Investing in Pairable Sunshades: Their Value Justified (Along with a Few Recommended Models)
I discovered the importance of running-specific sunglasses during a summer vacation. Early one sunny morning, I headed out for a run in just my sneakers and realized I'd left my sun visor at home. I ended up using my car's driving sunglasses instead, but they quickly slid down my nose as soon as I started sweating. It was like the squirrel in that viral video sliding down a greased pole, but on my face.
Upon returning home, I made it a point to buy myself a pair of $25 Goodr sunglasses. To my surprise, they stayed put even during sweaty runs. I later tried out a pair of Nathan running sunglasses and was equally impressed.
Goodr Polarized Running Sunglasses $25.00 at Amazon $25.00 at Amazon
What to Consider in Running Sunglasses
$25.00at Amazon
I had heard about running sunglasses before, but I never truly understood why they were so different from regular sunglasses. Here's a rundown of the key features that make running sunglasses a better choice:
- Grippy coating/surface. Look for rubbery nose pads (they might be hidden, so take a close look) and a non-slip surface on the temples.
- Appropriate size. Sunglasses that are too big could slide off despite the grip. Brands like Goodr offer a variety of sizes to suit different head shapes .
- Lightweight. Heavier sunglasses have a higher chance of bouncing during runs, so lightweight sunglasses are advantageous.
- Polarized lenses. Polarized lenses filter out horizontal light, reducing glare from water and roads. Keep in mind that not everyone enjoys polarized lenses, so give them a try and see if you like them.
- Scratch-resistant lenses. Running sunglasses are primarily functional, not fashionable, so durability is paramount. Brands like Knockaround boast the durability of their lenses. Some people online have reported that Goodr lenses scratch easily, but I haven't noticed any issues with my own pair, which are over a year old now.
Regardless of the brand you choose, always protect the lenses by storing them in a protective sleeve when not in use (many brands include a microfiber sleeve in the packaging). When trying them on, make sure they work well with other accessories you might use on a run, like a hat, headband, or headphones. With the right running sunglasses, you can enjoy a comfortable and glare-free run.
After experiencing the inconvenience of using car sunglasses during my run, I became convinced that investing in running-specific sunglasses was worth it for my health and comfort. The grippy coating on my new Goodr and Nathan sunglasses ensures they stay in place during sweaty runs, enhancing my focus and reducing eye strain.
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