Buzz
I discovered the importance of running sunglasses one summer during a vacation. One morning, I set off early from my family’s hotel in my running shoes, but I realized I had forgotten my sun visor. In a pinch, I grabbed my driving sunglasses from the car, thinking it would be fine. However, as soon as I started sweating, the glasses slid right off my face. If you’ve ever watched that video of a squirrel slipping down a greased bird feeder pole, that’s pretty much what it felt like happening with each stride.
When I got home, I bought a pair of $25 Goodr sunglasses. I took them out for a run on another hot, sweaty day, and they stayed put the entire time! I’ve also had the chance to try out Nathan running sunglasses, and they are amazing as well.
What to consider when choosing running sunglasses
Before that memorable vacation run, I had heard of running sunglasses, but I didn’t quite grasp what made them so specific for runners. Here’s a breakdown of the key design features that make running sunglasses worth considering. While details can differ by brand, look for these:
A textured grip or coating. Look for rubber nose pads (they might be tucked away, so check carefully) and a non-slip finish on the temples inside.
Proper fit. If they’re too large, they’ll slide off despite the grip. For example, Goodr fits well on my relatively small head, but they also have a BFG line for those who need a bigger size.
Lightweight design. Heavier items tend to bounce around more. Opt for a light pair for more stability.
Polarized lenses. Polarized lenses reduce glare from horizontal surfaces like water and roads. Not everyone prefers them, so give them a try and see if they work for you.
Scratch-resistant lenses. Running sunglasses are meant for function, not just style, so they’re bound to face some rough treatment. Brands like Knockaround highlight the durability of their lenses. Some users on Reddit have noted that Goodr lenses scratch easily, but I haven’t had any issues with mine, which are over a year old now.
No matter which sunglasses you go for, protect the lenses by storing them in a protective case when you’re not wearing them (most brands include a microfiber sleeve). When trying them on, remember to test them with other running accessories, like a hat or visor, headband, or headphones. Then, enjoy your snug and secure sun protection while running.
