Yachting Monthly

  • Digital edition

Yachting Monthly cover

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

best-polarized-sunglasses-for-sailors

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.

Most sunglasses for sailors have a brown tint

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 floating sunglasses for sailors - best on test

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 hinge of a pair of glasses

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.

A man wearing a pair of glasses

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

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.

A pair of polarised sunglasses for saiors with black and green arms

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.

A man wearing a pair of sunglasses

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.

An arm of a pair of sunglasses

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 sunglasses for sailors

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 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.

A man wearing a pair of polarised sunglasses

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)

a pair of Oakley Leffingwell polarized sunglasses for sailors

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.

a man wearing a pair of sunglasses

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.

A close up photo of a sunglasses arm

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 Axel sunglasses for sailors

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.

A woman with blonde hair wearing brown sunglasses

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.

A hinge on a pair of sunglasses for sailors

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

A pair of Gill Kynance sunglasses on a deck

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.

Close up of an arm of a Gill Kynance sunglasses for sailors

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.

A man wearing a pair of sunglasses

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

Glasses with polarized frame

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.

Sunglasses for sailors

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.

a pair of sunglasses for sailors on decking

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

A pair of white glasses with polarized lenses

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.

A pair of white sunglasses for sailors being worn by a woman with blonde hair

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

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

A pair of black SunGod Renegade sunglasses

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.

a pair of black sunglasses resting on some wood

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.

A man wearing a pair of black sunglasses

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

best-polarized-sunglasses-for-sailors results table

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.

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.

a diagram explaining how polarized sunglasses work

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.

How we tested the best polarized sunglasses for sailors

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.

  • 2024 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE
  • Email Newsletters
  • Boat of the Year
  • 2024 Freshwater Boat and Gear Buyers Guide
  • 2024 Boat Buyers Guide
  • 2024 Water Sports Boat Buyers Guide
  • 2024 Pontoon Boat Buyers Guide
  • Cruising Boats
  • Pontoon Boats
  • Fishing Boats
  • Personal Watercraft
  • Water Sports
  • Boat Walkthroughs
  • What To Look For
  • Watersports Favorites Spring 2022
  • Boating Lab
  • Boating Safety
  • Ultimate Boating Giveaway

Boating Magazine Logo

10 Great Boating Sunglasses 2023

  • By Garrett Cortese
  • June 10, 2023

Sunglasses fit

A pair of quality sunglasses can be as important to a boater as almost any other piece of equipment. Ever headed out for a day on the water, done all the prep work and gotten everything and everybody lined up, only to realize once you’re underway that you forgot your sunglasses? It’s never fun, and if it’s a bright day with a lot of glare, it can actually be dangerous for your eyes. Overexposure to harmful UV rays can cause eye fatigue or even photokeratitis–sunburn of the cornea. When shopping, be sure to look for polarized lenses that also offer full UV protection. Of course, there are countless options available these days, and it can be hard to decide not only what looks and feels best, but what will suit your needs on and off the water. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a new pair of shades.

Sunglass styles

Do you get the coverage you want and need across your face? Are the frames too wide or too narrow? Do you feel the arms pinching your temples or by your ears? A poor fit is one of the main causes of sunglass dissatisfaction.  Learn how to find the right fit .

Lenses: In terms of high-quality sunglasses these days, lenses come in three general varieties – polycarbonate, glass or a blend of the two. Glass is considered optically clearer and higher quality, and it is also much more resistant to scratches. But glass is also heavier, usually more expensive and more difficult to replace. Polycarbonate lenses are a plastic material that is lightweight and highly impact resistant – you’ll hear more than a few manufacturers use the term “impact-proof.” Polycarbonate lenses are also inherently UV resistant, so they don’t require a special coating like glass lenses to offer that protection. While they are impact resistant, polycarbonate lenses are more susceptible to scratches, but because they are lighter and more flexible, they are also easier to replace.

Sunglass lens colors

Lens Colors

In general, blue and green shade lenses are considered best for sunny, on-water activities. Blue lenses block the most glare while enhancing vision in bright conditions, making them great for most days on the boat, especially fishing offshore. Green lenses will filter some blue light and reduce glare, helping reduce eyestrain in bright light, and can be ideal for flats and shallow water fishing. Lighter colors like amber and rose will generally let more light in, which can be beneficial in low-light situations.

Functionality

More glasses now offer more functionality, allowing them to be worn in a variety of scenarios. These include features such as anti-slip pads on the nose and/or arms, clip areas on the arms for keepers/ties, and more. If you tend to sweat and don’t like it when your sunglasses slide down the bridge of your nose, look for pairs that feature soft, grip pads to help hold them in place.

Bajío Chelem

Bajío Chelem

  • Frame size:  Medium
  • Frame color:  Light blue
  • Lens:  Glass – polarized
  • Lens color:  Gray
  • MSRP:  $259

Bajío sunglasses have quickly made a name for themselves as a premier manufacturer in the boating/on-water markets. With high performance lenses–both glass and polycarbonate–along with stylish frames, Bajío have a lot to offer. The Chelem shades are a classic shape and style that still offer tons of practicality for boaters and anglers. The lightweight frames not only add a fun pop of color, but come equipped with ventilated nose and temple pads. If you want to make a statement, whether reeling in your next big catch or just cruising the marina, the Chelems do it with ease.

Bajío Stiltsville

Bajío Stiltsville

  • Frame size:  XL
  • Frame color:  Tortoise
  • Lens color:  Green mirror

The Stiltsville is a new offering, and one you should try out if you’re shopping. With an oversized frame and a semi-wrapped shape, the Stiltsvilles offer tons of protection without sacrificing style. Even with heavier glass lenses, the Stiltsvilles still sit easily and comfortably on the face, so anglers can quickly go from a dawn-patrol mission in the flats to a lunchtime hangout at the sandbar without skipping a beat.

Costa Mainsail

Costa Mainsail

  • Frame size:  Large
  • Frame color:  Matte black
  • Lens:  Glass
  • Lens color:  Blue mirror polarized
  • MSRP:  $262

Costa has long been known as one of the best in the business, from both style to optical quality, and with the new Mainsail frames, that continues. The classic shape is updated for performance, with mini side shields and hooding to help block excess light. Improved grips on the temples and bridge help sweat to drain while keeping the Mainsails in place.

Costa Pescador

Costa Pescador

  • Frame color:  Net grey
  • Lens color:  Blue mirror
  • MSRP:  $229

Part of Costa’s signature Untangled Collection, the Pescadors are made from 100% recycled fishing nets. The wide frame offers ample coverage, while the unique styling around the lenses and down the arms gives them a look that’s all their own. The blue rubber grips add a cool accent, while keeping the Pescador’s in place, even in the biggest of fishing missions, while the blue 580G Costa lenses block UV rays and enhance on-water visibility.

Electric 12

Electric 12

  • Lens:  Polycarbonate w/ built-in polarization
  • Lens color:  Bronze
  • MSRP:  $225

Electric have long been a staple in the action and watersports worlds, known for their fusion of forward-leaning style with high-end performance. That mantra has moved the California-based brand into the worlds of fishing and on-water performance. Designed with the help of world champion surfer John John Florence, the 12 sunglasses feature a stylish look with removable side shields. Whether you’re hanging at the local break, fishing offshore, or enjoying a drink at the mid-mountain lodge, the 12s have you covered. The bronze polycarbonate lenses block harmful blue light, while aiding in visibility. Not to mention they are impact resistant, as are the bio-plastic frames. Grip pads and keeper holes on the arms ensure the 12s aren’t going anywhere.

Electric Bristol

Electric Bristol

  • Lens color:  Blue

Electric’s Bristols feature a wide frame and large lenses, ensuring significant coverage for long days on the water. Built-in top and side flanges add to protection from both light and wind. The subtle contour of the shape, along with the linear designs of the shields, add to the Bristol’s solid looks. Minimal nose and ear pads lock them in place, and the lightweight bio-resin frames ensure all-day comfort.

Roka Kona

  • Lens color:  Dark carbon

Roka entered the performance eyewear market with one goal in mind: deliver cutting edge design and technology in a non-gimmicky way. Designed, built and shipped directly to you from Austin, TX, Roka can quickly bring its new concepts and designs to market. The Kona shades, featuring a stylish, square shape, not only offer plenty of coverage, but are also extremely lightweight (24 grams, to be exact). This makes the Konas a pleasure to wear, as you barely feel them, while the patented grip designs comfortably lock them in place. Bonus: each pair of Rokas comes with multiple nose pad sizes, so you can customize the fit.

Roka Rory 2.0

Roka Rory 2.0

  • Frame size:  Small
  • Frame color:  Crystale slate
  • MSRP:  $220

The Rory 2.0 from Roka may look like a pure lifestyle pair of sunglasses, but don’t let looks fool you. These slick-looking sunnies are packed with performance features like TR-90 nylon frames that make them ultra-lightweight, as well as custom spring hinges for a more locked-in feel. Combined with polarized, blue-light blocking lenses and non-slip pads on the bridge and temples, the Rory 2.0’s are built to go anywhere and do anything.

Read Next: Prescription Polarized Sunglasses Can Improve Your Boating Experience

Smith Embark

Smith Embark

  • Lens:  Polycarbonate blend w/ built-in polarization
  • MSRP:  $219

Smith have long been a staple in the outdoor industry, from ski goggles to classic sunglasses. The Embark shades, featuring removable side shields, offer all of Smith’s years of R&D in a style perfect for active on-water pursuits. The Chroma-Pop lenses are lightweight and high-performing, helping increase visibility by reducing glare from the water, while still protecting your pupils from the sun’s harsh rays. For when you don’t want as much coverage, simply pop out the side shields and go to town. Keeper holes in the arms allow the included band to quickly clip into place.

Smith Lineup

Smith Lineup

  • Lens color:  Brown
  • MSRP:  $150

The Lineups from Smith feature a classic, chunky look that offer plenty of coverage with a 58mm lens width. Combined with the soft grip pads on the bridge, the Lineups are designed to stay up on your nose, even on the sweatiest of days. The brown ChromaPop lenses enhance color and contrast, making them ideal for a long day of fishing or a quick stroll around town. The chunky arms also have the added benefit of blocking some extra sun rays and wind.

  • More: Affiliate , Costa , Gear , sunglasses

Tool kit for boaters

Choosing the Right Tools for Boat Repairs

RELiON Group 31 RB100 Lithium Iron Phosphate Deep Cycle Battery, 12V, 100Ah

What Are the Best Trolling Motor Batteries for Your Needs?

Lights on a pontoon boat

Guide to LED Pontoon Boat Lights

ReLiOn starting battery for boats

ReLiOn RB100-HP Starting Battery

Alumacraft 205x on the lake

2024 Alumacraft Timeline: Two Groups of Boaters x One Day Out on the Water

Jeanneau NC 895 cruising

Boat Test: 2024 Jeanneau NC 895 Sport Series 2

Helping boats raft up

Grady-White Pulls off Its Largest Raft-up Ever in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Boat with a hydrogen outboard

Hydrogen Power for Boats

Boating Magazine Logo

  • Digital Edition
  • Customer Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cruising World
  • Sailing World
  • Salt Water Sportsman
  • Sport Fishing
  • Wakeboarding

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Boating may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

Copyright © 2024 Boating Firecrown . All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

life-of-sailing-logo

7 Best Sunglasses for Sailing

Best Sunglasses for Sailing | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Whether you're on the water or onshore, wearing the right sunglasses for sailing is vital in protecting your eyes and making you feel comfortable so that you can enjoy your sailing adventure. Here are the best sunglasses for sailing.

