13 Best Sailing Sunglasses

While sailing is exhilarating, it can be harmful to our vision in the long run. That’s because we’ll be exposing ourselves to a lot of ultraviolet radiation, even on the cloudiest of days. So, do yourself a favor and get the best sailing sunglasses with UV protection. Apart from allowing you to see better through the polarized lenses, these shades will keep harmful rays away from your eyes.

However, with the sea of sailing sunglasses out there (no pun intended), it can be quite difficult to pick just one. Therefore, we decided to come out with a strict guideline to help you decide. But hold on to your horses because we have sunglasses for sailing review for you. Let’s check them all!

Gill Classic

13

Gill is one of the few sailing clothing brands to include sunglasses in their product line. Rated UV400, the Gill Classic promises 100 percent protection from UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. Explore your personal style, as these shades are available in black, navy, and gray frames. Thanks to the hydrophobic coating, you don’t have to worry about salt residue that might damage your precious sunglasses. And to prevent blurry vision from your fingerprints, Gill has embedded an oleophobic coating on the lenses.

Another great thing about these best sailing sunglasses is their buoyancy. Despite their skinny profile, Gill Classic Sunglasses will stay afloat in case you drop them in the water. Plus, they have great coverage and are super-lightweight.

• What We Love:
  • Boasts an oleophobic coating to prevent blurry vision from your fingerprints
• Pros:
  • Composite frames
  • UV protection
  • Polarized
  • Composite lens
• Cons:
  • Need further testing on buoyancy

Check Price & Info

Maui Jim Waterman

12

Maui Jim Waterman is by no means cheap sunglasses. However, you have nothing to lose by spending 250 bucks for this pair of cool shades. They offer above-average UV protection, near-perfect glare reduction, and a scratch-resistant surface. The lenses are of premium quality, ensuring unmatched clarity and brighter colors. Apart from that, the oleophobic surface and waterproof coating will definitely come in handy when you’re on a boat.

Often considered the best sailing sunglasses, the Maui Jim Waterman is, in fact, officially recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation as an effective protective layer against UV rays. These sunglasses also have a two-year limited warranty in case you run into some trouble. Oh, and did we forget to mention Maui Jim’s awesome after-sales service? For every purchase, you’ll get an annual check and overhaul for free!

Save yourself from the intense sun and get the best quality of vision possible. Check out our 11 best polarized sunglasses for men for some of the best options currently available on the market.

• What We Love:
  • Offers superior comfort, unmatched clarity, and near-perfect glare reduction
• Pros:
  • Nylon frames
  • Plastic lenses
  • Polarized
  • UV protection coating
• Cons:
  • It’s a bit expensive

Check Price & Info

Bolle Phyton

11

Bolle Python is the brand’s vision for total eye protection while you’re on board. These sunglasses boast polycarbonate lenses with a blue tint for enhanced contrast. Fancy other tint colors? Don’t worry, as these wraparound sunglasses also come in brown and blue versions. All of them are equipped with lightweight and bendable nylon frames.

With all these awesome features, it would be a crime not to include the Bolle Python in these sunglasses for sailing review. Moreover, these shades also get hydrophobic and oleophobic treatment, two of the most crucial qualities that’ll be useful for any sailor. And as if that weren’t enough, Bolle also includes a microfiber cleaning cloth and a special storage case with every purchase.

• What We Love:
  • Comes with lightweight and bendable nylon frames
• Pros:
  • Acetate frames
  • Photochromatic lens
  • Polarized
  • Anti-reflective coating
• Cons:
  • The nose pads could be better

Check Price & Info

Oakley Clifden

10

Oakley Clifden Sunglasses would be perfect for those who prefer flatter lenses but don’t want to lose the side protection of wraparound-style eyewear. As for lenses, these shades are way above other similar sunglasses. Instead of being formed from multiple layers held together with adhesive, the polarized lenses on these sunnies are made from a single layer. All thanks to Oakley’s excellent infusion molding process.

If you look closely, these best sailing sunglasses have a slight gap in the middle. Oakley ingeniously covered that part with the awesome ‘bridge blocker.’ This way, you get really complete protection for the sensitive skin around your eye area. Despite being available in a wide selection of tints, the ‘Deep Water Polarized’ has remained the most popular since it was deemed suitable for sailing.

