair of Costa or any other brand after wearing them. They are lightweight, comfortable, and make everything so clear. With them, you’ll be able to spot your fish from afar quickly in the water. However, don’t compare them to Costa Del Mar in terms of quality, but they are great considering the price.

They have Premium Polarized polycarbonate lenses, which are made by injection molding. Polycarbonate provides 100% UV protection and excellent Clarity of vision as it blocks glare exceptionally well. They also resist impact and are more durable than standard plastic or glass, making them ideal for any outdoor trip. The lenses are large and wrap the eyes perfectly, enhancing protection. The Huk comes in four different color lenses – gray, brown, green, and blue to suit any type of activity.

The frame is made with Injected TR90, a lightweight, flexible, and durable thermoplastic material. Since this material is flexible, It can bend easily and conform to the face’s shape, making it extremely comfortable to wear all day long. Each end of the earpiece features a non-slip rubber to ensure the sunglasses stay stable on your head. And the best part? They come with a protective microfiber bag to store and protect your sunglasses. 

Average Rank: 4.6 out of 5

• Comfortable to wear for long hours in the Sun. 
• Provide excellent Clarity of vision 
• Extremely lightweight 
• Great for the price 
• Some reviewers complained that the rubber on the arms came off after A few months of use.
• A few customers said they don’t block the glare on the sides.

10. REKS Unbreakable Wrap Around

REKS decided to take on a challenge, produce high-quality sunglasses that are as close to indestructible as possible and reasonably priced. The result is sunglasses that are ideal for sporting activities.

The lenses are made of a special shatter-resistant material that is a whopping 10 times more shatter-resistant than typical glass or plastic.

The lenses are also treated with a hydrophobic coating to keep water off the lenses while sailing or enjoying water sports.

The lenses are also treated with an anti-reflective coating on the back to reduce glare from light that comes in from behind the wearer’s head. Meanwhile, the anti-scratch coating acts to extend the life of the lenses by keeping micro scratches from forming and obstructing your vision.

Average Rank: 4.2 out of 5

• Protection from the sun, the lenses are polarized and offer 100% UV 400 protection.
• Incredible durability for the price and excellent water resistance make it ideal for sailing.
• Some buyers have noticed that fog forms on the lenses when exposed to certain conditions.

11. Bnus Italy-Made Classic Sunglasses

Bnus is a leader in fashion-forward sunglasses that double as feature-packed sports sunglasses. And the Bnus Italy-made classic sunglass with Corning real glass and the polarized lens is the perfect example of how they do this.

The Corning glass lens provided maximum clarity. The 100% polarized lenses reduce glare and eye strain down to nothing. In addition to glare reduction, the Bnus Truecolor polarized lenses also reveal natural colors in the environment by improving red, green, and yellow contrast by 75%, revealing an eye-popping vision.

The nylon frames offer further style and comfort. The nylon conforms to the face comfortably so that one does not have to worry about their sunglasses shooting off while sailing, fishing, or walking about town. The nylon material is also very durable, furthering this sunglasses’ reputation as being both stylish and sporty.

Average Rank: 4.5 out of 5

• Durable seawater-resistant lenses make these sunglasses ideal for sailing.
• Many of Bnus models come in multiple size options to ensure you get the perfect size glasses for your face.
• Polarized lenses help enhance vision in addition to blocking the sun.
• Some buyers have noticed that the lenses scratch easily when compared to sunglasses that have been treated with anti-scratch coatings. Careful care can help prevent this.

12. Coyote Eyewear Polarized Reader Sunglasses

The perfect sunglasses for those who wish to sail and fish without needing to grab a pair of readers to read or tie knots. These sunglasses offer a unique added feature that allows sailing lovers not to have to swap between sunglasses and reading glasses while on the water.

A unique feature of these sunglasses is the bifocal built into the sunglasses themselves. The bifocal is integrated into the back of the sunglasses so that it is totally unnoticeable. The bifocal comes in +1.50, +2.00, and +2.50 strengths so that you get the right strength bifocal in your sunglasses. The impact-resistant copper lenses also offer excellent light contrast for enhanced all-around vision as well.

• Multiple bifocal options ensure the right strength in every pair of sunglasses.
• The scratch-resistant coating helps keep the lenses clear and usable.
• These glasses offer a great feature with the bifocal; however, this can be a con if you are someone who does not need that for their feature for their close-up vision.
• They can also be a bit more fragile than other options, so some previous buyers recommend handling them carefully.

13. Ray-Ban Rectangular Sunglasses

Ray-Ban is one of the most iconic brands in the world, and its sunglasses have a well-deserved reputation for quality and a loyal following of customers who rely on the brand’s high quality. From their ground-breaking Aviator to their instantly recognizable Wayfarer, there is a style of Ray-Ban for everyone, including the sailor.

The RB4075 is equipped with polarized lenses that eliminate glares while enhancing clarity and contrast. Creating an excellent clear vision that will easily cancel out the sun as it reflects off the water. The lenses are also made with high-contrast pigments that enhance natural colors.

The lenses also have a hydrophobic coating that helps keep water from forming on them, another excellent feature for those who will use these sunglasses on the water. The durable frame is also wide enough to not interfere with your peripheral vision. These features make the RB4075 a favorite for sailing.

• Top-notch polarized lenses from an industry-leading company.
• Large field of vision.
• Durable and trustworthy design that will have a long lifespan, even if not properly cared for.
• Some buyers may be hesitant to take sunglasses at this price point out on the water.
• Some buyers have noticed that fog may form under certain conditions.

Buying Guide

How polarized sunglasses work.

Polarized sunglasses have a chemical film embedded in the lenses, which is what makes them polarized. This film blocks the light that reflects off flat surfaces such as water, snow, sand, and metal. In short, polarized sunglasses act as a filter for what reflects directly into your eyes. Now there are two types of light, vertical and horizontal light, and the role of polarized sunglasses is to block the horizontal light and allow the vertical light to pass through to prevent glares from blinding you.

Sunglass Lens Materials

The material used to make the lenses will affect their Clarity, weight, durability, and cost. Here is what you need to know.

Glass offers top-notch Vision clarity and top-notch scratch resistance. However, the downside with glasses is that it’s heavier than plastic and more expensive. 

Polyurethane Provides excellent Clarity And superior impact resistance. It’s lightweight and flexible, but quite expensive, too.

Polycarbonate Has a high level of impact resistance and outstanding visual clarity. The problem with this material is that it’s not scratch-proof, but it’s lightweight, not bulky, and affordable.

Acrylic  is a cheap alternative to polycarbonate, but it’s less durable and often creates distorted images.

Sunglass Lens Coatings

Sunglasses made with several layers of coating are likely to be more expensive. These layers can include

• An anti-scratch coating to increase the lenses’ longevity,  
• A hydrophobic coating to repel water drops
• An anti-fog coating prevents the lens’s surface from frogging.
• Flash or mirrored coating is a reflective film placed on the sunglasses lenses’ outer surfaces to block the lenses’ glare. Mirrored coating often makes the reflected images appear darker than they are. That’s why companies use lighter tint to make things seem a little brighter.

  Sunglass Lens Features

Photochromic lenses:  Photochromic lenses adapt to changes in light conditions. The lenses get darker when exposed to UV light and get brighter in low-light conditions. Be aware that the photochromic lenses won’t transition inside a car as windshields block the UV rays.

Interchangeable lenses:  Many sunglasses today come with removable lenses of various colors, allowing you to adapt your eye protection to all sorts of activities.

Polarized lenses:  Polarized lenses reduce glare exceptionally well. If you do water sports activities or spend a lot of time in the sun, polarized lenses will protect your eyes.

Sometimes, polarized lenses don’t work well with the tints on windshields. If your windshield has a polarizing filter, and you wear polarized sunglasses, too much light will get filtered, and it will automatically create blind spots, which reduce visibility. So, before using your polarized sunglasses inside the car, ensure your windshield doesn’t have any polarizing filter. You can check this by holding your sunglasses 90 degrees away from your face. If you see clearly and nothing is getting dark, this means your windshield is not polarized.

Visible Light Transmission

The visible light transmission, also called visible light transmittance or VLT%, Is the amount of light that passes through the lens. This visible light transmission is evaluated in percentage, determining the lenses’ thickness and color, the coating they feature, and the material they are constructed with. Know that the lower the amount of %VLT, the darker the lens tint will be. The darker lenses will block more glare, while the lighter ones will allow more light to pass through the lens. When buying a pair of sunglasses, make sure to check the VLT %

• 0-19% VLT: This is ideal for bright and sunny conditions
• 20-40% VLT: Excellent for all usage
• 40+% VLT: Great for cloudy days and low light conditions.
• 80-90+% VLT: Virtually clear lenses for very dim and night conditions.

Sunglass Lens Colors (Tints)

The lens color plays a significant role in how your eyes are protected from UV and how well you see contrast and colors.

For instance, dark lens colors like green, brown, and gray are excellent for outdoor activities. As I mentioned above, the darker tint lenses block the glare, reducing eye fatigue in bright conditions. The gray and green lenses provide excellent clarity. On the other hand, the brown lens can cause some small distortion.

Light lens colors like rose, yellow, gold, and amber perform best in low-light conditions. These color lenses are excellent for snow sports such as snowboarding and skiing. They make things appear brighter, enhance visibility in flat light conditions,s and provide outstanding depth perception.

Sunglass Frame Materials

The frame is as important as the lenses; it needs to be comfortable, sturdy, and stable so that you can enjoy your activities without worrying about your sunglasses falling or breaking apart.

Nylon:  This material is lightweight, affordable, and more durable than metal frames. Some nylon sunglasses are built to withstand high-impact Sports, but they usually can’t be adjusted unless they feature an inner adjustable wire core.

Metal is heavier, more expensive, and more prone to breaking, thus not ideal for high-impact sports. Metal frames are made of stainless steel, aluminum, or titanium. Stainless steel and titanium resist more rust and corrosion and are more robust than aluminum. On the other hand, aluminum is lighter, making it more comfortable to wear. Know that If you leave metal in the sun, it can get very hot. Metal adapts easily to the face and doesn’t obstruct the field of vision.

Castor-based polymer frames are lighweight, durable, and made of non-petroleum-based material extracted from castor plants.

Acetate frames are made with a variation of plastic and are usually constructed on high-quality glasses. They offer a wide variety of colors but aren’t very flexible and aren’t designed for high-impact sports.

My Final Words

Whether for fishing, boating, or everyday use, you need a good pair of sunglasses or even two, in case you lose one pair. The sunglasses you see are top-rated on the market. So you can’t go wrong. Of course, you’ll find pluses and minuses in each of them, so it will all boil down to your personal preferences. However, no matter what you select, one thing is for sure. All of them will protect your eyes 100% from the sun.

More Reviews

• Choosing polarized sunglasses
• Nautical Gifts for Boating
• Waterproof Duffel Bags

Do you know other great pairs of sunglasses that are not listed in the article? If so, feel free to share it in the comments below.

AMAZON AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

Cruising Sea is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

26 thoughts on “Best Sunglasses for Sailing – Top Eyes Protection!”

Hello Deniella, I read you article and I have to say I loved your writing style. Also it is good to read both pros and cons about sunglasses before we buy them. You know it’s actually a good thing to know pros and cons about any product we are interested in because we all know nothing is 100% perfect. I personally liked Kaenon sunglasses but it is bit of my price range. My second best is Maui Jim sunglasses. Glad to read your article Deniella and I wish you good luck with everything you do in future. 🙂

Thank you for your kind comment, I really appreciate! It is always great to read compliments:)

Yes, it is critical to know the Pros and the Cons when buying an item, it helps us to decide whether to buy or not the product. You have good taste:) The Kaenon and the Maui are fantastic sunglasses. You are right, they are pricey, but they are worth the price! What’s the point to invest in a cheap pair of sunglasses and then a few months later they break out. What you do is throwing money out of the window! I prefer to pay a higher price no matter the product and be sure it will last for a long time.

Thank you again for the comment and wish you a lovely day!

Very interesting post! I work outside in the summer and spend a lot of time on my local lake rarely wearing sunglasses, I will have to reconsider as now I know the dangers of the sun on the human eyes. I currently have RayBan clubmasters. I know these are more of a fashion pair of glasses but they keep the sun out my eyes nicely. What is your take on Rayban?

It depends on what matter the most to you. Ray-Ban sunglasses are more fashion led while the Oakley are more sport focused. Ray-Ban and Oakley brands, both are owned by the same company.

Which one is the best? Again, this will depend on your personal preference!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a fantastic day!

Thank you for pointing out these options. I am regularly getting headaches and pains in my eyes from the sun and the glare can be so strong that it completely blinds you. I had a set of oakley glasses before but the kids broke them so I have been looking around trying to find a really good pair at a decent enough price under $100. Which ones are the most robust and most child proof options? (so they wont break them again!)

Thank you for your comment!

Yes, this is what usually happen when we don’t wear the right pair of sunglasses, or we don’t wear one at all. The Oakley are strong quality sunglasses and to tell you the truth, it happened to me as well that my children broke my sunglasses. Any sunglasses will break if it is accessible to children, even if it is made of strong quality:) What I do now is I store them in a place out of reach of my kids. It works perfectly! You should do the same:)

Thank you again for the comment and wish you a wonderful day!