Synonymous with style and personality, sunglasses are one of the most common accessories in any wardrobe. Besides their unquestionable aesthetic importance, sunglasses are essential in protecting your eyes by minimizing the possible impacts of ultraviolet rays. Unfortunately, your typical street sunglasses might not be the best for sailing. You certainly need well-designed sunglasses that can properly protect your eyes from damaging UV rays while improving your comfort and visibility by mitigating the intensity and glare of the sun. And because the damage caused by harmful UV rays when sailing today can last for your lifetime, investing in a quality pair of sailing sunglasses is paramount.

What kind of sunglasses do sailors need? The best sunglasses for sailing should be non-bulky, lightweight, enhance your visibility, and comfortable to wear for long hours. They have to be attractive and effective by offering UVA and UVB protection, polarized lenses, and bifocal options. They should be impact resistant and have non-slip pads on the nose to keep them in place.

Although sunglasses are personal accessories that you want to suit your style and tastes, we'll show you the best sailing sunglasses that give you a good starting point if you're looking for sail-specific eye protection. But before going through the best sunglasses for sailing, let's go through some important factors. 

Table of contents

Importance of Having the Best Sunglasses for Sailing

The sun, wind, and salt spray are all essential in having a perfect day on the water. Unfortunately, they can have significant impacts on your eyes. Combined with reflections and glares from water, sails, and polished fiberglass hulls, direct sunlight can be scorching on your retinas and this is something that you don't want. This is essentially why having the best sunglasses for sailing is of great importance. A good pair of sailing sunglasses can protect your precious eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays while improving your visibility and comfort.

Besides the harmful UV rays, the unfiltered glare that results when sunlight is reflected on the water and various parts of your sailboat such as sails, bright white decks, and windshields can impair your vision, which is potentially hazardous. Such glare can also cause visual discomfort, fatigue on your eyes, squinting, and headaches. With that in mind, the best sunglasses for sailing should be designed to reduce light intensity through coloring. That's technically why their lenses are colored in green, amber, gray, yellow, purple, and many other colors.

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Sunglasses for Sailing

There are a lot of important features to consider when choosing the best sailing sunglasses. 

Polarized Lenses

The glare that arises when sunlight reflects off a surface can be harsh and overwhelming to the eyes. Having polarized lenses is essential in filtering out the glare that can be harmful to your eyes. Polarized lenses are vital in protecting your eyes from UVB and UVA rays that can reduce visual sharpness while also causing degenerative eye diseases such as snow blindness, photokeratitis, pterygium, cataracts, and various types of eye cancer.

The shape of the lens is a major factor when choosing the best sunglasses for sailing. Lenses with less angularity are typically much better in preserving the contour and contrast of various objects. On the contrary, they have less resistance to glare and may not be ideal for you if you're looking for sailing sunglasses that offer optimal visibility.

You should avoid flat lenses because they generally do not repel harmful UV rays that are reflected in the water. You can consider curved lenses as they prevent sunlight from reaching your eyes but offer worse sharpness.

The color of the lenses is not only important in reducing glare but also essential when choosing the best sailing sunglasses. While various colors can be essential, our favorite color is gray because it offers a high level of visibility sharpness on sunny days.

Type of Material

You certainly want sunglasses that are designed from material that can withstand even the harshest sailing environment. The material shouldn't be corrosive and should be shatterproof to ensure that your eyes are protected from injury even when there's sudden collision or impact.

While glass is the most conventional material, going for sunglasses that are designed with polycarbonate is ideal. This material is very light and offers a great deal of functionality. It also does not splinter or shatter so your safety in the event of an impact is guaranteed. Better still, it's a lot easy to clean. 

Needless to say, you certainly do not want to buy those cheap sunglasses that will break down the minute you set sail. Of course, your sunglasses should be well-designed to withstand any form of punishment while sailing. They should be shock-resistant and serve you for many years to come. Remember, some sailing sunglasses are quite expensive so it's only appropriate to ensure that they are very durable.

Lightweight

While this may be a matter of personal preference, an ideal sunglass for sailing should be lightweight but some people may prefer heavier options. 

Fit and Size

It is important to make sure that you buy the right sunglasses that can perfectly fit your face. This is vital for both your comfort and style. Sunglasses are generally available in multiple sizes so you should choose the perfect size and fit based on your gender.

Style and Design

The fact that you'll be sailing doesn't mean that you have to leave your stylish part at home. You need to be stylish at all times even when out there on the water! Just don't settle for sunglasses that make you look ugly.

You'll be generally using these sunglasses on the water so you want them to be waterproof and can cope with the corrosive power of seawater. This may come back to the material used to manufacture the sunglasses, but it's still an important thing to consider.

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

Maui Jim Ho'okipa Polarized Sailing Sunglasses

Maui Jim sailing sunglasses are among the best in the industry and the Ho'okipa is a testament to this. These sunglasses come with a rimless frame, polarized lenses, and blue tint, which make it a perfect pair for your sailing escapades on the open water. This pair offers superb protection, ultimate comfort, and doesn't compromise on durability.

The frame is somewhat rectangular and looks good in a wide range of face shapes. In terms of protection, the polarized lenses can 99% glare and 100% UV rays. This is vital in delivering the highest possible protection for your eyes, as well as excellent visibility while on the water. The Blue Hawaii coloration is perfect for most sailing conditions while the polycarbonate and nylon material makes it lightweight, durable, rugged, and resistant to bangs, drops, and impacts. 

  • ‍ Lightweight
  • Offers your eyes maximum protection from UV rays and glare
  • Anti-fog lenses
  • Beautiful design
  • ‍ The sizing options are limited

Costa Del Mar Brine Sailing Sunglasses

Designed to be perfect for medium-wide and large faces, the Costa Del Mar Brine is an aviator-style sailing sunglasses that sits comfortably on your face and won't fall off even when the action becomes intense. This pair is not only stylish but also functional thanks to its gray polarized polycarbonate lenses.

With these sunglasses, you'll easily have your eyes protected from harmful UV rays and glare without compromising on the much-needed visibility. Its durability is up there with the best and can take a lot of beating without breaking down. That's why the manufacturer offers you a lifetime warranty with the option of replacement or repair at a small nominal fee.

The frames are available in a wide range of colors and sizes and can be customized to suit your preferred style.

  • Offers maximum eye protection
  • Available in a wide range of sizes
  • Very durable and shock-resistant
  • ‍ The lifetime warranty doesn't cover all damages

Smith Wayward Basecamp ChromaPop Sailing Sunglasses

This is an utterly comfortable and lightweight pair of sailing sunglasses. Designed with voyager-style shape, the lenses are not only nice but are big enough to offer a lot of coverage. This pair is available for both narrow and wide heads, which make them comfortable and well-proportioned.

The sunglasses are designed with polarized lenses to ensure maximum protection for your eyes. They're made from bio-based materials, which is a win for environmentally-friendly sailors. The pair also comes with anti-reflective coating to prevent glare and are made with ChromaPop lenses, which are oil and water repellant to make them waterproof and durable.

  • ChromaPop polarized lenses offer the best glare protection
  • Anti-reflective coatings
  • Water and oil resistant
  • Anti-slip nose pad for a comfortable fit
  • ‍ The auto-lock hinges should be improved

Oakley Holbrook Sunglasses

Widely known for creating stylish and functional sunglasses, Oakley delves into the sailing world through its Oakley Holbrook sunglasses, which are sleek, stylish, and very functional for sailing adventures. Available in a wide range of lens colors and frames, these sunglasses are lightweight and are designed with polarized polycarbonate lenses that offer 100% protection from glare and harmful UV rays.

With these sunglasses, you can attain a razor-sharp vision thanks to its high definition optics. The stress-resistant frame is a sure guarantee that the sunglass will remain solid throughout even the most intense sailing activities. The comfort that you achieve from the sunglasses is on another level.

  • ‍ Look great on almost anyone
  • The polarized lenses are high-quality
  • Available in a wide range of colors and frames
  • Well worth the price
  • Very durable and stress-resistant
  • ‍ The frames may let you down

Sungait Polarized Sailing Sunglasses

If you've been looking for highly comfortable sailing sunglasses, the Sungait polarized sunglasses may be what you've been looking for. Designed with perfect spring hinges that conform to almost any face, you can wear them for hours on end without feeling tired or infringed. The sunglasses have incredible temple joints that offer gentle and snug fit while still offering room for small adjustments.

These sunglasses are designed with a UV400 polarized lens, which is one of the best in protecting your eyes from glare and those harmful UVA and UVB rays. The sunglasses metallic frames are durable and among the best out there. They're strong, stress-resistant, and yet very light.

  • ‍ Designed with quality polarized lenses
  • Spring hinges are skin-friendly and comfortable
  • Very affordable
  • Durable construction
  • Flexible temples
  • Lightweight, stress-resistant, and very strong
  • ‍ Some options are non-polarized

Oakley Men's Five-Squared Rectangular Sunglasses

As a top brand that offers quality sunglasses, Oakley will rarely disappoint you when it comes to sailing sunglasses. The Oakley Men's Five-Squared Rectangular Sunglasses is another top-notch sailing sunglass that you can find on the market today. The value that it gives you is unparalleled thanks to its Plutonite polarized lenses, which will protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays.

These sunglasses are designed to have a three-point fit design for maximum comfort and precise optical alignment. The sunglass also has high definition optics to ensure that you have a superior and razor-sharp vision from all angles.

  • ‍ Available in various frames, Very lightweight but durable
  • Offers a sophisticated and modern look
  • Offer maximum eye protection
  • Comes with a unique case
  • ‍ Can be too bright

Bolle Tetra Python Sailing Sunglasses

Designed with offshore blue for harsh glaring light and inland gold for high glare, Bolle Tetra is a premium sailing sunglasses that offers more than 20 times protection than most sailing sunglasses.

Its hydrophobic and oleophobic exteriors make this sunglass three times lighter and its anti-fog internal surfaces offer impeccable vision clarity and the utmost protection. It is also designed with anti-reflective coatings and photochromic technology to darken and lighten the lenses, which is perfect for varying conditions.

More importantly, it has an interchangeable system that's meant to optimize it according to your specific needs. For example, it gives you the possibility of inserting prescription adapter lenses. This pair of sailing sunglasses may look like your everyday street shades but it has marine-specific characteristics that make it one of the best sailing sunglasses on the market today.

  • ‍ Offers one of the best eye protection in the market
  • Very durable and lightweight
  • Very technologically advanced
  • Available in a wide range of sizes and fits
  • Sleek and gorgeous
  • ‍ Frame color will fade after a few months

To this end, we hope that this list will help you find the best sailing sunglasses that fit your style and preferences. You should never go out there on the water with good sailing sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays while making your adventure enjoyable and worthwhile.

Happy sailing!

Related Articles

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.

by this author

Personal Health and Gear

7 Best Sunglasses for Sailing

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean? | Life of Sailing

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

October 3, 2023

Best Sailing Duffle Bags: Top Picks For Boat Travel | Life of Sailing

Best Sailing Duffle Bags: Top Picks For Boat Travel

September 27, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com 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. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Similar Posts

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings | Life of Sailing

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

How To Choose The Right Sailing Instructor | Life of Sailing

How To Choose The Right Sailing Instructor

August 16, 2023

Best Sailing Racing Electronics | Life of Sailing

Best Sailing Racing Electronics

July 5, 2023

Popular Posts

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats | Life of Sailing

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

December 28, 2023

Can a Novice Sail Around the World? | Life of Sailing

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

Best Electric Outboard Motors | Life of Sailing

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England? | Life of Sailing

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands | Life of Sailing

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat | Life of Sailing

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Top Rated Posts

Lifeofsailing.com 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. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. (866) 342-SAIL

© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy

Nomadic Sailing

15 Best Sailing Sunglasses (Affordable & High-Quality)

Sailing sunglasses on wood

Being out on the water with friends or family sailing with the sun shining bright and the blue water sparking can produce the most powerful feelings of contentedness and freedom.

