Are All Sunglasses Waterproof? What You Need to Know

Q: Q2: How can I tell if sunglasses are water-resistant?

Look for a hydrophobic coating label or description (like BAPORSSA models).

2025년 11월 3일

Are All Sunglasses Waterproof? What You Need to Know

You’re at the beach, the pool, or on a rainy day — and water splashes on your sunglasses.
But wait... are sunglasses actually waterproof, or can they get damaged?
The truth is: most sunglasses aren’t fully waterproof — they’re water-resistant to a certain level.
Here’s what that really means, and how to keep your shades in perfect shape.

💧 1. Waterproof vs Water-Resistant — What’s the Difference?

People often confuse waterproof and water-resistant, but in eyewear design, they’re not the same:

Term	Meaning	Example
Waterproof	Can be submerged without water damage	Specialized sports eyewear
Water-Resistant	Can handle light splashes or rain	Everyday sunglasses (like BAPORSSA)

Most everyday sunglasses — even luxury ones — are not meant for swimming or diving.
They resist moisture, but constant exposure can cause lens coating damage.

🌊 2. What Happens When Sunglasses Get Wet

Water itself isn’t the problem — what’s in it is.
Saltwater, chlorine, and even tap minerals can react with lens coatings and cause:

Streaks or hazing
Peeling anti-reflective layers
Rust on metal hinges

Quick rinse with clean water is fine — just avoid long soaking or salt exposure.

🧼 3. How to Properly Clean and Dry Your Sunglasses

✅ DO:

Rinse lenses with fresh water after exposure to salt or chlorine.
Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently pat dry.
Store in a dry hard case when not in use.

🚫 DON’T:

Don’t wipe lenses while wet — it scratches coatings.
Don’t use paper towels or shirts.
Don’t leave them on dashboards under direct heat.

The gentler you treat your sunglasses, the longer they’ll stay crystal clear.

⚙️ 4. Are There Truly Waterproof Sunglasses?

Yes — but they’re rare and usually made for extreme sports like kayaking or sailing.
They use hydrophobic coatings and sealed hinges to prevent corrosion.
However, they often sacrifice some design aesthetics for performance.