sunglasses for yachting

7 Best Sunglasses for 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!

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Best polarized sunglasses for sailors: 9 pairs tested

• Theo Stocker
• September 19, 2022

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

Product Overview

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

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

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

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

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

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

Polarized sunglasses for sailors: 9 pairs tested

Tribord 100 Floating Sunglasses

Best on test

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Tribord Floating at Decathalon

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.

Tifosi Swick

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Tifosi Crit at Tifosioptics.com

Buy Tifosi Crit at Tifosi-optics.co.uk

Tifosi Crit

Best sports glasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Tifosi Crit at Amazon (UK)

Oakley Leffingwell

Best lenses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Oakley Leffingwell at Oakley

Buy Oakley Leffingwell at Amazon

Dirty Dog Axle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Dirty Dog Axle at Amazon

Gill Kynance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Gill Kynance at Amazon

Bollé Holman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Bollé Holman at Amazon (UK)

Buy Bollé Holman at Amazon (US)

Buy Bollé Holman at SmartBuyGlasses.co.uk

SunGod Sierra SKO

Best everyday polarized glasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy SunGod Sierra 8KO at SunGod

Sungod Renegade 8KO

Best sustainable glasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy SunGod Renegade at SunGod

Polarized sunglasses for sailors: Conclusion

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

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

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

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

How to choose the best polarized sunglasses

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

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

The main considerations include:

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

How do polarized sunglasses work?

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

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

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

Credit: Maxine Heath

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

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

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

How we tested the best polarized sunglasses

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

We have measured

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

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

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

15 Best Sailing Sunglasses (Affordable & High-Quality)

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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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!

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 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

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

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

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

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

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 8 Best Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

The best sailing sunglasses are:

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

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

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

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

Below are the best sailing sunglasses reviews.

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

1. Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The pros of the Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses are:

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

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

Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses On Amazon →

Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses On Walmart →

2. SUNGAIT Men's Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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3. Torege Polarized Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The pros of the Torege Polarized Sunglasses are:

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

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

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4. Maui Jim Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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5. SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The pros of the SUNGAIT Vintage Round Retro Sunglasses are:

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

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

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6. AODUOKE Outdoor Kids Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The pros of the AODUOKE Kids Polarized Sunglasses are:

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

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

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7. SeaSpecs Stealth Extreme Sports Floating Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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8. Oakley Clifden Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The pros of the Oakley Clifden Sunglasses are:

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

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

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Top Sailing Sunglasses Comparison Table

What To Consider When Purchasing Sailing Sunglasses

The factors to consider when buying sailing sunglasses are:

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

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Sailing Sunglasses

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

What Are The Best Sailing Sunglasses Brands?

The best sailing sunglasses brands are:

• Costa Del Mar

Are Top Sailing Sunglasses Expensive?

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

What Is The Cheapest Top Sailing Sunglasses?

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

What Is The Most Expensive Top Sailing Sunglasses?

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

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Best Warranty?

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

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Lowest Light Transmission?

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

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Highest Light Transmission?

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

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Most Color Options?

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

What Top Sailing Sunglasses Has The Least Color Options?

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

Best sunglasses for protection while sailing

• Best Sunglasses for Protection While Sailing: Enjoying the Outdoors Safely

When it comes to sailing, having the right pair of sunglasses is essential. Not only do they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they also enhance your vision and reduce glare on the water. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best sunglasses for sailing. In this article, we will explore some of the top choices that offer superior protection, comfort, and style. Whether you're a professional sailor or simply enjoy spending time on the water, these sunglasses will ensure that your eyes are well-protected.

1. The Importance of Sunglasses for Sailing

Sailing exposes you to intense sunlight and reflective surfaces, which can be detrimental to your eyes. The constant exposure to harmful UV rays increases the risk of eye damage, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even corneal sunburn. Therefore, investing in high-quality sunglasses is crucial to protect your eyes and ensure optimal vision while sailing.

2. Key Features to Look for in Sailing Sunglasses

When selecting sunglasses for sailing, there are several important features to consider:

Polarized Lenses : Polarized sunglasses significantly reduce glare by blocking horizontal light waves. This feature is particularly beneficial when sailing, as it helps you see clearly on the water surface, enhances contrast, and improves depth perception.

UV Protection : Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. This ensures that your eyes are shielded from both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause long-term damage to your eyes.

Wrap Around Design : Opt for sunglasses with a wrap around design that provides maximum coverage. This design prevents light from entering through the sides and reduces peripheral glare, allowing you to focus on sailing without distractions.

Durability : Sailing sunglasses should be durable and able to withstand the harsh marine environment. Choose sunglasses made from materials such as polycarbonate or nylon for increased resistance to impact and scratches.

Comfort : Ensure that the sunglasses fit comfortably and securely on your face. Look for adjustable nose pads and temple tips for a personalized fit, as this will prevent the sunglasses from slipping during high winds or sudden maneuvers.

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

Check out our latest sailing content:

3. Top Picks for Sailing Sunglasses

3.1 gul sunglasses: the perfect blend of style and functionality.

Gul sunglasses are renowned for their exceptional quality and innovative designs. These sunglasses offer a combination of style and functionality, making them ideal for sailing enthusiasts. With polarized lenses and 100% UV protection, Gul sunglasses effectively reduce glare and shield your eyes from harmful rays. Additionally, their lightweight frames and comfortable fit ensure that you can wear them for extended periods without discomfort.

3.2 Best Wrap Around Sunglasses: Enhancing Coverage and Protection

Wrap around sunglasses provide superior coverage and protection by minimizing light entry from the sides. When it comes to sailing, wrap around sunglasses are a popular choice. Brands like Oakley and Costa Del Mar offer a wide range of wrap around sunglasses specifically designed for water activities. These sunglasses not only offer excellent eye protection but also provide a stylish and sporty look.

3.3 Best UV Sunglasses: Shielding Your Eyes from Harmful Rays

UV protection is crucial when it comes to sunglasses for sailing. Look for sunglasses that have a high UV rating, preferably 100% UV protection. Brands like Ray-Ban and Maui Jim are known for their exceptional UV protection capabilities. These sunglasses use advanced lens technologies to block out harmful UV rays, ensuring that your eyes remain safe even in the brightest conditions.

3.4 Best Reading Sunglasses: Keeping You Informed on the Water

For sailors who rely on charts, maps, or electronic devices, reading sunglasses are a great investment. These sunglasses have a bifocal or progressive lens design that allows you to read small print while still providing protection against the sun. With reading sunglasses, you can keep your eyes safe and stay informed about important navigational information while sailing.

3.5 Sunglass Covers for Glasses: Extra Protection for Your Eyewear

If you wear prescription glasses or have expensive sunglasses, consider using sunglass covers or sunglass cases specifically designed for glasses. These covers provide an extra layer of protection, preventing scratches and damage to your eyewear while on the water. Sunglass covers are typically made from soft materials like microfiber, ensuring that your glasses remain safe and secure.

4. Polarized Wrap Around Sunglasses: Reducing Glare and Enhancing Clarity

One of the top choices for sailing sunglasses is polarized wrap around sunglasses. These sunglasses combine the benefits of polarized lenses with a wrap around design, offering maximum glare reduction and enhanced clarity. The polarized lenses filter out reflected light, reducing eye strain and allowing you to see beneath the water's surface. Brands like Smith Optics and Costa Del Mar specialize in polarized wrap around sunglasses that are perfect for sailing adventures.

5. Additional Tips for Choosing Sailing Sunglasses

Consider the lens color: Different lens colors have varying benefits. Gray lenses maintain true color perception, brown lenses enhance contrast, and amber lenses are ideal for low-light conditions. Choose the lens color that suits your sailing environment and preferences.

Opt for anti-fog coatings: Sailing often involves exposure to water and changing temperatures, which can cause fogging on your lenses. Look for sunglasses with anti-fog coatings or vents that prevent fog buildup, ensuring clear vision throughout your sailing experience.

Check for lens durability: Sailing sunglasses may encounter rough conditions, including saltwater exposure. Look for lenses with scratch-resistant coatings or materials that can withstand the harsh marine environment.

