The Lake Life Guide · July 9, 2026
Sunglass Coatings: Glare, Saltwater and Lens Care
For days on the water, lens coatings and polarization do different jobs. Polarization helps reduce reflected glare. Anti-reflective coatings reduce reflections at lens surfaces, while surface treatments can help with water and residue. None of these features makes a lens scratchproof, and they do not establish a lens’s UV protection rating.
Saltwater, grit and lens care
Salt spray can leave residue as it dries. Wiping a dirty lens can drag particles across its surface. Rinse away residue before gently cleaning with a clean microfiber cloth, and follow the care instructions supplied with your sunglasses. Avoid household glass cleaner, abrasive cloths and excessive heat.
What LAKE’s anti-saltwater coating means
LAKE VistaClear lenses include anti-saltwater, anti-reflective and anti-scratch coatings alongside polarization. These features support everyday use around water; they do not mean salt cannot leave deposits or that lenses cannot be damaged. Coating life depends on use, cleaning and storage. Keep your pair in a protective case when you are not wearing it.
Anti-reflective coating and polarization
Light can reflect at the front and back surfaces of a lens. Anti-reflective treatment is designed to reduce surface reflections. Polarization addresses reflected glare from surfaces such as water and wet roads. The effect varies with the direction of light, viewing angle and surrounding conditions.
Polarized lenses can also make some displays harder to read. Check your phone, boat instruments and other screens while wearing a pair before relying on them outside.
UV protection is a separate requirement
A dark tint, mirror finish, polarization or coating description does not by itself tell you how much UV a lens blocks. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends choosing sunglasses labeled to block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. Check the specific product’s UV labeling, and ask the seller or an eye-care professional when you are unsure.
For independent guidance, read the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s guide to choosing sunglasses and explanation of polarized lenses. These sources explain the general principles; they do not certify LAKE products.
Find the right pair for your day
Compare the LAKE sunglasses collection, try the virtual try-on, or visit a store to check fit in person. For a damaged pair, review our limited lifetime warranty and contact LAKE with photos and your order details.