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Sunglasses aren’t usually high on the priority list for foiling gear, but if you haven’t tried proper water sports eyewear before, the difference it can make will surprise you. Out on the water in bright or gusty conditions will provoke squinting and eye fatigue, whether you notice it or not. Sea spray and reflections can also make reading chop, texture changes, and wind shifts more difficult than it needs to be.
LiP’s Tide Watershades are designed specifically for this environment. The lenses have hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings on both sides. Water beads and runs off quickly rather than smearing, and sunscreen or sweat residue is less noticeable than on standard lenses. The glasses also include air channels above and below the lens, helping reduce fogging without letting spray or wind compromise your vision. It’s an amazing feeling having a safety buffer in front of your eyes. You can see waves far away, submerged reef below you, and never miss spotting a shark or whale! It elevates your vision and really enhances the whole foiling experience.
Over several gusty, glary wingfoil sessions, the Tide Watershades stayed in place through turns, gusts, and wipeouts without bouncing, sliding, or needing repositioning. Rubberized contact points at the nose and temples noticeably help maintain grip when wet.
The polarized lenses reduced glare significantly, and their “8-base wrap” design provides a wide field of view while following the shape of your face. The frame is made from dual-injected TR90, a lightweight and flexible thermoplastic. TR90 frames are very light, so they don’t dig into the nose or ears, but are also flexible and durable enough to bend without breaking, perfect for crashes or rough handling. While not an impact-rated safety glass, in the world of foiling every bit of protection matters, especially for your eyes.
LiP’s two-stage retention system is also practical. The non-stretch nylon leash with a silicone neck ring is a nifty and comfortable way to keep the glasses ultra-secure.
Overall, the Tide Watershades do exactly what they are designed to do. They reduce glare, handle spray effectively, and stay secure in active water sports use. They combine clear, unobstructed vision with stability and comfort, making them a surprisingly valuable addition to any foiling kit.
