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Having the best fishing sunglasses is akin for safety and protection from the sun’s rays or the glare coming from the water.
Sunglasses also protect you from sand, dust and wind and help enhance visibility when you are looking in the water, helping you identify fishes, trip hazards and obstacles.
All of these without giving you a sore back and without costing an arm and a leg.
Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?
Best Fishing Sunglasses – Comparison
We’ve got you covered folks. We’ve got just what you need. A list and a comparison of the best fishing polarized sunglasses 2019, right here.
Polarization | Frame Fit | Lens material | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Costa | ||||
Yes 100% | Medium Fit | 580 P 580 G Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | Large Fit | 580 P 580 G Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | Large Fit | 580 P 580 G Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | Large Fit | 580 P 580 G Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | Large Fit | 580 P 580 G Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | Medium Fit | 580 P 580 G Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | X-Large Fit | 580 P Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | Large Fit | 580 P 580 G Available in multi colors | ||
Maui Jim | ||||
Yes 100% | (eye) 64, (bridge) 19, (temple) 115, 8 base curve | SuperThin Glass Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | (eye) 55, (bridge) 22, (temple) 129, 8 base curve | SuperThin Glass Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | (eye) 59, (bridge) 18, (temple) 130, 8-base curve Monel metal and acetate | SuperThin Glass Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | (eye) 71, (bridge) 16, (temple) 116, 8-base curve | MauiPure Available in multi colors | ||
Oakley | ||||
Yes 100% | Standard | O Matter plastic Available in multi colors | ||
Yes 100% | Standard | O Matter plastic Available in multi colors |
The Costa Del Mar Fantail sunglasses are one of the best polarized sunglasses for water and are also small for those who do not like big and oversized glasses or for those who have a small face. These are made keeping in mind the needs of an angler.
This pair is equipped with a superior 580G glass lens that provides clarity and is high-quality and scratch-proof. It is 20% thinner and 22% lighter as compared to the average polarized glass.
This makes it comfortable and lightweight to wear, even if it is for hours at a stretch. Moreover, these sunglasses are available in different colors and are quite appealing and fashionable.
If you are looking for the best polarized lens color for fishing you must give a look to Fantail and to Costa del Mar lenses in general.
Features
- Made in the USA
- Lens material: 580G Lightwave polycarbonate glass
- Prescription ready: Yes
- Frame width: 127.5 mm
- Bridge width: 17.5 mm
- Lens width: 58.9 mm
- Lens height: 38.7 mm
- Frame material: Co-injected bio-based nylon
- 100% polarization
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Includes a carrying case and cleaning cloth
- Lightweight and impact-resistant
- Weight: 1 pound
- Blocks UV and HEV light
Why customers like it
People who own these glasses have used them for outdoor activities in the sun such as fishing, kayaking and golfing. Most of them have found this pair to be highly comfortable and found their vision improved with these sunglasses on, which helped them during fishing. Most customers considered it to provide value for money.
Possible Cons
Some customers found these sunglasses to be tight on their face, and others did not find them very comfortable. However, size should be considered before making the purchase to ensure you get the right fit.
Conclusion
Costa Del Mar has been around for a long time, making one of the best fishing sunglasses for users with its patented 580G lenses, which provide clarity and protection against harmful rays of the sun. The sunglasses feel natural and comfortable on the face, even after prolonged use.
These Costa Del Mar Blackfin Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun and against injuries while making you look great. They will help you see clearly while providing great protection that is both reliable and durable.
Costa Del Mar Blackfin polarized sunglasses are one of the best bass fishing sunglasses on the market.
Costa Del Mar has been in the business of providing high-quality sunglasses made especially for outdoor sports and anglers. This Blackfin pair comes in a wide range of frames and lenses and is part of the Endurance line that is designed for staying put while you are on the go.
Features
- Made in the USA
- Impact and scratch resistance
- Frame: Co-injected bio-based nylon
- 100% polarization
- No eye strain or glare
- Lightweight
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Lens material: 580 polarized glass
- Protection from UV and HEV light
- Weight: 1.6 ounces
Why customers like it
Most of the people who use these sunglasses claim they provide value for money and regard them as “beautiful craftsmanship in the frames.” Many others like them for being “large,” which fits well on their face. Others, such as JP, commented that the glasses feel like goggles the way they “hug your face” with the perfect fit.
