The best running sunglasses in 2025, tested and reviewed
As a 14-time marathoner, USATF Level 1-certified running coach and health and fitness writer, I've tested my fair share of running sunglasses over the years. They've become something of a security blanket — I even wear them on top of my head during predawn runs, just in case the sun rises before I make it home.
Artis Beatty, a Raleigh, N.C., optometrist and chief medical officer at MyEyeDr., agrees about the importance of running glasses, noting that they don't just make you look cool (though that's a nice bonus). Rather, a quality pair provides key protection from UV rays on sunny and cloudy days, which may help lower your risk for eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. "A good pair of sunglasses block those harmful rays from entering the eye while also protecting the periorbital area — the delicate skin around the eyes that's especially prone to sun damage, wrinkles, signs of aging and even some skin cancers. They also shield your eyes from wind, dust and debris that can cause irritation or impact your focus while running," he says.
Clearly, a pair of running shades is essential, whether you're a competitive runner or simply looking to add some cardio to your workout regimen — but how do you go about deciding which option is right for you? After extensive research and talking with two optometrists, we tested eight sunglasses to see which ones were worth the investment. Keep reading to see our picks of the five best running sunglasses in 2025.
Best overall running sunglasses
More running sunglasses we like for 2025
Factors to consider when purchasing running sunglasses
How we chose
Other products we tested
FAQs
Meet our experts
(back to top)
(back to top)
Frame fit and comfort: Many of the running sunglasses on our list are designed to fit medium-size faces, though some brands, like Goodr, offer options for folks needing smaller or larger frame sizes. For longer-distance runners, comfort is also key — while you don't want your sunnies slipping and sliding, a pair that's too snug can cause an uncomfortable amount of pressure on the sides of your head.
Style and preferences: Yes, performance is important, but I'd argue that style is equally so — after all, you want to feel confident on your runs. I personally prefer a sportier look in my sunglasses that shields as much of my eyes and face as possible. However, some runners like a smaller, more fashionable look.
Running conditions: While it's impossible to predict the weather, certain climates tend to be sunnier, hotter or more humid than others. Depending on where you live (and where you run), you may find a wraparound style necessary for added sun protection, or prefer the glare-reducing benefit of polarized lenses. "For routes with mixed lighting — like shady trails or changing weather — photochromic lenses are a smart choice," says Beatty. The time of day you'll be on the roads or trails may also influence your decision.
Slip-proof features: All the running sunglasses on our list are designed to stay put while you move. Adjustable nose pads and a grippy frame (especially by your ears) are key features to look for to minimize slippage and bouncing.
Price: As you can see from our list, running sunglasses range from under $30 to well over $200. Some pricier models justify their costs with durable frames, sport-specific lens technology and included extras (like a travel case or interchangeable nose pads). However, there are plenty of high-quality running shades at affordable price points.
Durability: Some frames and lenses are more durable than others. "For runners, polycarbonate or Trivex lenses are ideal — they're shatter-resistant and highly durable," says Meenal Agarwal, a Toronto optometrist and host of the Uncover Your Eyes podcast. To extend the life of your sunglasses, it's also a good idea to invest in a protective case, rather than leaving them out on the counter or stashed in a backpack.
UV protection: While a hat or visor can provide some shade, they don't provide full eye protection — especially from UV rays reflecting off surfaces like pavement, water and snow, explains Agarwal. To protect your eyes, Agarwal recommends looking for sunglasses labeled "100% UVA/UVB protection" or "UV400." These labels ensure that the lenses block both UVA and UVB rays. While you might assume you can simply choose sunglasses based on the lens color, Agarwal points out that lens colors can be deceptive when it comes to sun protection. "It's not about how dark the lenses are — it's the UV filter that matters," she says.
