By: Olivia Hudak on April 14th, 2022

The Best Sunglasses for Boating

One of the most necessary items you need to have with you on your boat are sunglasses. When the water starts reflecting the sun, you’ll be in trouble without them. But, what kind of sunglasses are the best for boating? 

Sunglasses protect your eyes from the bright sunlight. If you’re anything like me, you won’t even consider jumping on a boat without a pair or two of sunglasses. I wouldn’t be able to handle the bright summer sun without my favorite pair of shades.

The best way to handle the summer sun is with a good pair of polarized sunglasses. Many brands have polarized options that help reduce the reflection of light off of the water. Definitely a necessity when spending copious amounts of time on the water.  

Beyond that, looking for the best pair of sunglasses can be quite overwhelming because there are so many options. Lucky for you, sunglasses have many different categories for different activities. You just have to figure out which activities you will be doing while wearing your sunglasses.

For example, there are options for any type of boating activity such as cruising at high speeds, lounging, boating with your fur baby, or just being stylish. I'll help you narrow down your top choices in this article. Let’s go over what sunglasses will fit your needs the best.

Relaxing and Catching Rays

Are you someone who likes to take full advantage of the sun? When you’re on a boat all you plan to do is catch some rays and relax. Maybe you plan on reading a book while you spend some much-needed lounge time on the boat. 

To fully relax, you will most definitely want a pair of polarized sunglasses. Attempting to read a book while the sun is reflecting straight into your eyes is not very relaxing. Luckily, most sunglasses brands offer polarized sunglasses for your convenience. 

One brand that offers an array of sunglasses perfect for a relaxing day out on the water is Ray-Ban. Ray-Ban offers many different styles and they’re known for a timeless look. 

Another fan favorite among boaters is the Maui Jim brand. They also offer lots of polarized options and a plethora of styles to choose from. This is a brand I frequently see on sale at marinas and boat dealerships. 

My personal favorite go-to boating sunglasses are Blenders. They are priced affordably making it less painful when I lose them in the water. So, if you’re anything like me who loses my sunglasses more often than I’d like to admit, check these out. 

When it comes to relaxation on the boat, you can’t go wrong with the sunglasses you decide on. Whatever your style is, there is a pair of sunglasses out there for you.

Going Fast

Some people don’t own a boat to relax, they own it to go fast. These people will often be seen doing hot laps around their lake or racing to the best fishing hole during a bass tournament. If you’re going fast, you want good protection for your eyes. 

From a safety standpoint, you’re going to need polarized sunglasses so the reflection of the sun on the water doesn’t impair your vision. You’re also going to want sunglasses that protect your eyes from the wind. It won’t be fun if you aren’t able to see, not to mention dangerous. 

A solid option for someone who seeks speed on the water would be Oakley sunglasses. Oakley offers a wide range of styles and polarized options. Whichever style you decide to go with, your eyes will be well protected from the sun and the wind. 

Now, if you’re looking for a brand that screams speed, you may want to look at Pit Vipers. Pit Vipers take a retro approach and definitely make a statement. These sunglasses are also polarized and protect your eyes making them a great candidate for people who enjoy the thrill of speed on the water. 

Always remember, if you’re flying around on your boat, be cautious and put safety first. Although boats are fun and should be enjoyed, think about the safety of those onboard and also other boaters out on the water. 

Stylish Sunnies

Some boaters don’t have any interest in touching the water, let alone swimming in it, which is completely fine. For those who just want to enjoy the views from the boat, you’re going to want to keep a pair of shades on at all times.

If you’re looking for sharp, stylish sunglasses, lucky for you there are hundreds of options out there. A chic brand to check out if you’re going for style is Versace. Although pricey, this brand offers the latest high-fashion styles. 

Along those same lines, there are lots of trendy options for those with expensive taste. Other brands you may want to check out in this case include Gucci and Prada. These sunglasses brands are great for high fashion and low-intensity activities. 

If you’re looking for style on a budget, check out Armani Exchange sunglasses. Another price-friendly option to consider, as I mentioned before, are Blenders. They have a ton of styles you can choose from without having to spend a ton of money. Plus, that way if you ever lose them it’s not as painful.

If you choose to purchase expensive sunglasses to wear out on your boat, be mindful when leaning over the edge or jumping in for a swim. It takes only a second for glasses to slip down your nose and plop into the water. 

Pet Sunglasses

If you enjoy spending time with your pet out on the boat, you may want to consider getting them a pair of sunglasses as well. I know it may sound crazy, but their eyes need to be protected just as much as your own. 

Some pet brands offer sunglasses and goggles. Goggles are likely the better option as they would be harder for an animal to take them off. Just like your own sunglasses, many different shapes and styles are offered to fit your pet's personality perfectly. 

Ways to Not Lose Your Sunglasses

There is one accessory that prevents you from losing your sunglasses. Maybe one of the most important boating accessories is called Croakie. You can find Croakies in any design or style you can imagine. Croakies range from bright colors to gold chains. They also have floating Croakies which can come in handy for boating. 

Now, they are not always the most attractive thing to be wearing but trust me, after losing pair after pair of sunglasses in the water, they do make sense to use. They help prevent you from losing your favorite sunglasses while you’re spending time out on the boat. 

Other ways to prevent the loss of sunglasses would be to designate a spot in your boat where they will land anytime you take them off. The glovebox is a good place to keep your boat sunglasses or any well-sealed storage compartment. Wherever you decide, it can help you from losing your sunglasses.

If you do end up losing your sunglasses, don’t fear, there are plenty of places to pick up a new pair while boating. Typically, local marinas on the water offer sunglasses for sale. This will allow you to find a pair that would work for the time being until you can replace the pair you lost. 

Spending Time in the Sun

Sunglasses are a critical item to have onboard any time you take the boat out. They will protect your eyes which is important on those bright sunny days and even on those gloomy days.

UV rays will still be out even if the sun is hiding behind the clouds. Remember that polarized lenses are best when it comes to long days in the sun and make sure to find a pair that feels comfortable for hours at a time. 

Check out which sunglasses fit your style the best and get yourself a pair, maybe two to be safe. It wouldn’t hurt to purchase a Croakie to match while you're at it to reduce the chance of losing them in the water. 

Don’t be afraid to get a pair of sunglasses or goggles for your beloved pet as well. It will only make their time on the boat more enjoyable.

Last but not least, enjoy your boat and keep safety at the forefront. Eye protection is just as important as SPF so keep a pair of shades on board at all times. This will ensure that you will be covered any time you get out on the water and take in the Vitamin D.