You have given me a LOT of choices. I won’t use them for sailing per se, but I have been looking for a pair of sunglasses to replace my Ray Bans I just lost again! So, I need a new pair but want something different. I have been looking at Maui Jims, and shoot the price is way better than my Ray Bans. I have just found the perfect new pair for me. Glad I found your article, I loved reading the reviews. Really helped me decide to switch!

Hi Matt, I am glad this article helped you find the right pair of sunglasses:) Enjoy!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a lovely day!

Daniella, I’m guessing that since you rated the Costa Del Mar sunglasses at the highest rating compared to the others, that those are the ones that you use? I do like the idea that the sunglasses block the light from getting in on the sides. I find that this type is especially great when snow is on the ground on a sunny day.

I actually am quite fond of the Maui Jim sunglasses. I would never had thought to get the higher quality sunglasses until my sister introduced me to them. She prefers the Oakley brand and I wore hers once but found that the Maui Jims were much more suitable to my needs. Very lightweight and extremely comfortable.

I will have to check out the Costa Del Mar sunglasses to see how they work for me. Thanks for the information! A

Well, my husband uses the Costa Del Mare, and he loves them very much.  But I have rated them based on Amazon reviewers. Although these are the highest rated and undoubtedly fantastic sunglasses, this doesn’t mean they are the best. The more reviewers, the more evaluations! Snow, dazzling water and straight light from the sun have the same effect on the eyes. So yes, sunglasses that prevent the light penetrate from all directions, whether the bottom, the top, or sides, provide high protection. Not all sunglasses offer this feature, but the Costa Del Mare does! Maui Jim, Oakley, Costa Del Mar, Kaenon, and Hobie are high-quality sunglasses and the best will depend on the personal preference.

Thank you for the useful comment and wish a wonderful day!

Hi, I have found this article to be very interesting i actually own a pair of the Oakley sunglasses and find them to be quite good and suitable for my eyes. These particular sunglasses are polarised and that makes all the difference. You are quite right they are lightweight and comfortable to wear. And on water there are not many that are better. and as you say they will all protect your eyes 100% from the sun. Great article thanks Shane.

Indeed, the Oakley is an exceptional pair of sunglasses and yes, polarised make a big difference when it comes to protecting your eyes. So make sure your sunglasses are polarised!

Thank you for passing by and for the comment:)

Hello Daniella, I must say that this article is very helpful and informative. I am a guy who enjoys sailing especially with my family. I really did not think about sailing sunglasses so far but now I see I was wrong. Ray-Ban rectangular are the ones I like the most primarily because of its powerful design and they are also pretty affordable. Thank you for sharing such a useful piece of text!

It would be best to have sunglasses while sailing to protect your eyes from the UV. The Ray-Ban rectangular sunglasses are excellent for the eyes; I am sure you will love them.

Thank you for the comment and wish you a lovely day

Hi Daniella

It is very important to have eye protection from the sun , especially from the glare from the water and shiny metal objects such as ships. When I buy sunglasses I am looking for something that has maximum protection from UV light, to have anti- scratch, be light weight, and to be long lasting and durable. So, if you drop it, it does not look good if it breaks to millions of pieces. The glasses you have chosen all look good and practical. I would certainly look good in any of them.

The problem is that I am a spectacle wearer and so can any of these be worn over prescription glasses. I also think you need the glasses to be secure, as when you are doing something physical, you do not want the glasses flying everywhere.

Hi Antonio,

As you said, it is essential to wear sunglasses so you can protect your eyes from the glare. You cannot wear sunglasses over the prescription glasses, but you can customize your sunglasses. for this, you will have to send the sunglasses with your prescription to the company from which you bought your sunglasses.

I hope it helps. Let me know if you need more info; I’ll be more than happy to assist you.

Thank you for the comment and I wish you a fantastic day

Shopping today for some information about the best sunglasses to buy, I found your article and I’m glad I did, as I got the idea to give one of my kids some sunglasses for Christmas and the title of your article got my attention Best Sunglasses for Sailing.

This kid loves water sports as he lives in Quebec where there are some lakes and rivers to do the water sports, I must say he spend all his free time during Summer right next to the lake.

I think I’ll go for the Bnus sunglasses, as you got them as the top pick, I like the design and I’m sure my son will love them too. 

Hi Alexandra,

The Bnus sunglasses are fantastic and affordable too. I am pretty sure that your son will love them as they are lightweight and durable. thank you for passing by and saw the comment

I wish you a lovely day.

I am a huge sunglass collector and always have a pair or two with me. I have been wearing polarized lenses since the 1990s as they help to avoid and prevent light-sensitivity and migraine headaches. My two favorite brands are Kaenon and Maui Jim. 

I have also had an excellent experience with Maui Jim’s customer service. Highly recommend both of those brands even at their premium cost.

I agree with you; Kaenon and Maui Jim have superb customer service. I do, too, recommend those brands:)

Thanks for the comment, and I wish you a lovely day! 

Hi, Daniella,

Thanks for putting together this detailed review. I love sunglasses, so this information comes in handy. They’re a must for any traveler regardless of the destination.

I see that most of your suggestions are rectangular lenses and a few oval ones like Oakleys. I like rectangular shades but Oakleys are not my favorites, at least not the sports type.

Out of all the ones you reviewed, the ones I liked the most were the Costa del Mar. They look elegant and fashionable, and that shade of blue is perfect.

Do you have any recommendations for aviators sunglasses? They’re my favorite type.

Thanks for sharing.

Hi Enrique,

I am glad you liked the article.

If you want to buy aviator sunglasses, the best I can suggest to you are Maui Jim, Kalvin Klein, Salvatore Ferragamo, or Ray-Ban. They are made of high quality, so you can be sure they will last for a long time:) 

I hope it helped; please let me know if you need more help. I am always happy to assist:)

Thanks for passing by, and I wish you a great day!

At first from reading the title I wasn’t really sure why sailing requires sunglasses but then I understood the glare must be strong. Just like when it rains and the car headlights bounce on the wet road and hit your eyes but ten times more when it comes to the sea and sun.

These are some great examples. I believe for me a scratch resistant sun glasses as well as other features are quite important when it comes to picking.

Thanks for taking your time to create this informative post!

It’s not a requirement to wear sunglasses when out on the water. It’s just that if you want to protect your eyes and enjoy your trip, it’s better to wear a pair—everything count when choosing sunglasses, style, protection, scratch-resistant, and durability. You don’t want to end up buying a pair every few months. This will cost quite a lot of money:)I am glad you found this article useful. Thank you for the comment, and I wish you a lovely day! 

Thank you so much for your review on all these amazing glasses! I personally love the glass lens than the plastic lens even though they are heavier, it is just harder to get scratched in my opinion. Costa Del Mar Fantail Sunglasses Looks promising and I love the fact that I can get them cheaper online and I have the option to choose the lens. Bnus Italy Made Classic Sunglasses Is another on in my top picks. I am going to check them out now. Thanks again!

Hi Nuttanee,

You are very welcome there!

Yes, if you are worried about scratches, a glass lens is the best option, then. Mar Fantail and Bonus are excellent sunglasses; I am glad you’ve found the ones you like:)

Let me know if you need help; I’ll be more than happy to assist!

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7 Best Sunglasses for Rowing in 2024

Last Updated on 14/05/2024

In this guide to the best sunglasses for rowing, we share our favorite shades for racing row boats and intensive paddling. You will learn how certain types of shades can help your aerodynamics and what we look for to make sure your sunglasses stay on your face while rowing.

Rowing is an intensive sport that requires high-performance sunglasses to stay on your face as you repeatedly put everything you have into every stroke of your oars. For starters, you don’t have free and to be constantly pushing your sunglasses back up your nose, let alone the time to do it without getting out of since with your team.

Whether you are a solo rower or part of a rowing crew or team, having a pair of sunglasses that stay in place and improve your color contrast through polarized lenses is a game changer. In this guide, we share the absolute best options out there in terms of performance but also take into consideration their looks too. Jump down the page using the links below or read to the bottom for our beginner’s guide.

7 Best Sunglasses for Rowing

Oakley radar ev path sunglasses, gill race ocean sunglasses, ombraz teton armless rowing sunglasses, maui jim local kine wrap sunglasses, windrider polarized floating sunglasses, costa del mar blackfin sunglasses, bollé anaconda sunglasses.

• LENSES : Prizm Deep Water Polarized, Non-polarized, and prescription lenses are available
• FRAMES : Oakleys O Matter™ frame material

The Oakley Radar EV Path Sunglasses are perfect for rowing. Everything about them is optimized for sports, from the shape of the lens, the material on the nose pad, the shape of the arms, and where the grip is placed. They are super lightweight but incredibly durable so that even if you accidentally hit yourself in the face with the end of your oar (it happens), you are unlikely to see any damage.

The lens and shape of the frame give you a wide field of vision even if you have your head down and are rowing with a team. The way the arms go straight back instead of curling around your ears means that they really grip around the back of your head instead of putting pressure on the tops of your ears. The nose pad and grips are made from Oakley’s signature Unobtainium rubber which gets grippier the hotter you get (thrives on sweaty faces).

CONCLUSION : The Radar EV Path Sunglasses from Oakley are extremely well-suited for high-performance athletes like rowers. Once you put them on, they don’t move. These aren’t the cheapest, but they are made from the very best materials and have one of the best designs for rowing, kayaking, or sailing.

• LENSES : Polarized Category 3, Grade 1 Optic 100% UV 400 protection, 100% UVA, UVB and UVC Radiation Protection, Hydrophobic Outer Coating, Oleophobic Technology on the Inside Face
• FRAMES : Plastic Resin with Adjustable Elastic Band
• BUOYANCY : Yes

The Gill Race Ocean Sunglasses are designed for life at sea and so are maybe a little bit over-engineered for rowing boats, but that is why they are one of the best. You get lots of innovative technology that works well for crew rowing, like the fact the sunglasses float and won’t sink if you accidentally drop them in water. Unlike other sunglasses that have an optional cord connecting the arms at the back, on these, it is part of the design.

The polarized lenses are nice and big for a wide field of vision and plenty of protection. They have a hydrophobic coating to avoid any fogging and also to resist harsh saltwater. On top of this, they are rated as safer than grade one optic glasses and feature Oleophobic technology to resist fingerprints, skin oils, and sun lotion. 

CONCLUSION : The Race Ocean Sunglasses from Gill are perfect for rowing and other water sports thanks to the advanced polarized lenses and functional headband at the back. Much like the Ombraz Teton sunglasses above, once you put these on, they won’t come off or slide down your nose – they are fixed in position. They are also comfortable around the bridge of your nose over long periods of practice.

• LENSES : World-Class Zeiss Polyamide Polarized Lenses
• FRAMES : Aerospace-grade TR-90 Frames, 100% Recycled Marine-Grade Japanese Nylon Cord

The Ombraz Teton Sunglasses are one of our favorites for crew racing as they stay where they are supposed to no matter how hard you row. Unlike other sunglasses, these don’t have rigid arms on the sides, they have an adjustable cord instead. This means that they are incredibly lightweight, comfortable, durable, and fit any head size.

The nose pads are 14 mm wide, so they sit really well without any pinch points as you move to swing your oars. The cords are more comfortable than traditional arms, and they can be adjusted to give a perfect fit every time. The lenses are nice and big so that even when you are leaning forwards to get a deep paddle stroke, you can still see ahead of you.

CONCLUSION : The Ombraz Teton Sunglasses are some of the best sunglasses for rowing because of how comfortable and secure they are. When you have an oar in both hands, it isn’t possible to push your sunglasses back up your nose if they slip down, and with these, that never ever happens. You can get prescription lenses as well as choose a variety of colors and lens types that work well on water. Once you try these, you will not want to go back to your old sunnies.

• LENSES : Superthin Glass Mirrored Lenses with PolarizedPlus2 lens technology, MAUIGreen Mirror Coating with Scratch Resistance
• FRAMES : Lightweight Injected Nylon frames

The Maui Jim Local Kine Wrap Sunglasses are extremely popular with rowers, sailors, skippers, fishermen/women, and anyone who owns or uses a boat (or yacht). They feature a wide temple arm to help block sunlight from every angle, but because of the large lenses that wrap around, you get an excellent range of 180+ degree vision. Maui Jim makes sunglasses for water sports like rowing, fishing, golf, running, driving, hiking, and tennis, but they have become the luxury eyewear brand for many more sports.

The frames are nice and solid, which makes them a bit heavier than other lightweight options with a more robust feel to them. The lenses are available in four tinted colors, all designed for water and to enhance your clarity of vision even when there is sun glaring off the water’s surface. The way I describe these to people is like a cross between Oakleys and RayBans.

CONCLUSION : The Local Kine Wrap Sunglasses from Maui Jim are very well made, durable, and comfortable, and they make you look the part when you are rowing. But there are better options out there if you are the kind of person who cares more about shaving a second of their personal best rowing record. That being said, it’s hard not to want a pair of these just because they make you look cool.

• LENSES : Composite Polarized Lens, 100% UV Protection, Hydrophobic Outer Coating
• FRAMES : Plastic Resin Frame

The WindRider Polarized Floating Sunglasses are designed for fishing but work amazingly well for all watersports from rowing crew to paddleboarding. Each of the arms has a small air-filled chamber so that if your sunglasses ever fall in the water, they just float and will never sink. There is also a small hole on the tip of each arm to attach a sunglasses clip so that the chances of you even dropping them are slim to none.

