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12 Best Polarized Sunglasses for Sight Fishing

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The Oakley Holbrook Square Sunglasses tops our list of the best-polarized sunglasses for sight fishing. They feature a classic design and modern Oakley technology that offer excellent eye coverage, thus optimizing the spirit of adventure and exploration. These shades come with plutonite lenses that provide 100 UVs and protect you from harmful blue light. They are also durable and cost-effective. If comfort is your utmost priority, the Costa Del Mar Sunglasses are your perfect choice. These shades feature lightweight polycarbonate plastic, providing high clarity and impact resistance for all-day wear. They also come with crystal lenses that are water, oil, and sweat-repellant, so you can easily clean them and resume your fishing journey. Costa Del Mar Sunglasses features durable high-tech glass lens that blocks at least 99.9% of glare. 

Polarized sunglasses are handy when sight fishing as they help block glare so you can see your target easily. They come in different designs and types, so you are spoilt for choices. Here are the best-polarized sunglasses you can buy today.

Best Polarized Sunglasses for Sight Fishing

We’re sharing the best polarized sunglasses for sight fishing to help you choose the right one for you. While picking out the best seven fishing sunglasses, we look at functionality, style, and affordability, among other features. 

These sunglasses listed here are worth whatever amount you spend on them. While considering functionality, we also look at aesthetics. The sunglasses reviewed here are not only practical but fitting and affordable.

1. Oakley Holbrook Polarized Square Sunglasses

Best Overall

Key Features

  • Provide 100 UV protection
  • Affordable
  • Glare reduction and tuned light transmission

Oakley sunglasses are a great choice for many sight-fishing enthusiasts. They have a timeless, classic design fused with modern Oakley technology that epitomizes the spirit of adventure and exploration. The shades have a larger frame that offers excellent eye coverage for a large fit. They are durable and cost-effective.

The shades are equipped with iconic frame designs with Oakley icons and metal rivets, making them ideal for people who want equal parts performance and style. The plutonite lenses help to block 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC, and harmful blue light up to 400mm for optimal protection and comfort.


2. Costa Del Mar Rincon Sunglasses

Best for Comfort

Key Features

  • Adaptable to any lighting and weather conditions
  • Lightweight frame
  • Available in a wide range of color options
  • Crystal lens
  • UV protection coating

The Costa Del Mar sunglasses are ideal for people who spend long days outdoors, particularly in open water. They have a few key features that make them unique for optimal eye protection. The shades are made of polycarbonate plastic material that provides impact-resistant, high clarity, and lightweight for all-day wear.

The C-Wall molecule bonded mirrors ensure that the sunglasses are oil, water, and sweat-repellant for easy cleaning. The shades offer the highest level of effectiveness possible to cut glare and reduce eye strain and headaches.

The shades have a co-injected nylon frame that is manufactured using the bio-resin process; hence they are long-lasting and tough. The lenses block potentially harmful blue light rays and protect against 100% of Ultraviolet rays.

Costa’s proprietary 580G glass lenses offer scratch-resistant clarity. By blocking the right amount of harsh yellow light and possibly harmful blue light while increasing healthy reds, blues, and greens, 580 lenses outperform conventional polarized glasses.

The high-tech glass lens is 22% lighter and 20% thinner than the typical polarized glass lens used in the industry and still blocks 99.9% of glare, providing the superior clarity you need in your sight fishing. Costa’s mirrored lens protects your eyes from the bright sun and adds aesthetic value.


3. Under Armor Capture Sunglasses

Best Value for Money

Key Features

  • Polycarbonate lens
  • Plastic frame
  • Protection from UV light
  • Lens width: 64 millimeters
  • Come in a variety of frame color options

These polarized fishing sunglasses have a sleek and elegant design; thus, they are ideal for both style and performance. They are durable and versatile, and you can comfortably wear them throughout the day, thanks to the ArmourFushion frame.

The shades prevent distortion and protect your eyes from light waves, reflected light, and UV radiation. The polycarbonate lens makes the sunglasses lightweight and highly resistant to scratches.

Besides, they offer exceptional impact resistance and provide great clarity. These shades repel oil, dirt, sweat, and water.

The sunglasses are designed with co-molded rubber temple pads that enable the frame to conform well with your head for a secure fit—combined with a ventilated brow gasket and rubber nose pad, giving these fishing sunglasses better coverage and performance features.


4. SPY Optic Cyrus Sunglasses

Best for Style

Key Features

  • High-definition lenses
  • Durable
  • Protection from UV rays
  • Lightweight

SPY Optic Cyrus Sunglasses are stylish and offer a lot of fun in all your outdoor activities. They are equipped with Happy Lens Technology that protects you from short-wave blue light, which is known to harm the eyes.

The sunglasses come with Trident polarization to get rid of reflective light. They offer 100% UV400 eye protection and are effective in reducing glare to safeguard your eyes and offer the best possible level of visual comfort.