Choosing the best sunglasses for protection while sailing is essential to safeguard your eyes and enhance your overall experience on the water. Whether you opt for Gul sunglasses, wrap around designs, UV protection, reading sunglasses, or sunglass covers, prioritize features like polarization, UV protection, comfort, and durability. By investing in high-quality sailing sunglasses, you can enjoy the great outdoors while ensuring your eyes are well-protected.

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

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Denisa Nguyenová

What people ask about the sailing sunglasses.

The 15 Best Sunglasses For Sailing 2024

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

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

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

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

Quick Guide To Buying Sunglasses For Sailing

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

Why Buy The Best Sunglasses For Sailing?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Look For In The Best Sunglasses For Sailing

Are Polarized Lenses Good For Sailing?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Colour Lenses Are Best For Sailing?

This isn’t all about fashion!

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

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

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

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

Type of Material

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

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

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

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

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

• Lightweight

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

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

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

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

Anti-corrosion

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

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

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

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

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

Keeping Your Sailing Sunglasses!

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

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

We felt terrible and even poorer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best 15 Sunglasses For Sailing

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

The Best Sailing Sunglasses For Men

#1 sungod vulcans.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2 Maui Jim Ho’okipa sailing sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

Buy now from West Marine

Buy now from Amazon

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

#3 O’Neill Zepol Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

#4 Knockaround – Best Budget

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

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

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

#5 Calcutta

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

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

#6 Pelagic Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

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

#7 Sunski Polarized Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

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

#8 Oakley Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

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

#9 Costa Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

The Best Sailing Sunglasses For Women

#10 hananpa’a sunglasses.

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

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

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

#11 Women’s Oceanside Polarized Sunglasses

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

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

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

#12 Deja View Women’s Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

#13 The Isla

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

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

#14 SunGod Sierras

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

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

Buy now from SunGod

#15 Prescription Sunglasses For Sailing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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My Cruiser Life Magazine

Best Sailing Sunglasses for Serious Sailors

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

Table of Contents

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

• Grey lenses 

Bronze lenses

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

• Don’t Set Sail Without Your Polarized Sailing Sunglasses 

Sunglasses for Sailing FAQs

How to find the best sailing sunglasses.

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

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

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

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

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

Lens Coatings

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

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

Lens Colors

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

Grey lenses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sailing Sunglasses Reviews

Best all-around sunglasses for sailing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

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

High-Quality Sailing Sunglasses Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Durable frames and lenses
• 30 lens and frame options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Prizm lens technology
• Lightweight

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prescription Sailing Sunglasses

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

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

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

• Scratch-resistant
• Hydrophobic coating

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

Sailing Sunglasses Budget Buys

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

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

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

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

• Several frames and lens color options

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

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

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

• Fashionable
• Variety of frame and lens colors

• Polarized Polycarbonate Injection Molded Lenses

Don’t Set Sail Without Your Polarized Sailing Sunglasses

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

Are polarized sunglasses good for sailing?

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

What should I look for in sailing sunglasses?

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

Are Gill sunglasses good?

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

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

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10 Great Boating Sunglasses 2023

• By Garrett Cortese
• June 10, 2023

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.

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.

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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

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5 Best Polarized Sunglasses for Sailing on a Yacht

There are many things to enjoy about sailing on a yacht. You experience the peace and tranquility of the sea and connect with nature. To fully enjoy this, you must follow the  dos and dont’s  when aboard for a safe and pleasant journey. This includes respecting the crew and fellow passengers, listening to safety briefings, and bringing suitable travel gear. Besides these, it’s important to look after your health. Being out at sea also means exposing yourself to the sun, making it essential to protect yourself—especially your eyes, as they’re the most sensitive body parts. This is why you should get  polarized sunglasses  for sailing. They reduce glare so you can see in situations where you may be blinded by the sun. As such, you’ll be safer when walking on the deck or steering the yacht. On that note, here are the best polarized sunglasses for sailing:

Bollé Tetra PYTHON

Oakley makes various sports sunglasses, including those for water sports. They’re also recognized for making polarized sunglasses, making many prefer them for outdoor activities. One such pair is the Oakley Holbrook. It’s great for sailing because it has 100% UV protection without sacrificing style. They’re also  prescription sunglasses  that allow you to see clearly while sailing. Combined with its high-definition optics, the Holbrook provides razor-sharp vision, enabling you to sail safely and enjoy the view. These sunglasses come in many frame and lens colors, like woodgrain and prizm black, respectively.

Read also: Discover Your Perfect Multihull: Explore The Impressive 2023 Selection Of WI Yachts For Sale!

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SeaSpecs are the best Sailing Sunglasses I've ever had! Bill Gibbs & The Afterburner. Winner of the Newport to Ensenada race.

When you're on the water sailing, you definitely need sunglasses. Not just any glasses - you need SeaSpecs Sunglasses for sailing! Sea Specs polarized sailing eye wear protects your eyes from the sun and water spray. Hours of exposure to the sun's harmful rays puts your eyes at risk, sometimes even causing sunburn. Long hours on the water sailing makes your eyes vulnerable to permanent damage. SeaSpecs wraparound water sports sailing sunglasses come with a built-in, secure strap to keep the sun glasses on your head where they belong! Rx SeaSpecs can be made to your prescription so you can see everything while you're sailing. Check our FAQ page for details.

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10 Best Sunglasses For Boating

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

Table of Contents

Why do you need a good pair of boating sunglasses?

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

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

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

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

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

Important features of boating sunglasses

Go for Non-Corrosive, durable and sturdy material

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

Excellent coverage

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

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

Kind of lenses

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

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

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

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

Polarised or non-polarised sunglasses

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

Opt for mirrored lenses

Mirrored lenses also help to eliminate glare.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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2. Maivnz Floating Polarized sunglasses for men

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Hornet Watersports Floating Sunglasses with polarised lenses

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

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

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

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

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

4. INFI Polarized Sunglasses for men

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

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

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

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

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

5. KastKing Hiwassee Polarized Sports Sunglasses for Men and Women

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Rheos Eddies Sport Style Floating Polarized Sunglasses

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

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

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

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

7. MALIDAK Polarized Floating Sunglasses for Men and Women

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

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

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

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

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

• 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

• 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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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 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

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The best prescription sunglasses for 2024

By Jason R. Rich

Edited By Leslie Gornstein

Updated on: July 25, 2024 / 1:22 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Now that summer is in full swing, it's the perfect time to upgrade your sunglasses. The latest lenses in prescription sunglasses take advantage of new technologies that enhance detail, while reducing glare. 

Prescription sunglasses can include single-vision lenses, bi-focals or even progressives. A new pair of prescription sunglasses can make driving safer, not to mention more comfortable. Plus, you can customize your lenses and your frames to match your unique style and personality.

Whether you're looking for the latest designer sunglass frames (like Ray-Bans), a timeless look from a prestigious designer (like Vint & Work), sunglasses for a specific sport, Warby Parker sunglasses that are perfect for everyday, or just cheap prescription sunglasses that won't drain your bank account, you're in luck. Our team of in-house shopping experts have curated this roundup of the best places to shop for prescription sunglasses online. And many of these options will save you money.

Meanwhile, when shopping for prescription eyeglasses, be sure to also check out our roundup of  the best places to buy prescription glasses online .

What are the best prescription sunglasses you can get online?

Whether you need single-vision, bi-focals, or progressive lenses, shopping online has serious benefits -- including savings. If you're looking for dedicated prescription sunglasses or eyewear with transition lenses that automatically darken in the sun, the largest selection can't be found in a brick-and-mortar store.

• Best overall prescription sunglasses :  Roka
• Best budget prescription sunglasses :  GlassesUSA
• Best prescription for transition lenses :  Warby Parker
• Best for designer sunglass frames :  Lenscrafters
• Best prescription sunglasses for vintage style : Vint & York
• Best frames for sports :  TifosiRx
• Best indestructible sunglass option : Ombraz

Pro tip : When you're shopping prescription sunglasses online, be sure to see if the company offers discounts to students, teachers, active military, seniors or first responders. And most of these companies offer an extra discount if you buy more than one pair of sunglasses (or regular prescription eyeglasses) at the same time.

