Sailing is one of my greatest passions. There's nothing quite like being out on the water, feeling the wind in your face, and enjoying the freedom of the open sea. But if you're like me, you also know the importance of having the right gear. And when it comes to sailing, one item that's absolutely essential is a good pair of sunglasses. I’ve learned the hard way that not all sunglasses are created equal, especially when it comes to facing the harsh glare of the sun reflecting off the water.
For years, I struggled to find the perfect pair of sailing sunglasses. I started out with some cheap options, figuring that sunglasses are easily lost or broken on a boat. I remember thinking, "Why spend a lot of money on something that might end up at the bottom of the ocean?" I even joked that my favorite sunglasses were the ones other people left behind on my boat! But those cheap sunglasses never lasted. The frames would break after just a few months, and the lenses offered minimal protection from the sun's glare. The worst part was constantly squinting, which led to headaches and eye strain after a long day of sailing.
I then tried the Oakley Holbrooks. They were lightweight, and I appreciated the wide selection of replacement lenses available online. However, I still found myself worrying about losing or damaging them. I knew I needed something durable and reliable, but I wasn't sure where to turn.
That's when I decided to take a different approach. Instead of buying the cheapest sunglasses I could find, I decided to invest in a quality pair that would last. I had heard good things about Maui Jim sunglasses, so I decided to give them a try. I got a pair of Maui Jim Banyans, and they've been a game-changer. I've put them through a lot – about 2,000 miles offshore and local inshore racing a few times a month – and they're still going strong.
I also realized the importance of polarized lenses. Polarized lenses reduce glare, making it easier to see on the water. I discovered that if you're considering Costas, go for the glass lenses. Otherwise, they are similar to other brands. The key thing is to find sunglasses that fit well and don't fall off when you look around. Everything else is bound to get lost eventually.
I also experimented with prescription sunglasses. I have vision issues, and having prescription sunglasses made a huge difference in my comfort and clarity while sailing. If you have vision insurance, it might cover a significant portion of the cost. It's worth checking out!
And here’s another thing: I recently tried something new for my everyday use. I found these VANLOOK Photochromic Myopia Glasses online. I have a slight prescription, and these glasses are amazing because they automatically adjust to the light. They also block blue light, which is great for when I'm working on my computer. I was initially hesitant, but I figured I would give them a try. I ordered the -5.75 version.
I have to say, I've been pleasantly surprised. They’re so convenient! I can wear them inside and outside, and they automatically darken in the sunlight. Plus, they're comfortable to wear for long periods. If you're looking for versatile glasses that can handle both indoor and outdoor activities, you might want to check these out. They're available on Cinily Net.
Based on my experiences, here are some practical tips for choosing the right sailing sunglasses: