Costa Del Mar Grand Catalina Sunglasses Review

The Costa Del Mar brand is synonymous with high-quality fishing sunglasses—and for good reason. They have consistently been a leader in fishing sunglasses development since their founding in 1983, quickly rising to the top in terms of polarized lens technology. However, they changed the game in 1998 with the introduction of their patented 580® lens, which revolutionized the standard of glare reduction, color enhancement and overall clarity.

The Grand Catalina was originally launched in the mid-1980s and made famous by the legendary fly fishing guide, author, conservationist and overall badass—Flip Pallot. After a hiatus in production, Costa relaunched the classic eyewear in the spring of 2024.

While these glasses were designed for fishing streams, oceans and inlets, I was able to test these out during a winter in the Tetons as ski touring sunnies. Although the water is frozen this time of year, the design and features of the Grand Catalina’s hold up just the same. Glare reduction, heat management, bomber construction and all-day comfort are essential requirements whether you’re top-watering striped bass in Buzzard’s Bay or bootpacking Mt. Glory on a spring afternoon.

Retro Frame & Removable Side Shields

The Grand Catalina frames offer a retro aviator style, and I love the Matte Tortoise shell color. The side shields are great for deflecting glare and amping up your apré steeze, plus they’re easily removable for when you don’t need full protection. They come in an XL frame which fits me great, although I’d say my head is smaller than a standard XL.

While the frame of these sunglasses is on the heavier side, they still stayed comfortable through a full day tour up Teton Pass. The nose bridge is adjustable, which helps keep them at a comfy position and opens up a gap to provide for some airflow to keep out condensation on the uphill. I found this helpful because the side shields create a bit of a hotbox when your heart rate begins to climb. There is a funnel on the temples designed to divert sweat away from your face, but I didn’t find their function very apparent. This feature could be more useful during the summer on the river when sweat levels are higher.

The 580® Glass Lens Advantage

The 580® Glass lens is where this pair of sunglasses really stands out from the wearer’s standpoint. You get super clear vision and crisp colors. The scratch resistance and polarization are celebrated Costa characteristics and the Grand Catalina lives up to this lineage.

They have 100% UV protection so your eyes can rest easy even on the brightest days. The side shields become a bit overkill while driving, so I found myself taking them out when peripheral vision is mandatory. Even on overcast days, these are a go-to in my sunglass preference.

Costa Grand Catalina Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable: Fits well even on long tours.

• Outstanding Lenses: The 580 glass is best-in-class for clarity.

• Versatile: Side shields work for alpine adventures and apres-chic.

• Retro Style: A cool, timeless aviator look.

Cons

• Weight: A bit on the heavier side compared to standard plastic frames.

• Price: A luxury price point at $309.

Overall Impression

The Grand Catalina sunglasses by Costa are a re-envisioned classic from the 1980s, and I’m glad they brought them back out. Although they come at a hefty price tag, the lenses on these shades really help set them apart from a cheaper set of aviators. The comfortable frames and side shields make them a great pair of sunglasses for outdoor activities, and the vintage style makes them a go-to for nearly any occasion.

Side Shield / Glacier Sunglasses TETON Tested

1. Vuarnet Ice Round Snglasses
2. Vuarnet Glacier Glasses
3. Smith Venture Sunglasses
4. Ombraz Dolomite Sunglasses