The high-definition lenses with visual performance and therapeutic benefits help to enhance color contrasts and improve alertness and mood. They come in various colors, allowing you to pick your favorite.

You can wear polarized sunglasses anywhere you go. They are ideal for many activities, including biking, fishing, hunting, boating, off-roading, and camping.


5. Smith Caper Sunglasses

Best for Mobility

Key Features

  • Anti-reflective lens
  • Various color choices
  • Elegant and stylish
  • Lightweight and comfortable

The Smith Caper Sunglasses from Smith Optics are specifically designed for women who love simple but classic shades. They are also a good choice for people seeking thrilling experiences in surfing, snowing, fishing, biking, and other outdoor adventures, thanks to the numerous frame and lens colors.

The shades are constructed with a unique blend of Evolve materials that contains 53% bio-based materials in the injected polymer. They feature auto-lock hinges, which are integrated, giving them a seamless appearance. The Megol nose pads are stable and comfortable, preventing them from sliding off your face.

The shades have lenses with multi-layer mirrors and hydrophobic lens coatings that help deliver optimal optical clarity and preserve color perception in all environments. The highly effective anti-scratch and anti-reflective coating make them suitable for use any time of the day, especially in low light conditions.

The unique ChromaPop glasses filter two light wavelengths that impact how you see color. This technology gives you a better definition, natural color, and enhanced clarity. The

Besides, the Tapered Lens Technology straightens incoming light rays, improving visibility for maximum comfort and accuracy. The sunglasses also reduce glare on water surfaces like the open ocean for greater clarity. This reduces depth perception and decreases visual acuity, which causes eye fatigue.


6. Strike King Okeechobee Sunglasses

Best for Adaptability

Key Features

  • Mirror coating
  • Affordable
  • Long-lasting
  • Protection from harmful UV rays

Are you on a tight budget and cannot afford expensive polarized sight fishing sunglasses? Consider the Strike King Okeechobee Shades are the best cheap polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes. They are suitable for use on sunny days.

The shades feature 11 layers of polarized lens technology and a Bi-Gradient mirror treatment that helps shield against intense glare. They come in different color choices, like gray and amber.

Unlike some cheap sunglasses that only offer partial UV protection, these sunglasses offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. The hydrophobic coating aids in preventing the accumulation of oil, water, and dust.

The lens colors are designed specifically to allow you to see fish under the water’s surface. The anti-reflective coatings offer excellent color contrast.


7. Costa Fantail 6S9006 Rectangle Sunglasses

  Key Features

  • Durable and lightweight
  • Extended side shields
  • Hydrolite rubber
  • Rectangular frame design
  • Plastic lens

These sight fishing sunglasses are long-lasting, lightweight, and comfortable to wear all day long. They are a little bit smaller than Costa Del Mar Blackfin though they offer excellent protection.

The temple tips and lenses allow the shades to fit most head shapes and sizes. Hydrolite rubber helps the sunglasses to remain firmly in place even if you start to sweat since they are more secure when wet.

The shades also feature vented adjustable nose pads that give you a perfect bridge fit. The polarized sunglasses are equipped with Costa’s 580® lens technology that helps to cut glare, filter blue light, and enhance color.

Eyewire drains and sweat channels prevent moisture from building inside the frames. The Costa Fantail comes in four frame colors, but the green mirror provides a copper base color, enhanced contrast, and 10% VLT.


8. Maui Jim Local Kine

 Key Features

  • Nylon frame
  • Glass lens
  • UV protection coating
  • Lightweight

The Maui Jim sunglasses are an excellent choice for men who want sleek, classic, and simple shades. They are versatile and offer exceptional coverage, thanks to the larger frame.

The sunglasses are suitable for fly fishing as the hydro/oleophobic layer repels water and oil. However, consider a Maui HT lens for shallow fishing expeditions in low-light conditions.

While the lens material provides the best visual experience, PolarizedPlus2® lenses offer the improved contrast you require. The shades feature very thin glass lenses that are 20% thinner and lighter than standard glass, making them more lightweight while offering excellent clarity.

They come in multiple lenses and four dark frame color options, including the green lenses, which are ideal for sight fishing.


9. Oakley Split Shot

 Key Features

  • Detachable leash
  • High wrap frame
  • Durable
  • Lightweight

Try this pair of sunglasses on your next fishing trip for a big catch. They are the favorite lenses for most anglers since they are comfortable, and you spend the entire day on the water without causing eye fatigue.

The shades are made using propriety material, O matter, and advanced technologies, giving you a durable frame and lightweight wear. The sleek temples and curved browline blend perfectly with various hats for long days you spend in the sun.

The sunglasses feature Prizm shallow water polarized lenses that help decrease glare and spot fish even on vegetation or muddy water.

