Sun Protection on the Water: Polarised Sunglasses, Sun Hoods & UPF Clothing

New Zealand's summer sun is no joke. Our UV levels are among the highest in the world, and out on the water you cop it twice: once from above and again as it reflects off the surface. A long day fishing or cruising can leave you burnt, squinting and wiped out, even when it's cloudy. The good news is that the right gear makes a huge difference. Here's how to stay protected this summer.

Why the water makes it worse

On land, shade and buildings break up your sun exposure. On a boat there's nowhere to hide. The water reflects UV back up at you, hitting areas you might not think to protect, like under your chin, your ears and the backs of your hands. Wind and spray keep you feeling cool, so you often don't notice you're burning until it's too late. And UV still gets through on overcast days, so don't let cloud cover fool you.

Polarised sunglasses

A good pair of polarised sunglasses is one of the best investments you can make for time on the water.

• Polarised cuts glare. Polarised lenses block the harsh glare that bounces off the water. That means less squinting, less eye strain and less fatigue at the end of the day. As a bonus, you can see into the water, making it easier to spot fish, weed lines and submerged hazards.
• UV protection is a separate thing. Polarisation reduces glare, but it's the lens's UV rating that protects your eyes. Look for sunglasses that meet the AS/NZS 1067 standard and offer Category 3 protection, which is ideal for bright conditions on the water.
• Pick the right lens colour. Grey lenses are a great all-rounder and work well offshore in bright sun. Brown, copper or amber lenses boost contrast, which helps when sight fishing in the shallows. Blue mirror lenses are popular for bright offshore days.
• Choose a wraparound fit. A wraparound style stops light and wind sneaking in from the sides.
• Use a retainer strap. A strap keeps your sunnies attached when you lean over the side to net a fish.

Shop: Sunglasses

Sun hoods and face protection

Your face, ears and neck take the most punishment on the water.

• Sun hoods are lightweight hooded tops that cover your head, neck and ears without needing a hat that can blow off. Many come with a built-in face cover you can pull up when the sun is at its strongest.
• Neck gaiters and face buffs are a versatile option. Wear one around your neck, pull it up over your nose and mouth, or use it as a headband.
• Wide-brim hats and legionnaire caps shade your face and the back of your neck. Choose one with a chin strap so it stays put when you're underway.

Shop: Sun Masks & Gaiters | Caps & Hats | All Headwear

UPF clothing

Clothing is the most reliable sun protection there is. It doesn't wear off, sweat off or need reapplying.

• Know what UPF means. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures how much UV gets through the fabric. UPF 50+ is the highest rating and blocks around 98% of UV rays.
• Cover up with long sleeves. Lightweight long-sleeve fishing shirts keep your arms covered without overheating. Most are quick-drying and breathable, and many have vented backs.
• Protect your hands. The backs of your hands burn easily when you're driving the boat or fishing all day. Fingerless sun gloves protect them while keeping your fingertips free for tying knots.
• Go for lighter colours on hot days. They stay cooler in the sun, while UPF-rated fabric still keeps the UV out.

Shop: Men's Long Sleeve Tees | Men's Button-Up Shirts | Women's Tees | Fishing Gloves

Don't forget sunscreen

Even with good gear, some skin will always be exposed. Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 50 sunscreen on your face, ears, neck and anywhere else that's uncovered. Apply it 20 minutes before you head out, and reapply at least every two hours, more often if you're swimming or sweating. Use an SPF lip balm too, because lips burn easily on the water.

We stock trusted sunscreen brands including SLSA, Invisible Zinc and Reef Sun, with options for the whole family.

Shop: Sunscreen

Our sun-smart checklist

• Polarised sunglasses with Category 3 UV protection
• A sun hood, buff or wide-brim hat with a chin strap
• A UPF 50+ long-sleeve shirt
• Sun gloves
• SPF 50 sunscreen and lip balm
• Plenty of water to stay hydrated
• A bimini or shade if your boat has one

Gear up for summer

Pop into any of our five Smart Marine stores to try on sunglasses and find the right sun protection for your summer on the water. Or shop online at smartmarine.co.nz.