KnockAround

KnockAround is an American sunglasses brand founded in San Diego in 2005 with a straightforward proposition: quality, polarised sunglasses at genuinely affordable prices. The brand was created specifically to make polarised UV protection accessible without the price point that puts premium eyewear out of reach for everyday outdoor use - a philosophy that resonates with active lifestyle communities including surfers, divers, and water sports participants.

Water surfaces reflect sunlight at an angle that creates intense glare polarised horizontally. Standard lenses transmit this glare directly to the eye, causing visual fatigue and reducing visibility of anything beneath or through the water surface. Polarised lenses use a vertical filter that eliminates horizontally polarised glare - dramatically reducing eye fatigue on boat decks between dive sites and improving the ability to see fish, coral, and reef structure through the water surface when snorkelling.

KnockAround lenses provide UV400 protection - blocking 100% of UVA and UVB radiation up to 400nm wavelength. UV400 is the maximum protective rating and matches the standard of premium optical brands. Malaysia's equatorial position produces UV index levels regularly above 11 (extreme category) during midday hours - the period when divers are most exposed on open boat decks between dive sites.

Amber and brown tints increase contrast in bright, variable lighting conditions by filtering short-wavelength blue light, improving definition of reef structures and marine life visible through the water surface. Grey tints reduce brightness without shifting colour perception, preferred by divers who want accurate colour rendering. Mirrored lenses reduce surface glare from reflected sunlight effectively in peak equatorial midday conditions.

KnockAround frames use polycarbonate construction - impact-resistant, lightweight, and unaffected by saltwater and UV exposure that would degrade acetate or metal frames over a season of dive trips. The accessible price point also means that accidental loss over the side of a boat or damage from being sat on in a gear bag does not create the anxiety associated with expensive eyewear. They are genuinely designed to be used rather than protected.

Rinse the frame and lens with fresh water after exposure to salt spray or seawater. Salt residue left on polycarbonate lenses and coatings accelerates surface degradation and produces permanent haze on the lens coating. Store in the included case when not in use to protect the lens surface from the scratching that accumulates from loose storage in a gear bag. The lens cloth included is designed for the specific coating on KnockAround lenses.