• What We Love:
  • The polarized lenses are made of a single layer using Oakley’s superb infusion molding process
• Pros:
  • Plutonite lenses
  • Prizm lenses
  • High-definition optics
  • Storage bag included
• Cons:
  • It could really use a nice nose pad

Check Price & Info

SeaSpecs Classic Extreme

9

Anyone with a serious interest in sailing should consider the SeaSpecs Classic Extreme. Often referred to as half sunglasses/half googles, these wraparound glasses are designed for any activity that involves water. From kite surfing, windsurfing, fly fishing, these polycarbonate shades can do it all. There’s a built-in retainer to keep the sunglasses in place, just in case you run into unpredictable situations. But if they do come loose and fall into the water, you should be able to get them back pretty quickly since these sunnies have excellent buoyancy.

If you head over to the official SeaSpecs Classic Extreme product page on Amazon, you won’t find anything but positive reviews. However, this doesn’t mean that these best sailing sunglasses come without any flaws. Some users have complained that their lenses are sticking out. However, this rarely happens. And if you’re really worried, it’s advisable to buy a pair to spare since these sunglasses are available at affordable prices!

• What We Love:
  • Comes with decent buoyancy and a built-in retainer to keep the glasses in place.
• Pros:
  • Polycarbonate lenses
  • Polarized
  • UVA/UVB protection
  • Floats
• Cons:
  • Some reports say that the lenses are sticking out

Check Price & Info

Bolle Phyton

8

Bolle Python is the Jack of all trades. These shades are designed for all types of water-based activities, including kite surfing, windsurfing, and fly fishing. Thanks to their eye-catching style, these sunnies are perfect to wear while you’re at the stern or on the street. Apart from that, Python also promises wide vision, anti-slip nose pads, and a special coating to dispel the fog.

If there’s one thing preventing you from getting these sunglasses, it’s their buoyancy. Yep, you read that right; these shades don’t float. So when the situation gets wetter than you expected, wearing a retainer is a must! Apart from that, some customers at Amazon have complained that they end up with counterfeit products. So, make sure that you only make purchases from verified sellers.

• What We Love:
  • Designed for all water-based activities, including kite surfing, windsurfing, and fly fishing
• Pros:
  • Polycarbonate lenses
  • Polarized
  • Anti-slip nose pads
  • Wraparound design
• Cons:
  • They don’t float

Check Price & Info

Costa Brine

7

When it comes to best sailing sunglasses, most brands decide to go with polycarbonate material instead of glass. That’s because glass tends to break more easily and is significantly heavier. This is what makes Costa so special. The Daytona Beach-based company claims to have a unique processing technology that can produce lighter and thinner glass lenses. And that’s exactly what you’ll get with Costa del Mar Brine Sunglasses.

Costa Brine is actually designed for saltwater fishing. But thanks to its awesome features, these sunglasses are also sailing-qualified. Their lightweight lenses provide maximum clarity. Costa even dares to claim that they can reduce glare by up to 99 percent! Sadly, these shades don’t float. So if you wish for extra securities, then don’t forget to get a quality retainer.

Want to spend your weekend fishing? Make sure you check out our best sunglasses for fishing. Find the best eye protection alternative that allows you to get the clearest vision while scanning the water’s surface.

• What We Love:
  • Featuring lightweight lenses that promise maximum clarity and cut out 99 percent of glare
• Pros:
  • BioResin frames
  • Lightweight lenses
  • Float
  • Maximum clarity
• Cons:
  • You’ll need a quality strap

Check Price & Info

Maui Jim Ho’okipa

6

The Maui Jim has long been a legend among sunglasses manufacturers, and Ho’okipa is one of their best offerings. Coming with a rimless frame, these shades offer polarized lenses and blue tints for the best clarity while you’re on deck. Wearing these sunglasses is fun. They sit comfortably over our faces and offer good coverage. And despite their thin body, these sunnies are actually quite sturdy.

