Sunglasses may be the single most important yet overlooked piece of gear required by every athlete. Not just for the bright sunny days of summer, sunglasses should be a year-round addition to your kit for a variety of reasons: to shield your eyes from harmful rays and glare, to provide protection from dirt, pebbles, bugs, sand, or other matter, and to add some style to your look or possibly coordinate with your hat or shoes.
New design trends in sunglasses include more adjustable and fully padded/rubberized temples and nose pieces, increased venting, and advanced lens technology.
Styles evolve, but these days you can still buy a pretty decent pair of polarized sunnies for $25. If cost is no concern, there are pairs that price out at $225 or more. Much like apparel, though, the difference in pricing will boil down to brand name, design, and premium materials like bio-based plastics and Zeiss lenses. Whatever your budget, style, or mission, there is a pair of sunglasses here for you.
More From Runner's World
Best Running Sunglasses
- Best Overall: Hypercraft Sunglasses
- Best Value: Goodr OG
- Best Design-Your-Own: Knockaround Premiums Sport
- Best Interchangeable Lenses: Oakley Radarlock
- Best Color-Enhancing Lenses: Smith Reverb
The Expert: I’ve been venturing outdoors, camping, climbing, trail running, and backpacking since I was old enough to walk. I wasn’t a star athlete in school by any means, and really didn’t find my own way as a runner, climber, and skier until college. Now, as a professional gear tester for almost three decades, I’ve had the opportunity to test my mettle on some of the most incredible mountain ranges around the globe.
I’ve written for and contributed to publications including Backpacker, Men’s Health, Gear Junkie, 5280, and Elevation Outdoors. I’ve ticked off numerous 10Ks and half-marathons over the years but spend more time now on mixed surfaces than road, and I love to take my kids along for the fun. When I’m not hammering away on my computer, I’m hammering out on the trails surrounding my home in the Pike’s Peak region of Colorado. Follow along for more adventures on Instagram at @definitelywild.
How To Select Running Sunglasses
Personal style counts, but functionality, fit, lens type and quality, tint, and price will guide you to finding the right balance for your running needs. It’s even possible that one pair of sunglasses won’t solve all of your desires or problems. When it comes to sunglasses, I’m sure an informal poll would reveal that most runners own more than one pair, even if the lenses do conveniently switch out based on the conditions of the day.
Ultraviolet light can take its toll on both cloudless days and when the skies are gloomy. In fact, cloudy days can be even more dangerous for your eyes. During the winter, when the sun is lower in the sky, rays can cut through the atmosphere at an angle that can really sneak up on you. For these reasons, look for a pair of sunglasses that offers the best protection for your individual face shape because UV rays can reach your eyes from all angles.
Wraparound models offer the best coverage from side to side, but many lens shapes, especially when designed specifically for runners, will also provide relief from common seasonal irritations.
How We Chose These Running Sunglasses
I’ve tested dozens of pairs of sunglasses across runs, functional strength training, cycling, fishing, climbing, hiking, skiing and more—sometimes testing the same brand's newest models year after year. I have tested functional eyewear for more than two decades all year round, across the country, and all over the world in varying climates and conditions.
Every year I’m amazed at the sheer number of introductions, new brands, and incremental technological innovations. I’ve also done fairly extensive research with product line managers, ophthalmologists, developers, and marketers about the technical considerations, materials, lens tech, and science behind performance eyewear. There’s rarely a run or a ride I do that I’m not testing a pair of sunglasses.
To make my final selections, I included the research and efforts of previous writer Caitlin Giddings and the work of the Runner's World test team. Our combined endeavors bring you these recommendations.
100% Hypercraft Sunglasses
100% Hypercraft Sunglasses
Pros
- Interchangeable lens
Cons
- Big for small faces
Key Specs
| Weight | 0.8 oz |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | No |
| Best Fit For | Medium sized face |
Stylish and extremely functional, the 100 Percent HyperCraft Sunglasses can take on any condition. Proprietary UltraCarbon tech frames deliver sturdiness while remaining lightweight and sleek. The high-contrast polycarbonate, aerodynamic interchangeable lenses provide near wrap-around protection and visibility without the bulk. Plus, this motocross-inspired brand’s coatings and lens treatments resist scratches, water, dirt, and oil.
But most of all, we love these sunglasses for their versatility, including a clear lens option for night runs, shooting sports, or other activities that require protection in low light.
