When fly fishing, it is important to have the right gear. One of the most important pieces of gear is a good pair of sunglasses. Not all sunglasses are created equal, though. Finding the best fly fishing sunglasses requires that you consider a few things. In this article, we will discuss what to look for when buying the best polarized fishing sunglasses and provide some recommendations for the best ones on the market!
GearHacking.com Selection Criteria for the Best Polarized Sun Glasses
When looking for the best polarized fishing sunglasses, there are a few things to consider. The first is the type of weather and water conditions you will be fishing in. The second is the type of fish you are targeting. The third is the clarity and color of the water. The fourth thing to consider is ultra-violet radiation protection. The fifth is the quality of the materials and durability. And finally, price is always a consideration.
Let's discuss each of these in turn.
Weather and Water Conditions
The type of weather and water conditions you will be fishing in should be a major consideration when choosing the best polarized fishing sunglasses. If you are fishing in sunny conditions, you will want a lens that provides good light transmission and eliminates glare. If you are fishing in low-light conditions, such as early morning or evening, or in cloudy weather, you will want a lens that allows more light to reach your eyes.
There are also different types of water bodies to consider. If you are fishing in open water, such as a lake or the ocean, you will want a lens that provides good coverage and eliminates glare from the sun bouncing off the water. If you are fishing in a river or stream, you may want a lens with less coverage to allow you to see more clearly through the water.
Water Clarity and Lens Color
The clarity and color of the water should also be considered when choosing sunglasses. If the water is clear, you will want a lens that allows you to see through it easily. If the water is murky or colored, you may want a lens that filters out some of the water color so you can see more clearly.
UV Protection
All sunglasses should provide some level of UV protection, but it is especially important to consider this when choosing the best polarized fishing sunglasses. Polarized lenses reduce glare by filtering out light that is horizontally polarized, which includes UV light. We only recommend the best polarized sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection since your eyes can be damaged from UV exposure over long periods of time. With so many options on the market today, there is no reason to settle for less.
Lens Clarity
The next thing to consider is the clarity of the lens. When fly fishing, you need to be able to see clearly so that you can spot fish in the water and tie knots easily. A good pair of polarized sunglasses will have lenses that are clear and free of distortion.
Lens Color
The color of the lens is also important. Some people prefer darker lenses while others prefer lighter lenses. Deep-sea ocean fishing is better with amber or blue lenses. Amber-colored glasses can help reduce glare and improve contrast in overcast or low-light conditions and the blue lenses remove the darker blues reflected from the deep sea. Blue-colored glasses can also help reduce glare and improve contrast, but they may make it more difficult to see some colors accurately.
Gray lenses are a good all-conditions color but are best for fishing in rivers or streams. They are ideal for use in the early morning or evening, or on cloudy days.
Gray lenses provide good contrast and allow you to see colors accurately but may not reduce glare as much as amber or blue lenses.
The best color for a polarized fishing lens depends on the conditions you are fishing in. For bright, sunny days on the ocean, blue is a great lens color. Green is a great lens color for fishing flats and shallow water. If you fish in low-light situations yellow and light red are great colors for polarized lenses.
Eye Protection
Another thing to consider is the level of eye protection you need. If you are fishing in a river or stream, you may want a lens that wraps around to keep branches and brush from poking your eye. The polarized glasses can also protect from hooks on the back cast or flies, flies pushed by the wind or flies that disengage from the fish.
Style and Look
The last thing to consider is the style of the sunglasses. There are many different styles on the market, from aviators to wrap-arounds. The style you choose should be based on your personal preference and what you find most comfortable to wear.
Some people prefer sunglasses that wrap around their face to keep the sun out of their eyes, while others find aviators to be more comfortable.
Price
Finally, you need to consider the price when choosing the best polarized sunglasses for you. Glasses range in price from around $20 to over $200. While there are some expensive options on the market, there are also some very affordable options that will provide the same level of protection and clarity. The best fly fishing sunglasses will have glass lenses for improved clarity and durability. Plastic lenses are lighter and cheaper but have a tendency to scratch easier. It is important to find a pair of polarized sunglasses that fits your budget and provides the features you need. It is important to find a pair that fits your budget but also provides good quality and features.