In my opinion, it just doesn’t get much better than that. But there’s no doubt staying safe is the number one priority, including the health of your eyes.

By using good quality sailing sunglasses, you’ll be able to block harmful UV rays through the use of polarized lenses so that nothing gets in the way of a quality day of sailing.

Not only is it important to keep your eyes healthy via effective eye protection, but it’s also important to have clear vision while out on the water so you can easily be on alert when necessary.

Simply put, if you’re serious about sailing then investing in a good quality pair of nautical

sunglasses is a great way to go. That’s why I put together a list of the best sailing sunglasses that’ll fit any budget.

The Best Sailing Sunglasses for Any Sailor

1. polaroid wayfarer polarized sunglasses.

yachting sunglasses

While Polaroid used to make some pretty good cameras, they definitely make a great pair of sunglasses for sailing.

When it comes to a pair of high-quality sailing sunglasses, my first choice as of late has been the Polaroid Polarized Wayfarer Sunglasses . I personally own a pair and they look great and fit extremely well.

The price of ensuring your eyes are safely guarded by the sun is incredibly important, which is why these sailing sunglasses have fully polarized lenses and have a 100% UV protective coating.

Something I’ve realized while owning mine is that they don’t pinch my nose when I wear them for a long time, which makes a big difference in terms of comfort compared to some other sunglasses.

2. Oakley Men’s Fives Squared Rectangular Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

If you’re looking for one of the best sailing sunglasses, look no further than those made by Oakley.

If you’re a lover of sunglasses, you likely need little convincing when it comes to the value Oakley sunglasses bring to the table.

The Oakley Men’s Fives Squared Rectangular Sunglasses are one of the best sailing sunglasses you can find on the market. While that’s definitely reflective in the price, the value you get back is unbeatable.

The polarized lenses are made out of Plutonite, which is guaranteed to block out 100% of UVA, UVB, UVC, and harmful blue light up to 400nm.

On top of all that, they have a Three-Point Fit design which provides maximum comfort while holding the lenses in precise optical alignment.

Their High Definition Optics (HDO) are patented and provide superior optical clarity and razor-sharp vision at every angle. You definitely want to check these sunglasses out!

3. Hulislem S1 Sport Polarized Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

If you’re looking for a pair of sailing sunglasses that’s within a reasonable price range without breaking the bank, the Hulislem S1 Sports Sunglasses are a great choice.

Hulislem has a large assortment of sunglasses for sailing that’ll match the style and budget for any sailor.

Not only are these sunglasses polarized, but they have a really nice sporty look and are fitted with polycarbonate frames.

They’re also equipped with the cutting edge AcuTint coloring system, which allows them to present natural colors the way they should be represented while adding sufficient color contrast in any natural setting.

This is perfect for anyone out on a sailboat looking for easily one of the best sailing sunglasses.

4. B.N.U.S. Corning Glass Sports Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

There are a few sailing sunglasses out there that are of exceptional quality that aren’t a part of the typical high-end brands we all know and love, and the sunglasses by B.N.U.S. are definitely one of them.

These B.N.U.S. Corning glass unisex sports sunglasses are difficult to beat when it comes to design and functionality.

These sailing sunglasses by B.N.U.S. are all designed and manufactured in Italy. This pair of sunglasses is even more exceptional since the polarized lenses are made out of Corning glass, which gives you one of the most natural visions when wearing sunglasses ever and really cuts out the uv rays.

And since they’re made out of Corning glass, they never scratch! If you’re looking for one of the best sunglasses for sailing that are highly functional and actually good looking, look no further.

5. Dual SL2 ProX Sports Bifocal Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

Most sailing sunglasses aren’t catered to the visually impaired, which means it can often time be difficult to find high-quality sunglasses that have corrective lenses already installed.

Thankfully, the SL2 ProX Sports Bifocal Sunglasses by Dual are a perfect solution to this exact problem!

With these Dual sunglasses, you can choose between a magnification strength of 1.5X, 2.0X, or 2.5x while having an effective pair of sailing sunglasses.

Not only that, but the lenses are made out of a special polycarbonate so they’re 100% shatterproof and scratch resistant.

Something I really like about these sailing sunglasses, as well as Dual sunglasses in general, is that it’s a family-owned business located in Boulder, Colorado.

From what I can tell, they really care about their customers and seem to provide a very high level of customer service. If you haven’t already taken a look at their products, I highly suggest you do if you’re looking to buy one of the best sailing sunglasses.

6. Newport Polarized Marlin Bifocal Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

Sunglasses that include some level of correction for those that need it in terms of a prescription can be pricey, but that doesn’t always have to be the case.

With the Newport Polarized Marlin Bifocal Sunglasses , you get nothing but great looking sunglasses that provide superior performance of correction.

The fact that these sunglasses have polarization as well as magnification strengths of 1.5X, 2.0X, 2.5X, and 3.0X while also being incredibly affordable makes them one of the best bifocal polarized sailing sunglasses and one of the best inexpensive sunglasses polarized in general.

The design looks great and has an innovative optical technology that meets the highest quality eye protection standards on the market.

7. Oakley Polarized Half Jacket 2.0 Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

There are so many different kinds of Oakley sunglasses out there they could fill up my entire list, but there are a couple that are exceptional sailing sunglasses.

When it comes to the Polarized Half Jacket 2.0 Sunglasses by Oakley, there’s no doubt about that.

If you’re looking for some of the most stylish and effective sunglasses for sailing, look no further than the Half Jacket 2.0. With their emblematic frames, you can even change out the lenses easily to match the color of the current season or weather.

Not only that, but they even come with a convenient carrying case and have comfortable nose pads. Easily some of the most sporty and effective sailing sunglasses out there.

8. Duduma Polarized Sports Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

Some sunglasses claim that they have a frame that’s unbreakable while others guarantee that. Well, the Duduma Polarized Sports Sunglasses are one of the most durable sailing sunglasses you’ll find and for a great price.

The vast assortment of lens colors you can choose from in terms of the frame and lenses is truly unbeatable.

These sunglasses by Duduma are polarized and mirrored so your eyes get the highest level of protection.

They’re so confident that their sunglasses won’t break, they offer a lifetime warranty for both the frame and lenses.

Whether you’re sailing, hiking, or just plain walking around, these are sunglasses that look amazing and are very affordable making them one of the best sailing sunglasses out there.

9. Costa Del Mar Fantail Polarized Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

Over the years, more and more brands of sunglasses are designing sunglasses with a more rectangle look and I tend to like them. I have yet to purchase a pair, but if I did it would be the Fantail Polarized Sunglasses by Costa Del Mar.

Costa Del Mar makes a lot of really amazing sailing sunglasses, but these ones, hands down, look the coolest. Their polarized lenses are made out of glass to provide an excellent quality of clarity.

They also claim to be 20% thinner and 22% lighter than your average polarized pair of sunglasses and come in a variety of styles.

Not only that, but they’re also made in the USA. These are a great choice and one fo the best sailing sunglasses!

10. Rivbos Polarized Sports Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

If you’re in the market for some high-quality sailing sunglasses without breaking a budget, you’ll definitely want to take a look at the Rivbos Polarized Sports Sunglasses .

Not only do they have an incredible sporty look, but they come in a number of designs that’ll fit anyone’s style.

These polarized, mirrored sunglasses by Rivbos are Swiss designed and appear to provide a high level of comfort when wearing them.

They even come with a hard protection portable case, a stylish colored pouch, and a reusable lens cleaning cloth. Honestly, for the price of these sunglasses and the extras it comes with, these are difficult to beat.

11. Maui Jim Men’s World Cup Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

There are a few sunglass brands out there that are known around the world, especially by us sunglasses aficionados.

Well, Maui Jim makes an exceptional pair of sunglasses called the Maui Jim Men’s World Cup Sunglasses that are right up anyone’s ally who’s on the market for high-quality sailing sunglasses.

These sunglasses by Maui Jim are so effective at skin and eye protection that they are recommended by the Sun Cancer Foundation.

Along with that, they’re built with lenses with a patented Polarized Plus 2 technology that are anti-reflective, scratch resistant, polarized, natural light enhancers, water and grease resistant, and bi-gradient mirror designed.

If you plan on spending a little more cash on your next pair of sailing sunglasses, consider these ones.

12. Gear District Polarized UV400 Sport Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

Breaking the bank to get a nice pair of sunglasses for sailing isn’t necessary if you’re on a budget, which makes the Polarized UV400 Sports Sunglasses by Gear District an excellent choice.

While the selection isn’t the biggest, the quality appears to be high and has been accepted by many as a great pair of sailing sunglasses.

One of the aspects of this pair of sunglasses that I really like is that they don’t have the frame on the bottom of the lenses, which allows for easy lens replacement.

Not only that, but these sunglasses come with a soft carrying case, a hard case, a reusable cleaning cloth, and a strap to keep your sunglasses on in case they slip off.

If you’re looking for quality, affordable sailing sunglasses, I think these will suit you just fine.

13. Sungait Men’s Polarized Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

If you’re still trying to stay within a reasonable budget for your next purchase of sailing sunglasses, there’s an extremely popular brand called Sungait that produces many styles of sunglasses for sailing.

In particular, the Sungait Men’s Polarized Sunglasses are some of the most popular out there and can be found at a very affordable price.

With a versatile set of designs based on their frames and lens styles, Sungait Men’s Sunglasses won’t disappoint. These sunglasses are built with a lightweight aluminum-magnesium alloy metal frame that have a nice, sturdy weight to them.

Apart from coming with a carrying case and reusable lens cleaner, they even come with a mini-screwdriver allowing for interchangeable lenses in case you ever want to replace the lenses or the frame.

14. Maui Jim Polarized Ho’okipa 407 Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

Another amazing pair of sunglasses by Maui Jim, their Polarized Ho’okipa 407 Sunglasses take the cake when it comes to having a surprising mix of elegance and sportiness while providing high-end functionality.

Definitely a pair of sailing sunglasses that are difficult to compete with in terms of other brands of sunglasses.

These sunglasses are built with lenses with a patented Polarized Plus 2 technology that are anti-reflective, scratch resistant, polarized, natural light enhancers, water and grease resistant, and bi-gradient mirror designed.

Not only that, but every single pair of sailing sunglasses produced by Maui Jims are designed and tested in Hawaii.

They also have some pretty cool lens colors to choose from. Similar to the other Maui Jim sunglasses I suggested, these are also endorsed by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

15. Bolle Python Sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

It’s amazing that I’ve just only now gotten to one of the best sunglass brands in the world, but, you know what they say, save the best for last.

The Bolle Python Sunglasses are one of the nicest pairs of sunglasses for sailing I’ve ever seen and they are shockingly affordable.

I’m a big fan of Bolle sunglasses because they don’t pinch noses (for those of us with big ridges in our nose) very easily.

They look fantastic and come with polarized lenses that are also fog resistant and have a special thermo-grip technology so they won’t slip off your face in case you start sweating or get wet. These are a great choice among the best sailing sunglasses, no doubt!

Get the very best sailing stuff straight to your inbox

Nomadic sailing.

At Nomadic Sailing, we're all about helping the community learn all there is to know about sailing. From learning how to sail to popular and lesser-known destinations to essential sailing gear and more.

Quick Links

Business address.

1200 Fourth Street #1141 Key West, FL 33040 United States

Copyright © 2024 Nomadic Sailing. All rights reserved. Nomadic Sailing is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

sailingsavvy.com

The Best Sunglasses For Sailing

A 10-year yachting career has meant I have dropped more pairs of sunglasses overboard than I care to remember. It has also meant that I’ve tested almost every brand out there.

