Choosing the Right Sunglasses for the
Ultimate Water Experience
Wearing the right shades is important when spending time on the water. Learn which features
to consider when choosing the best sunglasses for water sports.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Sunglasses for Water Activities
When it comes to life on the water, protecting your eyes is of utmost importance. Even if you already wear sunglasses on all your water adventures, just any old pair of shades won’t do. Choosing (and using) the right water sports sunglasses is just as important as where you cast your line, launch your kayak or raise your sails.
Read on to discover what sunglasses features are ideal for making your day on the water an epic adventure.
Key Features to Consider in Water Sports Sunglasses
Factors to consider when selecting your ideal water sports sunglasses go beyond style and aesthetics. From UV (ultraviolet) protection and polarization to lens color and frame style, many options are available.
To make an informed choice when shopping for your next pair of quality sunglasses, consider the following features:
UV Protection
Protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays is essential when spending time outdoors, especially on the water. Long-term exposure to UV rays can damage your eyes over time and increase your risk of developing certain serious eye conditions.
The best defense for your eyes is a pair of water sports sunglasses labeled UV400 or as having 100% UV protection. This means the lenses block 100% of UV-A and UV-B rays so you can enjoy your time on the water without compromising your eye health.
Polarization
Polarized lenses reduce glare reflected off the water’s surface by filtering horizontal light waves. This glare reduction enhances your visibility when looking into the water. So, whether you need to spot fish beneath the surface or navigate around underwater structures, polarized sunglass lenses are a must-have for water activities.
Durability and Impact Resistance
Water activities can be rugged, especially if conditions are rough. It’s important to choose a pair of sunglasses that can stand up to the task. Sunglass frames and lenses should be durable, impact-resistant and scratch-resistant for a day on the water.
These features help protect your eyes from the elements and extend the life of your sunglasses. This is especially useful if your shades go sliding across the deck as you reel in that monster catch.
Frame Material
When determining the best sunglasses for water sports, frame material should play a key role. At Costa, our sunglasses are designed to meet a range of performance needs and style preferences using the following frame materials:
- Acetate – Frames made of acetate are hypoallergenic, adjustable and available in a range of vibrant color options.
- Metal – Metal frames are made from durable materials such as Monel (which is corrosion-resistant) and titanium (which is hypoallergenic and lightweight).
- Co-injected nylon – Co-injected nylon frames are lightweight, durable and flexible.
Additionally, Costa offers combination sunglass frames, blending metal and acetate for a more versatile option. Ultra-light rimless glasses are also available for a more subtle look and feel.
Lens Colors
Lens color (or lens tint) is another essential factor to consider when choosing water sports sunglasses. Different light conditions call for different lens tints. For instance, a blue mirror lens is ideal for an offshore fishing excursion, while a green mirror lens is perfect for fishing the Florida flats.
Costa sunglasses come in 10 different lens color options:
- Blue mirror
- Green mirror
- Gold mirror
- Gray silver mirror
- Copper silver mirror
- Gray
- Copper
- Sunrise silver mirror
- Gray gradient
- Rose gradient
Fit and Comfort for Extended Use
Both the fit and comfort of your shades are paramount when spending long hours on the water. Fortunately, sunglass frames come in a variety of sizes and shapes, often making it easier to find something you like. Look for a pair that offers a secure and comfortable fit so you can wear them for extended time without issue.
One style to consider for added security is a wraparound. These frames provide maximum coverage and typically offer a comfortable fit. With their curved design, they wrap around the contours of your upper face, reducing the amount of light that can enter from the sides.
Why Choose Costa Sunglasses for Your Water Adventures?
Costa sunglasses stand as a beacon for both quality and performance. All Costa sunglass lenses are polarized and provide 100% UV protection, making them an ideal choice for any watersport adventure. And if you need vision correction, most Costa sunglasses can be fitted with prescription lenses for added convenience and visual clarity.
Costa 580 lenses feature premium color-enhancing technology, filtering out harsh yellow light to reveal a crisp, vibrant contrast in your field of view.
Some of Costa’s top sunglasses for water sports include the:
You can find even more options in our Performance Collection.
Additional Features to Enhance Your Experience
Sunglasses often come with special features, so it’s important to consider your needs and preferences when determining the best water sports sunglasses for you.
Costa is no exception, already including polarization on all sunglass lenses. And depending on the style you choose, your Costa sunglasses may come with some of the following extra features:
- Hydrolite grip on nosepieces and earpieces – This feature helps ensure a secure fit in wet conditions, preventing your shades from slipping during active moments.
- Ventilation – Specially designed nose pads enhance ventilation to help prevent lens fogging in various environments. And in the frame’s end pieces, ventilation ducting facilitates a steady flow of air to prevent fog buildup on the lenses.
- Adjustable nose pads – Some Costas have adjustable nose pads, allowing you to adjust the frames around your nose for a more custom and secure fit.
- Hydrophobic lens coating – Costa lenses have a special C-wall coating designed to repel oil, moisture and water. This coating helps maintain your visibility even when your shades are splashed or submerged. It also makes cleaning your lenses an easier process.
- Sweat management – Channels on the inner sunglass arms (or temples) carry sweat and moisture away from the lenses toward a drain in the temple tips. The inner portion of the lens rims also features a drainage pathway to carry sweat and moisture away from the lenses.
- Head strap – For added security, consider using a head strap to keep your sunglasses in place during more rigorous water activities.
When you live your life on the water, every experience is a new chapter in your adventure. From fishing and kayaking to water skiing and more, Costas are the perfect fit. Explore our collections today to find your next pair of water sports sunglasses.
Sources:
1. The sun, UV light and your eyes. EyeSmart. American Academy of Ophthalmology. June 2020.
2. What are polarized lenses for? EyeSmart. American Academy of Ophthalmology. June 2022.