The angler accustomed to fishing from a boat, or wading a placid bayshore, should underline this rule, realizing that the pulling currents and pounding waves of the open beachfront can shackle the wader with awkward and unnecessary accessories. Ideally, each item carried or worn serves at least two functions. Think about it. The wader dons his straw or foam tackle box, paring lures and riggings to an effective selection that can be displayed around the crown. A sudden wave smack or wind gust followed by an instinctive sweep of the arm might result in a painful, even dangerous, barbing.
Polarized sunglasses secured by a strap are a good idea on reasonably calm, clear days.
Keep in mind that the surf wader, unlike the bay plugger, is by necessity facing into the onshore wind and the rising sun. The glare after about 8 a.m. can get pretty bad. The shirt, itself, should have long sleeves and a collar, as well as two large, secure breast pockets. The proper shirt provides extra warmth from early chill, as well as effective sun protection during midday. A good fishing shirt will go a long way.