Product Details
Color Details
Size DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
Are the Costa Ballast sunglasses available with prescription lenses?
How much do the Costa Ballast sunglasses weigh?
What is the difference between Costa 580P and 580G lenses?
What lens color is best for fishing with the Costa Ballast?
Are Costa Ballast sunglasses good for all-day wear?
What is the fit size of the Costa Ballast sunglasses?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Costa Del Mar Ballast 9071 Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Extra-large rectangular shape provides more coverage
- Part of the same Boundless rimless collection
- Same 580P lens technology and lens color options
Read the full comparison
Costa Ballast vs. Other Costa Rimless Sunglasses
The Costa Del Mar Ballast 9071 is part of Costa's Boundless Collection, a lineup of rimless performance sunglasses designed for anglers and water sports enthusiasts who prioritize unobstructed vision and minimal weight. If you're choosing between rimless Costa models, here's how the Ballast compares to its siblings.
Ballast vs. Gulf Shore
Both the Costa Gulf Shore 9074 and the Ballast share the same rimless construction, 580P lens technology, and TR-90 nylon frames. The key difference is size: the Gulf Shore features an extra-large rectangular shape that provides more coverage, making it ideal for anglers who want maximum sun protection. However, the Ballast's narrower profile (60mm lens width) fits smaller to medium faces more comfortably and weighs less. If you have a narrow face or prefer a lower-profile look, the Ballast is the better choice. If you want maximum coverage and have a larger face, consider the Gulf Shore.
Ballast vs. Cayan
The Costa Cayan 9072 offers a more budget-friendly entry into Costa's rimless collection at $112.67. While it shares the same lightweight TR-90 construction and rimless design philosophy, the Cayan has a different frame shape and typically fewer lens color options. The Ballast's rectangular shape and wider range of lens colors (copper, green mirror, blue mirror, gray) make it more versatile for different fishing environments. If you're looking for the most affordable rimless Costa option, the Cayan is worth considering. If you want more lens choices and the classic rectangular fishing shape, the Ballast delivers better value.
Ballast vs. Galveston
The Costa Galveston 9073 is another core rimless model priced at $179, positioned between the Cayan and the Ballast. Like the Ballast, it's been a staple in Costa's lineup for years and offers the same 580P polarized technology. The Galveston typically features a slightly different frame shape and may appeal to those who prefer a different aesthetic. The Ballast's rectangular wrap design is specifically optimized for sight fishing and provides excellent peripheral coverage. Both are excellent choices; your decision comes down to fit preference and which frame shape suits your face better.
Why Choose the Ballast?
The Costa Ballast 9071 strikes the ideal balance between weight, coverage, and versatility. Its 16-gram weight, rectangular shape, and wide lens color selection make it one of the most popular rimless fishing sunglasses Costa has ever produced. It's been a best-seller since 2004 for good reason: it works. If you want a proven, comfortable, prescription-ready rimless sunglass that excels on the water, the Ballast is the benchmark.
At a Glance
Costa Del Mar Gulf Shore 9074 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Extra-large rectangular shape provides more coverage
- Part of the same Boundless rimless collection
- Same 580P lens technology and lens color options
Cons:
- Larger frame may not suit narrow faces as well
- Slightly heavier due to larger lens area
- Higher price point at the same range
Costa Del Mar Cayan 9072 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Lower price point at $112.67
- Same rimless construction for panoramic views
- Lightweight TR-90 nylon frame
Cons:
- Different shape may not suit all face types
- Fewer lens color options available
- Less coverage than the Ballast's rectangular design
Costa Del Mar Galveston 9073 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Lower price at $179
- Part of the core Boundless rimless lineup
- Same 580P polarized lens technology
Cons:
- Different frame shape may not suit rectangular preferences
- Potentially different fit profile
- May have fewer color combinations available