The polarized glass allows you to swap between lenses based on your angling type, whether bass fishing or fly fishing.


10. Costa Del Mar Men’s Blackfin 580P

 Key Features

  • Classic
  • Resin frame
  • Hydrolite co-injected lining
  • Lightweight

The Blackfin 580P is a trusted tool for anglers, making them the best bass fishing sunglasses. These good sunglasses are a great addition to any tackle box for every fishing trip, as they offer excellent clarity and performance.

The polarized sunglasses work better in different weather conditions, including cloudy days and lower light conditions. The 580 lenses decrease yellow light, allowing you to see more greens, blues, and reds.

The scratch-resistant coatings help to repel water, sweat, and oil. The good news is that Costa offers a lifetime warranty for these shades. The color varieties comprise yellow, copper, silver, gray, silver, and blue mirrors.


11. Smith Survey

 Key Features

  • Rectangular frame design
  • Megol nose pads
  • Taller lens shape
  • Thicker temples

The shades are unisex and are ideal for people who want extra coverage to shield them from elements. The Megol nose pads will guarantee a good fit and all-day comfort. These glasses provide more grip when you sweat.

The sunglasses are oil, impact, and water-resistant; hence they are easy to clean. The taller lens and thicker temples offer further sun protection.

With these shades, you never worry about dangerous light rays or glare, thanks to the UV protection and polarization feature. The lenses are made of polycarbonate material for durability and clarity purposes. They are available in three color options: brown, blue, and gray.


12. Native Eyewear Eddyline

 Key Features

  • Lightweight
  • Protective coating
  • High-definition color-enhancing filtration
  • Impact resistant

Interchangeable lenses make these sunglasses unique, which help you adjust to varying lighting conditions. The Rhyno-Tuff airframes are made from a unique high-performance thermoplastic material that is incredibly light while still being strong enough to endure collisions at high speeds and harsh temperatures.

The Native Eyewear Eddyline lenses are equipped with hydrophobic and scratch-resistant coatings as standard equipment to reduce the impacts of sweat and moisture while defending against unforeseen impacts.

The hydrophobic coating aids in repelling water, oil, and sweat. These shades are ultra-light, thanks to the thermoplastic material.


best polarized sunglasses for sight fishing
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Tips for Choosing the Best Polarized Sunglasses for Sight Fishing

You need the right sunglasses for sight fishing to help you view the fish and safeguard your eyes from UV radiation. Please note that not all sunglasses will cater to your specific needs. Here are some things you have to consider before purchasing polarized sunglasses for sight fishing:

Polarization Quality

The first thing to consider when you want to buy polarized sunglasses is polarization quality. You are aware that polarized lenses are best, but all lenses are not manufactured equally. For instance, though inexpensive polarized sunglasses don’t provide much protection, they are still preferable to nothing. This is because they only have a thin lamination on the lens’s front that wears off with time.

High-end, expensive lenses offer greater polarization and superior scratch resistance. The durability of the eyewear increases with film thickness. To know if the sunglasses are polarized, check the test tag. Tilt the lenses at 90 degrees. If you notice some darkening, then the shades are polarized.

UV Protection

The primary goal of polarized sunglasses is to shield your eyes from dangerous UV rays. Most fishing sunglasses provide UV protection, though you have to check well. Most cheap shades do not offer this great feature. Pick lenses that completely block UV radiation for your safety.

Type of Lens

There are two different types of lenses available for sunglasses: polycarbonate and glass. A glass lens gives more precise sights even if polycarbonate glass is less expensive.

Polycarbonate glasses are less likely to break than glass lenses. If you choose glass lenses, you must exercise caution because they are prone to breaking.

Since they are simple to pick up if they fall, polycarbonate lenses are safer. Suppose you are choosing between a glass and a polycarbonate lens. In that case, you should consider whether the added clarity that glass offers justify paying more for it than a polycarbonate lens.

Lens Color

Lenses come in a variety of colors. Your choice of hue will depend on what is most practical for you. You should keep in mind that you can go fishing in the mornings, afternoons, evenings, and nights. Regardless of the time you select, you should choose a pair of sunglasses that will allow you to see clearly at all times during your outing.

One of the best colors for “general use” is gray. It filters light more effectively than other tints since it is darker. Your eyes’ perception of color is not affected. The drawback to that is that they don’t provide much contrast.

You can benefit more from green lenses for fog and low light conditions. They also do not affect the way to see color; hence there is decreased contrast. In addition, they don’t obstruct as much light due to their lighter tint.

Since they are lighter compared to green lenses, yellow lenses are excellent for cloudy days. They are perfect for people who suffer from eye strain.

The Frames

Sunglasses frames come in a variety of frame styles. Choosing a frame that will survive for a long time is crucial. Because of their endurance, sports sunglasses are preferred by some angles, while others choose aviator sunglasses.