Best overall prescription sunglasses : Roka

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : No |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : No |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on :  Yes  |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted : Yes  

One of the things we love about Roka is that the company designs and manufacturers all of its frames. While all of the frames are stylish, Roka has an even better rep for eyewear that protects and corrects well.

Proprietary technologies mean that you get more than 35 stunning sunglass frame styles that you won't find elsewhere. Each is made from the highest quality materials and designed to be lightweight, extremely durable and comfortable. 

Each model comes in multiple color options. You can also choose a lens color. Roka offers either single-vision or progressive sunglass lenses. Choose between polycarbonate, Trivex or high-index lenses. All are polarized. Prescription sunglasses are custom made and shipped within 10 business days. Pricing varies dramatically based on your frame and lens selections. Even if you don't lead an active lifestyle, you'll discover stunning prescription sunglass options for men and women at Roka.

Best budget prescription sunglasses : GlassesUSA

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Blue light filtering lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on :  Yes  |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted :  Yes  |  Vision insurance accepted :  Yes

GlasesUSA is the place to shop for prescription sunglasses, especially if you're looking for designer frames (from Ray-Ban, Oakley, Prada, Coach, Versace, Gucci and 54 others) or low-cost generic frames that start at $34 (including single-vision lenses). 

When it comes to sunglasses, GlassesUSA has more than 1,100 frames to choose from. Each comes in multiple colors, and you can also customize your prescription lenses. In fact, this is one of the few companies that offer prescription sunglasses with your choice of reading or bi-focal lenses, in addition to single-vision or progressive lenses.

GlassesUSA is all about  discounts -- from frames that are on sale to BOGO offers. Designer frames are typically sold at up to 40% off of retail, and lens upgrades are offered for up to 50% off. New customers who sign up for a newsletter get a coupon good for up to 50% off a first pair of frames.

All prescription sunglasses come with a 14-day money-back guarantee, as well as a one-year warranty. If you have vision insurance, you can submit your receipt for reimbursement, but you can also use health savings funds to make qualifying purchases. 

Pro tip : If you're shopping for cheap prescription sunglasses, in addition to GlassesUSA , we suggest checking out what EyeBuyDirect and Zenni Optical have to offer.

Best for transition lenses : Warby Parker

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Blue light filtering lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on :  Yes  |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted :  Yes

Warby Parker is a one-stop shop for all of your prescription sunglass needs. Many frames, which include single-vision prescription lenses, start at just $95. Progressive lenses start at $395. 

The company sells only its own collection of high-quality and fashionable sunglass frames -- and there are more than 50 styles choose from. The website offers an easy virtual try-on feature. There's also a home try-on option that allows you to select up to five frames and have them shipped to your home for free. Choose the frames you want, order your prescription sunglasses and return the samples in a pre-paid box. 

You also get a wide range of sunglass and transition lens options, so you can pick only the add-on filters and coatings that you need. An anti-reflective and scratch-resistant coating is automatically included for free. The company uses polycarbonate lenses, but these can be upgraded to 1.67 high-index lenses for an additional fee.

In most cases, you can choose a frame color, or color combination and size. Warby Parker accepts virtually all vision insurance and HSA/FSA payments. If you order two pairs of glasses at the same time (one of which can be regular prescription glasses), you get an automatic 15% discount. And for every pair of prescription eyewear purchased, Warby Parker donates a pair to someone in need. 

Best for designer sunglass frames : Lenscrafters

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option :  Yes  |  Blue light filtering lens option :  Yes  |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted :  Yes  |  Vision insurance accepted :  Yes

If you want designer frames from Ray-Ban, Oakley, Versace, Coach, Prada, Brooks Brothers or any of more than a dozen others, the place to shop online is LensCrafters. Yes, this is the same company that's been operating more than 1,000 retail locations since 1983, but you can now shop for designer sunglasses with prescription lenses online.

LensCrafters makes it easy to shop for sunglasses based on brand, style, color or shape. Once you find the frames you love, you can choose from a wide range of lens options. Once your sunglasses arrive, they come with a 30-day happiness guarantee. For an additional fee, you can upgrade to an protection plan that covers frames and lenses against damage, scratches and other issues for a full year.

Whether you're shopping for prescription eyeglasses or prescription sunglasses, you'll find a vast selection of designer frames to choose from, with new options coming in all the time. Some frame and single-vision lens combos start as low as $100. You'll also discover some  designer frames on sale  for as much as 60% off, with additional discounts offered to AAA and AARP members.

Best prescription sunglasses for vintage or classic style : Vint & York

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : No |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted : Yes 

One benefit of shopping for prescription sunglasses from Vint & York is that the company designs and manufacturers its own selection of designer-quality frames -- many with colors and styles you can't find elsewhere. It then uses lenses crafted by expert technicians within a cutting-edge lab. This small, female-owned business prides itself on offering meticulously handcrafted eyewear that's manufactured using premium materials. 

We love that Vint & York offers hundreds of men's and women's frames, including some that offer a  retro or vintage style.  The company's  Luxury  collection offers more premium and unusual styles, while the  Artista  collection features frames with bold colors and attention-grabbing shapes. 

Of course, Vint & York also offers a beautiful selection of  classic styles  for people with more traditional taste, but also gives you the option to try something from its exclusive  Nerdy  or  Hipster  collection. Once you select the perfect frames, you can customize your lens with a wide range of options, starting with single-vision, readers, bi-focals or progressive lenses. 

Next, choose between a polycarbonate, high index, super high index, Trivex or CR39 lens material and add your choice of coatings (like blue light filtering, photochromic, a colored tint, or gradient colored tint) that allow you to make your glasses truly your own -- to match your personal style, color preferences and budget. All of Vint & York's frames can be fitted with fully customized sunglass lenses.

While Vint & York allows you to shop online, you can expect highly personalized attention and customer service via live chat, email or phone whenever it's needed. Most custom-made, prescription eyewear ships within three to seven business days. The overall eyeglass quality and unusual frame styles are why we added Vint & York to this roundup.

Best frames for sports : Tifosi Rx

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : No |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : No |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted : No 

Improve your sports performance with the proper eyewear -- not just for style, but for eye protection and better vision. When you head over to the prescription sunglass and sports frame area of the Tifosi Rx website, you'll discover more than 15 sports frame styles, such as the company's bestselling Vero Rx frames. Most frames come in your choice of colors.

Select your favorite frames and then choose between single-vision or progressive prescription lenses. Choose tinted, polarized or transitioning lenses. Lens color options depend on the choices above.

You can also select lens coatings. Your options include anti-reflective, anti-fog, or an anti-fog/antireflective combo. Based on your selections, the price of your customized prescription sunglasses will vary.

Best indestructible sunglass option: Ombraz 

Single-vision prescription : Yes |  Bi-focals prescription : Yes |  Progressive prescription : Yes |  Readers : Yes |  Prescription sunglasses : Yes |  Light responsive lens option : Yes |  Blue light filtering lens option : Yes |  Virtual try-on : Yes |  Home try-on : No |  HSA/FSA accepted : Yes |  Vision insurance accepted : Yes

For anyone who's extremely athletic and active outdoors, the new Ombraz eyeglass frames are very unique. For starters, they have no arms. They're held snuggly in position using an integrated, marine-grade nylon adjustable cord. There are no hinges, screws that can loosen, or sidearms that can break. And they won't fall off or slip, plus they're designed to relieve all pressure points on the wearer's face.

Most importantly, these frames are literally indestructible. They come in a variety of styles, sizes and colors. Ombraz armless sunglasses feature a patented design that's lightweight, extremely comfortable and that can withstand everything from harsh environments to an extremely active lifestyle. 

You can buy them from Ombraz as non-prescription sunglasses with premium lenses. However, through Orbraz's partner,  Lens & Frame Co. , the Orbraz frames can be custom-fitted with any type of handcrafted polycarbonate or high index 1.67, clear, tinted, light-responsive or sunglass prescription lenses. And while you're ordering your prescription Ombaz sunglasses from Lens & Frame Co., you can check out the company's entire lineup of premium and handcrafted prescription eyewear.