The features that make this pair one of the best rowing sunglasses are the fact that they float, have polarized lenses with a hydrophobic coating, and have ventilation at the temple, so they don’t fog up on cold mornings on the canal. All the design features that were implemented to improve performance for fishing translate directly to rowing. They also come with a lifetime warranty in case anything ever happens to them.

CONCLUSION : If you are a keen rower and spend a lot of time around water, then the Polarized Floating Sunglasses made by WindRider are highly recommended. The arms are perhaps a little wider than most to house the air chamber, but not by as much as you might expect, and overall you don’t really notice a big difference. Check em’ out if you’ve ever lost a pair of rowing sunglasses in the water.

• LENSES : Polarized Costa 580P Polycarbonate Lenses, 100% UV Protection Coating, Scratch Resistant Coating
• FRAMES : TR-90 Nylon Co-Injected Resin Frame

The Costa Del Mar Blackfin Sunglasses are super comfortable and reliable for blocking UV rays and looking cool while you row. Costa Del Mar is an ocean lifestyle brand that makes some of the best sunglasses in the world, which just so happen to be favored by many Olympic athletes. We see them as being similar to the Maui Jim Local Kine Wrap Sunglasses above and of equal quality – it is no surprise to see they are both in the higher-end price bracket.

The polycarbonate lenses are polarized to block out harsh yellow and blue light reflecting off the surface of the water while enriching beneficial reds, blues, and greens. This technology sits within the lens. On the outside, you also get a mirror lens as well as UV scratch-resistant coating that also resists oils and fingerprints. All of this means that you get peak conditions no matter how bright the sun is.

CONCLUSION : The Blackfin Sunglasses by Costa Del Mar are a superb choice for rowing if you can afford them. We would say they fall into the weird category of high-performance/luxury sunglasses that have become popular for their quality and have recently become a bit of a fashion statement. They are designed for a hard life at sea and so cope with the intensity of rowing as well as any other.

• LENSES : Polarized Polycarbonate Lenses, 100% UVA and UVB Protection, Permanent Anti-Fog Coating
• FRAMES : Resin Frame with THERMOGRIP Temple and Nose Grips

The bollé Anaconda Sunglasses have been around for a pretty long time, and they remain pretty much unchanged, for good reason. They wrap around your face to give the most sun protection and a wide peripheral field of view so you can keep an eye on your oars when you are rowing. Thermogrip hydrophilic grips on the nose bridge and on the inside tips of the arms help to direct moisture and stay in position without slipping.

Bollé is most well known for its snow sports sunglasses but is branching into more sports where the conditions require similar levels of performance, like rowing. Because of their heritage, they are incredibly durable both in the resin frame and in the Cat. Three lenses are made from polycarbonate. They don’t scratch easily and protect your eyes from any low branches if rowing down a river with overhanging trees.

CONCLUSION : The Anaconda Sunglasses from bollé are a little bit narrower than the Maui Jim shades but equally as comfortable and protective. The lenses are HD polarized, which supposedly improves color perception by up to 30% for better contrast while in your rowing boat. The lenses alone make these worth it, but the design is also quite timeless. You will be pleased to see these cost less than a quarter of what some of the models do in this guide.

Different Styles of Sunglasses for Rowing

There are many different shapes, sizes, and designs types of sunglasses out there, but how do we know which is best for rowing a boat in? We considered the intensity of rowing at full speed and how the types of movements we make impact the type of sunglasses we choose for rowing. Whether you are an elite rower or an amateur, here are some of the different frame types we looked at:

Aviator Sunglasses

Aviators are not very well suited to rowing at all and are, in fact, one of the last types of sunglasses we would recommend for rowing. They are big and lightweight, which gives you some nice benefits, but they lack structural any real grip on the side of your head and so will often slip down your nose or fall off if you aren’t careful. Avoid aviator sunglasses for rowing if you are serious about pursuing the sport and less bothered by appearances.

Sport Sunglasses

Sports sunglasses often have a wrap-around design that provides a wide field of vision and lots of sun protection from all angles. Sports sunglasses are also designed to handle lots of movement, and so feature a grip on the nose bar as well as along the arms. It is fairly standard for sports sunglasses lenses to have a hydrophobic coating that helps to repel moisture, oils, and fingerprints and avoid any fogging up from perspiration.

Shields or Visor Sunglasses

Shield sunglasses that have a single lens are often referred to as visors when rowing. They offer a complete field of vision without any nose bar to obstruct your view. There’s only one shield lens pair featured in this guide, but not because they don’t work, just because it was such a competitive lineup.

Semi Rimless Sunglasses

Semi-rimless sunglasses feature a frame that runs across the top to secure the lenses in place, but then there is no frame around the bottom of the lens. The benefit of this type of glasses frame for rowing is that your downward vision is completely unobstructed, which can improve spacial awareness when rowing. The downside is that they are slightly less durable without any support at the bottom, so be careful not to sit on them by accident.

Goggle Sunglasses

Goggle sunglasses are a combination of swimming goggles and sunglasses designed for all kinds of watersports where most sunglasses would fall off too easily. They have large lenses with UV protection and mirrored finishes with a cushion that gives an air-tight seal. They are good but better suited for sports where you are actually in the water a lot.

Guide to the Best Sunglasses for Rowing

To create this rowing sunglasses guide, we spent three days researching, trying on, and testing different sunglasses using a rowing machine. Here are some of the things we found to be important:

Lens Color and Polarization

When you are out on the water, glare reflecting off the surface can be blinding and definitely isn’t good for your eyes in the long run. We found that yellow and blue lenses with mirrored finish and polarization offered the highest contrast between colors, even on a dark day. The difference between polarized lenses and nonpolarized lenses is quite obvious, so we certainly prefer the polarized options. 

Lens Finish

You can get a few different types of lens finish that you should look for, but the main ones are:

• UV Resistance
• Scratch Resistance
• Mirror Finish
• Hydrophobic Finish
• Anti-fogging Treatments

UV resistance is a given with any sunglasses we recommend. If they don’t protect your eyes, we don’t use or suggest them to you. Scratch resistance is important for mirrored lenses, as even a small scratch can ruin a good pair of glasses. Mirrored finishes look cool and also help reflect bright sunlight for extra protection. Hydrophobic and anti-fogging finishes help resist moisture, oils, fingerprints, and other marks from showing on your lenses and prevent fogging up on cold days.

Frame Shape

If you read our guide to the different types of sunglasses frames above, then you will know that we highly recommend the sporty wrap-around shape for rowing. Single-lens sunglasses or shields are also very good for watersports.

When looking for the best glasses frame shape for rowing, we first try and choose something that will stay put and not slip down our nose. This means a good grip, a good fit, and a lightweight frame. Elite rowing athletes may go a step further and choose a frame style that is also aerodynamic to reduce wind resistance when competing at a high level.

Field of Vision

Having a wide field of vision and a clear line of sight is an advantage when racing a rowboat. Some things that can help to improve these are wider lenses, taller lenses, lens shape, frame shape, and how close the sunglasses sit to your face.

Larger lenses offer more viewing space for your eyes to see, but we found that curved lenses increased this even more than flatter lenses. The wrap-around style that stays close to the contours of your face with large ‘bubble-like’ lenses seems to offer the best field of vision.

Polarization

Polarized lenses are super important for rowing and other watersports because of how much clearer they make everything. When you are being hit by the sun from above and also reflecting back up at you from the water can be dazzling at certain times of the day.

Polarization turns glared colors into high-contrast vision by reducing strong yellow and blue light and improving reds, greens, and beneficial blues. This, in turn, allows you to see further into the distance as well as recognize obstacles hiding beneath the surface of the water.

Temple Arms

The temple arms arguably provide the most grip on a pair of sunglasses. They can also be one of the most common causes of discomfort. 

We consistently found that the best sunglasses for rowing all had some kind of rubberized grip on the temple arm tips, if not a full wrap-around strap. Lightweight sunglasses with flexible arms provide the most comfort, but getting a good fit is just as important as if you were trying on a pair of jeans.

The hinges that link the temple arms to the main frame are probably the weakest point on any pair of eye shades. When testing a pair of sunglasses arms, always give the hinge a little flex to see how well it is made. 

Grip on the Nose

The part of your sunglasses that rests on the bridge of your nose should ideally have some kind of grip to stop them from sliding. Oakley uses their own signature material called Unobtainium, which gets tackier the warmer it gets and the more you perspire. I try and avoid the types of nose grips that you see on aviator sunglasses or reading spectacles because they pinch my sinuses and can cause a headache if I’m not careful.

Comfort matters when you are rowing for hours. A small niggle can turn into more than a little irritation while you are physically draining yourself on a rowing boat. The only way to know if a pair is going to be comfortable is to try them on, so be sure to buy from a place that you can easily return them to, like Amazon.

To check for comfort, push the sunglasses gently against your face and then push them down around the ears to see how it feels. If you feel that the fit is a little tight or loose around your ears, or they easily slide down the bridge of your nose when you shake your head or look down – try another pair to compare.

Most sunglasses fit most people, and especially the ones we tested all seemed to fit without an issue, but if something doesn’t feel right straight away, then the chances are it will only get worse over time.

Durability is important with any sports sunglasses because accidents happen all the time. Especially when rowing, it is so easy to get hit in the face by low-hanging branches along a river or to let go of your oar for a split second only to have it whip back at your face.

The areas that we checked the most were the temple arms and the hinges that connected them. If you accidentally sit on your sunglasses, it is often the arms that snap first. It is a little harder to test the scratch and abrasion resistance without risking damaging them, so we didn’t do that, but it is very clear that the higher-end sunglasses resist scratches better than cheaper mirrored lenses.

This may be more of a preferential thing, but we like lightweight sunglasses for high-intensity sports that require a lot of mobility. The lighter the sunglasses are, the less they seem to slip off our faces when jogging, mountain biking, rowing, or nordic skiing . Weirdly though, the heavier sunglasses were more comfortable.

Why Sunglasses Are Important for Rowing

Sunglasses are important for rowing to protect your eyes from the sun and the glare reflecting off of the water. If you spend a lot of time rowing on sunny days without eye protection, you can potentially cause long-term damage to your vision. Polarized sunglasses go a step further and improve your color contrast which helps you see better when rowing.

As well as protecting your eyes from the sun, sunglasses also protect your eyes from low-hanging branches over rivers that you may come into contact with from time to time. Another benefit is that if you ever splash your oar into the water, sunglasses block dirty river water from going into your eyes. The final benefit of sunglasses for rowing is that they make you look cool.

What is the Best Color Sunglasses Lens for Water?

The best color lenses for rowing sunglasses are yellow, blue, green, and mirrored silver. They all help to reduce glare when you’re out on a rowing boat. Harsh blue light and direct yellow sunlight are the biggest problems and so if you can reduce those and enhance other, more beneficial colors, then you are on the right path. More important than the color of the lens, though, is whether they are polarized or not.

Do You Need Polarized Lens Sunglasses for Rowing?

You don’t need polarized sunglasses to go rowing, but they make a significant improvement to your vision and are highly recommended. Polarized lenses have invisible filters on them that selectively block harmful and intense types of light while simultaneously improving the contrast of less dominant colors. The cost difference is often negligible and is well worth it, in our opinion.

We hope you found this guide to the best sunglasses for rowing useful. It took us a long time to do the research and format this article but we would love to hear your thoughts on where we can improve.

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The Best Fishing Sunglasses of 2024

Without the right pair of glasses, you may be left without the ability to see what you’re fishing for — in more ways than one.

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Fishing sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays that can cause permanent damage to your vision, but they also provide a shield from the sharp hook you’re flinging through the air. No one wants to catch a streamer in the eye.

Many factors go into a good pair of shades, but it truly comes down to quality lenses that are comfortable to wear. A good polarized lens allows you to peer through the water in ways the naked eye can’t. Technology has come so far, leaving anglers with nearly limitless lens options for every kind of fishing.

The lead author of this guide is Aaron King, a northern California-based competitive angler. Aaron spends most weekends casting into promising pockets of California’s best bass lakes. In addition to expertise on the water, Aaron is a self-described gear nut who never stops tinkering with his trolling rig and accessories. After testing dozens of sunglasses, this list contains the tried-and-true standouts.

Scroll down for our recommendations for the shades that will suit you well on the water. Check out our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide and Frequently Asked Questions sections for helpful tips, and have a look at our Comparison Chart to steer your decision-making.

Editor’s Note: We updated this Buyer’s Guide on March 29, 2024, by adding the Costa Del Mar King Tide Frames as our top pick, and ensuring all products are current and up-to-date.

The Best Fishing Sunglasses of 202 4

• Best Overall Fishing Sunglasses: Costa Del Mar King Tide Frames
• Best Budget Fishing Sunglasses: Goodr Sunglasses
• Runner-Up Best Fishing Sunglasses: Bajío Vega
• Best Lake Fishing Sunglasses: Smith Guide’s Choice
• Best Wraparound Fishing Sunglasses: Maui Jim Makoa
• Best Large Frame Fishing Sunglasses: Bajio Stiltsville

Costa Del Mar King Tide Frames

• Fit Wide – A larger lens front designed for those who prefer to cover a greater portion of the face. Available in 6 or 8-base
• Frame Materials Nylon & Propionate
• Lens Options Polarized glass. Many color options
• Special Features Rx available, adjustable nose pads

• Versatile – can go from bar to boat with ease
• Removable side-shields offer extra coverage
• Lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear
• Engineered to prevent fogging and manage sweat
• Anti-skid coating keeps frames from sliding around on any surface
• Lack of frame color options.
• Shark gill venting is not an aesthetic for everyone, but it’s subtle

Versatile, ventilated, and offering awesome coverage, the Costa Del Mar King Tides ($329-349) are arguably the most adaptable and downright performance-driven pair of fishing shades currently on the market.  Engineered to move seamlessly from boat to bar, these shades boast a range of features that will make them your go-to for sunny adventures.