Here are the best sailing sunglasses that you can currently buy. Had I known about these at the beginning of my career, I may have avoided surfer’s eye!

Maui Jim Waterman Polarized Sunglasses

Eye protection at sea is one of the most overlooked aspects of sailing gear and apparel . Typically you think of the harmful UV rays caused by direct sunlight. But indirectly, the sun’s glare from sails, other white surfaces, and the water can also cause considerable harm.

Long-term exposure effects are well documented, and most sailors know about proper sun protection. But did you know that things like surfer’s eye can also occur if you don’t protect your eyes?

So on that note, let’s get into this!

🏆 Best Overall Sailing Sunglasses

Maui Jim Waterman Polarized Sunglasses

Maui Jim Waterman Polarized Sunglasses

Maui Jim sunglasses are premium eye protection products. This pair of Waterman Wraps is what you should get if you want the absolute best sunglasses for sailing.

Granted, they are expensive, but if you take proper care of them, they’ll last a lifetime. The hallmark of Maui Jim has always been its lens polarization techniques. The Waterman Wraps use their patented PolarizedPlus2 lenses, which cancel 99.9% of the glare and 100% of harmful UV rays.

Another premium feature of these sunglasses is the bi-gradient mirrored lenses which effectively means the glasses perform the act of squinting for you, allowing your retinas to relax and stay protected fully.

Many yachting professionals, including myself, who own a pair of Maui Jim sailing sunglasses report this feeling of having relaxed eyes in even the harshest sunlight.

The Waterman Wrap also features an anti-reflective coating and scratch-resistant transparent shell so that they stand up to a working sailor’s requirements.

With adjustable nose pads and nose bridge, these are a unisex fit secured by the adjustable strap. Removing the worry of losing these overboard.

⛵ Best Sunglasses For Dinghy Sailing

SeaSpecs Extreme Sports Sunglasses

SeaSpecs Extreme Sports Sunglasses

You need a few vital features from a pair of sunglasses that you’ll use for sailing dinghies and lasers. The first is that they float, and the second is that they have an adjustable back strap.

These Sea Specs check both boxes and at an extremely affordable price tag. In addition, the fit is unisex, and there is a wide range of colors to choose from.

With polarized lenses and a UV400 protection rating, these are perfect for sunny days racing around the bay. They are also vented at the top and bottom to prevent fogging up for the days of colder weather sailing.

The secure strap keeps the lightweight frames in position and provides all-day comfort. If they did fall off and into the water, they are designed to float so you could quickly retrieve them.

🌊 Best Sunglasses For Ocean Sailing

Vallon heron ocean polarized sailing sunglasses.

Summon your inner Bernard Moitessier with these classic Heron Ocean sunglasses from Vallon.

Taking inspiration from Alpine Glacier sunglasses, the Heron Ocean features side shields made from leather and a removable centerpiece to block out the sun’s glare while protecting your eyes from wind and spray.

The Heron Oceans have polarized lenses that intensify colors and provide you with UV400 protection from harmful UV rays. In addition, they are coated with a special hydrophobic layer to eliminate condensation building up against the lens.

A simple but functional unisex frame made from plastic is durable and lightweight, providing excellent comfort for long days of an ocean voyage. In addition, the temples are fully adjustable, so you’ll find the ultimate fit no matter your preference.

Vallon is so confident in their product that they’ll allow you to try them risk-free for 30 days or your money back. Add in their 2-year warranty and free shipping; you can’t beat the offer.

🔎 Best Prescription Sunglasses For Sailing

Bolle Anaconda Polarized Offshore Sunglasses

Bolle Anaconda Polarized Offshore Sunglasses

If you wear prescription glasses, you typically require a glass lens. But for sporting sunglasses, you’ll need polycarbonate lenses.

The Anaconda series from Bolle are ideal for prescription sailing sunglasses. In addition, they are wrap-around with extensive curvature to provide you with the best possible transition from your prescription reading glasses to your sports pair.

Unlike cheaper anti-fog coating techniques, the Anacondas use a hydrophobic coating applied to the lens without needing spray or dip coating. The result is that the anti-fog properties are retained for much longer than cheaper alternatives.

So you’ll get years of high performance from them in addition to the polarized lenses that give your eyes up to 100% UVA/UVB protection.

They are lightweight, durable, and give you all-day comfort thanks to the rubber nose and temple pads. And Bolle’s trademark Thermo grip material has hydrophilic properties making it even more grippy when wet, keeping the frames comfortably in place, even during extreme conditions.

😎 Best Polarized Sunglasses For Sailing

Oakley Fuel Cell Wrap Sunglasses

Oakley Fuel Cell Wrap Sunglasses

An iconic frame style from Oakley. Their Fuel Cell Wrap sunglasses have been in production for years. For good reasons, they are affordable, comfortable, and last for years.

I’ve owned a few pairs over the years and found the best-performing lens color to be blue for ocean-going scenarios.

In their price bracket, the PRIZM polarized lenses produced by Oakley are arguably the best on the market.

Oakley’s PRIZM technology customizes lenses to suit the environment better. This allows for increased detail and enhanced performance, safety, and experience.

Sunglass lenses that enhance the colors we want to see in our surroundings make it more tolerable to view those colors. They also usually have the same effect on colors that interfere with our perception.

Oakley PRIZM filters out any disruptive light that could interfere with vision while enhancing the colors needed for optimal performance.

If you need a good all-rounder, look no further and get yourself a Fuel Cells by Oakley!

🕶️ Best Oakley Sunglasses For Sailing

Oakley Clifden Round Polarized Sunglasses

Oakley Clifden Round Polarized Sunglasses

A similar design to the Vallon Heron Ocean but in my option the better option because the side guards are made from plastic instead of leather.

Oakley terms them as unobtainium side shields, but maybe they have been watching Wolverine too much. Either way, they are interchangeable, and the bridge blocker is removable.

Another factor that makes the Oakley Clifden’s one of the best pairs of sailing sunglasses on the market is the integrated yet removable, coated woven steel leash that secures them from falling overboard.

Oakley’s Plutonite lenses filter out all UVA, UVB, and UVC rays and harmful blue light up to 400mm. Plutonite is a lightweight lens material that offers superior comfort, clarity, and protection from impact and UV radiation. The Clifden’s also feature the option of interchangeable lenses.

Polarized tungsten Prizm lenses are designed for medium to bright light conditions. They enhance color vividness and increase contrast.

Oakley’s patented high-definition optics give you superior clarity, block 99% of reflected glare, and provide sharp vision from every angle. In addition, the micro bag included helps you keep your sunglasses clean and stored away.

🪙 Best sailing sunglasses under $50

WindRider Polarized Floating Sunglasses

WindRider Polarized Floating Sunglasses

With these floatable shades, there’s no need to worry about losing your sunglasses to the sea again. You also don’t have to put unsightly floating straps on your glasses.

Polarized lenses are essential if you spend any time on the water. They help you see below the surface when you’re fly fishing, sailing and watching for ripples of light gusts. Plus, they let you enjoy not being blind.

These sunglasses are so light and comfortable that you’ll forget you’re wearing them! They can be worn all day without any discomfort.

The lenses on these glasses have a special coating that repels water and oil. This means that when you are out on the water, you won’t get splashed as much in the face, and if you do, the water will bead up and run right off. The coating also repels oil, so your fingerprints won’t smudge the lenses as much.

But the most significant selling point of the WindRiders is the price. At around $45, you can’t beat the value for money you get with this pair of sailing sunglasses.

🎖️ Our recommendation process

Between myself and Craig, we have nearly 20 years’ worth of experience within the yachting industry. As a result, we have used (and lost) numerous pairs of sailing sunglasses from Maui Jim, Oakley, Costa Gill, Helly Hansen, and Henri Lloyd.

The recommendations we share are 100% impartial and bias-free. We only offer genuine advice on what we have come to know as the best and most reliable sailing gear. And we also strongly advocate that Maui Jim and Oakley make the best sailing sunglasses on the market today.

🧾 Buyer’s Guide To Sailing Sunglasses

Most sailing sunglasses should tick off all these boxes if they are suitable for the discerning sailor to look for in the best pairs of sailing sunglasses.

Polarized lenses

The intense light produced when sunlight reflects off a surface can be difficult and uncomfortable to look at. Wearing polarized lenses is essential in filtering out the light that can harm your eyes.

Polarized lenses are necessary for protecting your eyes from UVB and UVA rays that can reduce visual sharpness while also causing degenerative eye diseases such as snow blindness, photokeratitis, pterygium, cataracts, and various types of eye cancer.

The lenses of sunglasses for sailing are usually less angled to preserve the contour and contrast of objects. However, they may not be as resistant to glare and might not offer the best visibility.

Flat lenses generally do not reflect harmful UV rays away from your eyes. Curved lenses will keep sunlight from reaching your eyes, but they also offer worse sharpness.

Type of Material

When choosing sunglasses for sailing, selecting a pair made from durable, high-quality materials is essential. In addition, the sunglasses should be able to resist corrosion and be shatterproof to protect your eyes from injury in the event of a collision or impact.

The most common material for sunglasses is glass, but polycarbonate is a better choice. It’s very light and has many features. It also doesn’t splinter or shatter, so it’s safer if you’re in an accident. And it’s easy to clean.

🗣️ Final Words

Ultimately, the price will separate most sailors’ buying decisions regarding the best sunglasses for sailing.

However, if the price is no object, I suggest getting yourself a pair of Maui Jim Waterman Wrap Sunglasses or Oakley Clifden Round Sunglasses. For more in-depth reviews, visit our website’s sailing gear and apparel section.

Written by:

I’m the founder and chief editor here at Sailing Savvy. I spent a decade working as a professional mariner and currently, I mix those experiences with digital publishing. Welcome, and I hope that we can be the hub you need for safe passage.

  • The best sunglasses for sailing: Enhance your nautical adventure

When it comes to sailing, having the right gear is crucial for both safety and enjoyment. Among the essential accessories, a good pair of sunglasses ranks high on the list. Sailing often means exposure to bright sunlight, reflective water surfaces, and harsh UV rays. To help you navigate with clarity and protect your eyes, we've compiled a list of the best sunglasses for sailing.

Why sailing-specific sunglasses matter

Before diving into our top picks, it's important to understand why sailing-specific sunglasses are essential. While any sunglasses provide some level of protection, those designed for sailing offer distinct advantages:

1. Polarization for glare reduction

Sailing sunglasses often come with polarized lenses that effectively reduce glare from the water's surface. This feature is especially valuable when navigating in bright conditions or when sunlight bounces off the waves.

2. UV protection

Sailing exposes you to higher levels of UV radiation due to the reflective nature of water. Quality sailing sunglasses offer 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.

3. Lightweight and durable frames

Sailing sunglasses are designed for comfort during extended periods on the water. They typically feature lightweight and durable frames that stay securely in place even in windy conditions.

4. Hydrophobic coating

Many sailing sunglasses incorporate a hydrophobic coating that repels water and prevents droplets from obstructing your vision. This feature ensures clear sight even in wet conditions.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .

The right sunglasses will make your cruise more enjoyable.

The right sunglasses will make your adventure more enjoyable.

Check out our latest sailing content:

Top picks for sailing sunglasses.

Now, let's explore some of the best sailing sunglasses available:

1. Costa Del Mar Fantail

  • Features : Costa Del Mar is known for its high-quality lenses, and the Fantail is no exception. With polarized glass lenses, durable frames, and 100% UV protection, these sunglasses are a top choice for sailors.

2. Oakley OO9188

  • Features : Oakley is a renowned brand in eyewear, and the OO9188 model lives up to its reputation. These sunglasses offer excellent glare reduction, impact resistance, and a comfortable fit.

