2024-09-10
Whether you spend your weekends fishing on the Bow River, kayaking at Kananaskis, or wakeboarding at one of southern Alberta's many lakes, your eyes face a unique set of challenges on the water. Intense glare reflecting off the surface, spray, wind, and prolonged UV exposure all take their toll. The right pair of sunglasses is not just about comfort; it is about safety and long-term eye health.
Why Water Demands More from Your Sunglasses
Water surfaces reflect up to 100 percent of UV rays that hit them, compared to roughly 25 percent for sand and 80 percent for snow. This means your eyes receive UV radiation from above and below simultaneously when you are on or near water. Standard sunglasses that might be fine for a walk through town often fall short in these conditions.
The combination of direct sunlight plus reflected glare creates an extremely bright visual environment that causes squinting, eye fatigue, and potentially dangerous situations where you cannot see obstacles, other boats, or changes in water conditions. Over time, repeated unprotected exposure contributes to conditions like pterygium (surfer's eye), cataracts, and macular degeneration.
Polarized Lenses: The Essential Feature
For any activity involving water, polarized lenses are the single most important feature to look for. Polarization works by filtering out horizontally-oriented light waves, which are exactly the type of light that creates glare off flat surfaces like water.
The practical benefits for water enthusiasts are dramatic:
- Glare elimination: The shimmering, blinding reflection off the water surface is almost entirely removed, revealing the true colours and textures of the water and surrounding landscape.
- See below the surface: Anglers particularly appreciate this. With polarized lenses, you can often see fish, rocks, and structure beneath the water that are invisible to the naked eye or through non-polarized sunglasses.
- Reduced eye fatigue: Without constant squinting against glare, your eyes stay relaxed and comfortable throughout long days on the water.
- Improved safety: Better visibility means you can spot submerged hazards, other watercraft, and changes in water depth more easily.
Maui Jim is widely regarded as the leader in polarized lens technology. Their PolarizedPlus2 lenses manage glare, enhance colour, and block 100 percent of UV rays. For water activities, their bronze and HCL bronze lens tints are particularly effective, enhancing contrast on the water while maintaining natural colour perception.
Choosing the Right Lens Tint for Water
Not all lens colours perform equally on the water. Here is a guide to matching your tint to your primary water activity:
| Lens Tint | Best For | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Copper/Bronze | Fishing, general boating | Excellent contrast, enhances depth perception on water |
| Grey | Bright open water, sailing | True colour reproduction, highest light reduction |
| Green | Variable conditions | Good contrast with natural colour balance |
| Blue Mirror | Open ocean, bright conditions | Reduces intense brightness, stylish appearance |
| Yellow/Amber | Low-light fishing, overcast days | Maximum contrast in flat light conditions |
Floating Frames: Insurance Against the Inevitable
If you spend enough time on the water, your sunglasses will eventually end up in it. Floating frames are made from lightweight materials, typically expanded foam-injected nylon or similar buoyant polymers, that keep your sunglasses on the surface if they take an unexpected swim.
What to Look For in Water-Ready Frames
- Buoyant materials: Frames designed for watersports often use materials like Megol rubber or specialized nylon composites that are inherently lightweight enough to float, even with lenses installed.
- Hydrophobic coatings: Lenses with water-repellent coatings shed water droplets quickly, restoring clear vision after spray hits your face.
- Non-slip grip: Rubberized nose pads and temple tips that actually grip better when wet are crucial. Many premium sport frames use materials designed for this purpose.
- Wraparound design: A curved frame that wraps around the sides of your face blocks peripheral light and wind, and also helps keep the sunglasses in place during activity.
- Ventilation: Some frames include small vents or gaps that allow airflow to prevent fogging, which is common when transitioning between cool water spray and warm air.
Oakley offers several frames well-suited to water activities, with their Unobtainium nose pads and ear socks that increase grip with perspiration and moisture. Their Prizm Water lens technology is specifically engineered for water environments, enhancing reds and greens to improve detail and depth perception on the water.
Retainer Straps and Accessories
Even with floating frames, a quality retainer strap is essential for serious water activities. Modern straps are a far cry from the neon Croakies of the 1990s. Look for:
- Neoprene straps that float and are comfortable against wet skin.
- Quick-release mechanisms for easy on and off.
- Adjustable tension to keep frames snug during high-speed activities like waterskiing or wakeboarding.
Prescription Options for Water Sports
If you need vision correction on the water, you have several options. Prescription polarized sunglasses give you the best optical clarity combined with glare protection. At Fantastic Glasses, we can fit polarized prescription lenses into many sport and wraparound frames, giving you a dedicated pair of water-ready eyewear.
Alternatively, some water enthusiasts prefer wearing contact lenses under non-prescription sport sunglasses. Daily disposable lenses are ideal for this, as you can discard them after a day on the water without worrying about contamination from lake or river water. If a lens gets dislodged by spray, you simply pop in a fresh one.
Our 3-for-1 deal starting at $199 is a smart option for water sports enthusiasts. You can get your everyday pair, a dedicated water sports pair with polarized lenses, and a clear-lens backup pair, all at one price.
Caring for Your Water Sport Sunglasses
Salt water, chlorine, and even fresh lake water can damage lens coatings over time if not properly cleaned. After every water outing:
- Rinse frames and lenses thoroughly with fresh, clean water.
- Dry with a clean microfibre cloth, never paper towels or clothing.
- Store in a hard case to prevent scratches during transport.
- Periodically tighten screws, as water and vibration can loosen frame hardware.
Find Your Perfect Water Sport Sunglasses
The right pair of sunglasses can transform your experience on the water, from squinting and straining to relaxed, clear-eyed enjoyment. At Fantastic Glasses in Okotoks, we carry a wide selection of polarized sunglasses from brands like Maui Jim, Oakley, and Ray-Ban, all suited for active lifestyles.
Stop by our store or book an appointment to discuss your water sport eyewear needs. Our team can help you choose the right lens tint, frame style, and fit for your favourite activities. With a free eye test included with every purchase, there is no better time to upgrade your on-water vision.