Surf sunglasses are specially designed goggles that protect your eyes in and around water, sometimes with polarized lenses that reduce glare caused by water and wet surfaces.
Surfers are often exposed to prolonged sunlight. Sun rays are magnified by the reflective ocean surface, causing pterygiums and cataracts in many ocean sports enthusiasts.
Protecting your eyes with effective surf sunglasses is compulsory. Did you know that the reflection and scattering of UV rays off the water can increase UV exposure by 25 percent?
So, what makes a safe pair of sunglasses for surfing?
The quality of the lenses, the ventilation system, the quality of the rubber ear stems, the weight, and the floatability of the spectacles.
Cheap shades may cause irreversible damage to your eyes, for example, starting with headaches.
The perfect surf sunglasses will not distort vision and will always ensure a perfect fit.
The best way to prevent fogging from your surfing specs is by choosing a model with proper ventilation. Don't buy surf sunglasses that look good, but close all the angles around your vision with plastic.
Secure leashes, removable straps, and good floatation are interesting add-ons but are not critical. Eyewear for surfers and water sports enthusiasts focuses on impact-resistant, light polycarbonate lenses.
Dragon Alliance H2O The Jam
The "Dragon Alliance H2O The Jam" will stay afloat in the ocean, pool, and lake. The floatable collection is made with a specially formulated injected frame designed to never lose your shades in the water again.
Buy: Amazon.com
Quiksilver The Ferris
The "Ferris" by Quiksilver are retro shades practically plucked off Ferris Bueller's head. If style is everything for you, they're yours for only $120.
Buy: Amazon.com
Quiksilver Bruiser
The "Bruiser" specs will never go out of style, and the polarized model is definitely worth $110.
Buy: Amazon.com
Smith Optics Lowdown Slim 2
The "Lowdown Slim 2" is the ultimate surfer's specs in a scaled-down size. Its lightweight frame, anti-reflective lens coating, and color-enhancing ChromaPop lenses make it a no-brainer.
Buy: Amazon.com
Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer
The "Original Wayfarer" by Ray-Ban is one of the most copied sunglass designs of all time. It's a surfer's spec for only $153.
Buy: Amazon.com
Ray-Ban Aviator
The "Aviator" is one of the most popular models of all time. They're a great pick for only $168.
Buy: Amazon.com
Oakley Frogskins
The "Frogskins" by Oakley will block those harmful UV rays as you stroll down the beach with your surf gear for only $123.
Buy: Amazon.com
Oakley Holbrook
The "Holbrook" surf sunglasses are a true, instant classic, and they're a great pick for just $153.
Buy: Amazon.com
Von Zipper Elmore
The "Elmore" by Von Zipper features a slightly oversized cool, and classic frame shape with UV-blocking lenses that will look good on any face. Only $75.
Buy: Amazon.com
Flying Fisherman Cove
The "Cove" by Flying Fisherman offers maximum peripheral viewing while blocking outside glare.
Buy: Amazon.com
The surf sunglasses review has been updated on January 15, 2024.
SurferToday may earn a small commission from affiliate program links in this article - at no additional cost to you. We only review and recommend products that we buy, receive, or select from a carefully curated list.
Words by Luís MP | Founder of SurferToday.com