3. Bolle Python

  • Features : Bolle's Python sunglasses are designed with sailing in mind. They feature polarized lenses, hydrophobic coatings, and a wrap-around design for maximum protection.

4. Maui Jim Ho'okipa

  • Features : Maui Jim is famous for its vibrant lenses, and the Ho'okipa model is ideal for sailing. These sunglasses offer exceptional clarity, glare reduction, and a lightweight feel.

5. Julbo Race 2.0

  • Features : The Julbo Race 2.0 sunglasses are a favorite among sailors. They come with polarized lenses, a secure fit, and a wrap-around design to shield your eyes from all angles.

Investing in a pair of high-quality sailing sunglasses is a wise decision for any sailor or boater. These sunglasses not only enhance your vision and protect your eyes but also contribute to a safer and more enjoyable sailing experience.

Before making your selection, consider factors like lens quality, fit, and specific features that align with your sailing needs. With the right pair of sunglasses, you can set sail with confidence, knowing your eyes are well-protected from the elements.

So, gear up with the best sailing sunglasses and embark on your next maritime adventure with clarity and style. Your eyes will thank you.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite  sailing destinations.

I am ready to help you with booking a boat for your dream vacation. Contact me.

Denisa Nguyenová

Denisa Nguyenová

The 8 Best Sailing Sunglasses

Paul Stockdale Author Avatar

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

Best Overall Sailing Sunglasses Costa Del Mar Brine

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

Best Sailing Sunglasses For Men 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

Best Priced Sailing Sunglasses Torege 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

Best Patented Sailing Sunglasses Maui Jim

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

Best Women Sailing Sunglasses 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

Best Kids Sailing Sunglasses AODUOKE Outdoor

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

Best Watersports Sailing Sunglasses SeaSpecs

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

Best Styled Sailing Sunglasses Oakley Clifden

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

Our Rating Brand Price Best For Gender Warranty Material Age Group
4.9/5 $90 - $250 Style, Comfort Men 2 Years Nylon Frame, Polyarbonate Lenses Adults
4.8/5 $40 Stylish, Comfortable Men No Warranty Alloy Metal Frame, TAC Polarized Lenses Adults
4.7/5 $20 - $30 Cheap Price, Style, Comfort Unisex Lifetime Warranty Polarized Lenses, Rimless Polycarbonate Frame Adults
4.6/5 $220 - $250 Design, Patented Technology Unisex 2 Years Rimless Polarized Lenses, Nylon Frames Adults
4.5/5 $20 - $30 Women, Design, Style, Fit Women Lifetime Warranty TR90 Frame, Polarized Lenses Adults
4.4/5 $15 - $25 Kids, Design, Comfort, Protection Unisex No Warranty Rubber Frame, TAC Polarized Lenses Kids
4.3/5 $35 - $65 Fit, Style, UV Protection Unisex 1 Year Warranty Plastic Frame, Nylon Strap, Polarized Lenses Adults
4.1/5 $250 - $320 Design, Comfort, Style, Shape Unisex 2 Year Warranty Plastic Frame, Polarized Lenses Adults

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.

  • Competitions
  • British Yachting Awards
  • Southampton Boat Show
  • Print Subscription
  • Digital Subscription
  • Single Issues
  • Advertise with us

Your special offer

Subscribe to Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting today!

Save 32% on the shop price when to subscribe for a year at just £39.95

Subscribe to Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting!

Save 32% on the shop price when you subscribe for a year at just £39.95

yachting sunglasses

Eight of the best sailing sunglasses

Gill reflex sunglasses.

Gill’s Reflex sunglasses are the latest addition to its extensive range and are ideal for the recreational sailor. They are glare free and feature polarised lenses and natural buoyancy to ensure that they don’t necessarily take an early trip to Davy Jones’ locker.

  • Shop now on Amazon

Ray-Ban Aviator polarised

Ray-Ban’s aviator sunglasses may not be specifically tailored for the marine market, but they are an essential part of any sailor’s wardrobe if you want to look the part strolling the quaysides of Cannes or St Tropez.

These aviators also feature the all important polarised lenses, classic styling and a high level of comfort that comes from decades of development. 

  • Shop now on ray-ban.com

Lacoste floating sunglasses

yachting sunglasses

This is the first time Lacoste has dipped its toes into the marine market, with their floating sunglasses. The frames are created using a new injection moulding technique, which gives them inherent buoyancy. Lacoste prides itself on its style, and the example set here is no exception.

  • Shop now on lacoste.com

LIP Typhoon

Belgian manufacturer LIP’s new Typhoon Watershades feature all sorts of clever touches, including polarised lenses with a hydrophobic and oleophobic coating. They also have high impact resistance, superior scratch resistance and elimination of glare for improv ed vision, especially on water and snow.

  • lip-sunglasses.com

Gul Code Zero floating sunglasses

Gul’s Code Zero sunglasses are floatable with light, tough and flexible frames. The lenses are polarised, glare free and give 100% ultraviolet protection.

They feature a non slip material on the bridge, helping to keep the frame securely on your face. They come with a hard travel case for storage.

Bolle Breaker

Bolle Breaker Sunglasses

Bolle sunglasses have always been a favourite with the recreational sailor and its Breaker shades are lightweight and comfortable. Bolle’s use of adjustable thermogrip on the nose pads and temple tips mean that they should stay firmly in place even in the roughest of conditions. The Breakers are polarised and feature an anti fog and hydrophobic coating.

  • RRP: £79.99
  • bolle-europe.co.uk

TNG Gybe 303

TNG (Tack n’ Gybe to give the full name) specialise in watches, but have recently branched out with a smart new range of sunglasses. The Gybe 303s sit in   the middle of their range and are a stylish, robust pair of shades that feature polarised lenses and 100% ultraviolet protection.

  • tngwatches.com

Prada Linea Rossa

Prada has always had a strong name when it comes to designer wear and its recent association with the America’s Cup has led to a welcome spate of nautical gear, including these rather natty sunglasses. They feature polarised lenses and lightweight metal frames.

The distinctive red stripe on each arm ensures that these frames just ooze style.

  • Shop now on sunglasshut.com

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

dry robe

Gear Test: Splash Robe

SIBS

Southampton Boat Show 2024: What to Expect

Shore2Sea Dry Bag

Gear Test: Shore2Sea Dry Bag

Sailing Today cover

Offering a wealth of practical advice and a dynamic mix of in-depth boat, gear and equipment news, Sailing Today is written cover to cover by sailors, for sailors. Since its launch in 1997, the magazine has sealed its reputation for essential sailing information and advice.

  • Telegraph.co.uk

Sailing Today Logo

ADVERTISING

Chelsea Magazine Company logo

© 2024 Chelsea Magazine Company , part of the Telegraph Media Group . | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy

yachting sunglasses

Marine Super Store Ltd

Ex-Display & Sample Sale

  • Search for:

yachting sunglasses

No products in the basket.

  • Base Layers
  • Technical T-Shirts
  • Sailing Jackets
  • Sailing Trousers
  • Dinghy Footwear
  • Sweatshirts
  • Holebrook Samples
  • Pelle Samples
  • Changing Robes
  • Cleaners & Proofers
  • Scarves / Snood
  • Dinghy Equipment
  • Hi-fits / Trousers
  • Hiking Equipment
  • Hiking Shorts
  • Spray Tops / Smocks
  • Full Wetsuits
  • Shorty Wetsuits
  • Long John Wetsuits
  • Wetsuit Tops
  • Wetsuit Shorts & Trousers
  • Summer Wetsuits
  • Winter Wetsuits
  • Children’s Wetsuits
  • Men’s Wetsuits
  • Women's Wetsuits
  • Wetsuit Sale
  • Technical Clothing
  • Casual Clothing
  • Hats, Gloves, Socks & Scarves
  • Watersports
  • Accessories Sale
  • Amazing Bundle Deals
  • Cables & Accessories
  • Fixed GPS/plotters
  • GPS Antennas
  • Handheld GPS/Plotters
  • Marine Cameras
  • Mounting/Brackets
  • Radar Scanners
  • Sailing Watches
  • Thermal Cameras
  • Waterproof Cases
  • Accessories
  • Fish Finder Sonar
  • Depth Instruments
  • Multifunction Systems
  • Speed Instruments
  • Weather Instruments
  • Wind Instruments
  • Autopilot Accessories
  • Cockpit Autopilots
  • Onboard Autopilots
  • Navigation Charts
  • Plotting Aids
  • Entertainment Accessories
  • Entertainment Systems
  • Speakers & Subs
  • Electronics
  • 4G and WIFI
  • Handheld VHF Radio
  • Mounted VHF Radio
  • VHF Antennas
  • Walkie Talkies
  • Buoyancy Aids
  • Lifejackets
  • Children’s Life Jackets
  • Commercial Lifejackets
  • Harnesses/Bosuns Chair
  • Lifejacket Accessories
  • Safety Knives
  • Safety Lights
  • Safety Lines
  • PLB & AIS
  • Satellite Communicators
  • Fire Safety Stick
  • Fire Extinguishers
  • GPS Tracker
  • Liferaft Accessories
  • Recovery Devices
  • Survival Suit
  • Cones & Balls
  • Dye Markers
  • Horns & Whistles
  • RADAR Reflectors
  • Bungs & Bailers
  • Battery Management
  • Chargers & Alternators
  • Electrical Other
  • Leisure Batteries
  • Plugs & Connectors
  • Shore Power
  • Wind Generator
  • USB & Phone Chargers
  • Blocks & Terminals
  • Circuit Breakers
  • Seals / Outlets / Plugs
  • Switches & Panels
  • Wires & Cables
  • Deck Lights
  • Interior Lighting
  • Navigation Lights
  • Searchlights
  • Head Torches
  • Freshwater Pumps
  • Macerator Pumps
  • Service Kits
  • Toilets/Waste
  • Spray Guns & Connectors
  • Toilet Accessories
  • Toilet Parts
  • Waste Tanks
  • Ball Valves
  • Inlet & Skin Fittings
  • Metal Plumbing Fittings
  • Plastic Plumbing Fittings
  • Diverter Valves
  • Non Return Valves
  • Deionised Water
  • Filters & Purification
  • Taps & Sinks
  • Water Heaters
  • Water Tanks
  • Gas Connectors
  • Gas Fittings
  • Bow Thruster
  • Bungs And Self Bailers
  • Cleats and Fairleads
  • Deck Filler
  • Deck Flooring & Protection
  • Eye Bolts & U Bolts
  • Grab Rail / Handles
  • Hooks and Clips
  • Latches & Catches
  • Shackles & Swivels
  • Tiller Extenders & Joints
  • Track & Cars
  • Winch Handles
  • Fans & Windscoops
  • Hatch & Inspection Covers
  • Hatch Shades
  • Hatches & Portlights
  • Plastic Hatches
  • Yacht / Keelboat Rope
  • Dinghy Rope
  • Dockline / Mooring Rope
  • General Purpose Rope
  • Watersports Rope
  • Fender Rope
  • Rope Accessories
  • Furling & Reefing
  • Mast, Spars & Sails
  • Pins & Rings
  • Rigging Screws, Adjusters & Tensioners
  • Splicing & Whipping
  • Thimbles & Stoppers
  • Galvanising Paints
  • Thinners & Solvents
  • Paint Brushes
  • Glue & Adhesives
  • Mixing Pots & Accessories
  • Resins & Epoxy
  • Sealants & Caulking
  • Boat Cleaner
  • Cleaning Equipment
  • Fabric Cleaners & Proofers
  • General Cleaners
  • Metal Cleaners
  • Onboard Cleaner
  • Polishes & Waxes
  • Vinyl Cleaner
  • Teak Cleaner
  • All Zinc Anodes
  • Zinc Shaft / Prop
  • Zinc Engine / Outdrive
  • All Aluminium Anodes
  • Aluminium Hull
  • Aluminium Shaft / Prop
  • Aluminium Engine / Outdrive
  • All Magnesium Anodes
  • Magnesium Hull
  • Magnesium Shaft / Prop
  • Magnesium Engine / Outdrive
  • Bow Thruster Anodes
  • Hanging Anodes
  • Bolts & Fixings
  • Backing Pads
  • Lubricants & Grease
  • Power Tools
  • Marine Prepacks
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Blowers & Exhaust
  • Engine Oil & Additives
  • Oil Extractors & Filters
  • Shaft Bearings
  • Pumps & Inflation
  • Tender Accessories
  • Petrol Engines
  • Boat Fender
  • Dock Fender
  • Edging Strip
  • Hooks & Pumps
  • Mooring Buoy
  • Step Fenders
  • Anchor Bags
  • Anchor Connectors
  • Anchor Lines
  • Anchor Windlass
  • Compensators
  • Personal Craft
  • Engine Covers
  • Fuel Tanks & Lines
  • Fuel Connectors
  • Kill Switches
  • Propeller Bags
  • Straps & Ratchets
  • Flag Staff & Holder
  • Lighters & Matches
  • Cabinet Fridges
  • Cooling Kits
  • Portable Fridge/freezers
  • Chandlery Misc
  • Cup Holders
  • Sail Knives
  • Seats & Cushions
  • Games & Toys
  • Gift Vouchers
  • Nautical Gifts
  • Novelty Hats
  • Anemometers
  • Clocks & Barometers
  • Teak Fittings
  • Weather Stations
  • Galley Equipment
  • Tumblers & Glasses
  • Water Bottles & Flask
  • Inflatable Paddleboards
  • Hard Paddleboards
  • Inflatable Kayaks
  • Handles / Bridles
  • Throw Lines
  • Swim Accessories
  • Sea Scooter
  • Free Delivery on UK mainland orders over £100 excl. Highlands / rural areas

