Skeleton Optics, in premiering a line of sunglasses for women, says demand is continuing to increase from female anglers. “Fishing historically has been perceived as a male-dominated sport,” says Eric Storey, the company’s CEO, who adds that “the millions of women who spend their lives outdoors need sunglasses made just for them.”
His company is far from alone in offering an increasingly broad array of styles not only for men and women alike, but also for specific types of on-the-water activities and face shapes. Costa launched King Tide less than a year ago, promising not only its most technical frame to date, but also a version for elite anglers. The new Rigolets line from Bajio is designed for boaters who have smaller, narrower faces, and who previously couldn’t find a comfortable fit. Hobie offers the Everglades Float, which is being marketed not just for general fishing, but in particular flats-fishing and sight-casting.
The one thing they all have in common: This eyewear is being designed by boating and fishing enthusiasts, for boating and fishing enthusiasts. “As avid anglers, we understand the frustration of losing sunglasses while on the water,” says Dylan Coates, marketing manager for Hobie Eyewear.
Bajio Rigolets
Skeleton Decoy
Costa King Tide
Hobie Everglades
Costa Catherine
Skeleton Outlaw
These manufacturers also understand key safety features, which include things like Costa’s venting, which is inspired by sharks, to help prevent lenses from fogging up when skippers are trying to run the boat. Scratch-resistant lenses, ultraviolet protection and more are usually part of the package too.
And as you can see in the examples above, the variety of frames, lenses and styles is pretty darn stunning—as beautiful as the colors of coral on the most vibrant reefs.
