Protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays while you’re running is important no matter what season it is. A good pair of running sunglasses can also shield your eyes from the wind, dust, and other debris.
To help you find the right ones for your needs and budget, check out this round-up of the best running sunglasses.
Tifosi Swank Sunglasses
Whether you’re wearing them on the run or hanging by the pool, you’ll look cool in these stylish and affordable Tifosi Swank sunglasses. You’ll also get the sun protection you need. The durable, shatterproof, and scratch-resistant lenses block harmful UA rays. These sunnies also feature a rubber nose pad to make sure they don’t slide down your nose.
I’ve worn these sunglasses for the past year and I’ve been thoroughly impressed with their performance and durability. I frequently take my sunglasses on and off, as the weather changes during my run. Whether they’re on my face or on top of my head, these lightweight glasses are comfortable and don’t move. They also come in a wide variety of colors and lens types. Buy on Amazon
Oakley Half Jacket Sport Sunglasses
These sporty Half Jacket sunglasses from Oakley offer the 100% UV protection that avid runners need. No matter how much you sweat, they stay put and don’t get fogged up. Comfortable and lightweight, they’re also good at reducing glare.
You can get interchangeable lenses, so you can adjust them for changing conditions. They also come with a hard, protective case, which helps prevent accidentally sitting on them or losing them. Buy on Amazon
Goodr OG Running Sunglasses
Runners love these inexpensive, cool-looking, and lightweight sunglasses. Despite their low price tag, they’re reliable and feature polarized, glare-reducing lenses that block 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. They come in many different fun, vibrant colors, so you can look stylish while protecting your eyes on the run. Buy on Amazon
Knockaround Fast Lanes Sunglasses
Knockaround’s Fast Lanes sunglasses feature polarized lenses, full UV400 protection, and impact resistance, all at a budget-friendly price. With a classic design, this attractive pair can easily go from a morning trail run to outdoor brunch with friends.
Extremely comfortable and secure, the rubber padding on the nose bridge helps keep them from sliding down as you’re running. They come in a variety of different colored lenses and frames. Buy on Amazon
Tifosi Optics Jet Sunglasses
Another pair of high-quality but still affordable running sunglasses from Tifosi, this pair is so lightweight and comfortable, you may forget you’re wearing them. The shatterproof lenses have a special coating that reduces glare and decreases eye fatigue.
Cyclists love these sunglasses, so they’re a nice choice for triathletes or runners who want sunglasses that are good for other sports. The sunglasses come with a hard-shell, zippered storage case and a cleaning bag. Buy on Amazon
Nike Tailwind Sunglasses
These sporty Nike Tailwind sunglasses feature a contoured, ergonomic design that adjusts to your face shape and allows you to wear them comfortably for hours. The sleek design and arms and nose pads allow for maximum airflow, preventing moisture from building up and reducing fogging. The MAX Optics technology provides precise, distortion-free clarity from all angles, while the Speed Tint reduces harsh light to keep you from squinting. Buy on Amazon
Best for Small Faces: Tifosi Svago Sunglasses
If you find that some running sunglasses overwhelm your face, check out Tifosi’s Svago sunglasses. This stylish pair features rounded lenses of polycarbonate that are scratch-resistant, shatterproof, and encased in an ultra-durable Grilamid TR-90 frame. The hydrophilic rubber on the nose bridge actually increases its grip the more you sweat. Buy on Amazon
Best for Kids: Kids Sport Polarized Sunglasses
These polarized sport sunglasses are designed for kids ages 6 to 12 and are perfect for running and other sports. With 100% UV400 protection coating, they block 100% of harmful UVA and UVB Rays, and the Swiss technology lens eliminate reflected and scattered light. They’re available in a variety of colors and are extremely durable. Buy on Amazon
What to Look for When Shopping for Running Sunglasses
With such a wide variety of styles, features, and price tags, it can be tough to choose the right running sunglasses for you. Here’s a guide for what to look for.
UV Protection: Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause eye damage, leading to cataracts or macular degeneration over time. Sunglasses with proper UV protection will help safeguard your eyes during long runs in the sun.