yachting sunglasses

FREE Next Working Day / Saturday Delivery on orders over £150 - choose option in the basket (UK mainland, excludes Highlands rural areas, order before 3pm)

Shop for the latest marine sunglasses in all colours and styles at Marine Super Store. We’re on the ball whether you’re after the best in fashion, UV protection or both with  Sunwise  and  Gill ’s extensive ranges covering all price points. For further shielding against the sun’s rays, have a look at our  hat  collection.

Showing 1–36 of 38 results

Gill Reflex II Sunglasses - Black

Gill Reflex II Sunglasses

Gill Classic Sunglasses 2023 - Image

Gill Classic Sunglasses 2023

Gill Corona Sunglasses - Black/Red

Gill Corona Sunglasses

Musto Floating Sunglasses Retainer - Image

Musto Floating Sunglasses Retainer

Gill Floating Retainer - Black

Gill Floating Retainer

Gill Glare Sunglasses - Matt Black

Gill Glare Sunglasses

Sunwise Peak MK1 Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Peak MK1 Sunglasses

Triggernaut Superfly No2 Sunglasses - No 2

Triggernaut Superfly No2 Sunglasses

Gill Pursuit Sunglasses - Image

Gill Pursuit Sunglasses

Musto Hat Retainer Clip - Image

Musto Hat Retainer Clip

Sunwise Kennington Sunglasses - Black

Sunwise Kennington Sunglasses

Sunwise Twighlight Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Twighlight Sunglasses

Triggernaut Lila Sunglasses - Image

Triggernaut Lila Sunglasses

Power Cord Retainer 121002 - POWER CORD RETAINER 121002

Power Cord Retainer 121002

Triggernaut Superfly Pro Sunglasses - Image

Triggernaut Superfly Pro Sunglasses

Triggernaut Agent Sunglasses - Image

Triggernaut Agent Sunglasses

Sunwise Canoe Floating Sunglasses - Silver

Sunwise Canoe Floating Sunglasses

Sunwise Piste Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Piste Sunglasses

Sunwise Windrush Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Windrush Sunglasses

Sunwise Equinox Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Equinox Sunglasses

Sunwise Twister Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Twister Sunglasses

Barz Optics Floating Sunglasses - Image

Barz Optics Floating Sunglasses

Triggernaut Transmitter Sunglasses - Image

Triggernaut Transmitter Sunglasses

Triggernaut Seventies Sunglasses - Image

Triggernaut Seventies Sunglasses

Sunwise Greenwich Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Greenwich Sunglasses

Helly Hansen Sunglasses Retainer - Image

Helly Hansen Sunglasses Retainer

Sunwise Pioneer Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Pioneer Sunglasses

Sunwise Poppy Sunglasses - Coral

Sunwise Poppy Sunglasses

Sunwise Nectar Sunglasses - Black

Sunwise Nectar Sunglasses

Floating Neo Retainer - Image

Floating Neo Retainer

Sunwise Pacific Sunglasses - Black

Sunwise Pacific Sunglasses

Sunwise Lancaster PR1 Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Lancaster PR1 Sunglasses

Sunwise Trail Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Trail Sunglasses

Sunwise Wild Sunglasses - Image

Sunwise Wild Sunglasses

Lens Leash - Image

Gill Verso Sunglasses

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Email address  *

A password will be sent to your email address.

Marine Insight

Royal Navy Ship HMS Trent Seizes Cocaine Worth £40 Million In The Caribbean Sea

Seafarers Hospital Society Launches Pilot Project To Support Women At Sea

Seafarers Hospital Society Launches Pilot Project To Support Women At Sea

Hydrocell Launches the First Hydrogen-Powered Boat

Hydrocell Launches The First Hydrogen-Powered Boat

Indian Port Workers Call Off Strike After Agreeing To New Wage Settlement

Indian Port Workers Call Off Strike After Agreeing To New Wage Settlement

yachting sunglasses

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.

best sailing 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

[Amazon box = “B00SBYGMFO”]

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

maivnz Floating Polarized Fishing Sunglasses For Men Surfing Kayaking UV Protection Unsinkable Water Sport Sun Glasses MZ871 (Black/Blue)

  • 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

Hornet Watersports Floating Sunglasses - Floatable Sunglasses for Boating, Fishing, Kayaking - Boat Gifts for Men - Polarized Sunglasses for Men and Women - Boat Gits - Boating Accessories

  • 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 Polarized Sunglasses for Men Fishing Driving Running Mirrored Glasses UV400 Protectiont

  • ►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

KastKing Hiwassee Polarized Sport Sunglasses for Men and Women, Matte Smoke Crystal Frame,Smoke Lens

  • 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

Rheos Eddies Floating Polarized Sunglasses | 100% UV Protection | Boating & Fishing | Water Sport | Anti-Glare | Mens & Womens (Tortoise | Marine (Old Style))

  • 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

MALIDAK Floating Sunglasses, Polarized Sports Fan Sunglasses Equipped With 72-hour Sea Water Corrosion Resistance Lens

  • 【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.
  • 【Sale Guarantee】 MALIDAK promises all of our customers a satisfaction after-sale guarantee. If there is any question, please be free to contact for refund or return. Customer's satisfaction is out top priority!

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

DEAFRAIN Polarized Sports Sunglasses for Men Women Driving Fishing Cycling Running UV Protection

  • 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. Supplied with cleaning cloth, soft carry pouch, UV testing card, and high quality protective hard case. So You have no risk to try!

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

WYND Blocker Vert Motorcycle & Boating Sports Wrap Around Polarized Sunglasses (Black/Smoke Lens)

  • 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

We earn a commission if you make a purchase through an affiliate link, at no additional cost to you.

Disclaimer : The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

yachting sunglasses

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

yachting sunglasses

About Author

Vasudev Ghangnam is a marine engineer, presently sailing as 3rd Engineer with Bibby Ship Management on their Gas Tankers. He has sailed on a variety of Oil and Gas tankers and keeps special interest in marine insurance. He loves reading about latest technology and writing his opinions on contemporary maritime issues.

Read More Articles By This Author >

Daily Maritime News, Straight To Your Inbox

Sign Up To Get Daily Newsletters

Join over 60k+ people who read our daily newsletters

By subscribing, you agree to our  Privacy Policy  and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.

yachting sunglasses

BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT

Leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to Marine Insight Daily Newsletter

" * " indicates required fields

Marine Engineering

Marine Engine Air Compressor Marine Boiler Oily Water Separator Marine Electrical Ship Generator Ship Stabilizer

Nautical Science

Mooring Bridge Watchkeeping Ship Manoeuvring Nautical Charts  Anchoring Nautical Equipment Shipboard Guidelines

Explore 

Free Maritime eBooks Premium Maritime eBooks Marine Safety Financial Planning Marine Careers Maritime Law Ship Dry Dock

Shipping News Maritime Reports Videos Maritime Piracy Offshore Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS) MARPOL

  • THE PRINCESS PASSPORT
  • Email Newsletter
  • Yacht Walkthroughs
  • Destinations
  • Electronics
  • Boating Safety
  • Ultimate Boat Giveaway

Yachting Magazine logo

Marine-Friendly Sunglasses

  • By Kim Kavin
  • August 6, 2024

Costa King Tide sunglasses

Skeleton Optics, in premiering a line of sunglasses for women, says demand is continuing to increase from female anglers. “Fishing historically has been perceived as a male-dominated sport,” says Eric Storey, the company’s CEO, who adds that “the millions of women who spend their lives outdoors need sunglasses made just for them.”

His company is far from alone in offering an increasingly broad array of styles not only for men and women alike, but also for specific types of on-the-water activities and face shapes. Costa launched King Tide less than a year ago, promising not only its most technical frame to date, but also a version for elite anglers. The new Rigolets line from Bajio is designed for boaters who have smaller, narrower faces, and who previously couldn’t find a comfortable fit. Hobie offers the Everglades Float , which is being marketed not just for general fishing, but in particular flats-fishing and sight-casting.

The one thing they all have in common: This eyewear is being designed by boating and fishing enthusiasts, for boating and fishing enthusiasts. “As avid anglers, we understand the frustration of losing sunglasses while on the water,” says Dylan Coates, marketing manager for Hobie Eyewear.

Bajio Rigolets

Bajio Rigolets

Skeleton Decoy

Skeleton Decoy

Costa King Tide

Costa King Tide

Hobie Everglades

Hobie Everglades

Costa Catherine

Costa Catherine

Skeleton Outlaw

Skeleton Outlaw

These manufacturers also understand key safety features, which include things like Costa’s venting, which is inspired by sharks, to help prevent lenses from fogging up when skippers are trying to run the boat. Scratch-resistant lenses, ultraviolet protection and more are usually part of the package too.

And as you can see in the examples above, the variety of frames, lenses and styles is pretty darn stunning—as beautiful as the colors of coral on the most vibrant reefs.

  • More: affiliate , Apparel , Bajio , Costa Del Mar , Gear , Hobie , May 2024 , Skeleton Optics

Garmin quatix 7 Pro

Garmin Quatix Upgrade

top view of boat in water

Dockmate’s Dynamic Positioning Upgrade

Garmin Quatix7

Best Father’s Day Gifts For Boaters 2024

Valo Hyperfoil

Valo’s Foiling PWC

Ocean 1 Halo 470

Halo 470 Reviewed

waterspout

Superyacht Collision, Sinking Incident, Takeaways and Lessons

Satellite globe illustration

KVH Expands Its Hybrid Network with OneWeb’s LEO Satellites

Riviera 6800 Sport Yacht

Riviera to Unveil 6800 Sport Yacht at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Yachting Magazine logo

  • Digital Edition
  • Customer Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Email Newsletters
  • Cruising World
  • Sailing World
  • Salt Water Sportsman
  • Sport Fishing
  • Wakeboarding

an image, when javascript is unavailable

672 Wine Club

  • Motorcycles
  • Car of the Month
  • Destinations
  • Men’s Fashion
  • Watch Collector
  • Art & Collectibles
  • Vacation Homes
  • Celebrity Homes
  • New Construction
  • Home Design
  • Electronics
  • Fine Dining
  • Benchmark Wines
  • Brian Fox Art
  • Chase United
  • Disneyland Resort
  • Gateway Bronco
  • Royal Salute
  • Sports & Leisure
  • Health & Wellness
  • Best of the Best
  • The Ultimate Gift Guide

10 Must-Haves That Will Make Your Yacht Trip Even Better

The list ranges from smart glasses to the world's best sunscreen, from bose headsets to an exceptional flask paired with a boutique gin. bon voyage, jaclyn trop, jaclyn trop's most recent stories.