Possible Cons
Some of the customers, however, commented that the sunglasses they received were different from what they had ordered or seen in the picture. In such cases, it is better to check whether you are ordering from a reliable website and how original the sunglasses are.
Conclusion
Overall, these sunglasses are a great choice for those who want large frames that are tough and durable and fit well on the face. These are quite good for outdoor activities and sports such as fishing and kayaking. It is advisable, however, to always try the glasses on before buying or order from a reliable website.
The Costa Del Mar Brine Sunglasses have a great retro design with the clearest lenses and with Costa’s patented 580 technology. It has a slightly square frame, which makes it looks stylish and cool in the water.
These sunglasses have an eight-base wrap which is able to provide the perfect fit for most face types for absolute coverage. Moreover, Costa Brine sunglasses have a bit of a modern touch that merges perfectly with the retro style. Even though the name suggests it’s for fisherman, this pair is not exclusively to be used for fishing and can be used by anyone who loves outdoor adventures.
Features
- Medium to large fit
- Polarized to reduce glare
- Anti-slip Hydrolite rubber
- Light transmission: 12%
- 100% UVB and UVA blocking
- Patented technology blocks blue and yellow light
- Eight-base wrap
- Venting system
- 580 lens for superior clarity
- Frame material: Plastic
- Lens material: Polarized glass
Why customers like it
Most people loved the fact that these sunglasses are functional and look great, giving the best of both worlds! According to S. Williams, it makes one’s “appearance more desirable” and “fishing more enjoyable.”
Possible Cons
The frames of these sunglasses are not quite narrow, and some customers found them too small for their face. One of the customers, Bjel116, commented that their eyelashes “rub the lens,” even though they are of average length.
Conclusion
It is a great choice for those who want to get a basic, minimalistic pair of sunglasses for extensive use in the outdoors. They are lightweight as compared to other Costa Del Mar sunglasses and look great too! The hefty price tag, however, makes it expensive for a lot of customers. Overall, these sunglasses are durable and classy and offer great features for outdoor use if you can afford them.
Costa Del Mar Tuna Alley sunglasses are named after the Bahamian waters where the Bluefin tuna migrate. These are polarized sunglasses that feature a nylon frame along with integral hinges and a vented system that is patented.
It features the 580 lens technology that is able to block yellow light and enhances the blues, reds and green to give a sharp clarity and better definition. The Lightwave glass lenses by Costa Del Mar are 22% lighter and 20% thinner than the regular glass lenses, giving them a lightweight touch.
Features
- Lens material: 580 polarized glass
- Frame material: Co-injected bio-based nylon
- Polarized lens
- Prescription ready: Yes
- 100% UV protection
- Includes a carry case and a cleaning cloth
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Weight: 4 ounces
Why customers like it
These sunglasses are used by people whether they are playing sports or going fishing due to their functionality and comfort. Since they can have a prescription fit in as well, these are also recommended by doctors.
One of the customers, ufgatergrad, commented that their doctor suggested this pair since they live in a sunny location in Hawaii and it acts as great protection for the eyes while working in the sun all day.
Possible Cons
Many people considered these glasses to be quite expensive, while others did not like the frame quality. While it might be expensive, it does provide value for money.
Conclusion
These Costa Del Mar Tuna Alley Sunglasses are large and ideally fit those who have long faces or those who prefer big sunglasses. They not only look great and fancy but also provide functionality with a polarized lens, which provides great clarity and better vision. This pair is ideal for sports and fishing while giving a comfortable feel for daily use.
These tough Costa Del Mar Saltbreak sunglasses are not just extremely durable but also very fancy and stylish. These are built for fishermen with 100% polarized lenses. These angler sunglasses are available in five different colors, which are suitable for all kinds of adventures.
Costa Del Mar is a well-known company in the world of fishing and excels at producing the best sunglasses for fishing. The Saltbreak sunglasses have, in fact, been promoted by the OCEARCH team, which hunts white sharks around the sea!
