Eyewear Accessories
Eyewear accessories that keep your sunglasses safe, clean and on your face, from floating retainers and leashes to cases and cleaning kits. Our range features Chums and Smith.
A floating retainer keeps your fishing sunglasses around your neck and afloat if they go overboard, a hard case protects them in a bag or on the boat, and a microfibre cloth cleans lenses without scratching.
Add them to your sunglasses order for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand, or click and collect from our Grey Lynn store or Westgate collection point at 4B Topere Way.
Frequently asked questions about eyewear accessories
What is a sunglasses retainer?
A retainer is a strap or cord that attaches to the arms of your sunglasses and sits behind your neck. It lets you take your sunglasses off and let them hang on your chest instead of putting them down, and stops them falling off when you lean over the side of a boat or bend down. Retainers come in neoprene, cord and floating foam styles, and in adjustable versions for a secure fit.
Will a floating retainer keep my sunglasses afloat?
A floating retainer is designed to keep lightweight sunglasses on the surface if they fall in the water, using buoyant foam. It works well for most sunglasses, but heavier frames with glass lenses may need a larger float, so check the product's guidance. Bright colours make them easier to spot in the water. Even so, the best protection is wearing the retainer so they do not fall in at all.
Do I need a hard case for my sunglasses?
If you carry your sunglasses in a bag, glovebox, tackle box or boat locker, a hard case is the best protection against being crushed, scratched or sat on. Soft pouches are lighter and fine for a pocket, and many double as a cleaning cloth. Since quality sunglasses are an investment, a hard case for travel and active days is well worth it, especially for glass lenses.
What is the best way to clean polarised lenses?
Rinse the lenses under fresh water to remove grit and salt, then use a lens cleaner or a drop of mild dishwashing liquid and gently wipe with a clean microfibre cloth. Avoid household glass cleaners, alcohol wipes and ammonia-based products, which can damage lens coatings over time. Wash your microfibre cloth regularly, as a dirty cloth can scratch the lenses it is meant to clean.
Are sunglasses straps useful for sport?
Yes. A snug sports strap or adjustable retainer stops sunglasses bouncing or flying off when you run, paddle, surf or play sport, and keeps them handy when you push them up or take them off. Choose a lightweight, quick-drying strap that is comfortable against your neck. For water sports, a floating strap adds peace of mind if they come off in the waves.
Can I replace the nose pads or arms on my sunglasses?
Many performance sunglasses brands sell replacement parts such as nose pads, ear socks and lenses for popular models, which can bring a tired pair back to life. Metal frames with adjustable pads are usually easy to refit. Availability depends on the brand and model, so check with the maker or ask our team. Replacing worn rubber parts also improves grip when you sweat.