Introduction
Running is a simple sport that requires minimal gear. Yet, among the essential gear for runners, a good pair of sunglasses often tops the list. Brands like Oakley, Nike, and Tifosi have set the standard in running eyewear. They not only protect your eyes from harmful UV rays but also fend off distracting glares and reduce eye strain. With a plethora of options available from these top-tier brands and more, how does one find that perfect pair for the sprint and the marathon alike? Let’s delve deeper.
The Criteria for the Perfect Running Sunglasses:
Running sunglasses differ significantly from your standard shades. They need to marry style with a plethora of functional requirements.
1. UV Protection: The Prime Consideration
Protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays is paramount. Brands like Julbo and Smith offer models with 100% UV protection. Extended exposure to UV rays can lead to cataracts or macular degeneration over time. Ensure your chosen sunglasses, whether it’s from Rudy Project or another reputable brand, offer 100% UV protection. Labels like ‘UV400’ are often a good sign.
2. Shape and Fit: Stability on the Sprint
Oakley 2.0 and Nike’s Tailwind are renowned for their snug fit and wraparound design. When running, you want sunglasses that stay put. The wraparound design not only ensures a wider field of vision but also keeps distracting side light at bay.
3. Material Matters: Lightweight and Durable
Adidas and Under Armour have made significant strides with durable yet lightweight materials. Opt for polycarbonate lenses—they’re impact-resistant and light. For frames, consider those made of nylon or acetate.
4. Ventilation: Preventing the Fog
Tifosi’s Fototec series offers excellent ventilation. A foggy lens can disrupt a good run, but with small vents or specialized lens designs, many brands combat this issue effectively.
5. Tint and Polarization: For Clearer Vision
Smith’s ChromaPop and Oakley’s PRIZM technology showcase how lens tints can vastly differ in utility. While gray tints might be versatile, amber or brown tints from brands like Rudy Project can enhance contrast, especially on those partly cloudy days.
Polarized lenses, like those found in Nike’s Vaporwing Elite, filter out reflected light, reducing eye strain, especially when running near water or on wet roads.
6. Adjustability and Additional Features
Julbo’s Aerolite and Adidas’s Evil Eye Pro come to mind when considering sunglasses with adjustable features. Interchangeable lenses, as offered by some Tifosi models, allow adaptability based on the day’s conditions.
Did You Know?
The first sunglasses date back to prehistoric times, where Inuits used flattened walrus ivory with narrow slits to protect their eyes from sun reflection off the snow. Though primitive compared to, say, a pair of Oakleys, the principle remains: protection from intense light and glare.
The Review
Conclusion Selecting the ideal running sunglasses is more accessible with brands like Oakley, Nike, Julbo, and more leading the way. Remember, style and brand are important, but the sunglasses' functionality is paramount. As you lace up and head out, ensure your eyewear complements your performance, shields effectively, and, of course, makes a statement.