  • Forget Points. Credit Card Companies Are Now Building Swanky Airport Lounges Around the U.S.
  • We Toured the World’s First Inflatable Space Station. Here’s What It Was Like.
  • Inside the Race to Launch a New Space Station
  • Share This Article

Superyacht Gear

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Robb Report may receive an affiliate commission.

The last gasp of summer, which officially ends on September 2, is meant to be enjoyed on the water. Last week, we gave you a list of eight great books for the boat. This time around, we have items that you won’t realize are indispensable until you’re on the water and have left them behind.

Whether you’re taking a sunset cruise, beach excursion, or ocean voyage, supreme comfort and extreme fashion should be the two guiding mantras before Labor Day washes you back to reality.

We’ve put together a packing list that is certain to please. Here is the best of boat and beach accouterments, from sunscreen to swim trunks to suitcases. Throw in some toiletries and tech gadgets and the trip will be as stylish as it is restful.

Loro Piana Men’s Swim Trunks

yachting sunglasses

The Italian textile brand that put “quiet luxury” on the map, courtesy of HBO’s sartorially-driven series Succession , is equally at home in the boardroom or on the beach. These super soft, fast-drying men’s swim trunks are crafted from technical fabric and feature a choice of three playful prints. Thanks to an adjustable drawstring waist and back flap pocket, the trunks are comfortable, practical and functional, from the Bahamas to Bora-Bora.

Buy Now on Bergdorf Goodman: $580

Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Smart Glasses

yachting sunglasses

“Hey Meta, start my video call.” These multifunctional, tech-forward Ray-Ban Wayfarers do more than protect your eyes from the sun’s glare. The pair features an ultra-wide 12 megapixel camera and five-mic system to keep you connected at all times. The mobile app lets you use hands-free voice command to call and message, capture content, and manage media settings. Discreet, open-ear speakers toggle between your music, calls, and surroundings. The Ray Bans have four hours of battery life and a sleek, portable charging case.

Buy Now on Best Buy: $379

Matouk Paros Chevron Stripe Beach Towel

yachting sunglasses

Why cart around a heavy beach towel when you can carry a lightweight, highly absorbent alternative? Matouk, a three-generation, family-owned brand in Fall River, Massachusetts, excels at making Turkish towels. Inspired by the traditional hammam towels used in Turkish baths, the pure cotton, quick-drying Paros towel stands out on the sand with a geometric chevron pattern and fringed edges. Choose from one of five pastel colors, or collect them all.

Buy Now on Matouk: $95

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

yachting sunglasses

Whether listening to an audiobook, joining a conference call or merely taking a moment of silence for yourself, there’s no better vacation companion than these Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. This over-the-ear set uses Bose Immersive Audio, world-class noise cancellation, and CustomTune audio calibration to optimize sound wherever you are. The sleek headphones, which fold flat into a compact storage case, can differentiate your voice from 360 degrees of ambient sound for crystal-clear conversations and voice commands.

Buy Now on Bose: $429

The Botanist Gin

yachting sunglasses

Could it be that all good things come in sleek, stylish 50-milliliter packages? This premium Scottish gin, distilled at Bruichladdich distillery on the isle of Islay off Scotland’s west coast, is a delicious addition to any journey. The craft gin is comprised of 22 wild Islay botanicals that are hand-foraged locally and sustainably on the island. Rich and smooth, the Botanist can be served neat, or topped with tonic water and a sprig of rosemary for the ultimate refreshment.

Buy Now on Wine.com: $38

High Camp Parkside Flask 750

yachting sunglasses

Sometimes, transporting your beverage of choice can be the hardest part of traveling. Carry your wine or chilled cocktail in style with High Camp’s Parkside Flask 750, aptly named for its ability to hold a full 750-milliliter bottle of wine. Available in a quartet of pleasing colors, this three-piece set includes a vacuum-insulated flask that maintains temperature for up to 24 hours and two stainless steel tumblers. All components feature electropolished interiors to retain the flavor of even your rarest vintage. The result is a perfect picnic for two, without the hassle of bringing breakable glasses or a heavy cooler.

Buy Now on High Camp Flasks: $125

Rimowa Original Pilot Carry-on

yachting sunglasses

Crafted from high-end anodized aluminum, this small yet durable Rimowa suitcase is ideal for carry-on essentials or as the main bag for short-haul journeys. Designed to be wheeled smoothly through the airport or down a gangplank, this top-loading classic design comes with a removable padded pouch for a 16-inch laptop and a pocket in the main compartment suited for travel necessities such as a water bottle or compact umbrella.

Buy Now on Rimowa: $1,550

La Prairie Skin Caviar The Mist

yachting sunglasses

Whether relaxing in your yacht’s Jacuzzi or under a poolside cabana, an essential tool is La Prairie: Skin Caviar The Mist, a fresh summer breeze in a bottle. As the brand’s first caviar-infused mist, the limited-edition spray is derived from a cocktail of more than 300 nutrients, including a blend of Caviar Hydro Essence, Argan Oil, and Bulgarian Rose Extract. The 50-milliliter recyclable glass bottle, crafted in the Swiss brand’s signature cobalt blue hue, is both TSA and beach-bag friendly.

Buy Now on Neiman Marcus: $185

Clé de Peau Beauté Sunscreen

yachting sunglasses

Fans of this ultra-luxury Japanese brand have reason to rejoice. A recent addition to Clé de Peau’s lineup, this UV Protective Cream SPF 50+ shields your precious skin from UVA and UVB rays, as well as environmental factors including blue light, infrared rays, and air pollutants. The hyper-nourishing formula also uses a botanical complex of panax ginseng, mangosteen, beech tree bud, and chai hu to diminish the appearance of fine lines and visibly improve the skin’s texture for up to 10 hours. Best of all: no visible white cast.

Buy Now on Clé De Peau: $140

Lululemon Travel Yoga Mat

yachting sunglasses

Whether you’re traveling via private jet or catamaran, keeping up with your exercise routine can be a challenge. Enter Lululemon’s new travel yoga mat, a suitcase-friendly version of the athleisure purveyor’s thicker classic mat. Half the weight of the original, the travel mat retains the grippy textured foam base layer that’s made Lululemon the go-to for yogis. Stain resistant and easy to clean, the top layer is made using a sustainably sourced, Forest Stewardship Council-certified natural rubber. 

Buy Now on Lululemon: $74

Read More On:

More marine.

Safe Haven T-2000 Voyager Luxury Catamaran

This Speedy 70-Foot Power Catamaran Is Designed to Cut Through Rough Waters

America's Cup Round Robin

New Zealand’s Thrilling Win Gets the America’s Cup Off to a Rip-Roaring Start

La Dea II Superyacht

This Revamped 161-Foot Trinity Superyacht Could Be Yours for $16 Million

Bayesian Rescue Efforts

Rescuers Find Remaining Missing Aboard the Sunken ‘Bayesian’ Superyacht 

magazine cover

Meet the Wine Club That Thinks Differently.

Receive editor-curated reds from boutique California producers four times a year.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

Surfing both air and water on an e-foil from Fliteboard’s stable

6 Electric Surfboards That’ll Help You Ride the New E-Foil Wave

More from our brands, revlon will make its fashion week comeback with christian siriano, thanks to a viral social media post, nfl private equity rules let league force sales, share in upside, 20th tv head of drama development michelle mendelovitz exits studio, the little-known business of traveling exhibitions is booming, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

Quantcast

Yachting World

  • Digital Edition

Yachting World cover

Oakley Split Shot sunglasses review

Patrick Kinsella

  • Patrick Kinsella
  • July 6, 2023

The Split Shots shades from Oakley are top-end, high-wrap polarised sunglasses for boaters and paddlers seeking serious on-water performance combined with on-shore style.

best-kayak-sunglasses-oakley-split-shot

Product Overview

Oakley split shot.

  • Ultra stylish
  • Excellent glare-busting coverage
  • Top-quality lenses
  • Hydro-reactive grip
  • Comfortable
  • Robust case included
  • Non floating frame
  • No recycled material used

California-based eyewear brand Oakley know a thing or two about making sunglasses that look effortlessly cool while protecting your peepers and providing peak performance, and the polarized Split Shots are right up there among the best kayaking sunglasses on the market.

Of course, you pay handsomely for all this quality, so to see whether they’re really worth the investment I have been testing the Oakley Split Shots out on the waves in a range of conditions.

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.

yachting sunglasses

Oakley Split Shot sunglasses: design and materials

The Split Shots feature a high-wrap frame design that curves around your face and, in theory, cuts out the requirement for side protection from the kind of glare that bounces off water and can cause problems for paddlers.

The ‘O Matter’ frames are pretty lightweight, but they don’t float – so it’s fortunate that the Split Shots come with a thin wire leash, which attaches to each arm and runs around the back of your neck to catch the sunglasses should they fall from your head.

Obviously, this also comes in handy if you want to remove the glasses for a little while, especially if you’re wearing a helmet and are unable to put them on your head, because you can simply let them hang.

These shades boast category-3 HDO (High Definition Optics) polarised Prizm lenses, made with Plutonite and coated in Iridium , which offer the best definition and contrast levels available. The Iridium gives the glasses a mirrored effect, but it’s primarily there to reduce glare and sharpen definition.

These lenses are stress-tested to a high level in order to provide physical impact-resistance (for example from flying insects or even a wayward kayak paddle ) as well as protection for your eyes from uncomfortable and potentially damaging UV rays and glare.

The no-slip nosepad is made from a hydro-reactive substance that Oakley have branded ‘Unobtanium’ (one for the Avatar fans out there, although the word – and Oakley’s use of it – long predates the film), designed to supply superlative grip in rough conditions, the performance of which only gets better as it gets wetter, from sea spray or sweat.

Besides the leash, the Oakley Split Shots come with a large, rigid case for safe storage, as well as a soft pouch made from a fabric that can be used to clean the lenses.

yachting sunglasses

Oakley Split Shot sunglasses: performance

I first wore the Oakley Split Shot sunglasses during a series of early morning gig-rowing training sessions on a rolling sea in Lyme Bay. This sport demands complete concentration as you stay in time with your fellow rowers, and both arms are occupied all the time, so you can’t mess around with your eyewear, and the Split Shots were perfect for the job, protecting my eyes as I faced into the rising sun, and allowing me to keep looking at the oarsman in front of me, so I could maintain synchronicity.

Gig rowing is also a highly intensive activity, but even as I worked up a proper sweat, these glasses stayed firmly in place thanks to the grip supplied by the hydro-reactive Unobtanium elements on the arms and the nosepad.

I have since worn the Split Shots on a regular basis on numerous recreational and exploratory kayaking and SUPing sessions in the sea and along my local river system. I find the frame fantastically comfortable to wear, even for hours on end, and I’m more than happy in these sunnies on and off the water (in fact, they’re probably the best looking shades I’ve ever owned).

