Rowing Glasses: Do You Need Them?

You do not need specialist rowing glasses, but a secure pair of polarised sports sunglasses is worth having, and most rowers who go out in bright sun or low winter light benefit from them. If you need prescription lenses to see, sort those out first, because you can’t steer around what you can’t see. Indoors, you only need them to read the monitor.

What glasses do for rowers

• Cut glare. Water reflects light back at you, especially low sun in the morning and evening. Polarised lenses remove much of it, so buoys, debris and other boats are easier to see.
• Reduce eye strain. Squinting for an hour is tiring and can bring on a headache.
• Block UV. Exposure builds up over years, and there’s little shade on the water.
• Keep out wind, spray and insects. Wraparound lenses help contact lens wearers in particular.
• Add some protection if a handle or branch comes towards your face.

Rowers face the stern, so they often get the sun in their eyes after a turn. A cox looking forward can get it head-on.

What to look for

• A safety mark, not a price tag. The NHS advises the CE mark and British Standard 12312-1:2013 E, plus wraparound lenses or wide arms. UKCA and UV400 markings are also worth looking for. Tint tells you nothing about UV.
• A secure fit. Shake your head and lean forward. They shouldn’t move, even when you sweat.
• A retainer cord. Most sunglasses don’t float. Attach the cord before you leave the landing stage.
• Light, flexible frames. Heavy frames leave marks and cause pressure headaches.
• Impact resistance. Polycarbonate is tougher than glass.
• Scratch-resistant and anti-fog coatings, if you row in cool, damp conditions.

Choosing a lens

Lens	Best for	Notes
Grey or smoke	Bright sun	Reduces brightness without changing colours
Brown, copper or amber	Mixed light	Lifts contrast and helps you read the water
Yellow or light rose	Overcast, dawn, dusk	Lets in the most light; not for strong sun
Mirrored coating	Very bright conditions	Reflects some light; can scratch
Clear	Rain, darkness, protection only	No glare reduction

One pair of brown or grey polarised lenses covers most days. Photochromic lenses adjust on their own, but they can be slow to lighten when you go from sun to shade. Swappable lenses suit anyone who rows at all hours.

Polarised lenses can make some screens harder to read, including some watches and cox boxes. Try yours before you buy.

When to take them off

You need to see clearly first. In low light, or under bridges and trees, dark lenses can hide hazards, so take them off or use a lighter tint. If you cox, your view matters more than anyone’s. If rain streaks or mists the lenses, you’re better off without them. Put them on before you launch, so you aren’t fiddling afloat.

If you wear prescription lenses

1. Prescription sports glasses. The most reliable option. Choose a wrap frame, and ask your optician about impact-resistant lenses and a strap.
2. Contact lenses. These suit many rowers. Carry spares on longer outings and expect dry eyes in the wind. Daily disposables are practical. Non-prescription sunglasses go over the top.
3. Clip-on shades over normal glasses. A budget option, though they can fog or slip.

Your optician can advise on the best fit. If you get eye pain or sudden changes in your vision, stop and get it checked.

Rear-view mirrors

Some rowers use small mirrors fixed to glasses or a hat to see ahead without turning round. They aren’t essential, and some clubs and race organisers restrict them. They don’t replace looking round every few strokes.

Care

• Rinse off salt or river water with fresh water.
• Dry with a microfibre cloth. Rubbing a dry lens with kit scratches it.
• Keep them in a case in your bag, not loose with your keys.

Our view

Buy a mid-priced pair of wraparound polarised sunglasses with a proper safety mark, and add a cord. Spend more only if you row a lot in bright conditions or need a prescription. Sun cream and a hat matter just as much, so see protecting yourself from the sun while rowing. Our guides to what kit to wear for rowing and essential rowing equipment for beginners cover the rest of what you need.