Gear
Optimal Optics: Sunglasses for Running
June 25, 2010By Gus Alexandropoulos
Most runners are aware of the skin-damaging effects of too much sun, but these same harmful UV rays can also damage runners’ eyes. Since most runners spend a significant portion of their training outdoors, protective eyewear should be in every runner’s kit. But those steel-rimmed aviators that provide extra hipster cred on Friday nights are not ideal for running. Eyewear suitable for running should have lightweight frames, sufficient eye coverage, ample UV protection and clear optics.
Here are five pairs of performance sunglasses:
-
Hex - $40-90 (depending on lenses)
Ryders
These lightweight sunglasses offer excellent sun and wind protection. The durable frames fit most faces and the adjustable anti-slip nose pad and temple tips prevent unwanted movement when running. Unlike many other eyewear options, the Hex's reasonable price means fewer tears will be shed if they're broken or misplaced. An excellent combination of value and performance.
-
Split Jacket - $250
Oakley
The Split Jacket provides dead-easy lens switches thanks to its hinged Switchlock frame. Runners can simply flip up the nosepiece, allowing the lower half of the frame to pivot away, eliminating the usual struggling during lens swaps. On the lenses, Oakley uses a hydrophobic and oleophobic treatment to minimize smudging and smears and ensuring clear viewing in all conditions. The Split Jacket's temple and nose pads actually become grippier when wet, so the glasses stay put during hard efforts. Throw in exceptional optical clarity and complete UVA, B and C protection and you have a perfect set of running glasses.
-
BSG-25 Sprint - $55
BBB
With lightweight frames at just 20g, the BSG-25 Sprints are a good choice for runners who don't like running with glasses. The minimalist anti-slip nosepiece works with the longer swatches of similarly grippy material on the earpieces preventing the glasses from moving. The full-coverage lenses offer excellent optics and BBB includes three other coloured lenses, giving options for the perfect level UV protection and visibility regardless of the conditions.
-
Skylon Ace - $170
Nike
The Skylon Ace is an excellent pair of running sunglasses thanks to their lightweight frames and clear Max Optic lenses. Grippy rubber inserts in the temples ensure secure fit, while a slip-resistant ventilated nosepiece prevents the glasses from shifting during warm conditions. Nike uses a cam-action hinge, which snaps the arms into place, for a firm but pressure-free fit.
-
Genetyk - $250-320 (depending on lenses)
Rudy Project
The Genetyk combines a lightweight adjustable frame with a unique unbreakable photochromic lens for excellent comfort and UV protection during running. The grippy nose and earpieces prevent slippage and can be custom-fit to different faces, while the quick-change lens allows runners to choose the best colour for the lighting. Unlike many photochromic lenses, the Genetyk can adapt to changing light conditions in seconds rather than minutes. Versatile and well-made, these glasses are good addition to any runner's gear bag.
