Sunglass Brands Inspired by Surf Culture

Published on: September 22, 2023

Reprise, Reprise x Jack Freestone Polished Black Tortoise/Black Lenses

The start of autumn marks the beginning of surf competitions held all along the east coast of Australia. As the days get a little shorter and the water a little cooler, consistent swell picks up for surfers, and offshore winds ease off, making this time of the year the perfect time to catch a wave and spectate.

With big surfing competitions like the Corona Open and the Gold Coast Open just around the corner, there’s no better time to highlight our top surf sunglasses brands as we dive deeper into their contribution to the renowned Aussie and International surf culture.

Keep reading to find out more about these iconic surf brands and our favourite sunglass styles to check the waves in.

Brands Mentioned in This Article:

Born on the rugged coast of Western Australia, it’s only natural that surf culture is deeply ingrained in OTIS’s DNA. Embracing this way of life in true Aussie fashion, OTIS eyewear is all about encompassing the relaxed surf lifestyle through easy-to-wear sunglasses that excels in both style and technical excellence. OTIS has long been involved in the Australian and US surf industry as well as partnering with esteemed surfers Imogen Caldwell and Eric Geiselman as brand ambassadors. OTIS not only celebrates their achievements within the surfing industry but also recognises Caldwell and Geiselman as jacks of all trades with talents that extend beyond the water. OTIS bridges the gap between art, innovation and surfers needing the best in polarised eyewear; it is a brand that celebrates not only surf culture but creative talent in all shapes and form.

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With a collaborative surf movie up their sleeves and their very own surf team who create, wear and represent the brand’s youthful sunglasses, Epokhe is an undeniably cool surf lifestyle and fashion brand made for creatives. Designed in Byron Bay, Australia’s hot spot for surf, art and fashion, Epokhe has a collected and carefree vibe that isn’t easily matched. Epokhe’s unique brand presence has created a special place in the surf industry. Not only do they create premium eyewear that protects from the harsh sun, but they also put great emphasis on creating fashionable eyewear that the brand’s representatives and like-minded friends want to wear on and off the beach. A focus on quality, design and ethical production methods have set a solid foundation for Epokhe, solidifying their place as a go-to brand for talented and trendy surf enthusiasts.

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Two people wearing dragon sunglasses with surfboards standing next to a van on a sunny day.

Carve is an Australian eyewear brand established in Sydney in 1998, created to offer quality sunglasses at an affordable price. Inspired by surfing, snowboarding and adventure, Carve has built a range of eyewear designed for active lifestyles, from beach days and road trips to long afternoons outdoors. With a wide selection of polarised and non-polarised styles, Carve sunglasses combine UV protection, comfort and everyday durability with an easy, laid-back look. Whether you are heading to the coast, exploring the outdoors or simply looking for a reliable pair of everyday shades, Carve sunglasses are made to keep up with wherever the day takes you.

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With an impressive global surf team that includes surfing legends Mick Fanning, Owen Wright and Rob Machado, Dragon has well and truly solidified its presence in the surf industry. Will Howard, the founder of Dragon, aimed to build a company that encompassed his affinity for surfing which is evident in Dragon’s approach to design, image and eyewear functionality. The active youth lifestyle brand has introduced innovative technologies into their sunglasses, including H2O frames that float in water and premium polarised lenses that combat harsh glare surfers might encounter at the beach. With their growing partnership team of the world’s most influential and talented surfers, Dragon has proved themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

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