Plastic frames on sports sunglasses are flexible and unlikely to shatter easily. Sports sunglasses are advised if you frequently go fishing.

Going for sports sunglasses is preferable if you enjoy afternoon fishing because some have a wraparound design that shields your eyes from sun rays that may enter from the sides.

Durability and Fit

Most sunglasses will be reasonably durable unless you choose the cheapest pair of shades. If you want to drop your sunglasses, search for terms like “anti-scratch.” and “impact-resistant.” Ensure you purchase a case if your sunglasses don’t come with one. The case will protect your shades from dust and falls when not in use.

Also, make sure you get a lanyard by measuring your face for a snug fit. Your sunglasses should not be too tight. Tight shades will make you irritate your nose, or you will develop marks on your face after only a few hours of use.

Price

How much money are you willing to spend on polarized shades? The amount you wish to spend on your sunglasses will determine the quality and type of sunglasses to go for.

The shades come in different price tags depending on the manufacturer and technology used in manufacturing them. Some shades are costly, while others are cheap.

The glasses are more than just a stylish accessory; their primary role is safeguarding your eye’s well-being. For anglers, consider buying fishing sunglasses with all the essential fishing features.

The cheapest sunglasses cannot last for an extended period, so keep that in mind when you plan your spending. Inexpensive sunglasses could not durable enough to endure the environment and aging.

Aesthetic Preference

Your preferences are also necessary when choosing the right sunglasses for yourself. While it is essential to consider factors relating to functionality and durability, you also have to consider what you will be glad to put on.

For instance, you may want to consider the design and shape of a frame. Some sunglasses, like the aviator ones, are usually stylish but may not last as long as others that are not so stylish.

Sports sunglasses may not be as stylish as aviator sunglasses, but they will last longer. If you wish to go for sports sunglasses, you can choose some that offer some form of aesthetic appeal.

Coverage

You must protect your eyes from dangerous UV rays from all sides. Most shades feature an 8-base wrap frame and added side shields or hooding for more comprehensive sun protection. Therefore, ensure you choose good sunglasses with more coverage features.

Lens Technology

With lens technologies that improve contrast, you can forget about missing the bass below and eye strain. Polarized lenses boost clarity and contrast and filter glare.

Secure Fit

The last thing you want is a falling frame to startle your fish after approaching slowly and quietly. In today’s lineup, all frames include conveniently placed rubber grips, so you are sure they will remain in position when you need them most.

Related Questions

Are Polarized Sunglasses Most Ideal for Sight Fishing?

Yes, the majority of sight anglers consider polarized sunglasses to be crucial. This is due to the requirement that you have to look straight at the water during sight fishing. And because of that, there will be plenty of glare, particularly in sunny weather.

When the sun and water combine, they form glare, which makes it practically impossible to look for fish in such glaring light waves. The water is still sparkling even on cloudy days, hampering sight fishing.

Sunglasses with polarization are specifically made to lessen glare. If you are a seasoned angler who has only recently begun sight fishing, you could find that your favorite lenses are not much perfect.

Consider high-quality alternatives if you’re a beginner in sight fishing or need to upgrade your worn-out sunglasses. Fishing will be more enjoyable for you and help you find the rare fish you’re chasing, thanks to modern technology and protected frame designs.

Which Lens Color Is Suitable for Fishing?

Sunglasses lens colors are available in numerous options. The most favorite colors include blue and copper mirrors. The copper lenses help to protect you against blue light, allowing you to view more color contrasts that are essential for sight fishing.

In addition, copper lenses give excellent clarity in low light conditions and enhance your depth perception. Many people prefer fishing on overcast days, and using grey lenses will make it difficult to see beneath the water. This makes copper lenses most suitable for fish during cloudy days since they are a little lighter. Gold and yellow lenses offer the same advantages.

Blue mirror lenses work best on sunny and bright days, mainly if you fish in saltwater. They also offer optimum eye protection and are popular among anglers who fish at the beach.

Conclusion

Polarized sunglasses are usually equipped with UV protection that shields your eyes from UV rays and allows you to see fish under the water more clearly. Glare can mess up your fishing day, but the right sunglasses can transform it.

The above are the best-polarized sight fishing sunglasses. Most of them are durable, lightweight, and perfectly reduce extreme glare. Consider things like polarization quality, price, and durability when buying a new pair of sunglasses. Pair them with a sun hat, and you’re good to go!

Jon Stenstrom
Founder & Angler
Jon Stenstrom is a fishing enthusiast. He has over 25 years of fishing experience, and 6 years of spearfishing experience, and is currently learning how to boat. Jon has his Open Water PADI Certification and FII Freediver Level 1 Certification. Jon has traveled the world to fish and dive, most notably in the Great Barrier Reef, Baja Mexico, Thailand, and Malaysia. More Articles
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