Accessories To Consider
These items are relatively inexpensive and help to increase longevity.
- Sunglass Retainers: Retainers are inexpensive and protect against losing sunglasses in the water, or damage from dropping them on hard surfaces that scratch, chip, or break the lenses.
- Protective Case: Cases are cheap protection for when the sunglasses are not being used. Cases also help establish a routine of placing sunglasses in the same place. My case goes into the console storage between the truck seats.
- Microfiber cleaning and storage bags: These items help protect your lenses with a quick place to store the glasses when not in use and provide a quick/convenient way to clean your lenses safely.
Best Fly Fishing Sunglasses
With so many factors to consider, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair of polarized fishing sunglasses. However, if you take the time to consider all of the factors we discussed above, you will be sure to find a pair that is perfect for you. We have reviewed many sunglasses on the market and have divided them into three categories: premium, mid-tier, and economy to fit any budget and style.
Take a look at the selection below and check out the polarized fishing sunglasses that are best for you!
Premium Polarized Fly Fishing Sunglasses
Premium polarized fly fishing sunglasses are designed for the serious angler. They are made with high-quality materials and offer superior protection from the sun and glare.
Mid-Tier Polarized Fly Fishing Sunglasses
Mid-tier polarized fly fishing sunglasses are a great option for those who want a good pair of glasses without spending a lot of money. These sunglasses are made with quality materials and offer good protection from the sun and glare.
Economy Polarized Fly Fishing Sunglasses
Economy polarized fly fishing sunglasses are a great option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option. These sunglasses are made with quality materials and offer good protection from the sun and glare.
No matter what your budget or style, there is a pair of polarized fishing sunglasses that is perfect for you! Be sure to check out the selection above and find the perfect pair for your next fly fishing adventure.
GearHacking's Top Picks for the Best Polarized Fly Fishing Sunglasses
1. Premium Gear – Smith Optics Guide's Choice Sunglasses
Gear Greatness
These sunglasses have a light lens with 100% polarization and 100% UV protection. The sunglasses come in a variety of frame and lens colors for fly fishing your preferred water bodies. The Smith Optics series is one of the most eco-friendly sunglasses in the world with high-quality lenses and materials that make them a premium pair of polarized fishing sunglasses. Many consider these to be the best fishing sunglasses on the market.
Tech Specs
- Chroma Pop Polarized lenses are optically tuned for enhanced glare reduction
- Water and oil resistant coatings with 100% UV protection
- Chroma pop filters deliver greater definition, natural color, and unmatched clarity for any lighting conditions
- Italian Out-Of-Sight spring hinges
- Fit: Medium-Large fit/ large coverage;
- 62 mm lens width x 42 mm lens Height x 17 mm bridge width x 120 mm Temple length;
- RX compatible
- Integrated/detachable sunglass leash
- Evolve eco-material construction with 53% bio-based material in the injected-polymer sunglasses
2. Premium Gear – Costa Del Mar Fantail Sunglasses
Gear Greatness
These sunglasses are also very popular among fly fishermen. They have medium-dark glass lenses with 100% polarization and come in a variety of frame colors. They are also available with prescription lenses. The sunglasses come in a variety of frame and lens colors for fly fishing your preferred water bodies. The blue mirrored lenses are great for harsh sun conditions with open reflective water and fishing in deep water.
Tech Specs
- Injected bio-resin frames with crystal lenses made in the US
- Polarized lenses with mirror coating and 100% UV protection
- Lens width: 59 millimeters
- Lens height: 38 millimeters
- Bridge: 14 millimeters
- Arm: 127 millimeters
- Patented 580G glass lenses provide scratch-proof clarity
#2 Premium Polarized Sunglasses
Costa Del Mar Fantail Polarized Fly Fishing Sunglasses
3. Maui Jim's Local Kine Wrap Sunglasses
Gear Greatness
Maui Jim's newest lenses are the perfect addition to any fly fishing outfit. This blue mirror coating provides a stylish new look that offers amazing color enhancement and clarity, just like all other Maui Jim shades! The lightweight construction makes them easy for extended wear time without getting uncomfortable or tiresome. These frames come in frames constructed from injection-molded nylon which gives you that chic edge even on the water.