Features
- Made in the US
- Includes a case and cleaning cloth
- Impact- and scratch-resistant
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear
- Frame material: Co-injected bio-based nylon
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Lens material: 580 polarized glass
- Prescription ready: Yes
- Frame color: Matte black
- Lens colors: Five – Blue/Crystal, Blackout, Black, Tortoise, Silver, White
- 100% protection from UV and HEV light
- Weight: 1 pound
Why customers like it
Most people liked these sunglasses for daily wear, even when they were not playing any particular sports. The majority liked the fact that they were comfortable, not heavy on the nose and the perfect fit. In fact, according to Jason Williamson, the polarization of these sunglasses was “amazing” and extremely “vivid.”
Possible Cons
Some of the users who bought these sunglasses found the sizing to be completely off for their face, including Robby, who wishes they “would have checked Costas [sic] website for the size reference.”
Conclusion
Overall, Costa Del Mar never fails to impress when it comes to making the best sunglasses for anglers. Users feel comfortable with the fit and weight of these glasses, but the important thing when buying them for the first time is to check for the right size and fit as some sunglasses are too big for narrow faces.
These sunglasses from Costa Del Mar is part of the Voyager collection with a comfortable and funky-looking wrap design that is sure to provide protection, comfort and appeal to both men and women.
These sunglasses are equipped with great frames and even greater lenses with 580P and G lens technology. Moreover, these polarized lenses have 99.9% polarization efficiency, which is one of the highest in the market. Hence, whether you just want to hang out at the beach or play a sport, these sunglasses are perfect for spontaneous adventures.
Features
- Made in the US
- Impact and scratch resistance
- 100% polarization
- Lens material: Polarized glass
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Lens width: 60 mm
- Lens height: 36 mm
- DBL (distance between lenses): 16.7 mm
- Temple arm length: 134 mm
- Blocks UVA, UVB, and UVC rays
- Frame material: Biodegradable TR-90 nylon
- Weight: 1.4 ounces
Why customers like it
Most people loved these sunglasses and found them to be the ideal choice for fishing. One of the customers, called Jeff, found them to be “crystal clear and very high quality.”

Possible Cons
Some of the customers did not like the fit of the glasses such as Denise, who found them too big on her face and complained they were “crooked.” Kellie complained that her pair of sunglasses had a “chip in the bottom of the frames” and found them to be disappointing. It is possible that the sunglasses were damaged during the delivery process, which can explain why the customer received the product as such.
Conclusion
Most of the customers found these sunglasses to be quite useful during their fishing escapades. A few others, however, had a bad experience and should be in touch with the very responsive customer service of the company. The brand is known for its great quality, and the features of these sunglasses are modern and practical with an aesthetic design.
These sunglasses offer an extra-large fit and are built for the big adventures outdoors. There are around six different lenses available to choose from, which can provide the wearer crystal-clear vision, regardless of the weather conditions.
The Costa Del Mar Mag Bay glasses are perfect for anglers as they can withstand all sorts of light conditions and you can see through the sun’s glare easily. The frame quality is exceptional and handcrafted from TR 90 nylon, and the glasses come with optical sprung hinges on the sides.
Features
- Full lifetime warranty
- Frame colors: Shiny Black, Tortoise and Wood
- Includes a hard case
- 100% UV light blockage
- 100% polarization
- DBL: 14.4 mm
- Lens size A/B: 63.2 mm/42 mm
- Temple length: 132 mm
- Lens colors: Copper, Gray, Blue Mirror, Green Mirror, Silver Mirror
- Base curve of 8
- Impact- and scratch-resistant
- Frame material: Co-injected bio-based nylon
- Lens material: 580 polarized glass
- Weight: 0.96 ounces
Why customers like it
Customers liked these sunglasses due to their extra-large lenses, which give a lot of visibility. Most people found the size of the sunglasses as the most appealing factor. Others found them to be the ideal choice for fishing or other outdoor activities since they have a large size, polarized lens and a great fit.
Possible Cons
Many people complained of buying counterfeit sunglasses, which broke easily or got scratched in no time. Others commented that the aftersales service of the company was disappointing.
Conclusion
These Costa Del Mar Mag Bay Sunglasses are the perfect blend of style and functionality. They give a lot of options in terms of colors for the frames and lens. Most people who use these sunglasses found them to be highly comfortable and durable.