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not be wide enough for some
Key Specs
| Weight | 22 grams |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | No |
| Best Fit For | Small to medium faces |
Runner's World test editors have been fans of Goodr shades since the company launched in 2015. They’re affordable, well-built, polarized, don’t bounce, and come in a ton of fun colors. The original model magically fits a lot of different head sizes comfortably, but opt for the BFG style if you have a larger noggin. The BFG comes with a wider frame and larger lenses, plus longer arms and silicone inserts at the nose and temples, for a more comfortable fit. (It’ll cost you $10 more, it's still a bargain.)
The only drawback: More light can leak in around the edges of the OG’s frame compared to the BFG model. At $25, though, these sensible shades won't be a liability when you’re traveling or if you toss them into your gym bag. That's why you see so many runners rocking them.
Knockaround Premiums Sport
Knockaround Premiums Sport
Pros
- Multiple lens and frame colors
Cons
- Lenses don’t enhance contrast for trail running
Key Specs
| Weight | 25 grams |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | No |
| Best Fit For | Medium faces |
It’s rare to see celebs sporting $35 shades, but these have proven stylish enough to cut the glare of the limelight for stars from Snoop Dogg to Selena Gomez. That’s not the only reason to like them.
The sturdy build and rubberized nose help the sunglasses stay secure on your face, yet they’re flexible enough to work for runners with bigger heads too. The nose and temple pads are a soft, grippy thermoplastic compound that helps the shades stay put after you get all sweaty.
With their polarized, impact-resistant lenses and UV400 protection, the Knockarounds are also true to their name; they're durable enough to withstand drops and scrapes.
Oakley Radarlock
Oakley Radarlock
Pros
- Plenty of lens options
Cons
- No wrap-around coverage
Key Specs
| Weight | N/A |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | Yes |
| Best Fit For | Smaller faces, high cheekbones, low-bridge noses |
Oakley’s wide lens selection and history with interchangeable lenses is hard to beat. The Radarlock Path glasses offer a secure and comfortable fit. They are designed to stay higher up on the face, preventing slippage off of the nose. The Switchlock Technology makes changing out lenses simple, giving you the option to choose polarization or even prescription depending on your needs.
For an all-around lens option, opt for the Prizm Road Lens at 20 percent light transmission with increased contrast. These transition from dappled trails to a daily neighborhood jog with ease. And if you want even more choice, Oakley glasses are fully customizable online.
Smith Reverb ChromaPop
Smith Reverb ChromaPop
Pros
- Lightweight frame lessens nose and ear fatigue during runs or workouts
- Nose and temple pads offer more secure fit
- Interchangeable lens system
Cons
- Lenses not polarized
Key Specs
| Weight | 27g |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | No |
| Best Fit For | Small to medium faces |
If you’re not familiar with Smith, the brand got its start making goggles for skiers and snowboarders in Colorado. Since then, the company has expanded to sunglasses, helmets, and apparel for all types of athletes.
The Reverb, specifically geared toward runners and cyclists, is a model ideal for your daily run. At 27 grams, the TR90 frames feature a wraparound shape for more coverage against glare, adjustable soft Megol rubber nose and temple grippers, and hydroleophobic (moisture- and smudge-resistant) ChromaPop lenses. The lenses really do amp color and clarity. The violet model has lenses rated at 15-percent light transmission, so go for a lighter tint if you spend a lot of time in the shade.
Smith Flywheel ChromaPop Sunglasses
Smith Flywheel ChromaPop Sunglasses
Pros
- Retro style
- Lots of coverage
- Also good for cycling, skiing, and other sports
Cons
- Heavier than most
Key Specs
| Weight | 36g |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | Yes |
| Best Fit For | Medium faces |
If you like the style and generous coverage of the Smith Reverb, the brand’s Flywheel sunglasses take things a step further with a full-on throwback skier vibe that spans even more of your face without blocking the view with excess framing.
The frames, made from a durable plastic resin with comfortable rubber nose pads, won't slide around even after you start sweating. Even better, they won’t feel heavy on your face. The polycarbonate, wraparound lenses feature the brand’s “ChromaPop” technology, which is designed to filter out color distortion and provide more clarity. Choose from a variety of different frame colors and patterns and lens colors—Smith offers lots of interchangeable retro options for this style.
