Sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement. We always talk about the damaging effects of the sun on the skin, but what about our eyes?
Whether you’re spending a few hours by the pool or spending all day out fishing on the lake, wearing sunglasses while outdoors is important for protecting your eyes against the harsh effects of the sun.
Intense sunshine, water droplets, wind… It’s important to protect your eyes when you’re outside. Everyone knows sunglasses make it easier to see on a sunny day, but wearing sunglasses while outdoors is also important to reduce eye strain and provide protection from damaging UV rays.
Water reflects between 25 to 80 percent of UV rays. As scuba divers, when we are underwater we seldom need to worry about the effect of the sun. What we often forget is that, although we spend the bulk of our time underwater, we are still affected by the sun while topside – on our surface interval, preparing our equipment and getting to or from a dive site.
Wildwood Eyewear is a premier Canadian brand that creates sunglasses for an environmentally aware generation. They are based in Vancouver and pride themselves on using eco-friendly material in the creation of their sunglasses. All their wood frames are made from sustainability sourced wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Their plastic frames are made from recycled plastic ensuring every pair makes a positive environmental impact.
The company is further committed to helping the sustainable cause through their partnership with Eden Reforestation Projects and guarantee that for every $10 spent one tree is planted.
Eyewear is very personal and what it is used for varies from one person to another. Being two active people who have a tendency to migrate towards water-based activities, Joey and I are always hidden behind a pair of shades. But what we’ve found over the years is that there is no one pair of sunglasses that is best for every type of watersport – you need to look for shades that provide you with the protection, anti-glare and durability that caters to your specific water needs.
On our quest to find a new pair of sunglasses, we tested out our two pairs of Wildwood Eyewear; The Original (bamboo wood) and The Tofino Élégante.
The first thing we noticed about the Wildwood sunglasses was the polarized lenses. This was my first time having eyewear with a polarized lens and I could really appreciate how certain angles of reflected light were reduced. It certainly added definition to the sky and surroundings. Whatsmore, when on the water, I found the polarization removed the mirrored glare allowing me to see below the surface more clearly.
For my everyday sunglasses needs, the Tofino Élégante are my go-to pair of sunglasses. The sleek design with the walnut wood inlay on the arms has a very classy appeal. It fits well to my face and the colour goes well with anything I have one.
Wildwood Tofino Élégante Sunglasses: The Tofino Élégante is arguably the classiest pair of sunglasses Wildwood has ever produced! This plant-based frame has arms that feature a walnut wood inlay giving the glasses a sophisticated look.
On the other side of things, the Original floating sunglasses are my first choice for on the water – kayaking, boating, swimming AND scuba diving activities. I can’t tell you how many sunglasses I’ve scavenged off the bottom of a lake bed and after having found so many the buoyant nature of these shades have a big draw. With these sunglasses, the frame is created from bamboo and has a thicker body than The Tofino Élégante. In spite of their bigger size, the Original’s are incredibly lightweight and comfortable – so much so that at times I almost forgot they were on my face. In terms of design, the sunglasses are dark brown and have a grainy wood look. They are designed for both men and women meaning Joey and I have had no problems swapping these sunglasses back and forth.
Wildwood Original Sunglasses: The Original are a new classic style bamboo wood sunglasses for men and women. These eco-friendly sunglasses float on water, meaning no more losing your shades at the bottom of the lake!
Wildwood Eyewear has a sizable assortment of sunglasses for men, women and kids. Some of their sunglasses boast a classy refined design while others translate well for practical applications. Testing this company’s Original and Tofino Élégante sunglasses, my husband and I were able to experience both facets – day-to-day wear and on-the-water use. All in all, we love our Wildwood sunglasses and were very pleased with the versatility of this brand.
Do you use sunglasses while on the water? What are some of your favourite brands? Let us know in the comments below.
Writers Note: This product post was sponsored by Wildwood Eyewear as a part of our Dive Buddies 4 Life Reciprocal & Partner Program. Additionally, this post may contain affiliate links. We will make a small commission if you make a purchase through one of these links, at no extra cost to you. See full disclosure and disclaimer policy here.
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