These Costa Del Mar Reefton Sunglasses are the ideal choice if you are looking for an adjustable pair which is made specifically for spending the day on the water.
These are the best choices if you want a larger fit, and the spring hinges keep the glasses firmly in place, no matter what adventure or activity you are going for. Sunglasses from Costa Del Mar are the best option for fishing with 100% UV blockage, keeping the vision protected and clear, regardless of the weather conditions.
Features
- Lens: Polarized 580 glass
- Made in the USA
- Frame material: Plastic or co-injected bio-based nylon
- 100% UV protection coating
- Lens width: 63.7 millimeters
- Case and cleaning cloth included
- Lenses are prescription ready
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Tough and durable
- Scratch-proof
- Weight: 6.4 ounces

Why customers like it
These glasses are generally good for those looking for big sunglasses. Most people who own these sunglasses liked them for being stylish and comfortable for all types of outdoor activities.
According to Ryan Borgerding, these are the best sunglasses and are “perfect for everyday use.”
Possible Cons
Some of the customers had issues regarding the quality of the sunglasses. According to Megan Mathis, her glasses were scratched on day one, but with the responsive customer service, she was able to return them right away.
Conclusion
Most of the people who used these sunglasses were quite satisfied with their quality and durability. These sunglasses are worth the money with their high-quality frames and lenses.
This pair of sunglasses from Maui Jim is a great choice for all those who are into fishing and require some comfortable, protective and great-looking pair of sunglasses. Maui Jim is an American manufacturer of sunglasses, and its products are available all over the world with its headquarters in Hawaii.
Maui Jim sunglasses are known for their durability and are loved by those who prefer the outdoors and love playing sports.
Features
- Made in the USA
- Frame material: Plastic or nylon
- Polarized lens
- 2″ high
- Lens material: Glass
- Lens width: 64 mm
- Bridge: 19 mm
- Arm: 115 mm
- Weight: 5.6 ounces
Why customers like it
Most people liked these sunglasses because they found them to be fashionable and stylish. They are used by a lot of people who love being in the outdoors and spend a lot of time under the sun. A customer named Joe found these Maui Jim World Cup Glasses to be the ideal fit for their face with a “hugging” fit rather than being too tight or too loose. Another customer, Lynette W., has been wearing Maui Jim’s sunglasses for about fifteen years and has not been able to find a better pair.
Possible Cons
Some customers did not find these sunglasses very appealing or comfortable. William Kapgan found them to be too “heavy and uncomfortable.”
Others, such as JoeyCakes, found them to have a “narrow fit.” A few women have also commented that they found these glasses to be quite big on their face. Most of these issues were related to either the size of the sunglasses or the fit, which can be solved if the dimensions of the glasses are considered beforehand.
Conclusion
Overall, most of the customers were satisfied with these sunglasses and have been using them for years. The company is known for its high-quality and reliability, and these sunglasses live up to that legacy. However, it is better to try them on before buying.
The most comfortable sunglasses do not have to be flashy in order to look good. The Maui Jim Stingray Sunglasses, however, are a pair of glasses that not only look great but also provide the perfect functionality for fishing and other outdoor activities in the sun.
This pair of sunglasses is good for those who have a narrow face and do not want a large pair of glasses. It is polarized and offers the perfect glare-free lens through which you can see clearly. The lens is made of glass and not polycarbonate, which makes these sunglasses affordable as well.
Features
- Imported
- Frame material: Plastic
- Frame: Gloss black
- Lens material: SuperThin glass
- Scratch- and solvent-resistant
- Lens width: 55 mm
- Bridge: 23 mm
- Arm: 129 mm
- Available in different colors
- Weight: 2.4 ounces
- 100 percent UV protection
- Polarized glasses
Why customers like it
Most people loved these sunglasses because of the comfort they provide and how durable they are. One of the customers, Patricia Lynch, commented that these sunglasses were definitely a “splurge” for her, but it was well worth it for the quality of the glasses and the clarity of vision.
Possible Cons
Some customers complained of having received the wrong pair of glasses or receiving broken ones. Other customers complained of the size of the glasses being too big on their face.
