Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses Review

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Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses

As someone who spends a lot of time fishing, I know the importance of having reliable gear, including sunglasses. When you’re out on the water, especially under the bright skies of the western sun, having the right eyewear is crucial. While I’ve always stuck with my trusty fishing frames, this spring I decided to switch things up and give the Bajio Hopedale sunglasses a try.

I’ve had the chance to test out a few different models of Bajio Sunglasses over the past few years, like the Bales Beach and the Roca, and I’ve been consistently impressed with their quality. It’s no surprise considering that the founders of Bajio have backgrounds in companies like Simms and Costa del Mar, bringing their expertise into their designs.

One thing that stands out about Bajio is their commitment to conservation. Their dedication to protecting reefs, flats, oceans, lakes, and rivers reflects in the name itself – “Bajio” means “Flats,” where some of the best fly fishing in the world happens. It’s refreshing to see a brand prioritize environmental responsibility while still producing top-notch products.

While I typically reserve specific frames for fishing, I see the Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses becoming more of an everyday pair for me. Though, knowing myself, I’ll probably still have a fly rod in my car, ready to seize any fishing opportunity that comes my way. I’m excited to see how these sunglasses hold up in comparison to my usual fishing frames and to experience their different design firsthand.

About

The Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses offer a more relaxed alternative to the classic fishing eyewear the brand is renowned for. Compared to models like the Roca, the Hopedale frames are flatter with a subtler curve, keeping them slightly further from the face.

Hopedale right at home on the beach

Crafted from bioplastics, Bajio utilizes materials like castor oil, coconut husks, and is even exploring options like recycled plastic bottles, ocean trash, and carpet remnants for future frames. Available in four colors – black gloss, dark brown tort gloss, green mango gloss, and blue/cream gloss – I opted for the dark brown tort gloss. Featuring narrow temples with no-slip tips and barrel hinges, the frames boast a built-in sun ledge atop to shield the eyes from sunlight, while the non-slip rubber nose piece ensures a secure fit.

Temple Pads

Nose Pads

Barrel Hinge

Lenses

Bajio excels in lens quality, offering options in glass or polycarbonate. I often prefer the durability of glass, especially for its scratch resistance. With seven lens colors available, each tailored for different conditions, I chose the silver mirror for its versatility, ideal for everything from bright sunny days to lower light conditions, particularly suited for inshore, flats, and reefs fishing.

Included with the Hopedale Sunglasses is a sustainable cactus leather case, reflecting Bajio’s commitment to eco-conscious practices. From recycled packaging to utilizing electric vehicles for transportation, every aspect of Bajio’s operation embodies their dedication to sustainability.

Cactus Leather Case

My Thoughts on the Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses

The Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses strike an impressive balance between fashion-forward design and practical functionality, making them a standout choice for those seeking versatile eyewear that seamlessly transitions from everyday wear to spontaneous outdoor adventures.

Everyday life

When it comes to fit, the Hopedale sunglasses hit the sweet spot for me. With their sizable frames, they offer ample coverage for effective sun protection without feeling overly bulky during daily wear. Despite lacking the snug wrap-around design typical of some fishing frames, they surprisingly excel at blocking out light, thanks to the innovative sun ledge feature positioned atop the frames. This thoughtful addition proves invaluable on bright, sunny days, especially when I opt to forgo a brimmed hat.

Fit on from sides

Fit from front

As a frequent Florida traveler, I’m no stranger to impromptu fishing outings along the river and intercoastal, and having sunglasses that effectively block out glare is essential for spotting fish in the shimmering waters. In this regard, the Hopedale Sunglasses more than deliver, providing clear visibility even in the sun-drenched Florida landscape.

Impromptu fishing

Standout Feature

One of the standout features of the Hopedale Sunglasses is their silver mirror glass lenses, which offer versatility for various lighting conditions. With a copper base, these lenses provide exceptional clarity whether I’m fishing under a brilliant blue sky or navigating through overcast conditions. Beyond fishing, they’ve proven invaluable during other outdoor activities, such as coaching high school track meets under the blazing sun and reflective aluminum bleachers.

The attention to detail in the design of the Hopedale Sunglasses is evident in features like the barrel hinges and ergo rubber on the nose pads and temple ends, which enhance comfort and ensure a secure fit, even during sweaty outdoor pursuits. These thoughtful touches add to the overall appeal and functionality of the sunglasses, making them a pleasure to wear day in and day out.

Eco Friendly

A feature that is never lost on me is a product’s sustainability and the company’s dedication to the environment. Bajio’s commitment to protecting the waters of the world is commendable. With bioplastic based frames, recycled glass in the lenses, and even the carrying case of cactus leather, every decision that is made must pass a sustainable litmus test. I appreciate knowing that when I am fishing or out and about that the products that I wear help protect the places that I love. The eco-friendly designs of the sunglasses have not hurt the quality of their product. The Hopedale sunglasses are well made and function flawlessly.  

After a month of regular wear, I struggle to find any faults with the Hopedale Sunglasses. They’ve proven to be a versatile and reliable companion for all of my outdoor adventures, whether I’m casting a line or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll in the sunshine. While other models may offer specialized features for fishing enthusiasts, the Hopedale Sunglasses shine as a do-it-all option for those seeking eyewear that can keep up with their active lifestyle.

Specs of the Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses Taken Directly From Bajio

• Ergo Rubber Nose Pad
• Built in Sun Ledge
• Barrel Hinges
• Narrow Temples

Final Thoughts on the Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses

It’s clear that the Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses strike an impressive balance between style and utility. Their slightly flatter curvature lends them a contemporary aesthetic that seamlessly transitions from social gatherings to outdoor adventures. Beyond their fashionable appeal, these sunglasses excel in functionality, particularly on the water. The silver mirror glass is a standout feature, delivering exceptional performance in various lighting conditions, especially in shallow water fishing and bright sunlight.

Moreover, the Hopedale frames boast ergo rubber and barrel hinges, ensuring comfort for extended wear. Whether you’re spending a leisurely day by the shore or engaged in active pursuits, these sunglasses remain comfortable and secure.

If you’re in the market for versatile eyewear that can effortlessly adapt to different environments, the Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses deserve serious consideration. Their blend of style, performance, and comfort makes them a standout choice for anyone seeking a do-everything pair of sunglasses. For more info or to check out a pair for yourself, visit www.bajiosunglasses.com.