Tech Specs
- Imported nylon frames
- Polarized glass lenses with coating for 100% UV protection
- Lens width: 61 millimeters
- Lens height: 39 millimeters
- Bridge: 18 millimeters
- Arm: 125 millimeters
- All Maui Jim sunglasses enhance colors
- Incredible durability
- Glare-free vision
#3 Premium Polarized Sunglasses
Maui Jim's Local Kine Wrap Polarized Fishing Sunglasses
Mid-Tier Polarized Fly Fishing Sunglasses
1. HUK Polarized Sunglasses
Gear Greatness
HUK Performance Fishing Sunglasses are perfect for anglers of all levels. With polarized polycarbonate lenses, performance frames, and an 8-layer lens wrap coverage, these sunglasses provide superior protection from the sun and glare.
The HUK Performance Fishing Sunglasses offer a variety of options to suit your individual needs. There are several frame and lens colors to choose. These are the best fishing sunglasses in the mid-tier gear category.
Tech Specs
- Imported plastic frames of TR90 that is strong and lightweight
- Polarized polycarbonate lens with 100% UV Protection
- Lens width: 64.2 millimeters
- Lens height: 38.9 millimeters
- Bridge: 16.7 millimeters
- Arm: 118 millimeters
- Lenses block glare, provide superior clarity, and are scratch and impact resistant
- 8-Base wrap lenses for greater light blocking
- Non-slip rubber arm ends
- Medium to large fit
2. Oakley Men's Crankshaft Rectangular Sunglasses
Gear Greatness
Oakley is a high-performance sporting sunglasses brand that is known and respected for style and quality. The Crankshaft series of sunglasses with polarized plastic lenses fits into the mid-tier gear category nicely.
Oakley Crankshaft sunglasses are perfect for fishing. The lenses are polarized to reduce glare and provide 100% UV protection. The frame is stress-resistant to prevent breakage, and the three-point fit ensures a comfortable day on the water.
Tech Specs
- Plastic frame and polarized lenses make this a lightweight pair of sunglasses
- Made in the US for better quality control
- UV Protection Coating for 100% protection
- Lens width: 60 millimeters
- Lens height: 37 millimeters
- Bridge: 19 millimeters
- Arm: 132 millimeters
- Oakley Plutonite Lenses provide 100% filtering of all UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400mm.
- Patented High Definition Optics provides optical clarity and sharp vision at all angles.
- Oakley’s O-Matter frame improves on strength & flexibility over acetate and does not shift or deform over time.
- Microbag provided to store sunglasses.
#2 Mid-Tier Polarized Sunglasses
Oakley Crankshaft Polarized Fly Fishing Sunglasses
3. B.N.U.S. Classic Polarized Sunglasses
Gear Greatness
The B.N.U.S. Classic Polarized Sunglasses are a high-quality option for those looking for superior fishing sunglasses in the mid-tier level of gear. The lenses are made with Corning glass and are polarized to reduce glare and provide 100% UV protection. The imported Italian frames that are colored using plant-based pigments instead of petroleum-based varnishes, making them environmentally friendly.
B.N.U.S. Classic Polarized Sunglasses are a great choice for the eco-conscious angler who wants quality sunglasses that will last. The sunglasses come with polarized and non-polarized options. We recommend the polarized for better visibility while fishing.
