Discover some of the best fishing sunglasses fit for all anglers. Elevate your angling game with superior eye protection!
One of the struggles of many anglers is to find the best fishing sunglasses. Light glare and continuous water observation may cause eye fatigue and blurry vision. This is why a good polarized sunglasses is a must accessory for all fishers.
There are different factors to consider when buying a good pair of fishing glasses, but it all boils down to one. The overall quality of the lenses will determine the effectiveness and level of comfort it may bring.
In this blog, we’ll uncover some 2024 best picks for fishing sunglasses to help you find the right one for you. So if you are ready let us begin first by understanding what polarized glasses are.
What are Polarized Glasses
Polarized glasses are known for reducing light glare. When using polarized glasses your eyes are protected from the sun resulting in improved vision. The lenses on polarized glasses filter light rays blocking the horizontal lights. As a result, you will see an image that is darker than the usual. Objects also look clear and crisp and details look easier to see too.
Features for High-Quality Fishing Glasses
When trying to buy polarized sunglasses, here are the following factors to consider:
Polarization
Polarized sunglasses should protect your eyes from UVA and UVB light waves. This is to reduce eye strain and fatigue that is caused by light glare.
Light Blocking
Polarized glasses should have an effective light-blocking ability.
Fit and Comfort
It is important that your glasses are fit and comfortable. Usually, the size of your frame should shape the size of your head as well as your nose bridge.
Clarity
Glass lenses cost more compared to plastic glasses. This is because glass lenses are a lot clearer than polycarbonate.
Durability
When it comes to fishing glasses, it is important to consider their durability. There is a lot of difference if you buy a cheap $10 frame compared to frames made by Wiley X.
Slippage
Slippage is really frustrating when fishing. So having a good pair of glasses with nose pads, good arms, and a lanyard is a big plus.
How to Choose The Best Fishing Sunglasses
Freshwater
When fishing in freshwater, expect sunny conditions with surface glare. High-contrast lens is required in this kind of weather condition, as this helps identify movements. However, each day is different so to be on the safer side, it’s best to own a few pairs of glasses and switch depending on the weather conditions.
Saltwater
When fishing in saltwater, expect sunlight with no shade. In this case, very bright lenses will do the trick. Bright lenses help protect your eyes while you are out fishing on a bright sunny day.
Type of Lens
Lens quality is the most important component of fishing glasses. There are different kinds of lenses available and you must find the right one. Choose a lens based on weather conditions and the kind of water you’ll be fishing.
Color of Lens
Having different kinds of glasses for every weather condition may be too much for you, so we recommend having a pair that fits for all conditions. Although, many retailers offer free lens exchange.
Material of Lens
Lenses have many material variations that are made for specific conditions. Some materials can have hydrophobic coatings, anti-reflective coatings, and ant scratch protection. So don’t always go for the simple glass or polycarbonate. It’s nice to consider options that match your needs.
Fit
Finding the right sunglasses that fit your face is important as it will determine your level of comfort. Having a pair of sunglasses that fits prevents light glare, maximizing your eye protection. Nose pads and temple tips help in providing a comfortable grip on your face.
Durability
With all the advancements on fishing sunglasses, let’s not forget about durability. When fishing, the last thing we want is to have a broken pair of glasses, so it is important to invest in quality.
Some brands have produced frames made in steel, aluminum, and other metal material. However, recent trends suggest frames that are heat-resistant nylon. Furthermore, others produce eco-friendly frames made of recycled plastics from the ocean.
Lens Type and Material
Fishing sunglasses come in different lens materials, most commonly Polycarbonate, glass, and nylon. For prescription glasses, Trivex is recommended for better clarity. It is suggested to avoid using Triacetate (TAC) or cheap plastic materials (cr39)
Polycarbonate Lenses
Polycarbonate lenses are a great option if you are on a budget. It is a type of lens made from lightweight plastic designed to withstand impact. This type of lens also offers a nice aesthetic because of their thin profile.
Glass
Glass lenses are hard and scratch-resistant. It also offers better clarity compared to plastic lenses. Thus, glass is heavier and lean more on the expensive side.
Different Colored Lenses for Any Situation
Gray Lenses
The color gray is used for many different purposes. It is the universal color for fishing as it effectively reduces bright lights. In addition, gray color provides a natural viewing experience. Although this may not be the best to wear during dark mornings but overall, this color protects your eyes from strain and fatigue.
Brown/Amber Lenses
Amber lenses are recommended to use in shallow waters. Due to an improved depth perception and increased contrast these lenses are great for low-light conditions. This also works well when reducing glare on streams or rivers.
Blue Lenses
Blue lenses are specially made for lakes and oceans. When out on the open water, the reflection of the sun from the waves creates a distraction from your vision. Thus, blue lenses do the job in combating glare.
Green Lenses
Green lenses provide contrast on cloudy days. These offer a good balance in different light conditions. In calm areas where rocks and trees can be found, green lenses can be helpful in brightening shadows.
Top 20 Best Fishing Glasses
Costa Lido
Costa Lido is perfect for areas with direct light. This pair has a classical look with adjustable nose pieces giving a more secure fit. They feature comfortability and protection in one. One of the best options for Costa Lido is the 580 lens which features color-enhancement capability. This is best to distinguish much easier.
Bajio Vega
Bajio has cutting blue light which results in clear views. This pair also feature wide temples, full coverage, and an aggressive wrap. The only downside is they are big, so if you have a smaller face you might not like the performance of the Bajio glasses.
Goodr Sunglasses
Not everybody has hundreds of dollars to spend on shades, this pair is an affordable option if you are looking for quality. Goodr has many different frames and styles which cost around $30.