Lens technology: When shopping for running shades, it's helpful to be aware of key differences in lens technology. Beatty recommends opting for lightweight, impact-resistant lenses, like polycarbonate, that are durable without weighing you down. "If you're running in bright or changing light, look for an antireflective (AR) coating, which cuts down on glare that reflects off the back of your lenses, which can be distracting," he says. "These features make a difference in how comfortable and clear your vision feels during a run." Lens color also matters. "If you're running at dawn, dusk or in shaded areas, clear or lightly tinted lenses are good options," says Beatty, adding, "Photochromic lenses are also a great option, as they automatically adjust to the light, getting darker in bright sun and lighter in dimmer conditions, so you don't have to switch glasses."
(back to top)
To determine the best running sunglasses, I narrowed down the testing pool to eight pairs — some provided as samples by brands, others I purchased myself. Over the course of two months, I tested each pair on runs ranging from one to two hours, as well as on short walks, hikes and while driving.
I also consulted two optometrists to understand the importance of wearing specialized sunglasses while running and what features matter most. Finally, I drew on my own experience as a seasoned marathoner and certified running coach to assess which sunglasses offered the best balance of comfort, performance, protection and price.
(back to top)
We tested eight pairs of running shades, and while the three below didn't make the list, they may be a good fit for some runners. Looking for a more versatile pair? Check out our roundup of the best sport sunglasses, with tester-approved options for virtually every activity.
Tifosi Swank: Similar in style and price to Goodr, Tifosi Swank glasses work well as a budget option, though they don't provide the same level of coverage as others on our list, like the Vogel SL. They are available with prescription lenses, though, so that wins them some extra points.
Adidas Dunamis Evo S: I enjoyed the sleek and sporty feel of these sunnies. However, the lighter purple lenses I tested weren't the best for running in full sun. Plus, at $160, these aren't cheap and there are simply other pairs on our list that I liked more.
Tifosi Moab: I appreciated that these provided more coverage than the Tifosi Swank. The windshieldlike design also provides an excellent field of view. That said, the overall aesthetic wasn't my favorite, and the lens didn't help darken sunlight quite as well as the sunglasses that made our list.
(back to top)
According to Beatty, polarized sunglasses may be helpful if you're running near water or in a city with tall, windowed buildings, as polarized lenses reduce glare and reflection. However, it's important to note that polarized lenses don't block UV rays unless they're also UV-rated. Whether or not to purchase polarized running sunglasses ultimately depends on personal preference. However, our experts agree that runners should always opt for a pair of UV-rated shades. As Beatty notes, regular long-term exposure to UV rays can contribute to serious eye problems, such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
"UV protection matters all year round, even when the sun's not out, and up to 80% of UV rays can still get through clouds. Make sure your sunglasses say '100% UVA/UVB protection' or 'UV400,' and don't rely on how dark they look, as it's the UV coating that protects you," says Beatty. If the weather seems to change on a dime where you live, Agarwal recommends opting for sunglasses with photochromic lenses, which adjust to changing light.
Another benefit of sunglasses, even when it's not sunny, is that they help protect your eyes from wind and debris without darkening your view. They also help minimize squinting, which can reduce strain and fatigue during long runs, adds Agarwal.
Running sunglasses differ from regular sunglasses in that they're designed to stay put and not fog as you pick up the pace (and start to sweat). Lens technology is another key differentiator, as running lenses come in a variety of tints to improve visibility in low or bright light. Many running shades are also designed with wraparound frames for added coverage. "If you run in bright conditions, larger lenses help reduce glare and light leakage," says Beatty.
Good news! You can find a quality pair of running sunglasses without breaking the bank. Brands like Tifosi and Goodr offer polarized and nonpolarized options under $50 that stay put during runs and come in a variety of styles, colors and lens types. The biggest downsides are that these shades tend to scratch more easily and often don't come with a protective travel case. Those drawbacks aside, many of the more affordable brands offer sunglasses that are both stylish and functional, which some folks prefer over sportier-looking shades.
"Anything that makes you feel confident and comfortable while protecting your eyes is a win," says Agarwal. "Fashion and function can go hand in hand — just make sure you're not sacrificing protection for style."
(back to top)
Artis Beatty, OD, a Raleigh, N.C., optometrist and chief medical officer at MyEyeDr.
Meenal Agarwal, OD, a Toronto optometrist and host of the Uncover Your Eyes podcast
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
38 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Smoke descends on Northeastern US. Map shows air quality impacts.