Conclusion
These Maui Jim Stingray Sunglasses have a classic design which is timeless. With the famous Maui Jim quality, these sunglasses are sure to last for years!
The Maui Jim’s Kahuna sunglasses are a great choice for all outdoor activities in the sun, specifically fishing. It has a Monel metal alloy frame that is adjustable and offers metal-core cellulose acetate temple tips, which provide added flexibility.
With its patented polarized lens, it is able to wipe out 99.9% of the glare as well as 100% of the harmful rays of the sun (UV) and provides clear and bright vision. They also look great and stylish with 20-32% thinner and lighter lenses than standard glass.
These sunglasses are also scratch- and solvent-resistant, which makes them long-lasting and durable.
Features
- Frame material: Monel metal and acetate
- Imported
- Lens width: 62 mm
- Lens height: 38 mm
- Bridge: 18 mm
- Arm: 125 mm
- Polarized lens
- 2″ high
- Lenses are prescription ready
- Lens material: SuperThin glass
- Weight: 8.8 ounces
- 100% UV protection
Why customers like it
Most people who use these sunglasses have been loyal customers of Maui Jim for decades. Many customers have praised the brand name and high quality of its sunglasses, while others have praised the aftersales customer service. Many customers like these frames for having a large size.
Possible Cons
One of the customers commented that these sunglasses were too “big” for their face. Others thought they were a bit tight. The sunglasses do provide measurements, so customers should check them before ordering to ensure they get the right size.
Conclusion
These Maui Jim Men’s Kahuna Sunglasses are the perfect choice for those looking for slightly large sunglasses that are good for all-purpose outdoor daywear. It is advisable to always check the size of the sunglasses to know what you are ordering.
These sunglasses by Maui Jim are for men and inspired by a famous surf spot in Lahaina. They are very popular as they have a sporty design and offer high performance that is ideal for those who have an active or adventurous life.
Thus, they are great for anglers and various other sports.
This pair is equipped with useful features such a 99% reduction in glare from snow, water or sand and provides better visibility.
It also offers great protection for the eyes with Maui Jim’s PolarizedPlus technology, which provides safety from the harmful UV rays from every angle. Moreover, these sunglasses can be used in all weather conditions, whether it is bright and sunny or overcast all day.
Features
- 100% UV protection
- Lens material: MauiPure
- Polarized: Yes
- Frame material: Grilamid
- Lens width: 71 mm
- Bridge: 16 mm
- Arm: 116 mm
- Weight: 0.96 ounces
Why customers like it
Customers liked these sunglasses due to their high performance and the ability to provide great clarity and sharper perception. Customers like D. Weiss commented that they use these sunglasses “for running, for driving, and casual wear” and were impressed by how these glasses are resistant to fogging.
Possible Cons
Many customers commented that the sunglasses were quite tight on their face and around their eyes. Others also did not like the “nose piece” in the frame which pushed the frame far from their face.
Conclusion
These Maui Jim glasses are a popular pair which is widely used for all sports including fishing. It enables anglers to see with clarity and fish accordingly. These sunglasses are also used on a daily basis for general protection of the eyes and for better vision and clarity.
Oakley is one of the most well-known names when it comes to sunglasses. The brand name is known for its high quality and durability which can be trusted.
The Oakley Men’s OO9014 Gascan Sunglasses is yet another great pair which is worth investing in if you are looking for an all-purpose, sporty and practical pair which would look fashionable as well. Oakley sunglasses are generally made to withstand stress and designed to be strong and rough.
The Gascan sunglasses from Oakley have a classic style and can fit narrow faces.
Features
- Impact protection
- Frame material: O Matter
- Frame color: Grey
- Lens material: Plutonite
- Lens width: 60 mm
- Polarized: Yes
- Sunglasses style: Wrap
- 100% UV protection
- Weight: 4 ounces
Here is Oakley page to choose your best fit.
Why customers like it
A lot of people commented that they liked these sunglasses because it has a nice size that is not too big for their face. Many others commented that the size was good enough to even fit inside their motorcycle helmet!
Possible Cons
Some people did not find these sunglasses to be too strong and sturdy, and a few commented that they get scratched quite easily. However, the scratch can be fixed by replacing the lenses, which comes at an extra cost.