Lens Material and Durability: The lens material should be shatterproof, scratch-resistant, and capable of withstanding harsh conditions. Polycarbonate lenses are an excellent option because they are lightweight, durable, and resistant to impact. Additionally, polycarbonate lenses provide excellent clarity and sharpness.
Lens Color and Tint: The color and tint of your lenses can affect how well you see on your run. Different tints are designed for varying light conditions and environmental factors:
- Gray lenses are great for bright, sunny days as they reduce glare without distorting colors.
- Yellow or gold lenses enhance contrast in low-light conditions, like early morning or dusk runs.
- Amber or brown lenses are ideal for partly cloudy days as they help enhance contrast and depth perception.
- Clear lenses are perfect for running in overcast or low-light conditions when UV protection is still necessary.
Some sunglasses come with interchangeable lenses, allowing you to switch lenses based on weather conditions. This feature can be particularly useful for runners who often train in varying environments.
Fit and Comfort: Look for sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and temple arms that provide a secure, comfortable fit. The sunglasses should sit snugly on your face without slipping, bouncing, or causing discomfort during your run. Lightweight frames are a must, as they won’t cause additional strain on your face or ears.
Additionally, opt for glasses with hydrophilic (water-absorbing) nose pads and temple grips, as these will help keep your sunglasses in place, even during sweaty runs.
Anti-Fog Technology: Look for sunglasses with anti-fog coatings or lenses that are designed to minimize fogging on hot days or in humid conditions. Some models come with vented lenses or frame designs that improve airflow, reducing the chances of condensation building up on your lenses.
Frame Style: Running sunglasses typically come in two types of frames: full-frame and semi-rimless or frameless. Semi-rimless and frameless designs are lighter and offer better peripheral vision. Full-frame designs, on the other hand, can offer added durability and lens stability.
Ventilation and Breathability: Running sunglasses that offer good ventilation will prevent the build-up of heat and moisture between the lenses and your face. This will keep your lenses clear and comfortable while you run. Many high-performance models come with small vents in the frame to improve airflow and reduce fogging.
Style and Design: Choose a pair that complements your personal style and makes you feel confident while running. Whether you prefer bold, sporty frames or a sleek, minimalist design, there’s a wide variety of running sunglasses available to suit different tastes.
Polarization: Polarization helps to reduce glare, making it easier to see in bright sunlight and improving contrast. However, polarization might not always be necessary if you mainly run on trails or in the shade, as it can slightly distort the visibility of digital screens, such as watches or phones.
FAQs
Why should you wear sunglasses when running?
Wearing running sunglasses will improve your visual clarity and reduce glare when you’re running. You’ll be able to see more clearly in sunlight and avoid squinting. Additionally, sunglasses can protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Plus, they act as a barrier and shield runners’ eyes from wind, debris, bugs, rain, and other hazards.
How should running sunglasses fit?
For a proper fit, running sunglasses should rest comfortably on the bridge of your nose without causing discomfort or irritation. The width of the frames should match the width of your face, allowing for some flexibility without causing pressure on the sides.
The sunglasses should adequately cover your eyes to block harmful rays, without overwhelming your face. Check that the earpieces are long enough to hold glasses in place without causing any discomfort behind your ears.
Lastly, make sure that there isn’t a significant gap between the face and sunglasses that could allow sunlight to enter.
What color lenses are best for running sunglasses?
Your choice of lens color really comes down to your personal preference. That being said, some colors are known for being optimal for certain conditions. Brown, Red, rose, or green lenses are a good choice for very bright days, while blue and purple lenses are best for misty or foggy conditions. Yellow or gold sunglasses are a good option for running in low light.
More on Summer Running:
- How Runners Can Protect Their Skin from the Sun
- Tips for Running in the Heat
- How to Stay Hydrated When Running
Why You Should Trust Us
An avid runner, certified running coach, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT enjoys researching and testing running gear and gadgets. Her decades of running experience and writing have helped her learn the value of using the best gear to improve comfort, safety, and performance. She has multiple pairs of running sunglasses, including two of her favorites, Goodr OG and Tifosi Swank.
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