The 6 best polarised sunglasses for boaters

When you’re out on the water, sunlight reflects off the surface and creates a glare that can strain your eyes, obscure hazards and cause discomfort. This is why a great pair of polarised sunglasses is essential for boaters, even on cloudy days.

Polarised sunglasses have been designed to cut through glare and improve visibility. Whether you’re navigating coastal waters, fishing offshore or enjoying a leisurely trip, the right sunglasses can help you spot buoys, read the water and reduce eye fatigue in bright conditions.

Lens quality, UV protection, frame fit, durability and tint colour affect how well polarised sunglasses work, so it’s important that you know what you’re looking for. In this guide, we share some of the best choices, highlighting options that combine glare reduction, full UV protection and other practical features.  

The best polarised sunglasses for UK boaters

The best polarised sunglasses for you depends on a variety of factors, including the style you like, brand preference, budget and how often you plan to wear them. Here are six great options:

1. Oakley Holbrook XL Sunglasses

Oakley Holbrook XL Sunglasses are classic and versatile with a durable frame that’s ideal for boaters. Designed for everyday wear and outdoor use, they offer excellent glare reduction and UV protection while being comfortable enough to wear for hours.

Pros

• Excellent lens clarity with polarisation
• Suitable for daily wear
• Durable frame

Cons

• Not specialised for extreme marine glare
• Pricier than other options
• May slip without rubber grips

2. Gill Verso Sunglasses

Gill Verso Sunglasses are highly rated mid-range sunglasses designed for boating. These polarised sunglasses offer good clarity and comfort and feature Floating Frame Technology, which means they’ll float if dropped into water. They have a removable headband, offer 100% UV protection, and boast a coating that’s resistant to seawater.

Pros

• Designed for dedicated marine use
• Polarised lenses reduce water glare
• Floating technology helps to prevent loss overboard

Cons

• Limited advanced lens features
• Not as well-known as major brands
• Less premium build than high-end options

3. Savage Gear Savage2 Polarised Sunglasses

Savage Gear Savage2 Polarised Sunglasses are a budget-friendly option offering significant glare reduction. They are both lightweight and practical, featuring UV400-rated lenses in a range of colours – perfect for boaters looking for effective eye protection at an affordable price. They also have non-slip nose and temple pads plus anti-fog ventilation, providing all you need for long days out on the water.

Pros

• Excellent value for money
• Strong polarisation for glare control
• Lightweight and comfortable

Cons    

• Lack premium build quality
• Limited frame options
• Less durability for heavy use

4. O'Neill Offshore Sunglasses

O’Neill Offshore Sunglasses are another affordable option if you’re looking for budget-friendly sunglasses or a reasonable backup pair. Delivering 100% UV protection and glare reduction, they are lightweight and feature a simple design with a blue frame and grey-tinted lenses.

Pros

• Very budget-friendly
• Lightweight, simple design
• Good basic UV and glare protection

Cons

• Less advanced lens technology than other options
• Lower frame durability
• Fewer marine-specific features

5. Ray‑Ban RB2140 Unisex Polarised Wayfarer Sunglasses

Ray‑Ban RB2140 Unisex Polarised Wayfarer Sunglasses are a Ray-Ban classic with a slightly chunky frame and timeless appeal. These sunglasses offer excellent eye protection and polarised clarity while on the water, and their unisex design makes them popular with all boaters.

Pros

• Polarised lenses for glare reduction
• Iconic design and unisex style
• UV protection

Cons

• A heavier build may feel bulky over long days
• Expensive
• Don’t float when dropped in the water

6. SunGod Unisex Classics 4 Sunglasses

SunGod Unisex Classics 4 Sunglasses boast high-quality polarised lenses, 100% UV protection, a lightweight, flexible frame, and a hydrophobic coating. They offer clear vision and reduced glare on the water, and are available in a range of colours. Plus, they provide excellent impact resistance and come with a lifetime guarantee. They’re a great investment.

Pros

• Polarised lenses cut glare
• Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
• Hydrophobic coating to keep lenses clear

Cons

• Not as wraparound as other options
• Premium price relative to basic polarised sunglasses
• Design is more suited to casual boating than performance sailing

Tips for choosing the best polarised sunglasses for boaters

When picking the right glasses, the following tips should help.

1. Prioritise true polarisation – Polarised lenses reduce glare from sunlight reflecting off the water, improving visibility of potential hazards while also reducing squinting and eye strain.
2. Look for UV protection – Light reflected off the water intensifies UV exposure, meaning the right sunglasses can protect your eye health.
3. Choose the right lens material – Go for lightweight, durable lenses that will stay strong against salt spray and accidental impact.
4. Consider frame design and a secure fit – Wraparound frames or those that sit close to your face will block light and wind, while rubberised nose pads help keep them secure.
5. Pick the right lens colour – Different lens colours affect contrast and visibility. Grey lenses maintain true colours, brown lenses enhance contrast and depth perception, and mirrored lenses reflect extra light and reduce brightness.
6. Evaluate protective features – Some polarised sunglasses boast protective extras that make them ideal for boaters, including hydrophobic coatings, anti-fog features, and even floating frames.

FAQs

What is the best polarised sunglasses brand?

There are several polarised sunglasses brands that are popular for different reasons. Oakley sunglasses are particularly popular with boaters and outdoor enthusiasts for their durable frames and high-quality optics, whereas other options, such as Ray-Ban, SunGod, and Gill, offer advanced lens technology, excellent glare reduction, and unrivalled comfort in bright conditions.

What is better, UV or polarised sunglasses?

For boaters, it’s best to choose polarised sunglasses that offer UV protection. Sunglasses that offer both will reduce glare while protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. This is especially important when boating, as these rays reflect off the water, even on cloudy days.

Are Ray-Ban polarised sunglasses worth it?

Ray-Ban polarised sunglasses are worth buying for many boaters as they typically offer excellent glare reduction, UV protection and timeless style. Ray-Ban is a trusted brand selling a range of designs, so you’re sure to find an option that complements your look.

Specialist boat insurance through GJW Direct

Before your next trip out on the water, you may want to consider getting specialist boat insurance through GJW Direct to help financially protect you and your boat. Get a quick online quote today.