Conclusion
Overall, these sunglasses are quite popular with people who have been loyal to Oakley for a long time. Due to the size of the sunglasses, however, they are generally a better fit for narrow faces. The look of these sunglasses is quite unique.
They are lightweight and comfortable and can be used for daily wear as well as for fishing very easily.
Oakley is a well-known name when it comes to sunglasses due to their style, class and functionality.
All Oakley sunglasses come with the HDO technology that offers the benefits of clarity, refraction and UV protection.
With HDO technology, the Fuel Cell glasses offer better visuals and precision that give a less distorted vision. These are made of plastic and polycarbonate and have a polarized lens that complements the frame, giving the glasses a trendy look.
Features
- Made in the USA
- 24 months of warranty
- 100% protection from UVA, UVB and UVC rays along with blue light
- Includes an original designer case & cloth
- Frame color: Black
- For both men and women
- Lens height: 40 millimeters
- Bridge: 19 millimeters
- Arm: 130 millimeters
- Frame material: O Matter plastic
- Lens material: Plutonite
- 5 colors available
- Weight: 1.3 ounces
- Polarized
Why customers like it
Most people praised the all-day comfort and durability of these sunglasses. Many users are loyal to the brand Oakley and trust its quality. Many others praised these glasses for being the ideal choice for sunny locations like Hawaii and Florida.
Possible Cons
Some customers, however, did not have a pleasant experience with these glasses since they received bent or scratched glasses or the lens was not the right color. There is a possibility that the sunglasses received were probably not original and should be ordered from reliable websites only.
Conclusion
These sunglasses are ideal for all purposes with its lens cutting the blinding glare while offering true color perception. When ordering sunglasses for delivery, it is always advisable to choose a reliable and secure website that sells the original brand
Fishing Sunglasses Buyer’s Guide
For those who don’t know, fishing sunglasses come with several things you need to consider before you spend hard earned money. They have different lenses colors and materials, as different frames.
How to Choose Sunglasses for Fishing
The most important piece of gear needed by every angler after their fishing equipment is a great pair of polarized sunglasses. Picking up a pair of sunglasses for fishing, however, can be a daunting task with so many options available in different styles, designs and brands.
The most important factor for choosing the best fishing sunglasses is to try them on.
You must see how the sunglasses fit on your face, and you should also make sure that they are comfortable.
You must also consider whether you want to buy the glass lens or the polycarbonate lens. The polycarbonate ones weigh less as compared to the glass ones and are also more durable.
Next, you should consider the lens color and whether you want inshore, offshore or neutral color.
Moreover, the curvature of the lens is quite important, that is, how it fits around your eyes. The sunglasses with a lot of curvature would distort your vision. You can identify this by trying on the glasses.
Thus, when buying the best fishing sunglasses, the factors mentioned above must be considered to make sure you get the best possible one.
Why Do Fishermen Prefer Polarized Sunglasses?
Most anglers prefer to use polarized lenses in their sunglasses, which help filter out the surface glare and enable the angler to see underwater. This is very important during fishing. Thus, with a polarized lens, you can see structures underwater such as rocks, logs or tree stumps where fish tend to hide.
Polarized lenses also have a small filter which works in a similar way as the Venetian blind and helps block out the light which is reflected from horizontal surfaces. Polarized fishing sunglasses also help block out the glare as it can cause fatigue, headaches and sometimes even stress.
Since the polarized sunglasses are available in different colors, they can be used for different reasons. The brownish or amber lenses are used often for low-light or cloudy weather conditions when the glare is still present. On the other hand, blue or gray mirror lenses are used for intense or bright light conditions such as open-water or ocean fishing.
Good polarized sunglasses are also equipped with a comfortable frame and UV-protected lenses. Many also have a floating feature, so if you accidentally drop them, they will not sink to the bottom.
Do Polarized Sunglasses Make a Difference in Fishing?
We have already mentioned that polarized sunglasses are extremely popular with fishermen as they can help make a difference in fishing. A high-quality polarized lens in sunglasses usually results in more clarity.
Such a lens will be able to filter the light and allow the wearer to see deeper into the water more clearly by reducing the blinding effect. This acts as an “X-ray vision” of sorts through which fishermen can get the general idea about the location of fish in the water. The color, shape and shadow of the fish will stand out more clearly in the water and give you the chance to catch them hook.