Unlike most of the best sailing sunglasses, the Maui Jim Ho’okipa sports a rectangular frame. This is actually a good call, as it makes the sunglasses look great on a wide variety of face shapes. As for protection, Ho’okipa promises to eliminate 99 percent of glare and fortify 100 percent of UV rays. If you’re looking for a new pair of sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses that offer the best clarity on the water, Ho’okipa will be excellent.

• What We Love:
  • Offers a wide range of protection. Carrying a rimless frame and polarized lenses.
• Pros:
  • Beautiful design
  • UV protection
  • Lightweight
  • Anti-fog lenses
• Cons:
  • There aren’t many alternative sizes available

Check Price & Info

Smith Wayward Basecamp

5

If you’re looking for nothing but comfort, the Smith Wayward Basecamp is the best sailing sunglasses for you. These shades have a large profile, offering more than enough coverage to protect the area around your eyes. They sport nice polarized lenses wrapped in a voyager-style frame. Whether you have an oval or narrow face shape, you’ll find comfort in these sunnies.

The polarization works excellently to protect your eyes from the intense sun. And what’s even greater is the fact that they’re made of bio-based materials. Cheers to all the eco-friendly sailors out there! Another great thing to love about these sunglasses is their ChromaPop lenses. They’re made with a special coating to repel both oil and water. If you’re impressed with these sunglasses for sailing review, click the link below to find more information about Smith Wayward Basecamp.

• What We Love:
  • Shades with a large profile, offer more than enough coverage to protect the area around your eyes
• Pros:
  • Metal frames
  • Glass lens
  • Anti-reflective coating
  • ChromaPop lenses
• Cons:
  • The temple pads could be better

Check Price & Info

Oakley Holbrook

4

Oakley Holbrook represents the California-based brand’s attempt to dive into the sailing eyewear market. And you know what? These sunglasses are actually pretty good! As expected of Oakley sunnies, they’re sleek, super functional, and stylish. You can choose from a variety of lens and frame colors to suit your personal style. Apart from that, these sunglasses are equipped with lightweight frames and polarized lenses to prevent overexposure to ultraviolet rays.

Getting crystal clear views while on the water is no longer a dream since Oakley Holbrook boasts high-definition optics. Apart from that, these best sailing sunglasses boast stress-resistant frames to ensure they don’t snap when things suddenly get out of hand. Trust us; once you put on a Holbrook, you’ll never come back!

• What We Love:
  • Sleek, stylish, and super-functional sailing glasses. They carry polarized lenses and anti-stress frames.
• Pros:
  • Plastic frames
  • Polarized
  • Mirror coating
  • 2-year warranty
• Cons:
  • They’re a little smaller than we expected

Check Price & Info

Oakley Five Squared

3

As one of the world’s leading sunglasses brands, Oakley almost never releases a disappointing product. The Oakley Five Squared is no exception. They’re simply one of the most excellent sailing sunglasses you can get today. These shades offer nothing less than polarized Plutonite lenses, lightweight frames, and unmatched comfort.

The secret lies in the unique three-point fit design, which allows you to wear these sunglasses for hours without feeling any discomfort around your temples, nose, or ears. And just like any other Oakley sunglasses, Five Squared also carries high-definition optics. In other words, you won’t get anything but superior views while scanning the water’s surface. So, are you excited about these sunglasses for sailing review? Then click the link below and get your very own Oakley Five Squared today!

Speaking of sunglasses, nothing beats flip sunglasses when it comes to practicality. And if you’re interested in owning a pair, be sure to check out our best flip sunglasses for travel.

• What We Love:
  • One of the most excellent sailing sunglasses on the market today. Boasts lightweight frames and Plutonite lenses.
• Pros:
  • Includes a unique case
  • Maximum protection
  • Modern look
  • Lightweight
• Cons:
  • Not recommended for super intense sun

Check Price & Info

Kaenon Avila

2

Often dubbed as versatile sunglasses, Kaenon Avila is a pair of shades designed to flatter any face shape. These sunnies are actually made for women of medium or large size, but thanks to their slim fit, they’ll stay on your face all day without being too distracting. These sunglasses feature B-12 Gold Mirror lenses to eliminate glare, allowing you to get great clarity and enhanced colors while on the water. We also appreciate the fact that Avila comes with soft tinted lenses, which help you see better in intense sun.