How much are prescription sunglasses?

You can easily find everyday wear, single-vision, prescription sunglasses for as little as $95 per pair at places like Warby Parker or GlassesUSA . What determines the cost of prescription sunglasses are the frames you choose, the selected lens material, what lens enhancements you add, and whether you're shopping for single-vision, bi-focals, progressives or lenses that have a photochromic feature (that starts off clear, but darkens when exposed to sun).

If you choose a premium pair of design frames, require progressive lenses, upgrade the lens material to a 1.74 index (ultra-thin) with a scratch-resistant, UV protection and anti-reflective coating, and then add a photochromic option, you could spend $500 to $1,000 or more on a perfectly customized and expertly crafted prescription sunglasses. 

The good news is that most of the companies featured in this roundup accept vision insurance, HSA/FSA payments, and offer a wide range of discounts (including BOGO sales) you can take advantage of to save money on your purchases. 

What are the best sunglass lenses?

All lenses are not alike. The best prescription lenses for sunglasses offer a scratch-resistant treatment, provide 100% UVA and UVB protection (which is essential for eye health when you're outside in the sun) and polarization. Just because a lens color is darker, this does not automatically mean you're getting better protection for your eyes. 

Polarization enhances vision clarity and comfort. Polarized lenses help to eliminate glare, enhance contrast and boost color perception. The American Academy of Ophthalmology  also recommends that sunglasses have the largest lenses possible to protect your eyes from sun damage. The academy also says you should consider oversized or wraparound-style sunglasses to limit UV-ray exposure.

If you'll be outside in the rain or boating, sunglass lenses with an optional hydrophobic coating will help to repel water, so the lenses stay clear when they get wet.

Other lens options include:

• Solid color lenses : Prescription sunglass lenses can often be customized with a grey, brown, green or pink lens. When you choose a solid color lens, it will be the same color from the top to bottom. Keep in mind, lens color does not impact the blocking of light, but it can impact contrast.
• Gradient lenses : This has a dark color toward the top of the lens, but it gradually lightens, so the bottom of the lens is more transparent. Common gradient color options include grey, green or violet. Gradient lenses are not the same as transition lenses that automatically darken in the sun.
• Mirrored lenses : These have a mirrored surface which reduces the amount of light that enters the eye. Flash mirrored lenses typically come in your choice of silver, blue or rose gold.

Another important consideration is lens material. The most common options are CR-39 (a lightweight and durable polymer), polycarbonate (which is even more impact resistant and durable), or 1.67 high-index. These are only available to people with certain prescriptions. They're much thinner than polycarbonate lenses, yet offer the same benefits.

Most prescription sunglasses can be ordered with your choice of single-vision or progressive lenses, although some companies offer sunglasses with prescription bi-focals or readers, too. Precision progressives is always a lens upgrade option and costs several hundred dollars more. While more expensive, these reduce peripheral distortion and offer a wider field of view.

How do I order prescription sunglasses online?

Regardless of where you shop, you'll need:

• A prescription (less than one year old) from an optometrist. If you don't have a copy, be prepared to share your optometrist's contact information.
• Your pupillary distance (PD) measurement. This something your optometrist can provide, or you can  measure it yourself . The Zenni website offers a  Custom Dual PD  ruler that you can download and print for free.
• Your vision insurance information.

How long does it take for prescription sunglasses to ship?

This varies by the company your order from and the complexity of your order. Most of the companies featured in this roundup with handcraft your prescription sunglasses upon receiving your order, and ship them out within three to 10 business days. Add a few extra days for shipping, unless you pay extra for overnight shipping.

What happens if the sunglasses don't fit or the prescription is wrong?

Virtually all sellers, including those featured in this roundup, offer a 14- or 30-day exchange or return policy. If the frames don't fit, or you're not seeing clearly, you can typically return the sunglasses for a full refund or have the sunglasses remade. After the return or exchange period, many of the online sellers will offer at least a six-month to one-year "no scratch" guarantee, which means the company will repair or replace the lenses if they get accidentally scratched. 

In some cases, you can purchase an extended warranty, which will cover any damage to the frames or lenses during a predefined period. These extended warranty plans do not cover the glasses if they're lost or stolen.

How to choose prescription sunglasses that fit

Sunglass frames come in nine popular shapes -- rectangular, square, round, aviator, oval, cat-eye, browline, oversized and geometric. From  Warby Parker's website , here's a basic guide for choosing a frame design based on your face shape. 

• Round-shaped faces :  Rectangle glasses, square glasses, geometric glasses, cat-eye glasses, browline glasses, or full-rimmed glasses are best.
• Oval-shaped faces : Just about any frame design will look good on someone with an oval-shaped face.
• Heart-shaped shaped faces : Oval glasses, round glasses, aviator glasses or semi-rimless glasses are recommended.
• Square-shaped faces : Round glasses, oval glasses, wire glasses, or semi-rimless glasses are ideal.
• Triangle-shaped faces : Rectangle glasses, browline glasses or cat-eye glasses are best.
• Diamond-shaped faces : Browline glasses, cat-eye glasses, round glasses, oval glasses or semi-rimless glasses are all good choices.

Most sunglass frames come in at least several sizes. If you look on the inner side of a frame's arm, you'll see measurements engraved on it. Three numbers separated by dashes or spaces indicate lens width bridge width and temple length. If you have frames that fit well, you can typically use the same measurements. 

The average person will need a lens width of between 40mm and 60mm, a bridge width between 14mm and 24mm, and a temple length between 120mm and 150mm. Two other measurements you might need to consider include the frame width and lens height. 

Whether your shopping for prescription eyewear , a fitness tracker , a meal kit plan or other products and services that relate to your health and fitness, stay up-to-date on new products and great deals by reading our ongoing health & fitness coverage. And to quickly discover the best online shopping deals, don't miss our deals & shopping news coverage, which is continuously updated to help you save money.

Jason R. Rich ( www.JasonRich.com ) is an internationally recognized consumer technology expert with more than 30 years' writing experience. He's also an accomplished author and photographer. One of his most recently published books, The Remote Worker's Handbook: How to Effectively Work From Anywhere ($24.99, Entrepreneur Books) is now available from Amazon and wherever books are sold.

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T he lush, volcanic islands of Hawaii feature a climate unfamiliar to many mainland U.S. residents. You might think this tropical setting translates to a quick-and-easy packing list for a Hawaii cruise , but the myriad activities and landscapes that you'll experience while cruising the islands often require a few extra essentials in your suitcase.

Use this Hawaii cruise packing list to ensure your journey is both comfortable and compatible with all you might encounter on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What to pack for a Hawaii cruise

Think casual and colorful, and you'll be about 75% ready to fill your suitcase and head to the airport.

However, cruising the Hawaiian Islands might require a few extra items. These include moisture-wicking activewear, proper footwear for adventure excursions amid volcanic landscapes and dressier eveningwear for special-occasion onboard dinners.

A lightweight, waterproof jacket is a must, too, since raindrops are likely to fall — tropical foliage doesn't grow in the desert, after all. Plants also need plenty of sunshine, and that combo is exactly what has created the postcard-perfect vistas you'll encounter.

Related: Hawaii cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Prepare for unexpected weather changes

Hawaii is famous for offering four seasons of warm weather and sunshine. Average daily temperatures year-round range from 80 to 87 degrees.

However, each island has both leeward and windward sides. What does that mean? Leeward sides are much sunnier and drier, while windward sides are subject to more rainfall and are noticeably cooler and lusher.

For example, on the island of Hawaii (also known as the Big Island), the volcanic Kona and Kohala coasts are on the leeward side. Hilo, with its tropical rainforest and rushing waterfalls, is on the rainier, windward side.

On Kauai, which sees the most rainfall of all the Hawaiian Islands, sunny Poipu is on the leeward side, while the dramatic mountains-meet-sea landscapes of the North Shore and the Napali Coast are on the windward side.