Tech Specs
- Imported composite frames from Italy
- Corning glass lenses
- Polarized or non-polarized - We suggest the polarized option
- Scratch-resistant coating for longer life
- Lens width: 56 millimeters
- Bridge: 17 millimeters
- Arm: 138 millimeters
- Corning glass lens provides the best clarity in material,
- Seawater corrosion-resistant lens
- 100% polarization reduces eye strain
- Blue mirror polarized is best for bright, full-sun situations on the open water and offshore
- Spring hinges for greater extension from the temple outward, providing comfort and reducing impacts from bending and impacts
- Italian sunglasses without the high price
Economy Tier Gear
1. KALIYADI Polarized Sunglasses (3 Pack)
Gear Greatness
Kaliyadi Polarized Sunglasses are perfect for anglers getting into fly fishing. This is a set of sunglass that comes in a three pack with various color option combinations. You can choose from three of the same lenses or lense colors of black, silver, mirror blue, green, orange, purple, brown, tortoise, and gradient gray. With three options, you can pick a combination that meets the needs on most waterbodies that you will be fly fishing. This makes the KALIYADI a very practical buy for entry-level fly anglers.
Tech Specs
- Lens width: 52 millimeters
- Lens height: 42 millimeters
- Bridge: 20 millimeters
- Arm: 145 millimeters
- 100% UV protection
- HD polarized lenses offer true color perception because of the neutral color coating
- Lenses eliminate reflected and scattered light
- Ultra-light materials for glasses frame
- Shatterproof polarized lenses with smoothed and polished edges
- 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
- Lifetime support
#1 Economy Polarized Sunglasses
KALIYADI Polarized Fly Fishing Sunglasses (3-pack)
2. DUCO Men's Sports Polarized Fishing Sunglasses
Gear Greatness
The DUCO Polarized Sunglasses are made from an aluminum-magnesium alloy that is lightweight and durable. The plastic lenses are triacetate and are impact and scratch resistant. These glasses only weigh 25g which is so light that you can hardly feel them. The sunglasses come in many frame and lens colors. This is a great option for entry-level fly anglers.
Tech Specs
- Imported Aluminum-Magnesium Metal Alloy Frame
- Lightweight AL-MG alloy design
- Lens Height: 40MM(1.57 inches)
- Lens Width: 68MM(2.67 inches)
- Temple Length: 126MM(4.96 inches)
- Nose Bridge: 16MM(0.62 inches)
- Frame Length: 144MM (5.67 inches)
- 100% UV 400 coating blocks 100% of harmful UVA & UVB rays.
- Visually restores true color, eliminates reflected or scattered light.
- Includes glasses case with carabiner, gift box, microfiber pouch, microfiber cleaning cloth and polarization test card;
- 30-Day Money Back Guarantee and Lifetime Breakage Warranty
2. RIVBOS Polarized Sports Sunglasses
Gear Greatness
Think outside the box with these stylish sunglasses! These frames were made for people who love to stay up on trends, but also need a strong pair that will last them through all sorts of adventures. The RIVBOS polarized sunglasses are made from lightweight TR90 material. These sunglasses are flexible and resistant enough so you don't worry about breaking your glasses when doing sports or just being active throughout everyday life. The flexible frame can withstand pressure without breaking while still looking stylish with their superior lenses that shield your eyes against UV rays so you don't have to worry about squinting or having watery eyes when fishing!
Tech Specs
- Durable TR90 plastic frame
- Polarized and mirror-coated plastic lenses made of triacetate cellulose (TAC)
- TAC has excellent optical properties a
- Restores true color, eliminates reflected and scattered light,
- 100% UV protection
- Hard case with buckle, strap, cleaning cloth, small pouch, a polarized test card, and an instruction book included
- 30-day money back guarantee for all RIVBOS products.
Best Fly Fishing Polarized Fishing Sunglasses FAQs
What color sunglasses are best for fly fishing?
There is no single "best" color of sunglasses for fly fishing, as different colors can offer different benefits depending on the situation. However, some common choices for fly fishing sunglasses include brown, green, and amber.
Brown lenses are good for general-purpose use and provide good contrast in most light conditions. Green lenses can help reduce glare and are best suited for brighter conditions. Amber lenses provide good visibility in low-light conditions and can also help reduce glare.
The best color of sunglasses for freshwater fishing or saltwater fishing depends on the specific conditions you'll be facing, so it's a good idea to have a few pairs of sunglasses with different colored lenses to choose from.
How do I choose fly fishing sunglasses?
There are a few things to consider when choosing sunglasses for fly fishing. The most important factor is that the lenses provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays. In addition, you'll want to find glasses that have polarized lenses to reduce glare.