These shades offer excellent coverage thanks to removable side shields built to block backside and peripheral light, and your choice of mid (King Tide 6) or full-wrap (King Tide 8) frames. Multiple ventilation ports and sweat channels woven within the frames keep perspiration in check so you can see what’s in front of you, while also ensuring glasses don’t fog over. And, because their performance glasses above all, they only come with Costa’s high-quality glass lenses. Choose from a variety of polarized color options, including mirrored and non-mirrored lenses.

An especially innovative feature we found helpful on bumpy boat rides and while bobbing out in the surf: the anti-skid coating on the frame that prevents the King Tide s from sliding around on any surface, wet or dry. The lightweight, but strong frames and the adjustable nosepiece mean these high-performance shades are customizable to fit your face and comfy enough to wear all day.

Fashion-conscious anglers might find the shark-gill venting unappealing, however, Costa does its best to make it subtle. However, we wish there was a larger choice of frame colors. The high price may cause some to balk at paying over $300 for a pair of sunglasses, but if you spend a lot of days on the water, the King Tides are worth it.

Whether it’s a full-send trip offshore or a leisurely day of fishing on the stream, the King Tides offer all of the performance features you want out of your sunglasses, and then some. Equally killer for beach life, surf sessions, and regular casual wear, you won’t find a more versatile pair of shades for any and all endeavors. Versatile and loaded with performance features, if you’re an angler looking for a top-quality pair of shades that also doubles as a lifestyle staple, the King Tides are for you.

Dive deeper into the amazing King Tides by checking out our in-depth review.

Goodr Sunglasses

• Fit Medium; a smaller to average-size head fits this frame
• Frame material Triacetate cellulose
• Lens options Polarized

• No lens options
• TAC frame is not as durable

Take your pick of any polarized pair of Goodr Sunglasses (around $30), and you likely won’t be disappointed.

Our reason is simple. We asked several fishing guides we know what sunglasses they were wearing. We made it a point to look at or ask which shades people were wearing on the river during the first big hatch of the year. Our ballpark estimate is that eight out of 10 fishermen we know or have spoken with have made the leap to Goodr.

Not everyone has the budget to spend hundreds on shades, and Goodr has become the go-to for many fishermen who need the performance without the investment. They have a long list of different frame styles and lens options, each for around $30.

Best of all, they have a killer warranty , particularly for a budget pair of shades.

Goodr really is the right buy for the broke fisherman in all of us.

• Fit Large — 8-base curvature for greater wrap and side coverage
• Frame material Bio-based nylon
• Lens options Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate available. Many color options
• Special features Integrated leash compatibility, readers available

• Great lens technology
• Several lens options
• Eco-conscious

The Bajío Vega ($209-259) is a very close runner-up to the Costa Del Mar King Tides . We gave the nod to Costa in this instance, as we have a little more experience with the brand in long-term testing. Bajío is making some serious waves, and as long as the shades hold up for the long run, we’ll likely be seeing the brand in the top ranks more and more often.

Where these shades truly stand out is clarity. Bajío focused on cutting blue light , resulting in wildly clear views. With lenses in an array of colors to fit your specific fishing environment, the Vega is a solid choice that’s more than worthy of the runner-up position.

Wide temples, full coverage, and a reasonably aggressive wrap make the Vega sunglasses a pair of performance fishing glasses capable of getting the job done.

The only notable drawback is size. The Bajío Vega is big . If you have a smaller face, you might want to look at something like the Palometa — same performance, smaller frame.

Smith Guide’s Choice

• Fit Large — big lenses with a comfortable spring-assisted hinge for non-slip
• Lens options Polarized poly and glass with Chromapop — Many lens options
• Special features Rx available, integrated leash compatibility, small and XL options are now available in the Guide’s Choice

• Premium quality
• Integrated leash and hard case included
• Great warranty
• Can’t fully customize frame and lens color options

Smith Optics is one of the best eyewear manufacturers on the market. The Guide’s Choice ($215-289) could honestly fit in any category on this list with just a simple lens swap. These frames have an aggressive wrap that’s wide at the temples, offering you top-notch protection in any conditions.

Known for having phenomenal lenses, Smith uses Techlite polarized glass, which cuts glare and reduces eye fatigue. We used the Guide’s Choice on an exceptionally sunny day on the lake where surface glare was brutal, but the excellent broad lenses kept us fishing comfortably late into the day.

The brand’s website clearly outlines which lenses are best for which applications in an easy-to-follow chart , so don’t limit these sunglasses to lake fishing. The rose-colored Techlite Ignitor lens would make these an awesome pair for small mountain streams.

The standard Guide’s Choice is best for large faces, but be sure to check out Smith’s two new Small and Extra Large frame size options for just the right fit.

Maui Jim Makoa

• Fit Medium / large
• Frame Material Nylon
• Lens Options PolarizedPlus2 Glass
• Special Features RX available, slightly adjustable temple arms, spring hinges

• Hard case included
• Not many lens or frame options

The Maui Jim Makoa ($279) doesn’t look like a pair of traditional wraparounds, but they are. You get all the benefits of an aggressive wrap-style pair of sunglasses, with the retro look of an everyday pair of shades. Like many of the others on the list, they have customizable frames and lenses to suit your particular fishing environment.

The ultra-thin glass is incredibly scratch-resistant and offers a crisper view than most polycarbonate lenses. You add a bit of weight when you go with the glass option, but it is worth it if you’ll be in sunglasses for the majority of the day.

Maui Jim is also one of the best when it comes to incorporating prescription lenses. If you’ve got aging eyes that are struggling to see those tiny flies, the brand has you covered.

Bajío Stiltsville

• Fit Extra large — generous lens coverage with an 8-base lens curvature for better side protection
• Lens options Polarized polycarbonate or polarized glass
• Special features Superb lens clarity, flexible hinges

• Many lens options
• Great lens coverage
• No integrated leash

The Stiltsville ($259) stands out in this collection as one of Banjo’s largest frames, designed to make a statement wherever your adventures take you. With an  “ Extra-Large” 8-base frame size , these sunglasses perfectly capture the essence of embracing challenges on the water and joyful celebrations off of it. Bajío has truly brought their A-game to the table with this rad pair of sunglasses.

What sets the Stiltsville apart is its sophisticated design. By incorporating vented temple tips and vented nose pads, these shades keep moisture off and contact points cool with improved airflow and fit. The edges of the frames feature a distinctive curvature, infusing a sense of cool and collected style while delivering exceptional coverage against direct and indirect sunlight. When you slip on the full-wrap Stiltsville sunglasses, you step into a world of possibilities, with a range of polycarbonate or glass lens options to choose from.

Also, check out the Las Rocas for another great extra-large frame option from Bajio. But for our favorite large-frames for fishing, we reach for the Sti l tsville .

Smith Boomtown

• Fit Medium / large — Broad lens coverage with a lightweight frame. 6-base lens curvature
• Frame Material Bio-based nylon
• Lens Options Polarized Chromapop polycarbonate
• Special Features Spring hinges

• Lightweight
• "Active fit" — rarely slips
• No included accessories

The Smith Boomtown ($175-215) sunglasses combine a retro design with a practical approach. Smith integrates its cutting-edge ChromaPop technology into these oversized lenses, delivering full-wrap coverage and top-notch clarity in a single offering. Consider this pair the boldest statement on this list — a fusion of style and substance.

Still, appearances can be deceiving. The Boomtown is crafted to handle every facet of your day, making it a true companion from dawn until dusk. Pair these frames with the right polarized lens, and they might just become your next go-to eyewear.

Our initial tryout of these sunglasses was an eye-opener. With their lightweight frame, we half-expected them to easily slip off with the lapping of a wave against the boat’s side. However, much to our surprise, they held firm. This remarkable grip is attributed to their MEGOL pads, which ensure a non-slip connection to the temples, even in challenging conditions.

The Boomtown not only embraces a nostalgic aesthetic but also embodies robust functionality, making it a versatile companion for both style-conscious adventurers and dedicated anglers alike.

Bajío Cometa

• Fit Medium; a medium lens with an 6-base curvature for a more open design and flat side coverage
• Frame material Lightweight bio-based nylon material
• Lens options Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate available — many color options

• Classic style

The Cometa ($209-259) from Bajío has a cool retro look and a comfortable fit. Most notably, they stay on a ball cap when we pop them up there. If you’re a person who often puts their shades on their head, you know how irritating it can be when they flop off and don’t stay put.

As far as performance, these are top-notch. The rose mirror lenses, in particular, are incredible on small waterways. They have a really nice balance for seeing through that top water reflection without blocking out too much light. Bajío uses LAPIS technology to cut 95% of blue light up to 445 nm, resulting in less eye fatigue and a crazy crisp view.

On top of that, they’re a fairly new company making pretty big waves in both the sunglass world and the conservation world. Check out our profile of Bajío and the work they’re doing .

Wiley X P-17

• Fit Medium / large — fits the average angler well
• Frame material Triloid nylon
• Special features Rx available, ANSI Z87.1+ lens impact safety standards, integrated leash compatible

• Tried and true
• Integrated leash included
• Might be a bit small for larger faces

The Wiley X P-17 ($185) features a low-profile frame with a lightweight, incredibly durable polycarbonate lens. These shades have been a favorite for years both for their sleek, athletic profile and because they meet ANSI Safety Standards for high-impact resistance. That’s right — these are fishing sunglasses that are also classified as safety glasses.

All that is to say, they are durable .

One of the major perks of such an aggressive wrap style is the ability to block out ambient light from your peripheral vision. That in itself makes it an awesome shallow-water pair of shades. No one needs all that crazy bright light reflecting in from the sides.

The polarized lenses are offered in multiple colors, all of which offer 100% UVA/UVB protection.

The P-17 is a solid choice for those bright fishing scenarios, or any performance fishing situation where durability and light management are important.

Fin-Nor Tilloo

• Fit Medium — 6-base curvature with flatter-than-average coverage
• Frame material Bioresin
• Lens options Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate

• Comfortable
• On the smaller side

Fin-Nor , known for building hardcore reels for heavy-duty fishing, released a new line of performance eyewear, and it does not disappoint. The Tilloo with a Blue Mirror lens ($209-259) is an offshore workhorse.

These shades give you the protection you need from both direct sunlight and indirect reflected light from the water’s surface. Available in polycarbonate and glass lenses, these new-to-market shades are sure to see a lot of time on the deep water.

Because they are new to the market, it’s tough to speak of durability. Our experience so far is that they seem to have a quality build. Only time will tell if the Fin-Nor line of shades will measure up to the existing competitors. At this point, we have high hopes.

Costa Del Mar Lido Sunglasses

• Fit Large — designed to fit those with an average-sized head. 6-base curvature
• Frame Material Bioresin
• Lens Options Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate

• Great clarity
• Lens options
• Adjustable nose pads
• No integrated leash but Croakie compatible

Costa Del Mar has become one of the most well-known performance fishing sunglass manufacturers. The Lido Frame with a Green Mirror Lens (poly $224, glass $284) is a perfect pair of shades in an area with intense direct light, where you’ll likely be sight fishing. The Lido is an awesome addition to your gear pile whether you’re headed to the flats to chase bonefish or to the mountains to chase trout.

These shades have a classic look, with the added function of both top and side shields. The nose pieces are adjustable without protruding, giving you a more secure fit. They are comfortable and protective, and they perform.

Costa’s 580 lenses are known for their color-enhancement capability, making distinguishing fish from their surroundings so much easier. These are an asset when sight fishing in intense light, regardless of your target.

With the option of polycarbonate or glass lenses, you have the ability to tailor your weight and durability preferences.

Hobie Mojo Float

• Fit Large — Generous lens coverage with an 8-base lens curvature
• Frame material Low-density nylon polymer for buoyancy
• Lens options Polarized polycarbonate
• Special features It floats!

• Good clarity
• Case included
• Not many lens options

If you’ve ever experienced that heart-sinking moment of dropping something into the water while fishing, then you’ll truly appreciate the thinking behind Hobie Eyewear’s Mojo Float ($100). These sunglasses are not just a style statement, they’re a practical solution. Crafted with an ultra-lightweight yet durable frame, the Mojo Float is designed to defy gravity — staying afloat above the water’s surface. This innovation ensures you won’t have to bid farewell to your favorite shades in case of an accidental slip.

These sunglasses boast a full coverage frame paired with a durable polarized lens, showcasing Hobie’s HydroClean 360 technology. With this lens technology, you can count on superior visual clarity, a reduction in glare, and effective protection against harmful UV rays.

The Mojo Float sits perfectly at a price point that appeals to dedicated anglers who value quality without sacrificing their budget. These sunglasses offer not only an impressive feature set but also the peace of mind that comes with Hobie’s renowned Lifetime Warranty . Backed by their exceptional customer service, Hobie ensures that your investment is not only in a pair of sunglasses but in a commitment to enduring quality and performance.

