If you're out in the ocean on the regular over years and years, you’ve probably felt the sting of the sun in your eyes at times—or possibly even noticed redness or a weird little growth forming near your cornea. That might be surfer’s eye, also called pterygium, and it's surprisingly common among Kiwi surfers.
In this post, we break down what causes surf eye, how to prevent it, and which polarised sunglasses and surf accessories from Blitz Surf Shop can help you stay protected. Plus, we’ll spotlight the best polarised sunglasses brands in New Zealand that we stock, to cover all tastes and budgets—so you can make an informed choice and protect your vision without sacrificing style.
👁️ What Is Surfer’s Eye?
Surfer’s eye, or pterygium, is a benign but potentially vision-threatening growth that forms on the white of the eye and can extend onto the cornea. It’s directly linked to long-term UV exposure, dry air, wind, and saltwater—aka your typical summer surf session.
Common symptoms include:
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Red or bloodshot eyes
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Dry or itchy feeling
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Blurred vision
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A visible pinkish or whitish growth on the eye
Left untreated, surf eye can become uncomfortable or even require surgery. But the good news? It’s easy to prevent with the right gear.
🧴 What Causes Surf Eye?
The main culprit is UV light exposure, especially in places like New Zealand where UV levels are some of the highest in the world. When you’re surfing, you're not just getting hit by sunlight from above—it’s also bouncing off the water’s surface and intensifying.
Other contributing factors:
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Dry wind and salt spray
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Rubbing your eyes post-surf with sandy or salty hands
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Not wearing eye protection
🕶️ How to Prevent Surf Eye: Your Surf Eye Survival Kit
1. Wear High-Quality Polarised Sunglasses
The #1 way to prevent surf eye is by blocking out UV rays and glare. Polarised sunglasses are essential for any surfer, beachgoer, or outdoor adventurer.
At Blitz Surf Shop, we stock some of New Zealand’s best polarised sunglasses, featuring 100% UV protection and polarised lenses designed for high-glare coastal environments.
🔥 Our Top Polarised Sunglasses Brands:
Oakley Polarised Sunglasses NZ
Looking for a premium visual experience? Oakley’s Prizm Polarised lenses are top-tier for performance surfers and beachgoers. They enhance contrast, reduce glare off the water, and provide superior eye protection. We stock a range of Oakley sunnies built for surf and outdoor action.
Dragon Polarised Sunglasses NZ
Keywords: Dragon sunglasses NZ, Dragon polarised lenses, Dragon eyewear for surfers
Dragon sunglasses are made with surfers in mind—lightweight, durable, and packed with tech. Many models include hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings, perfect for wet environments. Combine that with their Lumalens technology for amazing contrast and clarity.
Spy Optic Sunglasses NZ
Keywords: Spy sunglasses NZ, Spy Optic polarised, Spy surf sunglasses
Known for their patented Happy Lens™ tech, Spy sunglasses offer high-performance polarisation with a mood-boosting lens tint that filters harmful shortwave blue light. Another premium active sport sunglasses brand available at Blitz
Carve Polarised Sunglasses NZ
Keywords: Carve sunglasses NZ, Carve polarised surf sunnies, Carve Australia sunglasses
Affordable, stylish, and surf-tested—Carve sunglasses are ideal for people wanting a good quality, polarised sunglass without going to premium brands. Great for people that are hard on their gear or use them for work because of the $80-90 price point. With bold designs and true polarised lenses, they’re a top pick for younger surfers and beach lovers.
Liive Vision Polarised Sunglasses
Keywords: Liive Vision NZ, Liive polarised sunglasses, Liive sunnies for surf
Built by surfers, for surfers. Liive sunnies are rugged, lightweight, and polarised, with frame shapes that suit both surf missions and urban wear. Another well-priced brand that provides great sun protection and polarised options.
Prive Revaux Polarised Eyewear
Keywords: Prive Revaux sunglasses NZ, fashion polarised sunglasses NZ, Prive Revaux surf eyewear
Perfect for those who want stylish, celebrity-backed sunnies that still offer UV protection and polarised lenses. Great for post-surf brunch or everyday wear. More fashion forward than athletic like some of the other brands. Loads of female specific sunglass options
🛒 Browse our full polarised sunglasses collection and protect your eyes before it’s too late.
2. Wear Hats and Surf Caps with UV Protection
Your sunnies are key, but don’t forget about a hat or surf cap to give your eyes shade from above. Great for both beach days and outdoor hangs, we’ve got:
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Surf caps and hats for in-water use
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Santa Cruz and Billabong bucket hats
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Wai-Tai Māori design caps for something uniquely Aotearoa
3. Use a Hooded Towel After Surfing
Avoid rubbing your face with salty hands. Our hooded towels help you dry off comfortably while being gentle on the eyes:
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Available from Rusty, Quiksilver, Billabong, Roxy, Rip Curl, Hurley, and Gizzy Hard
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Perfect for adults and kids alike
🛒 Check out our hooded towel collection to keep dry and irritation-free after your session.
👁️ Already Got Surf Eye?
If you're already showing signs of surfer’s eye, the best course of action is:
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Stop exposing your eyes to UV without protection
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Wear polarised sunglasses even on cloudy days and in the winter
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See an optometrist if symptoms worsen
We can’t offer medical solutions, but we can help you gear up properly so you don’t make it worse.
🌞 Surfer’s Eye in NZ: More Common Than You Think
Here in Gisborne and around Aotearoa’s coastline, surf eye is a real issue for regular surfers. But the fix is simple—wear UV-blocking gear, hydrate your eyes, and give your body (and eyes) time to recover after long sessions in the sun and salt.
Blitz Surf Shop is here to support Kiwi surfers with the best brands in polarised eyewear and surf lifestyle gear.
✅ Featured Products to Help Prevent Surf Eye
| Product | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Oakley Prizm Polarised Sunglasses | High performance & UV protection |
| Dragon Polarised Sunglasses | Surf-focused design with hydrophobic coatings |
| Spy Happy Lens Sunnies | Polarised with mood-enhancing tint |
| Carve Polarised Sunglasses | Affordable, stylish, surf-ready |
| Liive Vision Polarised Sunnies | Rugged eyewear built by surfers |
| Prive Revaux Polarised | Fashion-forward with full UV block |
| Rip Curl Surf Caps | In-water protection for your eyes |
| Gizzy Hard Hooded Towels | Dry off gently after your surf |
Final Word: Don’t Let Surf Eye Slow You Down
If you're serious about surfing, you should be serious about your eye health. Surf eye is 100% preventable if you take the right steps now.
👉 Shop polarised sunglasses, UV-protective hats, and post-surf essentials at Blitz Surf Shop—your local surf store in Gisborne, NZ.
