The best running sunglasses in 2024
Medically reviewed by Jakub Odcházel, DiS., Chief Optician, on 11 Apr 2023. Written by Lentiamo
Table of contents
For runners, having the right sunglasses can be just as important as having a comfortable pair of running shoes! Running sunglasses should protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation, reduce glare, and improve overall visibility.
For those who wear contact lenses, sunglasses can be especially beneficial as they provide an extra layer of protection against pesky wind, dust and other debris outside.
Whether you're hitting the trails or pounding the pavement, see what features the best running sunglasses offer for different environments. Get expert answers to some frequently asked questions too below.
What should a good pair of running sunglasses offer?
Comfort
Brand pictured above: Cébé
It will come as no surprise that running sunglasses should be comfortable. For runs of any length, the last thing you want is for sunglasses to squeeze too tightly or rattle around. Uncomfortable sunglasses can be distracting and affect your performance.
UV protection
Brand pictured above: Under Armour
When running outdoors, it's important to wear sunglasses that shield your eyes from bright sun and reflective surfaces. Roads and other surfaces can produce glare, which can cause discomfort and even impair your vision. Choose running sunglasses that provide high UV protection to keep your eyes safe from damage and reduce the amount of light that enters the eyes.
Still not sure? Let our sunglasses virtual try on feature help you try frames online.
Lenses
Brand pictured above: Oakley
In addition to choosing the right sunglasses lens material for optical quality and durability, lens colours can affect what you see and how well you see it. Different sunglasses lens colours can be useful in different situations.
- Grey lenses – A neutral choice, grey lenses offer great light reduction qualities in bright light and keep colours natural.
- Red lenses – Red lenses filter out blue light and can boost colour contrast with yellow road signs, traffic lines and green trees.
- Brown lenses – Brown lenses enhance contrast in bright or varied lighting conditions.
- Yellow lenses – Great for low-light conditions, yellow lenses increase contrast and improve visibility for foggy or dark days.
Another feature to consider is polarised sunglasses. Polarised lenses reduce glare which can be helpful when running in bright, sunny conditions or near water. Some runners may find, however, that polarisation significantly darkens surroundings or changes depth perception. Depending on your preferences and running conditions, running sunglasses don't need to be polarised but they can enhance your overall experience!
Lightweight frames
Brand pictured above: Esprit
When it comes to running sunglasses, lightweight options are ideal because they can prevent discomfort on the face and nose. Heavy or poorly-fitting sunglasses can create pressure points, causing headaches and leaving marks on the skin. Lightweight sunglasses are also less likely to slip down the nose or bounce around during a run, which can be distracting and uncomfortable.
Pro Tip: Lentiamo optometrist Eliška reminds us that sport sunglasses should be lightweight and comfortable. Moreover, they must be made from high-quality, durable materials to withstand bad weather conditions, strong sunlight, sweat, debris, and more.
Fit
Brand pictured above: Polaroid
The right size glasses should fit snugly without rubbing or pinching. Running sunglasses should stay securely on your face without falling off when running at a fast pace or when looking down. They should be chosen for both functionality and aesthetics. Frames that fit your face shape will be more comfortable and look better as well.
Durability
Brand pictured above: Bollé
Sunglasses must be durable to withstand the physical demands of running outdoors. Exposure to sweat, moisture, the occasional impact, and sunlight can take a toll on low-quality shades. Look for lenses and frames made from materials like lightweight and durable polycarbonate.
Closing thoughts from Lentiamo
If you've been looking for the best sunglasses for running, we hope this guide helps you find the perfect pair that can keep up with you. Our experts have selected a variety of shades for different occasions. Whether you're ready for a marathon or a mile, keep these key features and products in mind!
Frequently asked questions
What are the best budget sunglasses for running?
As with any sunglasses, budget running glasses should offer high UV protection, provide good visibility, be durable, and fit comfortably. Our top picks for the best budget sunglasses from Esprit and Polaroid. They offer great optical clarity and a variety of sporty designs. You can also find lower cost Oakley sunglasses that are suitable for running.
Are Ray Bans good for running?
Many runners enjoy Ray-Ban sunglasses for the optical clarity and durability they offer. Many models are lightweight and have added features like polarised lenses. Ray-Ban has many stylish and reliable shades for trail runs or quick jogs through the city.
What are the best Oakley sunglasses for running?
Oakley offers a variety of top-of-the-line sports sunglasses. Many of their models are ideal for running. With optimised frame shapes, lightweight materials and superb lens technologies, you can't go wrong. Oakley Radar EV Path, Oakley Flak 2.0 XL and Oakley Sutro Lite models for their optics and comfortable, quality designs.
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Interested in other sports? Check out more sunglasses for mountain biking and cycling today.