Moreover, this lens helps to reduce the strain on the eyes if you have been sitting in the sun too long.
Fishing Sunglasses Color Lens Guide
It is generally believed that fish are more active between dawn and dusk. There are certain types of fish which tend to be more active on the darkest and stormiest days. However, the problem is that during such times, there is not enough light for fishing. This is where polarized sunglasses come in, which can not only block the sunlight but also boost vision even in low light with the correct lens colors.
Yellow lenses are generally considered to be best for low-light conditions. The bright color allows the eyes to absorb the light, which allows the wearer to see while giving them the benefit of glare reduction and increased contrast.
The grey lens is excellent for day-to-day use. It transmits all colors of the spectrum in order to reduce distortion. It is ideal for open-water fishing on a bright and sunny day.
The copper lens is quite a high contrast lens, which is actually very soothing for the eyes. It is able to absorb the blue light and helps heighten visual activity as well as boost the contrast, which makes this lens the best choice for sight fishing.
The brown lens is considered to be the best as it provides true color perception and contrast. It is ideal for fishing in shallow water and in medium to bright light.
Amber-colored lenses, on the other hand, are excellent for fishing on heavily overcast and rainy days.
Brown vs Grey Polarized Lenses
Generally, the brown (and amber) lens includes an element of red, which helps enhance the perception of depth and improve the contrast. This lens helps block the blue light and is the best for sunny or partly cloudy days. In fact, the brown color is best for those people who live in a place where weather patterns change drastically from day to day as this lens color can be used in different light scenarios.
The grey lens, on the other hand, is the most commonly used because of the absolute protection it provides against UV rays. Grey is the darkest color option in lenses and is able to provide true color perception. At the same time, it reduces glare, especially from the water. The grey lens in sunglasses is also known to have anti-fatigue qualities and can prevent eye strain.
Hence, while both grey and brown lenses are a popular choice, your decision will depend on the weather you usually fish in.
Can You Get Clear Polarized Sunglasses?
It is not possible for a polarized lens to come in a clear color. The polarizing filter in the sunglasses always adds some tint to the lens. However, while it might not be available with a clear ting, there are light colors available and you may be able to find 20% or 30% amber, brown and gray lenses. There is even a yellow polarized lens, which is as close to clear as you can get.
There are also certain lenses available which are clear at first and get darker in outdoor light. These are known as “adaptive lenses.”
Are All Polarized Sunglasses UV-Protected?
Using high-quality eyewear can certainly guard and protect the eyes from the harmful rays of the sun. UV protection helps protect the eyes from the dangerous rays of the sun, while polarized sunglasses help eliminate the glare from the sun. While polarization is more of a preference, ultraviolet protection is crucial for the protection of the eyes. Both these features are similar in a few ways but provide different benefits.
Polarized sunglasses offer clarity but are not necessarily equipped with full UV protection. They provide the wearer with a comfortable viewing experience and a better vision for fishing or playing sports, but they have nothing to do with UV protection as many people may falsely believe. Thus, while most polarized sunglasses do offer adequate protection from the UV rays, one cannot assume that a polarized lens will always offer UV protection. If you are in doubt, it is best to get the glasses checked by an optometrist.
What Is the Best UV Protection for Sunglasses?
UV or ultraviolet rays are located on the violet portion of the light spectrum, and their main source is the sun. These rays can be broken down into three types: UVA, UVB and UVC.
The UVA has longer wavelengths and can easily pass through glass, though most experts are not sure whether UVA damages the eyes.
UVB rays, on the other hand, are more dangerous and are the reason why using a sunscreen or wearing sunglasses is a must. These rays do not pass through glass.
Finally, there are the UVC rays, which do not even reach earth because the atmosphere blocks them.
There are different lenses available with various tints and levels of UV protection. UVB protection is a must, but if it also offers UVA and UVC protection, that’s a plus! An optician can make sure your sunglasses block 100% UV rays, regardless of the color of the lenses.
Do Cheap Fishing Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes?
The purpose of wearing sunglasses is to protect your eyes from the intense light, glare, and ultraviolet rays from the sun and from specific frequencies of light. When you, however, buy cheap sunglasses, you may be giving up on all of these benefits and you could end up making things worse.