As a result, while touring any of the Hawaiian Islands, you might enjoy bright and sunny weather one moment and then drive for less than 30 minutes and encounter clouds, mist or downpours. The upside: Almost every day in Hawaii presents a chance to see an incredible rainbow.

Your best bet is to pack for both brilliant sunshine and pouring rain. Bring your weather-related gear along in a shoulder tote or backpack for excursions or independent exploring. You'll be ready to sightsee in either condition.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

Opt for lightweight fabrics

You will sweat in the tropics, so cotton, linen and other lightweight, breathable fabrics should be at the top of your packing list. Leave silk and less-breathable synthetics at home, or restrict them to evening pieces for air-conditioned indoor spaces. Don't be afraid of color. Hawaii is the place to wear those vibrant floral-print sundresses or brightly hued T-shirts and shorts that often feel out of place in urban settings.

For the evening, women can't go wrong with a mix of breezy sundresses or strappy jumpsuits with lightweight sweaters or shawls and capris or skirts paired with blouses. Men should pack several pairs of shorts and enough T-shirts for each day, along with slacks, khakis or trousers with a selection of collared polo shirts and short-sleeve button-downs. (Guys who don't own a Hawaiian shirt in a palm tree, orchid or surfboard print before a Hawaii cruise probably will by the end of it.)

Don't skimp on swimwear

One swimsuit or pair of swimming trunks typically won't cut it during a Hawaii cruise, unless you enjoy pulling on damp swimwear day after day.

Many activities in the islands require a swimsuit — from snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding to waterfall hikes and river kayaking. Plus, you'll want to enjoy a sailaway soak in one of your ship's pools or hot tubs. It's smart to pack at least two swimsuits. This will allow a wet suit to fully dry before you wear it again.

The sun is also extremely powerful in the Hawaiian Islands. Pack a long-sleeved swim shirt or rash guard or even an old long-sleeved T-shirt to wear during extended periods in or on the ocean. Lightweight coverups are also a good idea if you plan to be on the beach or sailing on a catamaran for several hours.

Pack some activewear

Hiking, biking and sightseeing amid rugged, volcanic terrain require comfortable activewear. Consider packing moisture-wicking tops (both tanks and long sleeves), quick-dry shorts or leggings and socks to wear with sneakers. Additionally, a lightweight, waterproof jacket with a hood and a folding travel umbrella are essential.

Planning to ascend to the summit of one of the Hawaiian Islands' landmark volcanic peaks, such as Maui's 10,023-foot-tall Haleakala or the 13,803-foot-tall Mauna Kea on Hawaii Island? Pack a lightweight fleece or pullover sweater for layering. Depending on wind and cloud conditions, temperatures at these summits can range from 65 degrees to at or below freezing. (It actually snows atop Mauna Kea in winter.)

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Bring both sneakers and sandals

Sandals are a wardrobe staple in Hawaii. Think waterproof rubber flip-flops and sturdy walking sandals for daytime, and strappy flats, wedges or heels for nights on board.

Sneakers are a must, too, as many cruise excursions in Hawaii visit rough volcanic terrain, such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. You might also need to navigate uneven, rocky and sometimes slippery trails to see cascading waterfalls. Flip-flops that expose feet and toes to sharp lava rocks and don't provide adequate traction on wet surfaces aren't a wise footwear option for either scenario.

Aboard the ship, sandals are ideal nighttime footwear for women; men should pack a pair of slip-on shoes to pair with long pants. In some of the more casual dining venues on many ships, shorts worn with a polo shirt and sandals or sneakers are acceptable attire.

Don't forget hats, sunglasses and accessories

The right accessories are key to an enjoyable and safe Hawaii cruise experience. Hats and sunglasses top the list.

Pack a wide-brimmed sun hat that covers your ears and the back of your neck for beach days and excursions that involve outdoor sightseeing. A baseball cap works well for more adventurous activities (trail hikes, bike rides and such) when you'll need full 180-degree vision, which floppier hats can sometimes obstruct. Hats made of quick-dry materials are best.

Also, pack sunglasses, and consider pairing them with a neoprene or other fabric safety strap. The strap will prevent your shades from slipping off as you enthusiastically photograph whales or dolphins during on-water activities.

Other items to consider include a reusable water bottle, a waterproof phone case and a dry bag. Pack a Ziploc bag or two if you plan to tour Pearl Harbor. Visitors are not permitted to bring bags of any kind — just a camera, wallet, keys and whatever else fits in a clear plastic bag.

For general sightseeing and shopping, I like to bring along a nylon belt bag for easy access to my camera and wallet.

A foldable nylon tote bag and/or a lightweight backpack are also important since you'll often need to bring accessories, extra clothing layers, rain gear, water, insect repellent and sunscreen with you during many excursions.

Speaking of sunscreen, make sure it's labeled reef-safe. (These are generally mineral-based sunscreens.) Hawaii has banned sunscreens containing the coral-harming chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate since early 2021.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Tips for efficient Hawaii cruise packing

Even if bright colors aren't your go-to wardrobe staples, the vibrant tank tops, floral sundresses and boldly patterned shorts that may be in your closet for tropical vacations will look great and photograph well in Hawaii. Pair them with a neutral (white, black or beige) base, and you can mix and match items from day to night.

Forgot something? Don't worry, Hawaii's souvenir shops are filled with T-shirts, sarongs, bathing suits, cover-ups, hats, sunglasses, flip-flops and other essentials for a tropical vacation. Cruise ships also stock their shops with fun-in-the-sun clothing and accessories, although prices are typically a bit higher than in stores on land.

Hawaii cruise packing list

Here's a full packing list to help you keep track of everything you need to bring on your Hawaii cruise.

• Lightweight cotton or moisture-wicking T-shirts for each day of your cruise. Hawaii's tropical climate means you're likely to sweat while exploring during the day, so make sure you pack enough clean shirts to match the number of days you are away.
• Several pairs of shorts, plus leggings or skirts for daytime wear.
• Two swimsuits — one to wear while the other is drying. Also, a rash guard or an old T-shirt to wear in the water.
• A few sarongs or beach cover-ups.
• Additional athletic wear if you plan to hit the ship's gym.
• A lightweight sweater or fleece to layer if visiting high-altitude volcanic summits.
• Jeans, slacks, collared shirts or nice T-shirts, blouses, skirts or summery dresses for most evenings on board. Tropical-print shirts and sundresses are always in style in Hawaii. Since eveningwear isn't as likely to get sweaty, you can plan to wear outfits or individual pieces more than once if trying to pack light.
• Pajamas, underwear and socks.
• Light rain jacket with hood and a small umbrella for sudden downpours.
• Light sweater or shawl for chilly airplanes and onboard venues.
• A pair of waterproof beach shoes, such as flip-flops or sports sandals.
• A good pair of walking shoes or sneakers.
• A nice pair of dress shoes or sandals for evenings on board.
• Baseball cap, sun hat and sunglasses.
• Toiletries, makeup, prescription medicine and a first-aid kit.
• Reef-safe sunscreen, aloe for sunburn and bug spray.
• Lightweight day pack or beach bag (or both, depending on your planned activities).
• Reusable water bottle.
• Waterproof phone case, dry bag, Ziploc bag or anything to keep your valuables dry during a beach day or water-based excursion.
• Phone, camera, e-reader or tablet, as well as all the chargers that go with them. Consider a cruise-compliant power strip so you can charge multiple devices at once.
• Beach paraphernalia, such as your own snorkel and mask, plus floaties and sand toys if you'll be traveling with kids.
• Optional: Cocktail dresses or summer jumpsuits for an elegant night or special occasion dinner. (On some lines, formal attire is entirely optional; on others, you can dress down if you eat at the buffet or order room service.)

Bottom line

Before your Hawaii cruise, check the onboard evening dress code for your cruise line and the weather forecast for each island.

Don't be discouraged if you see icons for raindrops and clouds. The forecast could just mean brief morning or afternoon showers on only one side of the island. Also, be prepared for warm temperatures, daytime rays capable of inflicting harsh sunburn and slightly cooler evenings with gentle breezes. In other words, prepare to enjoy the tropical paradise that is the Aloha State.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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WHERE BLACK CULTURE, COMMUNITY AND CONSCIOUSNESS MEET

Sign up for essence newsletters the keep the black women at the forefront of conversation., steve, marjorie, and the harvey family yacht through st. tropez.

