Protecting your eyes while you are running outside is a must. Although many people start running as a cheap way of working out, your running experience can be enhanced with the right accessories. The best running sunglasses are just one of those accessories. On sunny days, wearing the best jogging sunglasses makes your run more comfortable, and protects your eyes from the harmful UV rays of sunlight.
Some articles recommend wearing them in all weather conditions. However I am not a fan of them on rainy days. I find that the raindrops on the lenses just obstruct my vision instead of helping it.
In this article I will go through the must have features of the best running sunglasses and the best jogging sunglasses. At the end of the article I will recommend the five best models on the market.
The Features of the Best Running Sunglasses and Best Jogging Sunglasses
Although there is no one product that could be categorically labelled as “the best pair of running sunglasses” in town, there are a few features every great pair of jogging glasses must have. After all the taste and the needs of every individual differs. However it is useful to go through a checklist of features to look at when choosing running sunglasses.
- UV Ray Protection: I can’t stress enough how important this is. Your eyesight is one, if not the most important sense. Glasses with UV Ray protection block out the harmful rays of the Sun. UV Rays are the strongest during the summer, but they are just as dangerous when running near surfaces that can reflect back the sunlight into your eyes, like bright white snow, shiny surfaces or water.
If you don’t wear running sunglasses during the summer, you will squint by instinct. If done repeatedly, wrinkles appear around your eyes. Fit: This is another one high on the list. No matter how good your running glasses look, how well they block the UV lights if they don’t fit. If they are too small they will feel too tight. If they are too big they will be loose and keep falling off. If you have the chance always try out the glasses you want to buy. If you don’t have the chance then look for the reviews on Amazon and see if the glasses come in the right size, or if they are regularly larger or smaller.
- Adjustable pads: Adjusting the pads of the best running sunglasses makes them fit a lot better. The glasses don’t wiggle and move around, and the chances that they fall off while running is smaller.
- Rubber Contact Points: The best running glasses have two points where they make contact with your head. First, the little grip over your nose. Second, on top of your ears. In the best jogging glasses these are made with high quality, soft, yet firm rubber. Try on the glasses and make sure these points of contact fit, and feel comfortable. Another must is a shape that stays put on your head. Nothing takes you out of the comfort of a great run faster than your sunglasses wiggling on your nose. Some glasses are best for small, others for medium or big head sizes. If the glasses are not adjustable, check which model they are.
- Frame: The frame can easily be what separates a great pair of running glasses from average ones. Most running glasses have a composite frame. These are firm, and light at the same time. The little flexibility is needed in order to avoid cracking under trauma and other damages.
- Looks: Style and fashion matter. I, for example like to go running if I have a few small errands to run. Pun intended. For example I take on my running compression socks, my compression shorts and I run to the post office. Or I run to the grocery store if I just have to get out for a few small items. Or it is also possible that I just go running in the city and I might meet somebody I know along the way. I want to look great if there is a chance that I might come across acquaintances. This is why I never compromise on looks when it comes to the best quality running sunglasses.
- Polarized lenses: This is a feature missing from most cheap glasses. Polarized lenses reduce glare. They allow you to look at metal surfaces and water for extended periods without your eyes hurting. Not to mention that you will see sharper, with better colour conditions.
- Reduced fogging: If you live in an especially humid, foggy area, then small cutouts on the edges of the lenses can make your life a lot easier. These little cutouts provide better ventilation and as a result don’t let the humidity turn into fog on your lenses.
- Impact resistance: This is just a fancy way of saying that the best jogging sunglasses are durable. They can take a little wear and tear. If you go on a trail run, you don’t have to be afraid if the best running sunglasses fall off your head. They will not break unless you step on them accidentally.
- Price: Well, this is something everybody has to determine for herself. What is your budget? What are your priorities? Are you looking to buy the best model you can get for your buck? Do you want a value model? No matter how much you can spend, you can find the right model that will get the job done.
- Warranty: Although not a sexy topic, but since some models cost over a hundred dollars, warranty is a big plus. Most models come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but always check the Amazon page just to be sure.
Best Jogging Sunglasses
Under Armour Igniter Polarized Multiflection Sunglasses
Oakley Men’s Flak Polarized Iridium Rectangular Sunglasses
Oakley is famous of their innovation, the quality of their products and their careful design. These running sunglasses are worth every single cent. They come with a certificate of authenticity. With a medium fit frame – 12 mm Bridge Width, 38 mm Lens Height and 133 mm Temple Arm Length – this is the perfect model for almost all outdoor activities.
They are so well designed, that the lenses never have any fog on them. The lenses have 100% UV protection coating.
A premium product worth every dollar if you wish to exercise with perfect protection of your eyes.
Paerde Sports Style Polarized Running Sunglasses
Very lightweight unisex sunglasses, yet they are unbreakable. However the Aluminium-magnesium metal frame and the nose pad can be adjusted to fit to your size. This gives you comfort and reduces the risk of the glasses falling down from your face.
The product comes with a guarantee from the company. They have a 30 day money-back guarantee no questions asked. However they have a lifetime breakage warranty on the frame and the lenses.
SEEKWAY Polarized Running Sunglasses
The UV400 protection coating blocks 100% of the UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Provides perfect colour conditions, while eliminating scattered and reflected light, and protects your eyes perfectly. This is all thanks to the seven layers of the lenses.
The lightweight, durable, yet stylish design makes these one of the best jogging sunglasses on the market. They are a value choice for outdoor activities enthusiasts. They are suitable for men and women, and thanks to the large number of different colour combinations everybody can find the model that fits his or her style the most.
Tifosi Lore Dual Lens Sunglasses
The lenses come with a multilayered UV-protection coating. This protects your eyes even in the hottest, sunnies summer days.
However what makes these one of the best jogging sunglasses are the little details. For example the ventilated lenses never get foggy. The lenses eliminate distraction and distortion at the periphery.
The hydrophilic rubber ears and nose pads can be adjusted for perfect fit and comfort. This makes these glasses fit small, medium and large faces at the same time.
These are one of the best running sunglasses on the market. With a price around sixty dollars they are on the higher end of the price scale, but they are worth the investment.
Conslusion
The best running sunglasses and the best jogging sunglasses are essential for maintaining the health of your vision. Polarized lenses and UV protection reduce glaring. If they are the right fit, and they match your style, the best running sunglasses can be a valuable addition to your running gear. No matter what time of the year it is, I recommend wearing one of the best jogging sunglasses featured in this article.