Bajio Cometa
The Cometa glasses have a cool retro look that has a comfortable fit. If you are someone who likes to put their shades on their head this pair is for you. These have rose mirror lenses which are incredible for small waterways. This creates a balance into seeing through top water while blocking out just enough light. The Bajio cut 95% of blue resulting in less eye fatigue.
Wiley X P-17
This pair is lightweight and incredibly durable. It has been a crowd favorite due to its sleek and athletic appearance. One of the major advantages of this brand is the aggressive wrap that blocks out ambient light. This comes in multiple colors offering 100% UVA/UVB protection.
Fin-Nor Tilloo
This pair is perfect for those who like heavy-duty fishing. This also gives you protection from both direct and indirect sunlight that is reflected from the water surface. This brand is available in both polycarbonate and glass lenses.
Smith Guide’s Choice
Smith Optics works best in any weather condition. It features frames with wide temples offering securing and comfortability. This brand is known to have excellent lenses that cut through glare reducing eye fatigue. Another awesome thing about the Smith is it has a wide variety of frame sizes, allowing you to choose the right fit.
Maui Jim Makoa
This is a stylish pair with the benefit of aggressive wrap, making it perfect for everyday wear. Like other brands, Maui Jam offers customizable frames and different kinds of lenses. The glass that comes with this pair is ultra-thin, scratch-resistant and also works perfectly with prescription lenses.
Bajio Stiltsville
The Stiltsville offers a large frame size perfect for those who have large faces. It features vented temple tips and nose pads that keeps the moisture off with improved airflow. The curvature infuses a cool style all while providing exceptional sunlight coverage.
Hobie Mojo Float
Another practical fishing sunglasses crafted to be lightweight yet durable. The frame is designed to float above water hence the name. This innovation eliminates saying goodbye to your sunglasses in case of a slip accident.
This is a reliable frame with superior clarity, glare reduction and UV ray protection.
Costa Paunch XL
This sunglasses is known because of its large frame. It is favored by many anglers due to its comfortability, lightness, and light blocking. For a solid uni-body feel, the nose pieces are integrated into the frame.
Costa Jose Pro
The Costa Jose glasses is a medium-sized frame with a higher nose bridge and low cheekbones. It has a scratch resistant coating on a polarized 580 lens which provides excellent clarity. These glasses are ideal for sight fishing, driving, or simply hanging out on the beach.
You can use these glasses even when driving as it does not wobble even with excessive movement or excessive wind.
Maui Jim Alenuihaha
These glasses lean more on a larger side measuring at 64-14-123. It is lightweight and comfortable complimenting square or heart-shaped faces. Aside from that, these glasses feature fixed rubber nose pads.
Maui lenses are of another story. The brand offers clear lenses which are 30% thinner with scratch and solvent resistance.
Bajio Roca
The Roca frames are one of the largest frames offering comfort and superb clarity. This model offers full coverage designed for maximum light blocking. The lenses feature blue light blocking technology and oleophobic coating for scratch resistance. If you love wearing large frames, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
Costa Blackfin Pro
This is considered an all-around frame as it offers many good features a high-quality fishing glasses has. This Pro frame offers adjustable nose grips and a sticky temple with pre-drilled lanyard attachment. It has wide sides blocking light well, making it easier to see in open waters while reducing eye fatigue.
Wiley X Grid
The durability of this frame is impressive as it is built to withstand everyday wear and tear. It is made of flexible Triloid nylon which is considered a tough material to use for sunglasses frames. For polycarbonate lenses, this one offers impressive clarity and color enhancement.
Hobie Monarch Float
These glasses offer removable side panels which are great for blocking out peripheral light. Although, these might come off easily by strong winds. The frame has an average to large size measuring 53-20-126 that comes with an adjustable strap. For its price of $99 it’s hard to beat.
Torege Pure Cratos
When you purchase this frame, it comes with a lanyard, cloth, soft case, and hard case. All for $49. For the price, this frame is very comfortable and flexible, the lenses aren’t too bad. If you are just starting a hobby of fishing, this might be a great option for you. Although it’s not that clear compared to high-end glasses, it is still usable.
Strike King S11 Optics
Strike King is a high-contrast lens treated with a bi-gradient mirror. With the price of $39 you’ll get decent fishing glasses with stylish frames. However, you have to consider the mirror coating as it can be scratched or scuffed.
Costa Untangled Antille
If you want something more environmental, then you’ll love the Costa untangled collection. Recycled fishing net is the main component of this collection. It is oversized yet has a flat profile that fits perfectly for maximum viewing.
Conclusion
No matter your skill level, you need to have a good pair of fishing sunglasses. When it comes to high-quality fishing glasses, you may find a lot of brands staying at the top. We hope that this blog serves as your guide in choosing the best fishing sunglasses that fit your style and preferences. If you have any brand recommendations, we’d love to hear from you in the comments down below!
Additional Resources:
- How to Choose The Best Polarized Glasses: https://www.sporteyes.com/blog/polarized-sunglasses-for-fishing
- What is The Best Colors for Polarized Glasses: https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/blogs/back-stage-pass/best-color-polarized-sunglasses-fishing
- Fishing Sunglasses Shop: https://www.mauijim.com/US/en_US/polarized-sunglasses/fishing
- The Best Lens Color for Fishing Sunglasses: https://www.grizzlyfishing.com/blogs/fishing-sunglasses-guide/the-best-lens-colors-for-fishing
- Prescription Fishing Sunglasses: https://marveloptics.com/shop/sunglasses/prescription-fishing-sunglasses/