Along with the cushioning nosepad, the two hat- and helmet-compatible arms supply a three-point fit, which, combined with the concave, face-hugging, high-wrap frame design means the sunglasses keep glare out from all directions and stay firmly in place in even the most rowdy conditions.

I have been out in my kayak wearing these sunnies when the swell has been large and the waves have been punchy, and the Split Shots didn’t move a milimetre. There are no vents incorporated into the design, however, and while I didn’t experience any serious fogging issues, I did feel they ran a little warm on hot days when I was paddling hard. At least they didn’t slide around (or off) as I got sweaty, though – in fact, the hydro-reactive grips made them even more secure.

yachting sunglasses

The leash does supply an extra level of security, to stop you worrying about the glasses falling off, but it seems like a big missed opportunity that it doesn’t feature a float in place of the Oakley branded rubber band.

This would have been an easy addition, and with a price tag as heavy as these sunglasses carry, you certainly don’t want to lose them to Davy Jones’ locker. Also, there is no emergency release mechanism on this leash, and it is conceivable that it could snag on something after a capsize, which could be catastrophic.

The category-3 polarised Plutonite Prizm lenses, coated with Iridium, are absolutely superb for on-water activities, supplying excellent (unrivalled, I believe) clarity, contrast and definition, which give you advanced capability of reading waves as they come at you and allow you to see through the water to the marinescape below.

They have a visible light transfer rate of 12%, which is reasonably dark on land but absolutely ideal for aquatic adventures – cutting out glare and allowing you to go about your marine mission with eyes wide open – and you can still wear them on bright days for driving and other tasks.

yachting sunglasses

The Oakley Split Shots come with a leash, a rigid case and a soft pouch

Oakley Split Shot sunglasses: verdict

If you want to look good on and off the water, the Oakley Split Shots will fulfil that brief with absolute aplomb, but there is a whole lot more to these high-end sport sunglasses than the ability to turn heads.

The Iridium-coated, polarised, Plutonite Prism lenses offer best-in-class clarity and definition, plus top-level eye protection, and the high-wrap frame effectively cuts out glare from all directions, and comfortably stays in place thanks to the hydro-reactive Unobtanium elements employed where the glasses meet the nose and temples.

If they had a float on the leash, they would near-enough be the perfect kayaking sunglasses – just so long as you can afford them.

Buy the Oakley Split Shot sunglasses on Very

Lysanderhöhe (Am Trakt Mennonite Settlement, Samara Oblast, Russia)

Lysanderhöhe was a village of the Am Trakt Mennonite settlement in the province of Samara , Russia , founded in 1864, consisting in 1897 of 22 farms, with a population of 119. A part of the population joined the trek to Turkestan in 1891, while others immigrated to America. In 1914 the population was 146. Franz Bartsch , the author of Unser Auszug nach Mittelasien, was the teacher of the village school. After the Revolution of 1917 the cultural and economic level of the village began to decline. Some of the inhabitants went to Canada and others were exiled. Little is known about the fate of those who remained and the later status of the village.

Bibliography

Dyck, Johannes J. based on a text by W.E. Surukin. Am Trakt: A Mennonite Settlement in the Central Volga Region . Translated by Hermina Joldersma and Peter J.Dyck. Winnipeg: CMBC Publications, 1995.

Hege, Christian and Christian Neff. Mennonitisches Lexikon , 4 vols. Frankfurt & Weierhof: Hege; Karlsruhe: Schneider, 1913-1967: v. II, 709.

Surukin, W. E. und Johannes J. Dyck. Am Trakt, Eine Mennonitische Kolonie im Mittleren Wolgagebiet .North Kildonan, Man., 1948.

Author(s) Cornelius Krahn
Date Published 1957

Cite This Article

Krahn, Cornelius. "Lysanderhöhe (Am Trakt Mennonite Settlement, Samara Oblast, Russia)." Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online . 1957. Web. 29 Aug 2024. https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Lysanderh%C3%B6he_(Am_Trakt_Mennonite_Settlement,_Samara_Oblast,_Russia)&oldid=144294 .

Krahn, Cornelius. (1957). Lysanderhöhe (Am Trakt Mennonite Settlement, Samara Oblast, Russia). Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online . Retrieved 29 August 2024, from https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Lysanderh%C3%B6he_(Am_Trakt_Mennonite_Settlement,_Samara_Oblast,_Russia)&oldid=144294 .

©1996-2024 by the Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. All rights reserved.

Navigation menu

COMMENTS

  1. Best sailing sunglasses for use on the water

    Dirty Dog Wetglass Curl II sunglasses. Specs: Filter category - 3 | Polarized - Yes | Floating - Yes. Best sailing sunglasses for watersports-lovers. Reasons to buy: Vent holes reduce ...

  2. Best polarized sunglasses for sailors: 9 pairs tested

    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.

  3. 10 Great Boating Sunglasses 2023

    Frame color: Light blue. Lens: Glass - polarized. Lens color: Gray. MSRP: $259. Bajío sunglasses have quickly made a name for themselves as a premier manufacturer in the boating/on-water markets. With high performance lenses-both glass and polycarbonate-along with stylish frames, Bajío have a lot to offer.

  4. 7 Best Sunglasses for Sailing

    Maui Jim sailing sunglasses are among the best in the industry and the Ho'okipa is a testament to this. These sunglasses come with a rimless frame, polarized lenses, and blue tint, which make it a perfect pair for your sailing escapades on the open water. This pair offers superb protection, ultimate comfort, and doesn't compromise on durability.

  5. Best floating sunglasses: 6 floatable sunnies for active sailors

    Cressi Ninja floating sunglasses. Reasons to buy. -Affordable. -Hydrophobic lenses for extra clear vision. -Anti-glare, polarised lenses with 100% UV protection. Reasons to avoid. -Delicate frames ...

  6. 15 Best Sailing Sunglasses (Affordable & High-Quality)

    The Oakley Men's Fives Squared Rectangular Sunglasses are one of the best sailing sunglasses you can find on the market. While that's definitely reflective in the price, the value you get back is unbeatable. The polarized lenses are made out of Plutonite, which is guaranteed to block out 100% of UVA, UVB, UVC, and harmful blue light up to 400nm.

  7. SunGod Renegades 8K0 polarised sunglasses review

    The SunGod Renegades 8K0 polarised sunglasses offer excellent protection out on the water and are relatively inexpensive and stylish too as Toby Hodges found during his test. Your eyes are so ...

  8. The Best Sunglasses For Sailing

    Many yachting professionals, including myself, who own a pair of Maui Jim sailing sunglasses report this feeling of having relaxed eyes in even the harshest sunlight. The Waterman Wrap also features an anti-reflective coating and scratch-resistant transparent shell so that they stand up to a working sailor's requirements.

  9. Sailing sunglasses: Protecting your eyes on the water

    Top picks for sailing sunglasses. Now, let's explore some of the best sailing sunglasses available: 1. Costa Del Mar Fantail. Features: Costa Del Mar is known for its high-quality lenses, and the Fantail is no exception.With polarized glass lenses, durable frames, and 100% UV protection, these sunglasses are a top choice for sailors.

  10. The 8 Best Sailing Sunglasses

    The top sailing sunglasses with the least color options is the SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses with 3 color options. The best sailing sunglasses are 1: Oakley Clifden, 2: SeaSpecs Stealth, 3: Sungait Sailing Sunglasses, 4: Torege Polarized Sunglasses etc.

  11. The best polarized sunglasses for sailing 2024

    Popular styles include aviators, wayfarers, wraparounds, and round frames. Brand Reputation: Some well-known brands in polarized sunglasses include Ray-Ban, Oakley, Maui Jim, and Costa Del Mar. These brands are known for their lens quality and durability, and you will end up with a quality pair of sunglasses.

  12. Guide to the Best Sailing Sunglasses

    The best sailing sunglasses are built from ultra-durable materials, and backed by a Lifetime Guarantee. That's the case for all SunGods, which have triple-layer scratch-resistant lens coatings, ultra-flexible frames, and Pop-Lock™ screwless hinges to avoid salt-water damage. Plus, they're covered by our unrivalled Lifetime Guarantee, which ...

  13. Eight of the best sailing sunglasses

    lip-sunglasses.com; Gul Code Zero floating sunglasses. Gul's Code Zero sunglasses are floatable with light, tough and flexible frames. The lenses are polarised, glare free and give 100% ultraviolet protection. They feature a non slip material on the bridge, helping to keep the frame securely on your face. They come with a hard travel case for ...

  14. Sailing Sunglasses & Watersport Sunglasses at Marine Super Store

    Sunwise Wild Sunglasses. £ 26.99. Lens Leash. £ 4.95. Gill Verso Sunglasses. £ 84.00 £ 74.95. 1. 2. Make sure that your eyes are protected at all times with Marine Super Store's range of sailing sunglasses & watersport sunglasses - order online today.

  15. Decathlon Tribord 500 Polarised Sunglasses review

    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 ...

  16. 10 Best Sunglasses For Boating

    These sunglasses make for a great gift for any boating or watersports lover. Check Price on Amazon. 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.

  17. Marine-Friendly Sunglasses

    August 6, 2024. Costa's King Tide sunglasses have removable side shields, nonskid hooding, and venting to help them stay fog-free. Courtesy Costa. Skeleton Optics, in premiering a line of sunglasses for women, says demand is continuing to increase from female anglers. "Fishing historically has been perceived as a male-dominated sport ...

  18. Best Sailing Sunglasses

    The Best Sunglasses for Sailing: Best Sailing Sunglasses Overall: Maui Jim Cliff House 247. Best Oakley Sunglasses for Sailing: Oakley Portal X. Best Sunglasses for Dinghy Sailing: Smith Pinpoint. Best Polarized Sunglasses for Sailing: Revo Crawler RE1027. Best Women's Sunglasses for Sailing: Kaenon Cali.

  19. 10 Must-Haves That Will Make Your Yacht Trip Even Better

    Whether relaxing in your yacht's Jacuzzi or under a poolside cabana, an essential tool is La Prairie: Skin Caviar The Mist, a fresh summer breeze in a bottle. As the brand's first caviar ...

  20. THE 10 BEST Restaurants for Special Occasions in Samara

    Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Samara, Samara Oblast: Find Tripadvisor traveler reviews of THE BEST Samara Restaurants for Special Occasions and search by price, location, and more.

  21. Oakley Split Shot sunglasses review

    Oakley Split Shot sunglasses: design and materials. The Split Shots feature a high-wrap frame design that curves around your face and, in theory, cuts out the requirement for side protection from ...

  22. NIZHNy Novgorod to Samara

    Answer 21 of 77: Help! I have a back to back game Fromm NIZHNy Novgorod July 1st-9pmgame to Samara july2nd-6pm game. I've looked into flights and they are a bit over my budget. Does anyone know where to rent a vehicle? I'm sure it's cheaper than two flight tickets...

  23. Samara Oblast Map

    Samara Oblast is a region in the Middle Volga, bordering Ulyanovsk Oblast to the west, Tatarstan to the north, Orenburg Oblast to the east, and Saratov Oblast to the south. Photo: Brandmeister, Public domain. Photo: Юрий Гусев, CC BY-SA 3.0. Ukraine is facing shortages in its brave fight to survive. Please support Ukraine, because ...

  24. Lysanderhöhe (Am Trakt Mennonite Settlement, Samara Oblast, Russia)

    Lysanderhöhe was a village of the Am Trakt Mennonite settlement in the province of Samara, Russia, founded in 1864, consisting in 1897 of 22 farms, with a population of 119.A part of the population joined the trek to Turkestan in 1891, while others immigrated to America. In 1914 the population was 146. Franz Bartsch, the author of Unser Auszug nach Mittelasien, was the teacher of the village ...