If you don't wear sunglasses- START NOW. I never did as a kid, sailing every day on Lake Michigan...Let's just say I've paid the price through expensive surgeries to save my sight,  and still need need periodic retina repair.  So whatever you do, WEAR SUNGLASSES when you are outside, and don't skimp on the cheap ones, unless you just need a pair of "Oh darn,  I forgot my sunglasses today sunglasses"

If you are worried about the cost, think about how much you just spent on a new rod or reel. Good sunglasses should be just as important!

When you are looking for sunglasses, take this approach. First figure out which lens you want. There are several bases, but Amber and Gray are by far the most popular. A gray base will cut the most direct light and be the darkest. An amber base enhances light in shadows, and allows you to see more contrast (excellent for flats and bass fishing). Costa's 580 technology adds a color filter that keeps colors more true, and IMHO the Costa Del Mar Wave 580 glass lens is the best lens on the market.  

The other consideration is whether to go with a glass or plastic lens.  Glass lenses provide the best optical clarity, but they can be heavy.  Glass can also crack or break, although it is more resistant to scratching than plastic.   Costa's CR39 technology creates an excellent, lightweight alternative to glass, and Costa has recently introduced a Polycarbonite lens that incorporated the 580 technology.  The only way to tell which lens is right for you it to check all of them IN THE SUN!  Compare the lenses and make your decision based on what you actually see.

The other issue we frequently see is sunglasses that don't fit properly.   When you are looking for sunglasses, don't buy them without knowing EXACTLY how they fit. Every frame is different, and the same frame can fit differently, depending on whether the lens is glass or plastic.

You really need to try them on in the sun, which means taking various pairs outside, and looking at signs in the distance, as well as checking your peripheral vision to see if they "wrap" enough to block sun coming in the sides. you should also not have light coming in from the top or bottom.

Here at Betts, we understand the importance of this tool.  Our staff knows the Costa difference, and will help you find the correct fit.

Over the years, we have looked at many brands of polarized sunglasses.  We have simply not found a product that can beat the value of Costa Del Mar sunglasses, in quality, service, or warranty.  We invite you to come in to see the difference.