Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Maui Jim KAUPO GAP sunglasses prescription-ready?
What is MauiBrilliant lens material and how does it compare to glass?
What size are the Maui Jim KAUPO GAP sunglasses?
How does PolarizedPlus2 technology work?
Which lens color is best for the KAUPO GAP?
Are the KAUPO GAP sunglasses comfortable for all-day wear?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Maui Jim KAUPO GAP MJ437 Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Extremely lightweight design
- Similar price point ($199–$239)
- Proven track record with long-term owners
- Titanium frame construction for durability
- Classic aviator styling
- Proven Maui Jim quality
- Classic metal aviator construction
- Proven design with strong customer base
- PolarizedPlus2 technology
Read the full comparison
Maui Jim KAUPO GAP vs. RED SANDS vs. MAVERICKS
Choosing between Maui Jim's lightweight frames comes down to style preference and frame material. The KAUPO GAP MJ437 offers a modern double-bridge aviator design in ultra-light injected nylon, making it one of the lightest options in the Maui Jim lineup. If you want an aviator silhouette without the weight of traditional metal frames, this is your best choice.
The RED SANDS MJ432 ($199–$239) is frequently mentioned alongside the KAUPO GAP in reviews as one of Maui Jim's most comfortable frames. While it has a different shape than the aviator style, it shares the same feather-light construction and all-day wearability. One reviewer noted the RED SANDS "held this title for a long time" as the most comfortable Maui Jim, but the KAUPO GAP has "usurped their title." If frame shape isn't critical and you prioritize pure comfort, either will serve you well.
The MAVERICKS MJ264 ($236–$292) offers a more traditional aviator experience with titanium frame construction. It's durable and classic, but the metal frame adds weight compared to the KAUPO GAP's nylon. Choose the MAVERICKS if you prefer the look and feel of metal aviators and don't mind the slightly higher price and weight.
Our recommendation: The KAUPO GAP delivers the best balance of modern aviator style, minimal weight, and value. The injected nylon frame with adjustable nose pads and rubber temple inserts provides exceptional comfort that's hard to beat, especially at the $192–$199 price point. If you want the lightest aviator-style frame Maui Jim offers with their advanced MauiBrilliant lenses, the KAUPO GAP is the clear winner.
At a Glance
Maui Jim RED SANDS MJ432 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight design
- Similar price point ($199–$239)
- Proven track record with long-term owners
- Available in multiple lens colors
Cons:
- Different frame shape may not suit aviator preference
- Slightly different fit profile
- May be too dark in cloudy conditions according to some reviews
Maui Jim MAVERICKS MJ264 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Titanium frame construction for durability
- Classic aviator styling
- Proven Maui Jim quality
- Similar size range
Cons:
- Higher price point ($236–$292)
- Titanium may be slightly heavier than KAUPO GAP's nylon
- Different aesthetic with metal frame
Maui Jim BABY BEACH MJ245 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Classic metal aviator construction
- Proven design with strong customer base
- PolarizedPlus2 technology
- Prescription-ready
Cons:
- Higher price range ($261–$293)
- Metal frame likely heavier than KAUPO GAP
- Different aesthetic than modern double-bridge design