As for color choices, these best sailing sunglasses are available in Driftwood, Black, and Matte Tortoise. Combine them with the lens colors of your choice for that sailing sunglasses you’ve been craving for so long. Even better, Kaenon is also taking orders for prescription lenses.

• What We Love:
  • A versatile pair of sunglasses designed to flatter any face shape
• Pros:
  • Made in the USA
  • Polarized
  • Butterfly silhouette
  • TR-90 frames
• Cons:
  • No cleaning kit included

Check Price & Info

Polaroid Wayfarer

1

While better known for its camera units, Polaroid actually has a pretty great lineup of sunglasses. The Polaroid Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses are worth considering when you need high-quality eye protection for your next sailing adventure. They have an exciting design, provide excellent coverage, and have a really good fit.

Polaroid seems to have understood very well that sun protection means everything to a sailor. That’s why they embedded fully polarized lenses with UV protection coating into Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses. Apart from that, these sunnies come with a padded nose section, allowing you to wear them for a long period of time without any painful pinching sensation. And if you think these sunglasses for sailing review didn’t provide enough insight, click the link below for more details on the awesome Polaroid Wayfarer.

• What We Love:
  • It has an exciting design, provides excellent coverage, and has a really good fit
• Pros:
  • Plastic frames
  • Polarized
  • UV protection
  • Imported
• Cons:
  • The frame is a little ‘tacky’

Check Price & Info

How to Choose The Best Sailing Sunglasses

Just like general glasses, the best sailing sunglasses come in various models, types, and prices. So how can you know which one will work best for you? Well, you need to think about what kind of scenario you’re facing while you’re away on the ship.

Remember that open water will make the sun super-intense. The reflections might blind you, preventing what might’ve been an enjoyable cruise. So with all of that in mind, here are three crucial factors you need to consider when reading sunglasses for sailing review or when you decide to buy a new pair.

Polarized Lens

Remember what we said about the ocean? They multiply glare, making the sun ultra-intense. So, it’s really important for you to get the best sailing sunglasses with polarized lenses. They’ll reduce glare much better than non-polarized lenses. Some brands, such as Costa and Oakley, even have specific technology to make lenses that can reduce the intensity of the sun.

UV Protection

UV coatings are one of the most-mentioned features in sunglasses for sailing review. That’s because they’re responsible for protecting your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. In the long term, excessive UV exposure can lead to several serious conditions, such as cataracts and blurred vision. However, please keep in mind that darker lenses don’t equal better UV protection. Therefore, we advise you to be more careful in reading product specifications. See what kind of coating or technology is used on the sunglasses.

And speaking of sunglasses, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a great new pair of shades. If you fancy the classic aviator style, check out our list of the best aviator sunglasses for cheap.

Style

Another important thing about the best sailing sunglasses is coverage. To make sure there’s only a minimum of UV light penetrating your eyes, you’ll want sunnies that can wrap almost around your head. Therefore, go with the wraparound sailing sunglasses. If you think it’s necessary, get shades with larger lenses. They’ll help protect the sensitive areas around your eyes.

Are Polarized Sunglasses Good for Sailing?

Polarization is just one aspect of a good pair of sunglasses for sailing. You also need to pay attention to the weight of the frame, ultraviolet protection, and fittings. That way, you can get the best vision on the water without harming your eyes and compromising your comfort.

Why Would a Sailor Wear Polarized Sunglasses?

Polarized lenses help reduce the intensity of the sun. This way, a sailor should be able to see better while on board. In addition, exposure to ultraviolet light is more damaging when you’re on the water. Therefore, wearing polarized sunglasses is a must.

Speaking of sunglasses, Ray-Ban is a brand that rarely disappoints us. If you’re interested in owning a pair of aviator shades from the California-based brand, then be sure to check out our best Ray Ban aviator sunglasses for women.

What are Blue Lenses Good For?

Blue lenses are said to improve the perception of color and contours of objects. For sailors, sunglasses with blue lenses help reduce glare and help them see better while on the water. Apart from that, some also believe that blue lenses have a calming effect on the eyes.