Kai Lenny Joins Costa Sunglasses to Protect What’s Out There
The world-renowned waterman partners with Costa to inspire the next generation of water explorers and protect the waters that shape them
JUPITER, Fl. (April 21, 2026) — Costa Sunglasses announces celebrated athlete and environmental advocate Kai Lenny has joined its global roster of pros, marking a continued investment in ocean conservation and purpose-driven water culture.
Born and raised on the North Shore of Maui, Kai was destined to achieve greatness on the water (his name is the Hawaiian translation meaning “ocean”). By age 17, Kai had mastered wave riding of every kind including stand up paddleboarding (SUP), kite surfing, hydrofoiling, wind surfing and big wave surfing. Now, in addition to riding 70ft+ waves at Nazaré and winning SUP World Titles, Kai is passionate about creating stewards of the ocean through water sports.
Costa’s commitment to partner with pros and organizations who have an authentic connection to the ocean, community and conservation aligns with Kai’s mission. He is committed to inspiring the next generation to See What’s Out There and pursue their ambitions, focus on mental and whole-body wellness, while cultivating positive community engagement locally and throughout the world. Kai leads by example with community activities such as beach and ocean cleanups, using his own boat to help remove thousands of pounds of marine debris. Supporting efforts like these have catapulted Kai to become a leading voice for ocean conservation globally.
“The ocean has really been the biggest provider for me aside from my parents, of course, and I feel a responsibility to protect it,” says Kai Lenny, Costa Pro. “I’ve learned that real impact comes from action. Costa shares that mindset, not just building products for life on the water, but fighting to protect the ocean for future generations to come.”
Over forty years ago, a group of anglers created Costa Sunglasses to stand up to harsh light, unforgiving salt and rough conditions at sea. Combining 580 polarized lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability, the gear was up to the task: clarity on the water and gear made for the people who plan their life around it. That same commitment extends beyond performance eyewear and toward building products with purpose such as our partnership with Bureo®, makers of NetPlus®, for the Untangled™ Collection. Our mission has always been to protect this shared world, supporting those who rely on it, explore it, and work to preserve it for future generations.
“Kai isn’t just pushing boundaries on the water, he’s helping protect it,” says Corey Hill, VP Global Sports Marketing Sports Performance Hub EssilorLuxottica. “From leading cleanups across Hawai'i to being recognized by National Geographic as a 2026 33 changemaker, his commitment to ocean conservation reflects exactly where Costa is going. As a young face making true change, we are very proud to craft the future of Costa Sunglasses together.”
Kai will work closely with the brand on storytelling, product integration and inspiring the next generation of water explorers to See What’s Out There. Kai joins the Costa team alongside Mark Healey, Kevin Vandam, Oliver White, Ben Thouard, Conner Coffin, Rachel Moore and more. With this addition, Costa continues to build a team that prioritizes protecting the places they love to explore.
One of Costa’s mission aligned partners, the Eddie Aikau Foundation, has repeatedly selected Kai as an Invitee to THE EDDIE® Big Wave Invitational in Memory of Eddie Aikau, a recognition of his big wave surfing skills, and also of his commitment to community.
To learn more about Costa’s mission, product and pros go to CostaDelMar.com or join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or X at @CostaSunglasses.