The next consideration is fit. Make sure the sunglasses fit comfortably and don't pinch your temples or the bridge of your nose. And finally, consider the color of the lenses.
Darker lenses will offer more protection from blinding sunlight, but they can also make it harder to see flies and fish in clear water. Lighter-colored lenses may be better for those occasions when you need excellent clarity and contrast.
What are the best polarized sunglasses for seeing fish?
Yellow or green lenses are best for seeing fish. Blue light is scattered more than other colors by the water's surface, so it doesn't penetrate as deep. This means that with blue lenses, you'll see the surface of the water more clearly, but you'll be less likely to see fish swimming below the surface.
Yellow and green lenses don't scatter as much blue light as blue lenses do, so they allow you to see deeper into the water. This is why most sunglasses designed for fishing have yellow or green lenses.
What color polarized lens is best for water?
There is a lot of debate over which color polarized lens is best for water, but it depends on your personal preference. Many people prefer blue or green lenses because they can help reduce glare and brighten up the color of the water.
However, some people find that brown or amber lenses provide better contrast and help them see underwater structures more clearly. Ultimately, it's up to you to experiment with different colors and see which one works best for you.
Do polarized glasses help you see fish?
Polarized glasses can help you see fish by reducing glare and providing better contrast. This is especially helpful in clear water, where you might otherwise have a hard time spotting fish swimming below the surface. However, polarized lenses alone won't guarantee that you'll be able to see fish, as other factors like water clarity and depth also play a role.
Who makes good fishing sunglasses?
There are many different companies that make premium fishing sunglasses, including Costa Del Mar, Oakley, and Maui Jim. All of these companies offer polarized lenses and have a variety of lens colors to choose from.
In addition, all of these companies offer sunglasses in a variety of styles and price points, so you should be able to find a pair that fits your budget and needs.
Why do fishermen need vertically polarized fishing sunglasses?
Polarized fishing sunglasses are a must-have for any fisherman. Not only do they protect your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun, but they also help you see into the water.
Sunlight reflecting off the water’s surface can be very bright and glare-inducing, making it difficult to see below the surface. But with polarized fishing sunglasses, the glare is drastically reduced, allowing you to see into the water and spot fish that might otherwise be hidden.
In addition to helping you see better, polarized fishing sunglasses also reduce eyestrain and fatigue. If you’ve ever spent a long day on the water squinting against the brightness, you know how fatigued your eyes can become.
What are copper lenses good for?
Copper lenses are known for their ability to improve contrast and color rendition in many different lighting conditions. They are especially popular with nature and landscape photographers, as they can help accentuate the greens and blues in foliage and water.
What color polarized lens is best for bright days?
For bright days, many people prefer amber or brown lenses. These colors can help reduce glare and provide better contrast than lighter-colored lenses. Gray lenses are also a popular choice for bright days, as they offer good color rendition and won't distort your vision the way some other colors can.
Why are many fishing glasses blue?
As we mentioned earlier, blue lenses allow you to see the surface of the water more clearly. This can be helpful when you're trying to spot fish swimming below the surface. Blue lenses also reduce glare and brighten up the color of the water, making it easier to see into the depths.
What is better 580p or 580G?
There is no clear answer as to which is better, 580p or 580G. It depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you need glasses that will help you see better in low light conditions, then 580p lenses might be a better choice.
However, if you need glasses that will reduce glare and brighten up the color of the water, then 580G lenses might be a better choice. Ultimately, it's up to you to experiment with different colors and see which one works best for you.
Gear Up and Get Outdoors!
So, now that you have looked through all of the information above, you are probably ready to choose the best polarized sunglasses for you. The best sunglasses varies from person to person based on your style, your target species, the waterbodies you fish, how you treat your gear, and your pocketbook. We've tried to provide a variety of the best polarized sunglasses for you to choose from based on reading thousands of reviews and personal experience in fly fishing. We hope that you found this information helpful and that you find sunglasses that you love. All you have to do now is tap the Check Price button to Gear up and Get Outdoors! Thanks for stopping by!
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