→ Similar Style on a Budget: Tifosi Tsali ($70)
Tifosi Alliant Sunglasses
Tifosi Alliant Sunglasses
Pros
- Interchangeable lenses
Cons
- Lightweight build can be susceptible to breaking
Key Specs
| Weight | N/A |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | No |
| Best Fit For | Large heads |
For mid-summer training, you'll need a pair of glasses to keep the glare away without fogging up from heavy breathing and sweat. The stylish Alliant sunglasses have vented lenses that create ample airflow.
At their reasonable price, it makes sense to invest in these shades to make training in the summer months more bearable. Interchangeable polycarbonate lenses and adjustable hydrophobic nose and ear pieces ensure you find the most comfortable fit. When it comes to the array of features and brands out there, Tifosi makes a great all-around choice, especially when trying to keep fogging at bay.
Tifosi Swank
Tifosi Swank
Pros
- Sturdy Grilamid frame
- Comfortable for running; casual for everything else
Cons
- Minimal wrap-around coverage
Key Specs
| Weight | 22 grams |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | Yes |
| Best Fit For | Small to medium faces |
Not all running sunglasses have to look outwardly sporty—nor do they have to cost as much as a pair of new shoes—to offer top performance at fast paces. (Just ask pro-runner Molly Seidel, who wore a pair of the Tifosi Swanks when she qualified for the Olympics at the 2020 Marathon Trials.)
The Swank’s Grilamid TR-90 frame feels slightly rubberized on the temples and nose bridge, which helps these glasses stay snug without bouncing or slipping, even if you're sweating through strong gusts of wind. The polycarbonate lenses won't fog up during humid lunch runs and they'll resist repeated drops on the pavement, although they’re not scratch-proof. Thanks to the rainbow of color options, the Swank can still look cool even if it does have a few nicks.
Goodr Mach G Running Polarized Sunglasses
Goodr Mach G Running Polarized Sunglasses
Pros
- Versatile style for different occasions
Cons
- No interchangeable lenses
Key Specs
| Weight | N/A |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | No |
| Best Fit For | Medium faces |
Style, performance, and price…need we say more? The Mach G polarized aviators are complete with scratch- and sweat-resistant materials, plus inlaid nose grips for increased stability and comfort.
The UV400 polarization spares your eyes from harmful rays, and the Mach G are so light and slim, you’ll be hard pressed to notice them on your nose or even in your pocket. Simple but effective, these glasses look good for all occasions. Plus, at $35, it's a small investment and an ideal addition to anyone’s gear quiver.
Pros
- Customizable
- Unbeatable grip
Cons
Key Specs
| Weight | 25g |
|---|---|
| Rx Option | Yes |
| Best Fit For | Customizable for small-large heads |
The ROKA SR-1X sunglasses provide wraparound coverage and interchangeable lenses in a reliable, featherlight construction that any runner would appreciate. Customizable titanium core wires, a removable and adjustable nose piece, and patented GEKO “fit retention system” keep these comfortably and securely locked to your face using a special elastomer on the nose and temple pads.
Change out the lenses for a variety of highly-curated lens tints to tackle any scenario: for full sun, medium, low, and variable conditions. All lenses are treated with hydrophobic and anti-fog coatings to keep away sweat and moisture, while an anti-reflective backside coating keeps glare at bay. There is a prescription option for these as well.
Expert Aaron Bible Sheds Some Light on Buying Your Next Pair of Sunglasses
In short, yes, tint matters. Essentially you should choose tint based on the light conditions of the day, from full bright sun to cloudy and rainy. That’s why interchangeable lenses are so popular, especially on goggles.
When it comes to gear, few have made a lifelong career of testing and writing about new products in the outdoor world the way Aaron H Bible has. An award-winning writer, photographer, and multimedia producer, with three decades of experience as a content specialist, creative director, and journalist, he can be found on the trails and slopes surrounding his home in Colorado when not in front of the computer. A former footwear editor for Backpacker magazine, Bible is a contributing writer, editor, and photographer to publications including SKI, Freeskier, Men’s Health, Sunset, Gear Junkie, 5280, Elevation Outdoors, Vanish, Bicycling, Popular Mechanics, and more. He didn't start running competitively until after college where his passion for hiking and climbing morphed into an unusual love for trail running. Having ticked off numerous 10Ks and half-marathons over the years, Bible now spends more time on mixed surfaces than road so he can take his dogs along for the fun. These days you can find Bible out running with a BOB kid's stroller negotiating singletrack that would give most parents pause, or entering any 5K fun run that will have him.