The Harveys are showing us what Black luxury looks like this summer with their European vacation. We last reported that Steve and Marjorie Harvey were celebrating their 17th wedding anniversary in Taormina, Italy. It looks like their kids and grandkids have joined in on the festivities as the family met up in St. Tropez, France.

Marjorie Harvey shared an image of her stunning blended family on her Instagram page. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marjorie Harvey (@marjorie_harvey)

“Summer Vibes ☀️💕,” she captioned two images featuring the kids and grandkids. In the first picture, Marjorie and Steve were captured with Lori Harvey and two of Steve’s sons from previous marriages–Wynton and Broderick Harvey.

In the second picture, five of their grandkids were pictured on the yacht seated next to Marjorie and Steve. The TV host is often gushing over his grandkids and has even joked about them before.

“I’ve been waiting years for my kids to get out of my house. I want to be an empty nester. Now they come back to the house and they got more people with them. They always bring them over and drop them off. And I’m going ‘Now, I been talking to my girl all day long. All we been talking about was what was going to happen tonight. Then, I get to the house and here they is,” he said on his former talk show, Steve .

Some of the activities the family are enjoying on their luxe vacation include Marjorie taking a brave plunge into the sea via a gigantic slide. “I did it😂” she captioned the video of her sliding off the yacht via the slide, losing her sunglasses in the process.

Lori has been sharing snippets from her lush family vacation on her Instagram Stories. In one, Marjorie and Broderick can be seen celebrating Wynton’s birthday as hosts on their yacht danced to 50 Cent’s “In Da Club” while holding champagne bottles and sparklers.

“So much about this video has me in tears,” Lori captioned the story.

It’s been a while since we’ve seen the Harvey gang on a vacation at this level, but in the past, they’ve gone all over, from around the UAE to their favorite spot, St. Tropez, in the summer of 2023. Here’s to more luxurious travels for this fabulous family.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Best waterproof sunscreen and sun protection kit for sailors

• Olivia Michel
• June 26, 2023

We take a look at some of the best waterproof sunscreen and sun protection kit for sailors on the market for...

Constant exposure to the sun can be both the highlight and the pitfall of life on board for sailors. As much as fine weather makes for a better sailing experience, the combination of intense UVA and UVB radiation and the reflective properties of water can lead to accelerated skin damage and an increased risk of cancers.

And while there are plenty of great sunscreens on the market, not all of them can withstand the splashes and sprays of saltwater that sailors encounter. A water-repellent or water-resistant sunscreen that protects sailors’ skin even when exposed to wet conditions is therefore an essential item to keep on board.

When looking for the best waterproof sunscreens, it is also important to consider what ingredients they are made of. Many sailors are conscious that we need to protect our oceans by choosing products that contain less harsh chemicals, such as certified reef-safe sunscreens .

Mainstream companies like La Roche-Posay or SunBum make great sunscreen, but their products haven’t made this list because they contain chemicals like Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene and Homosalate, which the US National Ocean Service has defined as the most damaging chemicals for marine life.

We’ve personally tested and selected the best water-resistant sunscreens below that balance an effective product with ingredients that are less damaging to our oceans. Read on to discover the best waterproof sunscreen and sunblock to bring on board this summer…

9 of the best waterproof sunscreens

Hawaiian Tropic Island Sport SPF 50

Size: 236ml

Reasons to buy  

– Lightweight consistency with no white cast – works just like a moisturiser – Vegan, cruelty-free and reef-friendly ingredients – Water and sweat resistant for 80 minutes – Comes in 30% recycled packaging – Most cost-effective

Reasons to avoid

– Not mineral-based – Sun protection resistance is reduced in water

Hawaiian Tropic is one of the few sunscreens that actually feels like a moisturiser while providing SPF 50 protection. It has a lightweight, barely noticeable feel and rubs in just like body cream. For those who like scented products, it has the added bonus of a tropical scent. It also works out as one of the cheapest sunscreens per millilitre.

Unfortunately, the water resistance can be reduced if you’re fully submerged but it should do a fine job of protecting wearers while on board if you reapply dutifully. The ingredient list is pretty reef-friendly considering it’s not a mineral sunscreen and the packaging is made from recycled materials.

Buy now on Amazon

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Riemann P20 Original SPF 50+

Size: 200ml

Reasons to buy

– Spray bottle for easier application – Up to 10 hours of protection, which is still 90% effective after swimming – 80 minutes of protection in the water – Recyclable packaging – PABA and preservative free

– Feels sticky – Does not have a great smell – Not mineral based

Produced in Scandinavia, P20 was invented in 1979 by Claus Riemann to help protect his friend’s skin during a stay in Africa.

It offers impressive day-long protection and is still highly effective at keeping your skin safe after contact with water. Olympic sailor Michael Hestbæk is one of a number of professional athletes that swear by the product.

It might not have the best smell and can still feel a bit greasy on the skin, but the long wear SPF 50 protection is worth it if you don’t want to worry about reapplying. Although it is not a mineral sunscreen the ingredient list looks reef-safe and the packaging is also recyclable.

Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50

Size: 177ml

– High SPF coverage – Non-greasy feel and lightweight consistency – Water resistant for 80 minutes – Bottle sprays at any angle

Reasons to avoid  

– Not certified as reef safe – Can burn eyes

Banana Boat is a well-trusted brand which offers some of the highest SPF protection across its range of products (up to SPF 100).

The compromise is that while it feels good to wear and keeps you safe from the sun, the ingredients aren’t classified as reef-safe and some users have commented that the product can burn if it gets into your eyes.

The SPF 50 should be high enough coverage for sailors and the spray bottle that can work from any angle eases the application process and has a slightly more lightweight feel than the cream lotion.

Buy now from Amazon

Daylong Extreme Liposomal Sun Milk SPF50+

Size: 100ml

– Water-resistant for three hours – 10-hour sun protection – Free from the most dangerous chemicals for reefs – Fragrance-free – No white cast

– Thick and greasy feel – Can cause clogged pores – Non-mineral based

Daylong sunscreen has the high quality you would expect from a Swiss pharmaceutical brand. It’s also a good scentless choice if you don’t enjoy wearing highly-perfumed products.

Sailors could easily wear this SPF 50+ cream for the whole day without risking a sunburn, plus the product boasts the highest level of water resistance on the market at three hours. The impressive level of protection does result in quite a thick and sticky feeling product, however, which may cause a break-out for those with more sensitive skin.

It isn’t a mineral sunscreen so may not be entirely reef-safe, but it is free from the worst-offending chemicals.

Blue Lizard SPF 50 Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

– Free from the most dangerous chemicals for reefs – Water and sweat resistant for 80 minutes – A little goes a long way – Fragrance-free

– Slight white cast – Cannot be certified as fully reef safe

Developed in Australia, Blue Lizard sunscreen claims to have been trusted by dermatologists for more than 20 years. The company is named after a colour-changing chameleon and is unique for featuring bottle tops and caps that – like the lizard – change colour when exposed to harmful UV rays in order to signify to users when to apply the product.

While it cannot be fully certified as reef-safe, the ingredients list for Blue Lizard’s SPF 50 is paraben-free and excludes the most damaging chemicals.

Users have commented that the product can leave a slight white cast on the skin but many praise the fact that a small quantity can go a long way.

Kokua Sun Care SPF 50 Reef-safe Sunscreen

– Water resistant for 80 minutes – Mineral-based and made with fully reef-safe ingredients – Vegan – Comes in eco-friendly packaging

– Thick, waxy consistency – More expensive

Kōkua Sun Care products have been designed in Hawaii for sailors, by sailors. The SPF 50 sunscreen provides 80 minutes of water resistance and is completely reef safe, containing natural ingredients like macadamia nut oil and plumeria extract that nourish your skin and won’t sting your eyes.

The recyclable packaging is eco-friendly too but you’ll pay more for your cleaner conscience as this small bottle works out as pricier than many other products.