Maui Jim Alenuihaha

• Fit Medium/large — broad coverage with tighter wrapped 8-base curve
• Frame material Nylon
• Lens options PolarizedPlus2 Glass
• Special features Rx available, spring hinges

Thinking of the tropics? Check out Maui Jim’s Alenuihaha ($279) sunglasses. They blend a rectangular style with a reliable fit and top-notch lens clarity. We couldn’t resist taking them to the beach for some surf fishing. With Maui Jim’s new Hawaii Lava lens, we felt seriously cool in these shades. The PolarizedPlus2 technology made the views incredibly clear with a vibrant yet natural contrast. 

The frame was just right — not too heavy, not too light — comfortable even after a long day at the beach. The lenses aren’t oversized, and folks with small to average faces can expect a solid fit. If you want magnification or prescription, the Alenuihahas have plentiful options. These should be on your radar when you’re shopping for your next sunnies.

Costa Del Mar Waterwoman 2

• Fit Medium — Average coverage with open frame design
• Lens Options Polarized polycarbonate and polarized glass
• Special Features Rx available

• Premium Quality
• Unique Style

The Waterwoman 2 ($204-284) is a fashion-forward choice with nearly indestructible polarized lenses. They’ve been a hit with women on the water since the original version was released a few years back. The bold frame — with a wide temple and narrow fit — offers a touch of flair to a functional pair of performance fishing glasses.

These are the favorite sunnies of GearJunkie tester and former editor Nicole Qualtieri. For female anglers, they offer a silhouette that feels less bro-ey fishing guide , and more girl having fun on the water . Plus, the lenses are among the toughest we’ve ever worn. Here’s what Qualtieri has to say about them:

“I’m seriously hard on sunglasses. They don’t survive me. These didn’t either; they fell in the Gallatin River in a kayak accident, never to be seen again. But, after months of devoted wear and undevoted care, they didn’t have a scratch on them. By far, the best sunnies I’ve ever worn.”

Covered by Costa’s awesome warranty, the Waterwoman 2 is an excellent option for the ladies, or for the more fashionable gents.

Oakley Holbrook

• Fit Medium / large — Average coverage with a flat 6-base curvature
• Frame Material Lightweight nylon composite
• Lens Options Polarized Prizm polycarbonate

• Very versatile
• Many variations
• No glass lens option

Another pair of shades with classic styling with epic performance features, the Oakley Holbrook ($157-217) comes in nearly unlimited frame and lens combinations. You can really customize them exactly the way you want. From metal frame options to dozens of color options, the limits are few.

The Holbrook is a larger frame, lightweight, has a high nose bridge, and is a good choice for those with bigger heads, wider faces, and stronger nose builds. These are solid frames for the big dogs.

Gatorz Delta Polarized Sunglasses

• Fit Large — excellent wrap and side coverage with an 8-base curvature
• Frame Material Anodized aluminum
• Lens Options Non-Polarized, polarized, OPZ (digital screen visibility), and ballistic (extra lens strength) — many color options
• Special Features Rx available, adjustable nose pads and frame

• Lifetime Warranty
• Some anglers find the aluminum frame uncomfortable

The Gatorz Delta Polarized Sunglasses ($215) are not explicitly designed for fishing, but they do the job well. This product line is designed more for shooting sports, but the lens quality and durability make it a great pair of fishing shades. The muted tones would be great for early season hunting and everyday wear, and still function well on the river. They aren’t your typical loud pair of fishing sunglasses.

The big difference between these sunglasses and the others on the list is construction. The frame is aluminum. It has a distinctly different feel than your typical pair of sunglasses, which you may love or hate.

They have adjustable nose pieces, which help the overall fit but also, the aluminum frame can be shaped to fit your face. They feel substantial in hand, and the durability is likely untouched.

A word of caution : If you’re going to leave these on the dash, make sure to do a quick temperature check before you scald your temples with sizzling aluminum. It should go without saying, metal gets hot in the sun.

Fishing Sunglasses Comparison Chart

How We Tested Fishing Sunglasses

Just like most outdoorsy people, we live in sunglasses here at GearJunkie. No matter what kind of activity we’re doing we have a pair for the task.

Throughout our careers as outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen, we’ve learned a few things about what makes the right pair. Through rigorous and extensive on-the-water testing we narrowed down this list to some of our favorites.

Many experienced anglers contributed to this list, including our Hunt and Fish Editor Rachelle Schrutte and Aaron King — an experienced competitive sport fisherman based in California. The greater GearJunkie team has decades of collective experience on lakes, rivers, freshwater, and saltwater. Our testing process brought us to just about every teeming fishery under the sun — from Baja to Minnesota. Along the way, we assessed durability, shape and coverage, effectiveness, clarity, weight, and style.

While we did test some of the more popular models from major brands such as Maui Jim, Oakley, and Smith, we also checked out options from smaller more fishing-specific manufacturers.

As new fishing sunglasses hit the market, we’ll be sure to get our hands on them to ensure that our list includes the best of the best at any given time. And, if you’re interested in sunglasses for other outdoor adventures, check out our guide to the Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Fishing Sunglasses

When shopping for fishing sunglasses, it’s important to consider your budget, style, activity, location, and personal comfort. This is easier said than done. Let’s break down a few of these key factors.

Fishing Disciplines

There are so many wonderful ways to fish. Some folks do it for work, others do it for fun, and some combine the two as professional sport fishermen. There are dozens of subdisciplines out there, but perhaps the most important distinction is freshwater vs. saltwater.

Freshwater fisheries include lakes, rivers, and ponds. Freshwater fishing is generally associated with tame water, fairly shallow water, and shady vegetated banks. Wide open lakes and reservoirs often come with sunny conditions and lots of surface glare. In such environments, a lens like the Costa King Tides that has side shields and offers a lot of protection will come in handy.

When fishing shallow water, a high-contrast lens can help identify movement while sight-fishing. We’re strong proponents of finding a single versatile pair of glasses like the Smith Guide’s Choice that can handle all of your fishing needs. Still, every day is a little different when fishing freshwater, and it’s wise to own a few pairs that you can switch in and out of depending on the day’s conditions.

Saltwater fishing means large waves, big swell, huge fish, possible storms, and relentless sun. Again, every fishery is different but it’s safe to assume that you’ll be out on the water with the sun beating down and reflecting all over the surface of the water.

If that’s the case, you’ll want a pair of those very bright lenses to protect your eyes while you’re out chasing your desired species. For these instances, give the Wiley X P-17 or the Fin-Nor Tilloo a shot. Getting familiar with common weather patterns in your fisheries can also be helpful when shopping for glasses.

Saltwater is hard on gear, and sunglasses are no exception. If you want your sunnies to last in marine environments, we recommend seeking out a durable pair and treating them to frequent freshwater rinses. And, if you’re considering a trip to the tropics, check out our complete guide to gear you need to bring.

Lens Types and Materials

Lenses are the most important component of sunglasses. There are endless different lenses on the market, and each offers slightly different features and characteristics. Recent technological advancements in optics, as we see in the Bajio Vega, have been incredible and the standards for lens quality have never been higher.

With that said, there are plenty of sub-par lenses on the market. Quality is number one, but it’s also crucial to pick a lens that matches the weather conditions and water depth where you’ll be fishing.

We anglers consider color when selecting our lures and flies. We want to do the same when it comes to our lenses. Our eyes are powerful, adaptable, and delicate — but most of all they are unique. Every person has a different experience of light and color. We can’t say for certain what will work for you, but we can give you an idea of what works for most folks. It will be up to you to do some trial and error. 

If you’re heading out to a local lake during a bluebird day and won’t be doing much shallow-water fishing, you’ll likely want to grab some blue or green mirror lenses. If you’re going out to fly fish on a free-flowing river, we’d recommend a high-contrast lens like copper or copper-silver. Try some low-light rose or silver lenses for evening fishing and good topwater bite.

Owning a different pair of sunglasses for every kind of weather isn’t feasible for everyone. We recommend that you first start with a pair of “do-it-all’’ glasses and branch out from there. Most of the frames that we mentioned in this article can be matched up with a green mirror lens to form a versatile workhorse. Many brands offer free exchange options — especially if purchased through retailers or distributors.

Lens Material

The other key lens consideration is material. Most frames nowadays offer both polycarbonate and glass lens options, such as seen on the Costa Del Mar Lido . Don’t be fooled by these simple terms — most modern lenses aren’t made of a single solid material. Instead, lenses often consist of 10 or more layers of different hair-thin materials and treatments including hydrophobic coatings, anti-reflective coatings, and anti-scratch protection. Due to these variables, we can’t strictly say that glass or polycarbonate is always better.

Glass lenses are known for supreme scratch resistance due to their inherent hardness. It’s also said that glass lenses can offer better optical clarity. Typically, glass lenses also make for a heavier pair of glasses.

Polycarbonate lenses are a great choice if weight savings are a priority for you. Every brand has a bit of its own variation when it comes to the lens materials that it offers. Like with color, we encourage buyers to compare specific lenses to each other rather than broad categories like glass and polycarbonate.

Ideally, fishing sunglasses are comfortable enough to wear all day long. Comfort is a direct result of fit. Finding the right fit for you takes time, but it’s a worthwhile process. Don’t compromise on this.

On the practical side, the right fit helps prevent sunlight from sneaking in from the sides, maximizing your eye protection. Features like adjustable nose pads and temple tips help provide a snug yet comfortable grip.

Many fishing sunglasses like the Bajio Stiltsville have large frames to maximize coverage and protection. This works well for those with large faces, but it can be an issue for everyone else. Refer to our comparison to get a better sense of the fit of all of our recommended glasses.

Along with advancements in lens technology, there has been a notable shift toward innovative frame materials in recent years. Many of the brands highlighted on this list have moved beyond conventional steel, aluminum, or other metal frames. Instead, leading brands have embraced alternative materials that offer performance enhancements and/or environmental benefits.

Current trends lean toward frames crafted from robust and heat-resistant nylon or acetate-based materials. Furthermore, there’s now a strong emphasis on sustainability. Many frames utilize biodegradable plastics or recycled plastics retrieved from our oceans, reducing the environmental impact in case a pair goes missing in the great outdoors.

Durability is a huge concern when it comes to small hardware and added features like nose pads and temple pads. When we fish, we put our gear through the wringer. We want glasses that don’t fall apart after a single season. We’re confident in the durability of the sunglasses on this list, but to best protect your investment, look for a pair of sunglasses with a decent warranty.

Buy Croakies . And if you don’t know what Croakies are, they’re corded keepers for your glasses. If you take a digger and end up face down in the river, they’ll keep your glasses from leaving your body. Some of them float, which is a bonus if you’re fishing deep water.

Seriously, buy them. You won’t regret it.

Polarized lenses absorb horizontal light. Because the light source is coming from above and typically reflecting from a flat surface below, the majority of glare is horizontal light.

By removing that incoming light with a polarized lens, you’re left with only vertical light. The result is the ability to look through the surface of the water with far less reflecting light interfering with your view.

Think of it as being able to utilize the ambient light under the water without a light shining down on it and flashing back into your eyes

The increased visibility makes sight fishing possible, even in bright conditions. It allows you to see underwater landscape features you may have otherwise not known were there.

When choosing a lens color, it’s essential to understand which colors work best in which scenarios. Costa does a great job explaining the best lens color for your activity.

Each manufacturer will have slightly different recommendations based on the colors/finishes they offer.

Adding a mirror finish to any color lens will help reflect even more light, giving you increased visibility in bright situations.

The Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors in 2024

Go beyond style with sunglasses that combine classic good looks with next-level technology and design.

The Best Driving Sunglasses of 2024

What’s the best pair of driving sunglasses that leaves you free to enjoy your drive? The answers are here.

Rachelle Schrute has been writing about hunting, fishing, and conservation for several years, as well as being a wilderness guide in Yellowstone National Park. Prior to that, Rachelle held leadership positions in multiple conservation organizations and often finds herself testifying in the capitol on topics ranging from wildlife management to habitat protection. Based in Montana, Rachelle is an avid hunter, angler, wild game cook, and professional outdoor napper.

Aaron King is an angler and avid outdoor enthusiast with a passion for chasing tails and scales. Based in Northern California, Aaron has the privilege of regularly delving into the west coast’s best fisheries. He’s been casting into bass ponds and mountain streams for over seven years. When Aaron isn’t fishing, he also enjoys climbing, mountain biking, and snowboarding.

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Best Wine Glasses For Sailboats - Complete Guide

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Drinking wine on a sailboat doesn't have to be difficult. Here are ten unbreakable and high-quality wine glasses and wine tumblers that are perfect for use at sea.

The best wine glasses for sailboats are made by Silipint, Wine Outside, Michley, FineDine, SleeBas, Snowfox, Sipworks, and YETI. These glasses are made of unbreakable imitation crystal plastic or stainless steel.

In this article, we'll cover ten of the best wine glasses and tumblers for sailboats. We'll also discuss the differences between crystal glass and plastic, along with material alternatives like flexible silicone and stainless steel.

We sourced the information for this article from wine glass manufacturers to ensure accuracy. Additionally, we considered customer feedback and tips from sailboat owners who enjoy wine aboard their boats.

Table of contents

‍ What Kind of Wine Glass is Best for Sailing?

What makes a wine glass ideal for sailing? The best wine glasses must cope with the rocking motion option experienced by sailboats, particularly offshore. This makes top-heavy wine glasses with stems problematic, as they're easy to tip.

Additionally, sailing wine glasses should be resistant to shattering in case they fall over. This is especially true on boats because small spaces and broken glass are extremely dangerous, especially with a rocking boat. All of the wine glasses on this list are shatter-resistant or completely shatterproof.

