From deep seas to tranquil ponds, water exists in a variety of environments. In designing the ultimate water-specific lens, Oakley had to take into account the amount of light exposure, water depth, and background colors that exist on or near water. Oakley engineers developed two separate lenses to cover the full spectrum of water environments. PRIZM Deep Water Polarized is designed for open water conditions and PRIZM Shallow Water Polarized is ideal for inland lakes and rivers. Sunglass Rob and Oakley Nick take a look at what makes each lens suitable for its given environment.

PRIZM Lens Technology works by filtering out 'noisy' colors and boosting the colors that help enhance contrast. Based on the various water environments, Oakley engineers were able to determine what colors need to be boosted and which ones can be filtered out for the most optimal contrast. No matter what your specific needs are, there is a Oakley PRIZM lens option for you.

Similarities between PRIZM Deep Water and Shallow Water:

  • Designed for on-water activities
  • Polarized
  • Offer 100% UVA, UVB, and UVC protection
  • PRIZM lens technology

Differences between PRIZM Deep Water and Shallow Water:

  • Deep Water Polarized is meant for deep-sea and open water
  • PRIZM Shallow Water is meant for inland lakes and rivers
  • PRIZM Deep Water is available in prescription, has a rose base and the VLT is 12-20%
  • Shallow Water is not yet available in prescription, has a rose base, and a VLT of 16-26%

PRIZM Deep Water

Oakley Turbine

Oakley Turbine in Polished Black with PRIZM Deep Water Polarized lenses

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Activities: Off-shore fishing and boating

Light Conditions: Bright

Protection: 100% UVA, UVB, and UVC

Available in prescription: Yes

Polarized: Yes

Base Color: Rose

VLT: 12-20%

*VLT(visible light transmission)- measurement of the amount of light that passes through a lens to your eyes. A lighter lens will have a higher VLT because more light is traveling through the lens.

PRIZM Shallow Water

prizm shallow water

Oakley Split Shot in Polished Black with PRIZM Shallow Water

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Activities: In-shore fishing and boating

Conditions: Medium to Bright Light

Protection: 100% UVA, UVB, and UVC

Available in prescription: Not yet, but PRIZM Deep Water is available in rx.

Polarized: Yes

Base Color: Rose/Copper

VLT: 16-26%

Oakley PRIZM Lenses in Prescription at SportRx!

Did you learn all that you wanted to know about PRIZM Deep Water and Shallow Water lenses? Want to know more about Oakley fishing sunglasses? We can even tell you which Oakley sunglasses will work with your prescription strength! Contact us to speak to a certified optician. We are available 7 days a week by phone or live chat to help you out with any of your prescription or non-prescription needs!

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