What To Look For
Running sunglasses provide eye protection and UV protection for runners. The difference between running sunglasses and regular sunglasses is that running glasses must provide support on your face and nose to prevent them from slipping. Look for glasses with a silicone nose grip, comfortable ear grips and large lenses that block the sun from the front and the sides. Antisweat and antiscratch properties on the lenses are a bonus that makes the sunglasses even better.
Roadrunner Sports.com gives the Women's Optic Nerve Squeezebox Interchangeable Lens glasses a five-star rating for sun protection and non-slipping properties. The Tifosi Vogel glasses also have a five-star rating on Roadrunner Sports. Altrec.com offers the Oakley Women's Commit SQ Sunglasses and the Smith Haven Sunglasses with five-star ratings.
Common Pitfalls
The problem with some running sunglasses is that they do not provide enough grip while running to keep the glasses from banging against your nose as you run. This is annoying and painful, and may cause bruising in rare circumstances. To avoid this problem, make sure the glasses you buy fit snugly against the bridge of your nose even while jumping. It is likely that lesser-priced glasses will not provide the protection necessary to work well during exercise and running.
Take care when trying on the sunglasses to note the grip around your head. Glasses that grip too tightly can cause a headache or other pains after extended wear. Try to find glasses that sit comfortably but not tightly.
Where To Buy
You can find running sunglasses at sporting supply stores, which sell them year-round. Dick's Sporting Goods, Academy, REI and Altrec.com offer a large selection of top brands and models. These stores offer excellent customer service and have periodic discounts. Some of the most popular running sunglasses brands are sold at these retailers, including Oakley, Tifosi, Smith, Ray Ban, Spy Optics and Dragon.
Cost
Expect to pay more for running sunglasses than you do for regular sunglasses, unless you typically buy designer glasses. Most running sunglasses cost between $40 and $200.
The Women's Optic Nerve Squeezebox Interchangeable Lens glasses cost about $60. The Tifosi Vogel glasses cost about $40, and the Oakley Women's Commit SQ Sunglasses, about $150. Cost of Smith Haven Sunglasses is around $160. Prices may be more or less, depending on the purchase location and current sales.