Wine Glass Materials

Plastic wine glasses are unbreakable and inexpensive. But why do people avoid plastic wine glasses? Generally, it's because plastic wine glasses feel cheap. Almost every wine lover swears that glass is a superior material.

Thankfully, you can still use a glass wine glass and avoid shattering it, thanks to shatterproof materials that are now available. Even on sailboats, glass is still a superior material. However, modern, flexible synthetic glasses and stainless steel glasses now offer high-quality alternatives to traditional glass.

Top Ten Best Sailboat Wine Glasses and Tumblers

Through our research, we found ten of the best glass, synthetic, and stainless steel wine glasses for sailboats. These glasses are either unbreakable, unspillable, or both—which makes them ideal for use at the dock or on the open ocean.

1. Silipint Silicone Unbreakable Wine Glasses

Here's a fun and completely unbreakable set of wine glasses that's perfect for use on a sailboat. Silipint silicone wine glasses  are colorful and bendable, meaning they can flatten out and store in a compact space. This is particularly useful on sailboats where storage space is limited.

Silipint silicone wine glasses are guaranteed for life, aunt reusable almost an infinite amount of time. You can drop them, throw them against the wall, and squish them into a ball, and they'll always pop back into their original shape.

These silicone wine glasses come in a pack of four, which is plenty for entertaining guests and family members. They're also highly affordable and easy to wash in a compact sailboat galley. As a result, these colorful and durable wine glasses earn the number one spot on our list.

2. Wine Outside Unbreakable Wine Glasses

As you can probably guess, these Wine Outside unbreakable wine glasses  are designed for use outside. They're made of a practically indestructible type of plastic which feels like a traditional wine glass but doesn't shatter on impact. They are ideal for a traditional wine setup aboard a sailboat.

These wine glasses don't have a stem, which means they don't tip over as easily. The shape of tumbler-type wine glasses is also great for sailboats, as they hold the majority of their weight low in the glass. The material is thin and lightweight, and it's easy to clean.

This is not your typical cheap plastic imitation wine glass. These 20 fluid-ounce glasses feel like the real deal, without any of the risks. They come in a pack of four and are highly rated. Wine Outside glasses are also extremely popular for outdoor patio sets due to their realistic feel.

3. Michley Tritan Plastic Shatterproof Wine Glasses

Are you looking for classic wine glass styling and high-quality, unbreakable material? Then consider a set of Michley Tritan shatterproof wine glasses . These wine glasses are shaped like traditional wine glasses with stems, and they'll fit nicely into your galley overhead glass holder.

Even though they feel like glass, they're not. These wine glasses are made of nearly indestructible plastic. Tritan plastic feels like glass and is very thin, so it's easy to clean with minimal amounts of water. These wine glasses hold 12 and a half fluid ounces, and they come in a pack of four.

Tritan plastic is both attractive and very safe. It doesn't contain BPS or any other harmful chemicals that are known to appear in plastic drinkware. Additionally, these wine glasses are 100% Made in the USA and subject to strict quality control. Tritan plastic wine glasses are the best choice if you want a traditional feel.

4. FineDine Stainless Steel Unbreakable Wine Glasses

Stainless steel is an almost perfect material for sailboat drinkware. These FineDine stainless steel wine glasses  are unbreakable and very attractive. They are the perfect glasses to compliment a contemporary sailboat interior, and they're designed to last a lifetime.

But why choose stainless steel over less costly materials like plastic? For one, it's a high-quality material that's guaranteed to last. Additionally, stainless steel is very easy to clean and won't corrode. Water stains are never an issue, and it has a more premium feel than plastic or thin glass.

These 18 fluid-ounce stainless steel glasses come in a set of four. And for the price, it's hard to beat the quality of these glasses. They're manufactured with food-grade stainless steel that is completely BPA-free. Plus, they keep drinks cold longer. These glasses work for everything from water to cocktails.

5. SleeBas Vacuum Insulated Wine Tumbler Glass with Lid

But what if you are trying to drink wine in rough weather or on a heeling sailboat? The Sleebas stainless steel wine tumbler  is the solution. This insulated wine glass comes with a sealing lid, which maintains temperatures and prevents spills even if it rolls off the table.

The lid is made of Tritan plastic, which we covered earlier. It also comes with a stainless steel straw and a straw cleaner. This wine glass keeps drinks warm for 12 hours and cold for 9 hours. It comes in a pack of two, and for the price, it's hard to beat.

The glasses are made of BPA-free stainless steel, which is high-quality, easy to clean, and built to last. It keeps drinks warm or cold using an insulated air pocket between the inside and outside of a glass. There's no fluid in the air pocket, which keeps the weight down and prevents leaks.

6. Snowfox Shimmer Insulated Stainless Steel Wine Glass with Lid

Snowfox insulated wine glasses  are the pride of their Shimmer series. It's available in numerous colors and represents one of the highest quality stainless steel wine glasses on the market. This glass is insulated and keeps drinks warm or cold for many hours.

The glass comes with a clear plastic lid which reduces the likelihood of spills, though it's not completely sealed. Still, it's better than having a glass without a lid. These wine glasses are heavier-duty than most stainless steel tumblers, and they have thin rims like high-quality crystal glasses.

Additionally, the insulating qualities of this wine glass prevent condensation from forming on the outside. That means you don't need to use a coaster, as long as you're careful not to let any wine drip down the edges. Overall, Snowfox makes the highest quality sailing wine glasses in this category.

7. Sipworks Stainless Steel Insulated Wine Glass with Lid

Here's another high-quality stainless steel wine tumbler with double-wall insulation. The Sipworks 12 fluid-ounce wine glass  comes with a mahogany finish, which likely matches the interior of many contemporary fiberglass sailboats.

It's a unique design that's also available in several other colors, including powder-coated marble and several brushed colored stainless finishes. The glasses have a vacuum between the inner and outer walls, which improves the insulating qualities of the glass. Additionally, this glass is easy to clean due to its wide opening.

Sipworks stainless wine tumbler glasses keep beverages cool for up to nine hours, as vacuum insulation is better for keeping drinks cold. It's made of Premium 304 food-grade stainless steel, and the finish is powder-coated for durability. These glasses are ideal for single sailboat owners who need one 'good' everyday glass for wine, cocktails, and other beverages.

8. YETI Rambler 10 oz Wine Tumbler with MagSlider Lid

Here's a company that's made a name for itself in the outdoor industry. The YETI Rambler is a ten fluid-ounce wine glass  with their proprietary MagSlider sealing lid. This wine glass is one of the most recognizable and robust stainless steel glasses on the market.

You can find these glasses in outdoor stores, often for a significant markup. That's because they're extremely popular for both indoor and outdoor use. If you stock your sailboat galley with a set of these, you're sure to drastically reduce the risk of spills and messes.

The YETI Rambler has a vacuum-insulated space in between the inner and outer layers. This keeps the drink cold for several hours. The glass is dishwasher-safe, and condensation doesn't form on the outside. It's available in navy blue, pink, light blue, and white. The finish is powder-coated for durability and longevity.

9. FineDine Premium Stainless Steel Wine Glasses with Lids

Stainless steel wine glasses aren't just available as tumblers. FineDine returns with its classic stainless steel stem glasses , which are the perfect medium between traditional wine glasses and indestructible stainless steel.

Like the popular stainless tumblers, these stem glasses feature double-wall insulation and a leak-resistant lid. They're available in a brushed stainless finish, and they're also dishwasher safe. The lid is certified BPA-free, making these glasses completely safe to drink out of.

These FineDine glasses feature a non-skid base made of rubber, which prevents them from sliding across a slick galley table when the boat rolls. They are the most stable and durable stem glasses on the market, and they'll fit nicely in an overhead wine glass rack.

10. Silipint Silicone Unbreakable Wine Glasses with Lids

These Silipint silicone wine glasses  are very similar to the first that we mentioned on this list, though these come with an unbreakable lid and straws. These glasses offer all the benefits of a crushable and unbreakable flexible wine glass and a stainless steel glass with a lid.

They don't insulate quite as well as double-walled stainless steel glasses, but they're certainly lighter and take up much less space when compacted. They come in numerous fun colors, which can liven up any event aboard a sailboat.

These environmentally friendly glasses come with durable lids and a straw hole, though you can also drink from it without a straw through the sippy cup-style nozzle. They come in a pack of two and hold 14 fluid ounces of wine, water, or any other liquid.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Best kayaking sunglasses: Sturdy pairs for kayak, canoe and paddleboard adventures

• Patrick Kinsella
• June 1, 2023

Protect your eyes and enjoy the best views during paddling adventures with a pair of the best kayaking sunglasses...

A selection of the best sunglasses for kayaking Credit: Pat Kinsella

Going out for a paddle on a sunny day is a sensationally enjoyable experience, but water reflects glare and it’s vitally important to protect your eyes from solar damage. The best kayaking sunglasses have polarised lenses, which not only block glare, but also accentuate contrast and enhance clarity, so you can see how the water is moving better, and also spot features, flora and fauna under the water as you glide along the surface.

Finding the right polarised sunglasses can revolutionise your paddling outings, revealing a whole subaquatic world that you could only guess at before. And, of course, if you no longer have to spend hours squinting while you’re out on the water, you’re not going to develop so many wrinkles and creases around your eyes.

While some models are a significant investment, the short and long-term health of your eyes is well worth looking after, and the best kayaking sunglasses look good both on and off the water, so you can get excellent use out of them.

Many can be customised, with multiple lens and frame options to suit your preferred look, but it’s important not to sacrifice functionality for style. Good grip, comprehensive coverage and buoyant build materials are all important features to look out for.

8 of the best kayaking sunglasses

Bollé Holman Floatable Sunglasses

Bollé Holman floatable sunglasses

Brilliant, buoyant kayaking sunglasses with superior polarised lenses, good glare reduction and thermogrip frames

Specifications: Design: Floating sunglasses | Materials: TR90 nylon; thermoplastic rubber | Weight: 24g | Lens type: Polarised |  Lens colours: Off-shore blue | Frame colours: Black matte / Black & red matte / Black crystal & blue matte | UV protection: 100% | Category: 3 | VLT: 12% | Extras: Soft material storage pouch

Reasons to buy: Great polarised lenses; floating design makes retrieval easier; very light and comfortable; dynamic thermogrip frames; good for larger heads

Reasons to avoid: No hard cover included; limited choice of frame and lens; no recycled content

The reactive thermogrip incorporated into the frames of the Bollé Holman means that the more you sweat, the more securely the glasses grip on to your temples and nose. If they do happen to fall from face, though, these sunnies float – the clue’s in the name – making it easier for paddlers to rescue them from the sea, lake or river being explored.

The polarised Cat 3 lenses are comfortably dark enough supply good levels of protection and prevent squinting, while not being so shaded that they’re unsafe for everyday tasks like driving. And although they are far from the biggest lenses on test, the frames subtlety wrap around your face to supply some decent defence against glare seeping in from the sides.

Besides dealing with the brightness, a polarizing filter in the lens adds a blue hue to the view, which enhances contrast on water – making them excellent for sea kayaking .

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Oakley Split Shot

Classy high-wrap kayaking sunglasses for the paddler looking for on-water performance and on-shore style

Specifications: Design: High-wrap, watersports sunglasses | Materials: ‘O Matter’ frames and Plutonite lenses | Weight: 30g | Lens type: Polarised Prizm with Iridium coating | Lens colours: Deep water; Black; Tungsten; Sapphire; Shallow water; Ruby; Grey | Frame colours: Matte black; Matte carbon; Matte tortoise; Matte translucent blue; Polished black; Black ink | UV protection: 100% | Category: 3 | VLT: 12% | Extras: Detachable leash and water-resistant eyewear case with attachment clip

Reasons to buy: Super stylish; excellent glare-busting coverage; top-quality lenses; comfortable, secure-fitting frame; robust case included

Reasons to avoid: They don’t float; no vents; pricey; no recycled material used

If you want to look good on and off the water, the Oakley Split Shots will certainly fulfil that brief, but there is a lot more to these top-end sport sunnies than the ability to turn heads. The high-wrap frame design cuts out almost all solar glare from above, below and either side, and the HDO (High Definition Optics) polarised Prizm lenses, made with Plutonite and coated in Iridium, offer best-in-class clarity and definition, plus top-level eye protection.

Stress tested to a high level, these glasses promise excellent impact resistance, in case you cop a wayward paddle. The no-slip nosepad, constructed from a substance that Oakley’s Avatar-loving marketing team have called ‘Unobtanium’, provides good grip in waves or choppy conditions, and its hydro-reactive hold only gets stronger if you start sweating.

The two hat- and helmet-compatible arms compete the three-point fit, but if the glasses are somehow dislodged while you’re out on the water, then the leash (included) supplies some extra security (because at this price, you don’t want to lose them). Also included is a rigid carry case.

Tifosi Crit Enliven Off-Shore Lens Sunglasses

Ocean and sea-focussed polarised sunnies with a tailor-made blue light filter to ease eye strain

Specifications: Design: Sport glasses | Materials: Grilamid TR-90 Nylon Frame; Polycarbonate Lenses; Hydrophilic rubber grips | Weight: 30g | Lens type: Polarised | Lens colours: Blue mirrored | Frame colours: Matte smoke | UV protection: 100% | Category: 3 | VLT: Unspecified | Extras: Zippered hard case & fabric cleaning bag

Reasons to buy: Specifically designed with filters for use on the water; wraparound design cuts glare; very secure fit; fog-busting venting; affordable

Reasons to avoid: They don’t float; no recycled material used

Designed for fishing folk, but absolutely perfect for ocean- and sea-going kayakers and paddleboarders, Tifosi’s Crit sunglasses with Enliven Off-Shore lenses boast a blue mirror filter that reduces the intensity of high energy blue light coming off the water and cuts down on glare, to protect your eyes and protect them from strain.

