Running is one of the best ways to remain healthy and active. It requires minimal gear, such as a good pair of shoes, some motivation and a reliable pair of running sunglasses when stepping out in the sun. Wondering why sunglasses matter when you go out for a run? Well, the right pair of running shades for men does more than block sunlight. It protects your eyes from UV rays, reduces glare and helps you see clearly.
However, not all sunglasses are compatible for running. There are certain features that one should look for while picking the best running shades for men. Read the article to learn about what to look for while shopping for a pair, along with the benefits of running shades for men, and how to care for your shades post purchase.
Key features to look for in running shades for men
Choosing the right pair of running shades for men involves more than selecting a pair that looks stylish. Below are some features to look out for before purchasing a pair:
1. UVA/B protection
Having running shades for men that offer UVA/B protection should always be your top priority. Choose running shades for men that block out 100% UVA/B rays as they will protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays, reduce the risk of long-term eye damage.
2. Durability
Sweat, moisture and sunlight can wear down cheap sunglasses. Always choose lenses and frames made from high-quality, sturdy materials. Oakley, Goodr, Tifosi and Smith Optics are popular eyewear brands that offer UV protection, polarisation and comfortable sports sunglasses making them ideal for runners.
3. Polarised sunglasses
Look for running shades for men that have polarised lenses. They reduce glare from surfaces like roads and water. Polarisation improves visual clarity and contrast which is important for when you’re running outdoors.
4. Frame shape and fit
Go for frame shapes that are sports-friendly, like wraparound or oversized one-lens sunglasses. Regular frames can shift or slide, especially if you sweat a lot. Choose non-slip grips on the nose bridge and temples to keep the sunnies in place. This way, even when you are sweating or running, your sunglasses won’t fall off.
5. Lens types and tints
The lens types and tints play a very important role as they affect what you see and how well you see it. Different lenses have different purposes enhance visual acuity, reduce glare and enhance contrast especially when you’re outdoors for extended periods.
Below are some common types of lenses and how they benefit runners:
- Full-tint lenses are uniformly coloured lenses that cut down glare and enhance visual comfort, making them ideal for daylight runs.
- Mirrored lenses reflect more sunlight and are best suited for extremely bright environments such as open trails.
- Gradient lenses are darker at the top and gradually get lighter at the bottom. The darker tint at top protects your eyes from the harsh sunlight and the lighter bottom tint gives a better visibility of the ground and your surroundings.
- Polarised lenses minimise glare from roads and water and allow for crisper, clearer vision. This is beneficial while running through uneven terrains.
Choosing the right lens colour is also essential. Below are some lens colours, useful in different situations.
- Grey lenses offer light reduction in high lighting conditions and keep the colours natural
- Brown lenses improve contrast in sunny conditions
- Yellow lenses are ideal for low-light environments
What are prescription running sunglasses?
If you wear prescription glasses, going on runs can be tricky as regular sunglasses don’t address your vision needs. This is where prescription sunnies come in. They provide both protection and visual clarity and block harmful UV rays. With the option to add a sun tint of your choice or Transitions/photochromatic lenses to your prescription glasses, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Benefits of running sunglasses
One may wonder why sunglasses are so crucial that it is recommended to wear them even when you go outside for a run. Well, a good pair of running sunnies is more than just a fashion statement. There are numerous benefits that come with a pair of well-selected sunglasses.
“When you are exposed to UV rays for extended periods, your eyes can get damaged. Quality sunglasses can help prevent this damage while also improving your comfort and vision”, says Khuram Darwar, Dispensing Optician at Feel Good Contacts.
Some of the top benefits of running sunglasses include:
1. UVA/B protection
As per NIH, long-term exposure to UV radiation can lead to severe damage to the eyes. A good looking pair of running shades for men with 100% UVA/B protection will protect their eyes from harmful sun rays and prevent issues such as cataract or retinal damage.
2. Improved visibility
Bright sunlight not just makes you squint, it can also strain your eyes & affect your focus while running. Sunglasses reduce glare and help maintain a comfortable vision during your run. Polarised sunglasses even offer better contrast and enhance vision clarity under bright conditions.
3. Protection against wind and debris
If you run in windy conditions, it is not uncommon for dust and debris to get into your eyes. This affects your vision. Wraparound sunglasses provide extra coverage and protection from airborne impurities, insects and dust.
Taking care of your running shades
Caring for running shades for men is essential to maintain them properly and to ensure that they continue to look their best for years to come. Below are some tips on how to take care of your running shades:
1. Clean them regularly
Clean your sunnies with a microfibre cloth and a lens-safe cleaning spray regularly to make sure that dust is not deposited at different corners. Don’t use paper towels or your shirt to clean your lens, as they may lead to scratches.
2. Store them safely
Always store your sunnies in a hard case when not in use. This prevents accidental lens damage and keeps the frame from bending or breaking.
3. Avoid extreme temperatures
Do not leave your sunglasses in hot cars or in direct sunlight as it can cause warping or damage to the lens coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best sunglasses for running?
The best running shades for men are the ones that offer 100% UVA/B protection, a secure fit and reduce glare. Usually, polarised or mirrored lenses are excellent choices.
Can you run with prescription sunglasses?
Yes, you can run with prescription sunglasses. Infact, prescription running shades for men are a great option as they offer both vision correction and protect your eyes from the UV rays.
Why are polarised lenses good for runners?
Polarised lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces and improve visibility. This allows the runners to see clearly, spot potential hazards like potholes and maintain focus.
How do you protect running shades from damage?
To protect running sunglasses from damage, store them in a protective case, avoid extreme temperatures, clean them regularly with a microfiber cloth and use a sports strap to prevent them from falling, while going for a run.
What’s the best way to clean running sunglasses?
Clean running shades for men using a lens cleaner. Try using a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the lenses.
Selecting the right pair of running shades for men is more than just a style choice. It offers protection, enhances your performance and makes every run more enjoyable. So, all you fitness-loving gentlemen out there, use all these selection criteria and go and get the best running shades for yourself.
Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care or an in-person check-up. Please check with an eyecare professional before purchasing any products or remedies. For information on our article review process, please refer to our Editorial Policy.
Khuram Sarwar is a qualified Dispensing Optician at Feel Good Contacts. He holds over 14 years of experience in the optical industry. Registered with the General Optical Council (GOC), Mr. Sarwar is also a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO). He completed his training at ABDO College before achieving a BSc (Hons) in Ophthalmic Dispensing from Canterbury Christ Church University. In his professional career, Khuram has worked with some of the industry’s leading experts and continues to offer practical, expert advice on both contact lenses and glasses.