As with most mineral sunscreens, it can be thicker to apply and harder to remove. A tip is to warm the bottle up in your hands for an easier application and use the scrubbing cloth in the package to remove all traces at the end of the day.

Coola SPF 30 Mineral Sun Silk Crème

– Fully reef-safe – Weightless feel – barely even noticeable on the skin – Water-resistant for 80 minutes – Contains all-natural ingredients that nourish the skin

– Mineral spray only offers SPF 30 protection – Mineral sunscreen has a thicker consistency than Coola’s regular sunscreen – Leaves a slight white cast – Most expensive per millilitre

Coola makes one of the best-feeling sunscreens. When applied from the spray can, the product is released as a fine mist and is barely noticeable, making it a perfect option for those who hate the thick and sticky feel of other sunscreens.

The original has the best consistency but the brand has now developed a fully reef-safe mineral-based version for eco-conscious sailors to enjoy.

The only downsides are that protection is considerably lower (only up to SPF 30), the mineral product is less easy to find in the spray can form and the product does leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones. It’s also one of the most expensive sunscreens per millilitre.

LifeJacket SPF 50 Sunscreen

British brand LifeJacket Skin Protection stresses that men often aren’t as good at protecting and checking their skin as women and are twice as likely to die of skin cancer.

Its mission is to prevent skin cancer in men. It offers a range of moisturisers and waterproof sunscreens available individually or in different packs with high (30) or very high (50) levels of SPF that are non greasy, water resistant and reef safe.

It also makes a range of UPF 50+ clothing including tee-shirts and long sleeve shirts and a wide brim sun hat with elasticated cord.

Buy it now from Amazon

Ocean Potion Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen

The Ocean Potion Sport 50 Sunscreen Lotion is a non-greasy waterproof sunscreen that also offers ‘reef-safe’ protection from the sun, meaning it doesn’t include many of the chemicals found in other suncreams.

This should be particularly important to anyone who cares about the natural world around us, but there is also a practical point too. Hawaii has, in recent years become the first US state to ban the sale of sunscreens containing the coral-harming chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate. The ban came into effect in early 2021, and it seems likely other states and nations will follow suit.

Aside from the eco-credentials, this sunscreen resists water well and its 50 SPF protection is very high – and is really what you should be looking for if you’re going to be in strong sunlight for any period of time.

Ocean Potion Sport 50 is also enriched With sea plants and antioxidant vitamins B, C & E to protect and nourish skin.

Best sun protection gear for sailors

Red original quick dry microfibre changing robe.

Dryrobes are the latest thing in beach chic it seems and have fast become a fashion accessory. But they remain practical for those who want to get in and out of the sea frequently. During the long summer evenings in particular you may want to stay in the water as long as possible and a cosy dryrobe could help you dry, change and warm up quickly. This has a breathable, waterproof outer shell, adjustable long sleeves and a valuables chest pocket. £145.

If space and drying are an issue, the Quick Dry Changing Robe might be more suitable – made from absorbent and antibacterial microfibre towel material, it packs into a stash bag and is a third of the price of the dryrobe above.

Buy it now from redoriginal.com

Gill Pursuit Cap

The Pursuit Cap from Gill is one of the few sailing hats that comes with a retaining lanyard. A clip on the end attaches to your collar, so you’re less likely to find yourself fishing one of these out of the oggin.

Available in bright blue, dark blue, graphite or silver, it features a UV treatment of 50+ and a generously-sized peak to help keep the sun out of your eyes. The underside of the peak is also designed to absorb light reflected from the water.

Breathable fabric (polyester for easy cleaning) and a wicking headband should help you keep a cool head in the heat of battle on the race course.

Buy it now on Amazon

Florence Marine X UPF

John John Florence , the world’s top surfer and a pretty handy sailor, has developed a new line of apparel badged Florence Marine X. At its heart are products designed for longevity and sourced and made sustainably using almost exclusively recycled materials.

Shunning the fast fashion route, its model is “one built on adherence to quality, performance and a responsibility to look after the places we explore,” says Florence.

These UPF shirts caught our eye in particular. An increasing number of sailors in the tropics and shorthanded sailors wear hooded garments and full skin coverings. These are made with 100% recycled polyester yet offer UPF 50+ protection and contain breathable and anti-bacterial panels.

The built-in hood and gaiter should prove a blessing for those who feel the rays scorching the back of their necks during long days afloat. Also available as tee-shirts or long-sleeve Ts without the hood, or hooded rash vests.

Buy it now from florencemarinex.com

Musto Evo Sunblock LS Tee 2.0

“Sail for longer in the Evolution Sunblock Long Sleeve T-shirt. The UPF 40 shields you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The cotton blend t-shirt combines comfort with durability to create a lightweight t-shirt you can wear on the mountain, on the water or at the marina.”

Buy it now from Musto

Rheos floating sunglasses

The crow’s feet wrinkles I can take. The long term damage to my eyes from glare and UV on the water I find increasingly concerning. So finding and wearing suitable polarising sunglasses which offer full UV protection is essential. Other than my trusty SunGods, the lenses of which can be replaced (and I have found need to be as the lens coating can delaminate in saltwater), the three types of shades I have worn most recently are from Bolle, Oakley and Rheos.

Rheos offers durable, affordable shades for men, women, and children that are made with super light frames to ensure they float. Their hydrophobic lenses are 100% UV protective. The company was founded by a husband-and-wife team from Charleston, S.C, and all models use signature Nylon Optics, to offer enhanced clarity and impact resistance.

I have been trying its Palmetto model in Gunmetal/Marine ($55) and have found the lenses to be wonderfully clear afloat, blocking out harsh reflections and helping to identify what’s below the surface. However, I have found the arms stretch out a little, so they don’t stay put so easily on the top of the head.

Rheos has partnered with clothing brand Southern Tide, to launch a new line of sunglasses for the summer including this Edisto range ($78).

Oakley Clifden sailing sunglasses

If you prefer flatter lenses to the curved wraparound style, but still want protection from the sides, Oakley’s Clifden might be what you’re looking for.

Oakley says that the polarised lenses are set apart by the fact that they’re made using an infusion moulding process that forms a single layer, as opposed to several layers bonded together with adhesives.

Side shields provide protection around the outside edges of the lenses and a ‘bridge blocker’ fills the gap in the middle over the nose. Lenses are available in a range of tints, the ‘Deep Water Polarised’ being suggested for sailing.

MeacoFan 260

I enjoy the heat of summer, but need it cool at night or in my office to work. This neat unit arrived on the cusp of a heatwave last year and proved invaluable on land and afloat. My shed office only has one set of doors, no opening windows, so ventilation is an issue. Equally, our boat only has a small overhead hatch above the main berth.

This MeacoFan is compact and lightweight at just 490g, so ideal for taking between the two. It is also blissfully quiet – without the loathsome rattle of many cabin fans – which means you can leave it running through the night or while working or without it driving you to distraction.

The base incorporates non-slip grip and a low light nightlight. The Meaco is charged via a standard USB Micro C port and has four fan speeds, with the lowest speed providing up to 14 hours use on one charge. I used it for weeks on end at night and praised the gentle breeze it wafted over my face as it regularly sent me to sleep.

Yellow leaf hammock

A hammock is surely the definition of relaxation. And as yachts have plenty of standing rigging to hang one off, keeping an easily stowable quality hammock aboard can make for an instant stress reliever.

Each Yellow Leaf hammock is handwoven by the craftswomen of the Mlabri Tribe – “the people of the yellow leaves” – in the hills of Northern Thailand. So you can relax knowing you are helping to harness their skills and artistry and create job opportunities in an area of poverty. Made from weathersafe materials.

If you enjoyed this….

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'Man, they came to party': Yachtley Crew sails back to Indian Ranch with more yacht rock

When Yachtley Crew came to Indian Ranch by the shores of Indian Lake in Webster last summer, it was evidently a very popular voyage through the smooth waters of a yacht rock tribute show.

"We love Indian Ranch. Man, they came to party. They were amazing," recalled Phillip Daniel, also known as Yachtley Crew's Philly Ocean and lead vocalist, about how the the show went and the reaction of the audience.