(If you do more paddling on rivers and lakes than on the sea and ocean, then Tifosi’s Enliven On-Shore range will suit you better, with their green mirror filter doing a lot of the smart work in that more verdant aquascape to improve visual acuity.)

On both models, the polarised lenses supply excellent contrast and will help you spot underwater wildlife as you paddle. The nose bridge is substantial and very comfortable, and the head-hugging arms keep these sunnies in the right place – the hydrophilic rubber pads increase their grip when you get hot and sweaty. Venting on the frame and lenses stops the Crits from fogging up. Optically decentred lenses make sure your vision isn’t distorted.

Versatile and stylish little sunnies with polarised lenses and decent nose and temple grips

Specifications: Design: Sport and lifestyle | Materials: Grilamid frames with Zeiss polycarbonate lenses | Weight: 25g | Lens type: Polarised | Lens colours: Super blue mirror; Black matte; Red mirror; Classic green; Super pink; Violet mirror; Green mirror | Frame colours: Avio Matt; Black matte; Blaze matte; Blonde matte; Blush; Crystal; Olive green matte | UV protection: 100% | Category: 2 and 3 | VLT: 11 – 24% | Extras: Fabric storage pouch

Reasons to buy: Super stylish; light; very secure and comfortable bridge and temple grips; beautiful Zeiss lenses

Reasons to avoid: They don’t float; too small for some faces; minimal side protection; no recycled content

Made in Italy, the cool Cosmos from Koo are available in a rich mix of frame and top-class Zeiss lens combos, but be careful when you choose, because some lenses are Cat 2 and others are Cat 3, and the VLT (visible light transfer) varies accordingly – more on this below, but very basically, Cat 3 glasses are darker than Cat 2 glasses.

All lens options are polarised, and offer excellent clarity and contrast while looking at waves and objects on the water – making them ideal for paddle sports (amongst other outdoor activities).

These sunnies have soft rubber pads on the nose and at the temples, which keep the glasses securely in position even when the water is lumpy, and they are comfortable to wear for long periods.

This is a one-size-fits-all design, but I found them to be small fitting on my (perhaps over-sized) face. They’re fairly square shaped, and there isn’t much in the way of protection from side glare.

Decathlon Tribord 500 Polarised Sunglasses

Best budget kayaking sunglasses

Specifications: Materials: Polyamide (70%), with styrene ethylene & butadiene styrene (30%) / 100% polycarbonate lenses | Weight:31g / 1oz | Lens type: Grey-tint, category-3 polarised lenses | Frame colours: Black & electric blue / Dark petrol blue & black / Black & pale grey | Lens colours: Blue / Grey / Orange | UV protection:100% | Filter category:3 | VLT:8–18% | Extras: None

Reasons to buy: Excellent polarised lenses; Lightweight floating frame; Good, comfortable grips keep the glasses firmly in place; Two sizes available; Arms feature portals for attaching a leash; CO2 impact reduced by 11% by ecological design; 2-year warranty

Reasons to avoid: Lens material susceptible to scratches; No pouch or case included; Frame is dark coloured, making retrieval tricky; No leash included

The frame of the Tribord 500 M Polarised Sunglasses has a wrap-around design, which very effectively keeps side glare out. The glasses are available in two sizes: Small (S) and Medium (M) – the latter will fit the majority of men’s faces (according to Decathlon, and I agree), while the Small will predominantly suit the face shape of younger people and women.

Lightweight and (importantly) buoyant, the polymer and styrene frame of the Tribord 500 M polarised sunglasses is flexible and robust – making these shades more than capable of surviving some drops and bumps while you’re out sailing or paddling – but the lenses are less likely to last as long unless you’re more careful.

The category 3 grey tinted lenses are quite dark and very protective, absorbing between 82% and 92% of visible light (the exact VLT isn’t quoted, but you shouldn’t drive in these shades in poor light). The 100% polarisation means they offer excellent definition and contrast while you’re out on the water.

The lenses do have a mirrored finish, however, and they can become scratched quite easily – especially since the glasses don’t come with a protective pouch or case. Scratches won’t necessarily negatively affect the performance or protection they offer, but it will them look rubbish.

Julbo Ultimate Cover Ocean Master

Serious protection and ultimate performance for dedicated paddlers who spend lots of time on the water

Specifications: Design: Full protection wraparound sunglasses | Materials: Grip Tech structure; Spandex side and nose shields; neoprene floating cord | Weight: 25g (42g with shields and cord) | Lens type: Spectron 4 HD Glare control with 80% polarization | Lens colours: Black and yellow mirrored | Frame colours: Black | UV protection: 100% | Category: 4 | VLT: 6% | Extras: Nose guard, removable Spandex side shields, high-vis yellow neoprene floating cord, fabric storage pouch

Reasons to buy: Unbeatable protection from the elements; modular set-up with customisable features; lightweight; great grip with helmet-compatible arms; fog-preventing high venting; excellent extras

Reasons to avoid: Too dark for some conditions; over specced for occasional paddlers; not designed for off-water / social use; only float with neoprene cord attached; no recycled content

If you regularly spend long hours on the water in bright conditions – paddling kayaks, canoes or SUPs for pleasure or professionally as a guide – and you are concerned about the very real risk to your skin and eyes from prolonged exposure to the sun, these glasses are an excellent investment.

As the name suggests, they supply serious protection from the discomfort of glare and the harmful effects of solar exposure, with a wraparound design and Cat 4 lenses, plus a removable Spandex nose guard (easily malleable to fit any snout) and side shields.

The shape of the lens facilitates an uninterrupted, panoramic view of everything around you on the water – ideal for spotting wildlife, other craft, obstructions and potential dangers – and the high venting prevents fogging. Being Cat 4, the lenses are dark (too dark, sometimes, if conditions are really gloomy), but the 80% polarisation provides good contrast and clarity in bright conditions.

The tailored temple grips fit beneath a helmet if you’re wearing one, and together with the bridge they securely hold the glasses in place in choppy conditions. The supplied head cord provides extra security against loss, but if the glasses do somehow fall in the water, the high-vis cord comes complete with a float and the bright colours make them easy to spot.

Sungod Tempest sunglasses

SunGod Tempests

Lightweight, fully protective polarised kayaking sunglasses endorsed by Great Britain’s SailGP Team

Specifications: Design: Performance sunglasses | Materials: Nylon | Weight: 27g | Lens types: 4KO; 4KO polarised; 8KO; 8KO polarised | Lens colours: Smoke; Blue; Gold; Silver blue; Green; Fire | Frame colours: Matte black; Matte navy; Frosted clear; Matte while; Infinite black; Infinite grey | UV protection: 100% | Category: Unspecified | VLT: Unspecified | Extras: Microfibre storage pouch

Reasons to buy: Excellent 8KO lenses; recycled frames; lightweight and comfortable; good nose and temple grip; large lenses

Reasons to avoid: They don’t float; poor side protection; pricey

Sported by the Great Britain SailGP team, the Tempests were designed to stay in place on your face during the roughest of weathers. As such, they feature excellent nose bridge and temple grips, and although they may have been designed as sailing sunglasses , we can report that they are perfect for paddling too.

Available in a wide range of frame and lens colour combinations, you can choose between 4KO and 8KO, polarised and non polarised lenses; the 8KO polarised versions are the best for paddling kayaks, canoes and SUPs, but they are also the most expensive.

They are, however, built to last. The frames (impressively made with recycled material) are impact resistant and have a screwless design (to avoid rusting). The lenses boast hydroleophobic and triple-layer scratch protection, and the Tempests come with a lifetime guarantee.

To see the difference an 8KO polarised lens makes over a 4KO lens, have a little play around on this visual comparison tool . The lenses are large, but they do sit quite proud of your face, and there’s a surprising lack of side protection.

Barz Optics Cabo

Floating, wraparound kayaking sunglasses with good anti-glare capability

Specifications:   Design: Wraparound | Materials: Polycarbonate | Weight: 34g | Lens type: Polarised | Lens colours: Grey; Black | Frame colours: Gloss grey with red trim; Matt black; Matt carbon fibre & grey; Matt white & blue | UV protection : 100% | Category: Not quoted | VLT: Not quoted | Extras: Neoprene case and retainer

Reasons to buy: Wraparound style hugs face and cuts out glare; they float if dropped; two sizes available

Reasons to avoid: No vents, so some fogging can occur; no recycled material used

Aussie brand Barz was launched in 1996 by former surfing champion Kevin Barr, frustrated because he couldn’t find the sort of sunnies he wanted to wear while on the water, and because he’d seen surfers and outdoor adventurers suffering from pterigium , a kind of cataract caused by prolonged exposure to UV rays wind, spray and salt sometimes known as ‘surfer’s eye’.

While Barr had activities such as surfing, skiing, jet skiing, sailing and sailboarding in mind when he set his designers to task, the end result is a range of sunglasses that are excellent for kayakers, canoeists and SUPers, and the Cabo is our pick of the pack for paddlers.

With a good-looking wraparound shape that hugs the face and cuts out almost all glare, as well as providing protection from the wind and sand, these lightweight sunnies are frameless on the bottom. These glasses are available in two sizes to accommodate different face shapes.

The non-slip nose piece is soft but supplies a firm fit and the arms grip your temples securely without being uncomfortable – they also have a slot to make them easily compatible with a retainer (supplied), to help prevent you dropping them into the water, but if this does happen they float.

Choosing the best sunglasses for kayaking

How to choose the best kayaking sunglasses

Buying sunglasses for any purpose can be a bit bamboozling. There are umpteen frame and lens options out there, and brands use bewildering and opaque language to describe their various attributes. Certain crucial factors combine to make the best kayaking sunglasses – following are the key things to look out for.

Categories and VLT

The language of sunglasses can quickly get technical, and often brands assume you know what classifications and acronyms mean, which can lead to confusion and inappropriate purchases.

Sunglasses are divided into categories, with Cat 1 glasses being the least shaded and Cat 4 being the darkest. Darker does not necessarily mean better, though. Cat 4 glasses are designed for high-altitude mountaineering and exploring in extreme conditions where the harmful effects of solar exposure are accentuated, and they are not suitable for lots of low-altitude activities (in many countries it is illegal to drive while wearing Cat 4 glasses).

VLT stands for ‘Visible Light Transmission’. It refers to the amount of light that passes through a lens to reach your eye, and it is usually quoted in a percentage rating. In contrast to the category rating, the lower the VLT the darker the glasses will be. Cat 4 glasses, for example, will cut out almost all light and have a VLT of <10%.

Polarised lenses

While polarised lenses aren’t necessarily the best choice for all activities (if you need to read a screen at all while you’re out and about then non-polarised are better), they are definitely the best choice for paddling pursuits.

Whether you’re kayaking, canoeing or SUPing on the sea or along rivers, polarised lenses will reduce glare and vastly improve contrast and definition, enabling you to read the water better and spot objects (and wildlife) beneath the surface.

Best sunglasses for kayaking

Floating frames

For obvious reasons, sunglasses that float, either independently or because they have a buoyant lanyard, are the best choice for paddlers. Some sailing sunglasses don’t prioritise this, because the chances of you convincing a skipper to turn a yacht around so you can try and retrieve your glasses are slim, but when you’re kayaking, canoeing or SUPing, you are the captain of your craft, and the chances of finding the jettisoned products are much higher because of your proximity to the water.

Ideally, the glasses won’t go in the water in the first place. Look for a pair with good three-point grip supplied by the nosepad and the two arms. The hold needs to be firm but not squeezy and uncomfortable when worn for several hours.

Many of the best kayaking sunglasses have reactive thermogrip elements in the bridge and temple-touching areas, made from a substance that increases its grip when wet (for example, when you start sweating).

As well as coming from above, solar glare reflects off the surface of the water and can hit you from all directions while you’re paddling. For this reason, the very best kayaking sunglasses supply surround protection, either with wraparound style frames or additional side panels (sometimes removable).

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated sailing page for more marine products.

Watch CBS News

The 6 best places to buy prescription glasses online in 2024 and save

By Jason R. Rich

Updated on: May 16, 2024 / 1:26 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Forget shopping for glasses in person. There are bunches of great online companies -- like Warby Parker , GlassesUSA , Zenni Optical , Roka ,  LensCrafters , EyeBuyDirect and Vint and York -- that allow you to easily order prescription eyeglasses or  prescription sunglasses  online. Some of these companies, like GlassesUSA and LensCrafters, even offer designer frames at discounted prices. All of these companies also allow you to customize your eyewear based on your prescription, lifestyle and needs.

Even if you have insurance, prescription eyewear and contacts can be costly. By shopping for glasses online, you can choose from a huge selection of quality -- even designer -- frames and have custom lenses made without spending a fortune. 

Our in-house shopping experts have done the research on the best places to shop online for prescription eyewear. Don't worry if there's a problem with the glasses you order online. This roundup only features companies that offer a money-back guarantee and easy exchanges. And most offer either a virtual try-on feature, or allow you to order several frames to try on at home, before placing that final order on your glasses. 

