For some, running is a part-time hobby. For others, it’s a lifestyle!
Either way, what better companion than a pair of epic running sunglasses? There are more options than ever before, not only designed to perform well but also to look stylish. Let’s go through some of my top picks!
Are Running Sunglasses Just Hype?
The short answer is no. Running sunglasses are more than just a hyped-up it-product. They’re specially designed and tested to benefit runners through their construction. They have features such as being lightweight, comfortable, and aerodynamic, and they sometimes feature polarized lenses.
So they can enhance your run by helping you see more clearly while blocking harmful UV rays and glare.
The Detail Is in the Design
Running sunglasses are designed to fit snugly around your nose and head, yet they strike that balance between being a good fit and being too tight. That means you won’t get those nasty indentations, but your shades will stay on your face while you’re in action.
The nose bridge is often a rubber piece that offers comfort and grip. Metal or plastic nose pieces can be too heavy or cause your shades to slide down your nose while you’re running.
The Top Pick for Busy Cities
If you mostly enjoy casual runs around your city or neighborhood, running glasses will improve your comfort. They’re especially important in the summer (or year-round if you’re lucky enough to live in a sunny place).
The right protection will help you focus and reduce the chance of squinting, which in turn makes your run safer. Why? Because running in cities means there are obstacles from vehicles to cyclists. So you need to be able to see what’s coming at all times.
Polarized lenses are smart for running in cities because they reduce glare from light reflecting off glass, roads, and buildings. They make it easier to see clearly, no matter how bright it is or how built-up your neighborhood is.
The Oakley Radar EV Path is a slick, well-equipped pair of running sunglasses. They are perfect for serious city runs because they feature polarized Prizm lenses and a wrap-around shape. They provide good coverage from all angles, so you can stay focused on what’s ahead.
Verified EZContacts customer Michael bought the Oakley EV Path for his grandson and is happy with the results:
“These were purchased for my grandson who runs high school cross country and track. He loves them. They are secure on his face and unaffected from perspiration. Great sun block. And they do make him look very cool!!!”
The Top Pick for Versatile Outdoor Sports
If you want a pair of shades that can be used for a variety of outdoor sports, including running, choose a lightweight, minimalist design.
These Costa Del Mar Fantail sunglasses are great for a variety of outdoor activities, from a park jog to fishing on a lake. They have a snug fit and feature mirrored, polarized lenses, perfect for seeing through the water or the trees.
EZContacts customer Jeremy enjoys the smart design:
“Great sunglasses. I spend a lot of time outside, they do a really good job keeping the sun out of the sides of your eyes.”
The Top Pick for Outdoor Trail Runs
For some runners, park or trail runs are the way to go. There’s no traffic, no honking, no buildings; just green spaces. So if you’re into the relaxation of running in nature, upgrade your experience with the right running glasses.
The Adidas Dunamis Pro is ideal for outdoor nature runs because of its 360-degree wraparound shape, which provides coverage from the sun at all angles. The comfortable nose grips mean they stay put on your face, which is great for long, bumpy trails.
When running in shaded forests or parks, you want to be able to see easily and clearly. These shades don’t have polarized lenses because they aren’t really needed in low-light situations with no glare.
If you are running outdoors near bodies of water, such as a lake or river, then you could select a pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses to reduce the glare from the water.
The Top Pick for Casual Local Jogs
If you enjoy running but are new to it, or if you’re more into casual 15-minute jogs to warm up before a workout, then opt for cool, subtle shades. I’m talking about running sunglasses that you can transition from jogging to grabbing a Starbucks. Or, ones that can go from running on the beach to lying on the beach.
The Oakley Actuator is the perfect pair for runners who dabble in the sport but don’t live for it. They feature rectangular lenses that offer good coverage. The design is simple enough to wear with anything outside of your jogging sessions.
The Top Pick for Beach Runs
Are you one of the lucky few who live near a beach that you can run up and down? If so, your best bet is a pair that’s polarized and gives off those surfer vibes.
The Maui Jim Peahi is one of the top picks for beach runs thanks to its sleek, curved shape, comfortable construction, and casual design. They have polarized lenses to reduce glare from the ocean and sand, and they’re great for other beach activities too. After all, Maui Jim is a brand that was born on the beaches of Hawaii.
EZContacts customer Nee agrees they’re great for the beach life:
“These fit perfectly and love the wrap around look for the beach. Lense clarity is very good.”
TL;DR
Whether you’re new to running or a long-term pro, invest in a pair of running sunglasses that upgrade your experience.
- If you run in your city, opt for the Oakley Radar EV Path sunglasses because they offer superior protection and clarity of vision.
- If you enjoy a variety of outdoor sports and want a pair of sunglasses to transition between activities, opt for the Costa Del Mar Fantail. They’re perfect for everything from running to fishing.
- For trail runs, pick the Adidas Dunamis Pro, which are lightweight and have a full-coverage mask shape.
- If jogging is more your thing than intense long runs, choose the Oakley Actuator sunglasses, which are perfect for casual wear.
- If you love running on the beach, pick a pair of Maui Jim Peahi sunglasses. They look casual and cool, and they will protect your eyes from glare.