Yachtley Crew will be setting sail again for an appearance at Indian Ranch on July 25. "If it's anything like last year, we're stoked," Daniel said.

'Sailing ... takes me away ....'

The seven-member band, which dresses in nautical suits with captain's hats and wears aviator sunglasses, is currently on its "Full Steam Ahead" nationwide tour, the biggest tour since it was founded in Los Angeles in 2017. Upcoming dates also include South Shore Music Circus in Cohasset on July 26, Providence Performing Arts Center in Providence on July 27, and the Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis on July 28.

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The band is riding the yacht rock wave since a 2005 video series launched the term in 2005 in an affectionate send up of artists such as Christopher Cross and Hall and Oates. Cross, who was at Indian Ranch July 7 with Justin Hayward of Moody Blues fame, had a big hit in 1979 with the soft rock song " Sailing " which is about getting away from everything on a sail boat and so helped form the archetype of Yacht Rock.

Yachtley Crew also call themselves "The Titans of Soft Rock."

Asked for a definition of yacht rock, Daniel said "it's one of those elusive things ... I think the most easy way to define it is the iconic soft rock hits from the late 70s and early 80s music." Except that, instead of soft rock, "yacht rock just sounds kind of more fun."

Yachtley Crew's first recording release "Seas the Day" (2023) includes its renditions of songs that have become regarded as yacht rock classics such as Boz Scaggs’ “Lido Shuffle,” Ace’s “How Long,” Robbie Dupree’s “Steal Away,” the Bee Gees’ “How Deep Is Your Love” and Christopher Cross’ “Ride Like the Wind.” Other songs in the band’s set include Toto’s “Africa,” Looking Glass’ “Brandy” and Rupert Holmes’ “ Escape (The Piña Colada Song).”  

Indeed, "The Piña Colada song, that is a great yacht rock core song, like 'Ride Like the Wind,'" Daniel said.

Audiences often dress up for the shows in yacht-themed attire and love to sing-along. Other yacht rock tribute and fun party bands include Yacht Rock Revue who will be performing at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield on Aug. 4.

'It has to be smooth'

Elsewhere, there has been some rather pedantic debate in some quarters about what makes true yacht rock, with terms appearing such as "nyacht" rock. An article in Mental Floss magazine helps keep things straightforward by saying " But above all else, the sound has to be  smooth . "

Daniel's vocals are certainly smooth, and the depth of sound that Yachtley Crew brings to its music is enhanced by having a sax player.

Daniel has memories of listening to the soft music of the late 70s/early 80s era while riding around with his father in a car and singing along to the radio. Later, he was in several original bands in Los Angeles. Besides Daniel (Philly Ocean) Yachtley Crew is made up of drummer Rob Jones (Sailor Hawkins), bassist Chaz Ruiz (Baba Buoy), guitarist Thomas Gardner Jr. (Tommy Buoy), backing vocalist Curt Clendenin (Stoney Shores), saxophone/flutist Paul Pate (Pauly Shores) and keyboardist Matt Grossman (Matthew McDonald).  

"Each of us had careers with bands," Daniel said. The crew started to be assembled by Jones and Ruiz who are long-time friends and were listening to yacht rock music and felt they could do something with it. They put out a Craigslist ad and found guitarist Gardner. Daniel is friends with Gardner and also came aboard.

"Everything came together really organically," Daniel said.

'I think we have something here'

The idea of uniforms for the band came early. "Just the idea of yacht rock is such fun," Daniel said. But the group spent several months rehearsing to get the music down right. "We wanted to embody what people remember about these songs."

When the curtain was pulled on their first gigs Daniel recalls the shock on the faces of the audiences when they saw a band in nautical uniform. However, "They got it within two or three songs. They were screaming and dancing ... (I thought) Man, I think we have something here."

Yachtley Crew was soon selling out local venues and were noticed by the late legendary Jimmy Buffett who signed them to his own Mailboat Records label. The group have appeared on SiriusXM’s Yacht Rock Radio “Yacht Rock 311” show as the first ever Yacht Rock band to perform live at the station.

Just as the band was about to get ready for its first nationwide tour in 2020, the pandemic struck. "We had a ton of shows booked," Daniel said. Yachtley Crew made music videos, put on live-streamed concerts and played at some drive-in concerts that were organized in the Los Angeles area. "People seemed to really respond.'

As the lockdown eased, "I think there was so much pent up demand for live music it really helped us. We got all the gigs back and places we'd never played before were selling out," Daniel said.

'Something original'

The "Seas the Day" recording also has Yachtley Crew's first original song, "Sex on the Beach," ostensibly about the drink that bears the name.

"We wanted to put something original out there," Daniel said. The challenge for the band was to come up with a song that sounds like it could have been written in the late '70s/early '80s soft rock era. "We wanted to capture the same vibe," he said. The video for "Sex on the Beach" has a guest appearance by the Access Hollywood & iHeart host Mario Lopez.  

The song and video includes a list of names of drinks, a couple falling in love, and "innuendo," Daniel said. All the members of Yachtley Crew contributed to the song. Once they had the concept, "we had the song written in 30 minutes. Everyone brings something unique to it." Fans have started requesting the song at shows.

Yachtley Crew has "two albums in the works" and two more original songs "in the mix." With that, "The core will always be the iconic songs," Daniel said.

The band has been venturing out across the seven seas with appearances abroad, including the United Kingdom.

"Total world domination," Daniel joked when asked about his ultimate goal for Yachtley Crew. Or at least, "To play for a stadium full of people," he said.

"We want to play the music for as many people as we can all over the world. When people come to our shows they're creating memories they will have for the rest of their lives. That's what it's about."

Yachtley Crew — Full Steam Ahead tour

When: 7 p.m. July 25 (doors 5:30 p.m.)

Where: Indian Ranch, 200 Gore Road, Webster

How much: $25 to $35. Indianranch.com

The Best Sunglasses Under $20 on Amazon: Shop On-Trend Aviators, Cat-Eyes, Oval Sunglasses and More for Less

There's no need to break the bank for these cute shades.

Whether you're always tossing your sunglasses in your bag without a case or a care in the world, or you are simply on a budget, you're likely looking for a new affordable pair of sunglasses for the sunnier seasons. Even better, you're probably looking to add a low-cost pair to your Amazon cart to Prime on over in just two days.

The good news is that there are plenty of sunglasses under $20 available at Amazon.

If wearing name brands is less important to you than sporting a cute pair of sunnies that shield your eyes, you will find plenty of on-trend styles for under $20 at Amazon, from '90s-style oval lenses to retro rectangle shades , plus the classics like aviators.

We've done the digging for you to find the best women's sunglasses under $20 on Amazon. Some even come in a two-pack for under $20 — that's less than $10 a pair. You won't have to worry about messing these affordable sunglasses up on your upcoming summer vacation or active adventure.

Sojos Retro Oval Sunglasses

Reviewers say these on-trend oval sunglasses are worth adding to your cart. "These shades are very sturdy for the price and look extremely cool," an Amazon reviewer says .

Sojos Oversized Square Metal Frame Sunglasses

For an oversized look, go for these sunglasses with a dainty stainless steel frame.

Kuguaok Retro Rectangle Sunglasses (2 Pack)

These incredibly affordable sunglasses have an on-trend rectangle style.

WearMe Pro Reflective Lens Round Sunglasses

Try the round glasses trend with this affordable pair. 

Sojos Retro Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

These classic vintage trendy square Aviators can match with various facial shapes.

Sojos Oversized Classic Aviator Sunglasses

We love the fun pink hue of these mirrored aviators. 

Allarallvr Rectangle Sunglasses (2 Pack)

These retro rectangle sunglasses have a cute V detail.

Joox Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

"They fit wonderfully and are so lightweight," an Amazon reviewer says of these classic aviators. "[They leave] no marks on my cheeks when I remove them." 

Breaksun Retro Oval Sunglasses (2 Pack)

Embrace the '90s trend with these oval sunnies.

Mosanana Square Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Get the luxury look without the high ticket price with these these square cateye sunglasses.

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