All also provide numerous custom lens options, so you can select a one of several lens materials (like polycarbonate or 1.67 high-index), add a blue light filter, add a light response feature (that allows them to transition to darker color in sunlight), and then choose between a single vision, bi-focal or progressive option.

Where can you buy prescription glasses online?

Whether you need single vision, bi-focals, or progressive lenses, prescription sunglasses, or lenses that automatically darken in the sun, shopping online has serious benefits. It's easy, saves money and gives you a much larger selection than what's typically on offer at the optometrist's office.

Pro tip : When you're shopping prescription glasses online, be sure to see if the company offers discounts to students, teachers, active military, seniors or first responders. And most of these companies offer an extra discount if you buy more than one pair of glasses.

Best overall prescription eyeglasses : Warby Parker

Best buget prescription eyeglasses : glassesusa, best no-frills prescription eyeglasses : zenni optical, best prescription eyeglasses with luxury frames : vint & york.

• Best everyday prescription eyeglasses : Roka

Best for designer frames : LensCrafters

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Blue light filtering lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on :  Yes  |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted :  Yes

Warby Parker is a one-stop shop for all of your prescription eyewear. Most frames, which include single-vision prescription lenses, start at just $95. Progressive lenses start at $295. 

The company sells only its own collection of frames (and there are many to choose from) and the website offers an easy virtual try-on feature. There's also a home try-on option that allows you to select up to five frames and have them shipped to your home for free. Choose the frames you want, order your prescription glasses and return the samples in a pre-paid box. 

You also get a wide range of lens options, so you can pick only the add-on filters and coatings that you need -- whether it's a blue-light filter, anti-fatigue filter, or light responsive lenses that darken in the sun. An anti-reflective and scratch-resistant coating are automatically included for free. The company uses polycarbonate lenses, but these can be upgraded to 1.67 high-index lenses for an additional fee.

Once you choose your frame, in most cases, you can choose a color or color combination and size, before moving on to customizing your lenses. You'll be asked to either upload a copy of your prescription or provide contact information for your optometrist. 

Warby Parker accepts virtually all vision insurance and HSA/FSA payments. If you order two pairs of glasses at the same time (one of which can be prescription sunglasses), you get an automatic 15% discount. And for every pair of prescription eyewear purchased, Warby Parker donates a pair to someone in need. 

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Blue light filtering lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on :  Yes  |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted :  Yes  |  Vision insurance accepted :  Yes

GlasesUSA.com is the place to shop for prescription glasses, especially if you're looking for designer frames (from Ray-Ban, Oakley, Prada, Coach, Versace, Gucci and 54 others) or low-cost generic frames that start at $34 (including single-vision lenses). For bi-focals or progressives, add $94 to $99, plus the cost of any filters or coatings.

GlassesUSA is all about discounts -- from frames that are on sale to BOGO offers. Designer frames are typically sold at up to 40% off of retail, and lens upgrades are offered for up to 50% off. New customers who sign up for a newsletter get a coupon good for up to 50% off a first pair of frames.

All glasses come with a 14-day money-back guarantee, as well as a one-year warranty. If you have vision insurance, you can submit your receipt for reimbursement, but you can also use health savings funds to make qualifying purchases. 

Another great option for discounted prescription eyewear is EyeBuyDirect . Here, you'll often discover awesome BOGO offers, plus an extra 15% savings on orders over $110 when you use promo code MDBOGO at checkout.

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Blue light filtering lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted : Submit receipt for reimbursement 

Zenni Optical is known for ultra-low cost frames, which range in price from a mere $6.95 to $59.95 with single-focus, basic prescription lenses included. Bi-focals, progressives, filters and coatings all increase prices; adding lenses that change color in sunlight will add about $160 to the cost, while a blue-light filter increases the cost by about $47.

So, if you're looking for the most basic glasses at the lowest price, Zenni is the place to shop. That said, some of the ultra-cheap frame options fall into the "you get what you pay for" category in terms of quality and durability. When you start adding optional upgrades, the final cost will be similar to what you get elsewhere. 

What we like about Zenni Optical is that shopping for glasses online is easy. You'll find filter options that allow you to quickly narrow your search for the perfect frames, based on price, style, prescription, color and frame material. You're guided through lens selection, too. Most of the frames offered have a virtual try-on feature. An additional 10% discount is offered to students, teachers, active military, first responders and medical workers.

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Blue light filtering lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted : Yes  

One benefit of shopping for prescription eyewear from Vint & York is that the company designs and manufacturers its own selection of designer-quality frames -- many with colors and styles you can't find elsewhere. It then uses lenses crafted by expert technicians within a cutting-edge lab. This small, female-owned business prides itself on offering meticulously handcrafted eyewear that's manufactured using premium materials. 

We love that Vint & York offers hundreds of men's and women's frame options, including some that offer a retro or vintage style. The company's Luxury collection offers more premium and unusual styles, while the Artista collection features frames with bold colors and attention-grabbing shapes. 

Of course, Vint & York also offers a beautiful selection of classic styles for people with more traditional taste, but also gives you the option to try something from its exclusive Nerdy (Geek Chic) or Hipster collection. Once you select the perfect frames, you can customize your lens with a wide range of options, starting with single vision, readers, bi-focals or progressive lenses. Next, choose between a polycarbonate, high index, super high index, Trivex or CR39 lens material and add your choice of coatings (like blue light filtering, photochromic, a colored tint, or gradient colored tint) that allow you to make your glasses truly your own -- to match your personal style, color preferences and budget.

While Vint & York allows you to shop online, you can expect highly personalized attention and customer service via live chat, email or phone whenever it's needed. Most custom-made, prescription eyewear ships within three to seven business days. The overall eyeglass quality and unusual frame styles are why we added Vint & York to this roundup.

Best everyday prescription eyeglasses: Roka

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Blue light filtering lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted : Yes  

From the Roka website, shopping for prescription eyeglasses or sunglasses couldn't be any easier. The company designs and manufacturers its own premium quality frames that are fashionable and durable -- and there are dozens of styles, sizes and colors to choose from.

All prescription eyewear comes with polycarbonate lenses, but these can be upgraded to Trivex or high-index lenses. Add convenient extras, like blue-light protection, a lens tint or photochromic lenses. Once you customize your eyewear, simply upload your prescription and within 10 to 14 days, your glasses arrive. Each pair comes with a 1,000 day warranty. But if something isn't right with the prescription, refunds or exchanges are available.

Roka's frames are designed in-house and use what the company calls non-siip Geko pads that keeps the frames from slipping around or causing uncomfortable pressure points. The spring hinges are shock-absorbent and never need to be tightened. You also get free anti-scratch, anti-reflection and anti-fog coatings on all lenses.

While any of Roka's frames can be made into sunglasses or upgraded to offer photochromic lenses, the company also has a line of sunglass frames and performance eyewear for athletes. And if you need help choosing the perfect glasses or sunglasses, the Roka website offers a quick online quiz to help you find the right fit. Plus live chat or phone assistance is readily available.

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option :  Yes  |  Blue light filtering lens option :  Yes  |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted :  Yes  |  Vision insurance accepted :  Yes

If you want designer frames from Ray-Ban, Oakley, Versace, Coach, Prada, Brooks Brothers or any of more than a dozen others, the place to shop online is LensCrafters. Yes, this is the same company that's been operating 1,000+ retail locations since 1983, but you can conveniently shop for designer eyewear with prescription lenses online -- and the process is super simple.

LensCrafters is a one-stop online shop for prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses, as well as contacts. The website makes it easy to shop for glasses based on brand, style, color or shape. Once you find the frames you love, choose from a wide range of lens options. Once your eyeglasses arrive, they come with a 30-day happiness guarantee. For an additional fee, you can upgrade to a protection plan that covers frames and lenses against damage, scratches and other issues for a full year.

Whether you're shopping for prescription eyeglasses or prescription sunglasses, you'll find a vast selection of designer frames to choose from, with new options coming in all the time. Some frame and single vision lens combos start as low as $100. You'll also discover some designer frames on sale for as much as 60% off, with additional discounts offered to AAA and AARP members.

What do I need to order prescription glasses online?

Regardless of where you shop, you'll need:

• A current eyeglass prescription (less than one year old) from an optometrist. If you don't have a copy of your prescription, be prepared to share your optometrist's contact information.
• Your pupillary distance (PD) measurement. This something your optometrist can provide, or you can measure it yourself . The Zenni or Vint & York website offers a Custom Dual PD  ruler that you can download and print for free.
• Your vision insurance information.

Types of lenses include single-vision, bi-focals (sometimes called multi-focals), or progressives. These lenses can be made from optical glass, CR-39 plastic or polycarbonate. There are several types of optional lens materials that impact their thickness, weight, clarity, reflection resistance and the level of protection they offer. 

Once you pick a lens type, you'll typically move on to optional lens coatings or treatments -- think scratch resistance, an anti-reflective coating, UV blocking, a blue-light filter, tinting, polarization, or a light-responsive filter. Those options usually affect the cost.

What happens if the glasses don't fit or the prescription is incorrect?

Virtually all sellers, including those featured in this roundup, offer a 14- or 30-day exchange or return policy. If the frames don't fit, or you're not seeing clearly, you can return the glasses for a full refund or have the glasses remade. After the return or exchange period, many of the online sellers will offer at least a six-month to one-year "no scratch" guarantee, which means the company will repair or replace the lenses if they get accidentally scratched. 

In some cases, you can purchase an extended warranty, which will cover any damage to the frames or lenses during a predefined period. These extended warranty plans do not cover the glasses if they're lost or stolen.

How to choose prescription glasses that fit

Eyeglass frames come in nine popular shapes -- rectangular, square, round, aviator, oval, cat-eye, browline, oversized and geometric. At Warby Parker  or Vint & York , you'll discover guides for choosing a frame design based on your face shape. Of course, these are only suggestions. As long as they fit properly, the style and color of eyeglass frames you choose is a matter of personal preference.

• Round-shaped faces :  Rectangle glasses, square glasses, geometric glasses, cat-eye glasses, browline glasses, or full-rimmed glasses are suggested.
• Oval-shaped faces : Just about any frame design will look good on someone with an oval-shaped face.
• Heart-shaped shaped faces : Oval glasses, round glasses, aviator glasses or semi-rimless glasses are suggested.
• Square-shaped faces : Round glasses, oval glasses, wire glasses, or semi-rimless glasses are suggested.
• Triangle-shaped faces : Rectangle glasses, browline glasses or cat-eye glasses are suggested.
• Diamond-shaped faces : Browline glasses, cat-eye glasses, round glasses, oval glasses or semi-rimless glasses are recommended.

Most eyeglass frames come in at least several sizes. If you look on the inner side of a frame's arm, you'll see numbers (which are measurements) engraved on it. 

When you see three numbers on the eyeglass frame's arm, and they're separated by dashes or spaces, the first number is the lens width, the second is the bridge width and the third is the temple length. If you have existing eyeglass frames that fit well, you can typically use the same measurements for new frames. You can also often take advantage of a company's virtual try-on or home try-on options.

The average person will need a lens width of between 40mm and 60mm, a bridge width between 14mm and 24mm, and a temple length between 120mm and 150mm. Two other measurements you might need to consider include the frame width and lens height. Ultimately, how the frames feel while being worn and how securely fit on your face are the most important considerations.

Shopping for prescription sunglasses? Be sure to check out our coverage of the six best places to buy prescription sunglasses online (and save money) .

Jason R. Rich ( www.JasonRich.com ) is an internationally recognized consumer technology expert with more than 30 years' writing experience. He's also an accomplished author and photographer. One of his most recently published books, The Remote Worker's Handbook: How to Effectively Work From Anywhere ($24.99, Entrepreneur Books) is now available from Amazon and wherever books are sold.

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Courteney Cox says late ‘Friends’ co-star Matthew Perry still ‘visits’ her after death: He’s ‘around for sure’

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He’s still there for her.

Courteney Cox got sentimental about her late “Friends” co-star, Matthew Perry, while commemorating the 20th anniversary of the hit sitcom’s series finale.

“I’m so thankful I got to work so closely with him for so many years. He visits me a lot, if we believe in that,” the actress, 59, said in an interview with “CBS Sunday Morning” published Sunday.

Cox, who starred as Monica Gellar alongside Perry’s Chandler Bing for 10 seasons, further elaborated when asked about her spirituality.

“I talk to my mom, my dad, Matthew. I feel like there are a lot of people that, I think, guide us,” she explained.

“I do sense — I sense Matthew’s around for sure.”

Perry was pronounced dead on Oct. 28, 2023, at age 54 after being found unresponsive in a hot tub at his home in Pacific Palisades, Calif.

In December, the LA County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the actor died of “acute effects of ketamine.” The manner of death was accidental.

The autopsy also listed drowning, coronary artery disease and the opioid buprenorphine as contributors to his death.

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Days after his tragic passing, the “Friends” cast — including Cox, Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc and Lisa Kudrow — shared a statement expressing their grief over the news.

“We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just castmates. We are a family,” they wrote.

“In time we will say more, as and when we are able,” they added. “For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world.”

Cox later paid tribute to Perry on Instagram in November when she posted a clip from one of their many scenes together on “Friends.”

“I am so grateful for every moment I had with you Matty and I miss you every day,” the actress wrote. “When you work with someone as closely as I did with Matthew, there are thousands of moments I wish I could share.”

She added, “In this scene, before we started rolling, he whispered a funny line for me to say. He often did things like that. He was funny and he was kind.”

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