For example, if your cheap pair of sunglasses offers no UV protection, it may end up increasing your exposure to UV rays. It may block some of the light, which can cause your iris to open and allow more light in, which would let the UV light in as well, thus causing damage to your retina. On the other hand, a polarized lens in the sunglasses that offers the wearer 100% UV protection may be quite expensive.
However, the price of the eyewear alone cannot determine the quality of the sunglasses. The determining factor is the material of the lens and any additional coatings which are be applied on it. While polycarbonate lenses block 100% UV rays, uncoated plastic lenses block around 88%. Rather than having the price determine the level of protection provided, one should purchase sunglasses from a reputable company or from a professional optician.
Usually, the better the quality of the lens, the costlier it would be. However, that’s not the rule. Consider reading reviews from experts to know the actual protection provided.
Can Not Wearing Sunglasses While Fishing Damage Your Eyes?
If fishing is your hobby, using quality eyewear that offers a high level of protection should be a must. The eyes are the most delicate part of your body, so you should protect it from the damage that can be caused by the harmful rays of the sun as well as other elements like the wind and sand.
Fishing is a sport which requires one to sit in one place for a long time, and this may mean sitting right under the sun for hours at a stretch. This can have a negative impact on the eyes.
Even when the days are cloudy, you must wear your polarized sunglasses for fishing as the UV rays are still present. Not wearing any sunglasses means you are damaging your eyes not just from the sun but also the wind or sand. Even your fishing hook could accidentally get in your eyes and cause serious injuries.
Try Before Buying
No matter what your preference is: always try before you buy.
Buying online your first pair of fishing sunglasses may be easy and convenient, but is not the best choice. First of all, you need to see if the model fits your face and if it’s comfortable to wear.
As you’re going to wear your sunglasses quite often, depending on how regularly you go fishing, you don’t want to find yourself with a pair of expensive and uncomfortable glasses.
Choosing the right fit is important not only because of aesthetic reasons: the wrong frame will allow light to leak in from the sided and hinder your view.
You need to choose a frame that wraps around your eyes and prevents light to come in from all angles.
Online you will probably find the best prices, but going to the store in person is the best choice, as well as trying on different models before making your final choice.
Keep Your Glasses Safe
Sunglasses are expensive, so once you buy them, you should store them correctly and be extra careful to avoid any damage.
Once you (hopefully) find the best fishing sunglasses you certainly don’t want to part from them anytime soon! Always keep them in their case to increase their lifespan.
Buy a sunglass lanyard to keep your glasses from falling into the water and clean the lenses properly. You can also add a floating feature that will allow you to get them back in case they fall into the water, but avoid products with glued foam pads, since these can limit your vision. Instead, look for a pair of sunglasses that floats without the need of such pads.
Be extra careful when you clean your sunglasses too: rinse the lenses with warm water, especially after contact with salt. Salty water is really dangerous to lenses.
Use a microfiber cloth to clean the glasses (or the lens cloth that it’s usually included in the box) instead of your shirt: your own clothes might have particles of sand or dirt you’re not aware of that can scratch your lenses.
If you have stubborn smudges that just won’t quit, go to the store and ask for a specific cleaner with a pH balance between 5.5 and 8.
Don’t use any alcohol or chemical cleaners as they might affect the lens coating.
Avoid leaving them in the car, especially during summer or very hot days to prevent any damage to the frame material.
If you need to leave your sunglasses in a vehicle, place them in the glove compartment or in the center console.
Final Words – Wrapping it up
The market of fishing sunglasses has a lot of saturation, with a lot of sunglasses from some bucks to hundreds of dollars.
Finding the perfect fishing sunglasses is not easy. That’s when lists like these come into play. This top list of fishing sunglasses kept in mind things such as the needs of a customer and how much they are willing to spend on a polarized sunglass.
We hope the list helps you pick the best fishing sunglasses according to your budget and your needs. Within the list, there are only top-rated high-end polarized sunglasses. Coming soon two new lists one about best fishing sunglasses under 50 and one about best fishing sunglasses under 100.
In case you think we missed a good router, let us know.