NEW YORK CITY − Wildfire smoke wafted from Canada to create unhealthy air quality levels across the Northeast on July 26. State officials from Maine to New York issued alerts for fine particulate matter, a toxic byproduct of wildfires that is small enough to be inhaled. Smoky conditions impacted cities including Boston and New York. Canada's fires could produce more smoke blowing into the Northeast through the afternoon, said Brooke Taber, a National Weather Service meteorologist stationed in Burlington, Vermont. Smoke is also causing limited visibility in some areas. Wind changes could provide a respite by the night, Taber said. Montreal had some of the worst air quality in the world due to fires in the Canadian Prairies, the Canadian Press reported, citing IQAir, a Swiss-based monitoring company. Several wildfires burning in Saskatchewan and Manitoba are sending large smoke plumes eastward, according to Quebec's fire provincial agency. Meanwhile, New York City climbed on IQAir's list of cities with unhealthy air levels. Hazy skies and the faint smell of smoke blanketed Manhattan on Saturday. Map shows US air quality Why air quality matters Officials urged people to stay indoors to reduce exposure, and to limit strenuous activity. Exposure can cause short-term effects such as irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, along with coughing, sneezing, runny nose and shortness of breath. It can be particularly dangerous for people in sensitive groups, such as children, older people and those with chronic health conditions, such as asthma or heart disease. Canada is experiencing another harsh wildfire season in a warming climate. Dozens of wildfires are blazing uncontrolled, according to Canada's natural resources department. In early July, Manitoba's government declared a state of emergency for its historic fires. July 17: Brace for more smoky skies as Canadian wildfires rage Eduardo Cuevas is based in New York City. Reach him by email at emcuevas1@ or on Signal at emcuevas.01. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Air quality map shows Canandian wildfire smoke impacts
Washington Post
38 minutes ago
- Washington Post
Broncos linebacker Drew Sanders carted off practice field with right leg injury
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Third-year linebacker Drew Sanders was carted off the Denver Broncos' football fields Saturday after injuring his right leg during drills. Sanders began hopping around right after the play and then went to the ground in pain. Team medical personnel looked at his right foot and ankle before putting him on a cart and taking him inside team headquarters for an MRI.
Yahoo
43 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Continuous glucose monitors are in vogue. But do you really need to track your blood sugar?
A quarter-size device that tracks the rise and fall of sugar in your blood is the latest source of hope — and hype — in the growing buzz around wearable health technology. Continuous glucose monitors, small patches that provide 24-hour insight into concentrations of sugar in the blood, could be a tool for Americans to 'take control over their own health,' Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently told federal lawmakers. 'They can take responsibility,' Kennedy said. 'They can begin to make good judgments about their diet, about their physical activity, about the way they live their lives.' The devices have lifesaving benefits for people with diabetes, the disease caused when blood sugar remains high because their bodies don't make enough insulin or become resistant to it. The condition, which affects more than 38 million people in the U.S., raises the risk of serious health problems such as heart and kidney disease and vision loss. But the devices have surged in popularity among people without diabetes. Sales have been driven by high-profile marketers such as Casey Means, the nominee for U.S. surgeon general. There's scant evidence the monitors are useful for people with normal blood sugar levels, said Dr. Jody Dushay, an endocrine specialist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Healthy bodies can effectively regulate glucose after meals and provide the energy they need to function. Glucose monitors may lead people to misinterpret normal swings in blood sugar that happen after eating or activity. In addition, the devices can be 'notoriously inaccurate,' providing misleading readings, she said. 'The problem with wearing these is that you can just be zooming in on and creating pathology when it's not there,' Dushay said. Here's what you need to know about the devices: Here's what a continuous glucose monitor does The device is a small patch, about the size of two stacked quarters, usually placed on the upper arm or stomach. It uses a needle to painlessly pierce the skin for a tiny sensor. The sensor measures the glucose in fluid under the skin, delivering a signal every few minutes to a phone app or a handheld display. The apps typically record blood sugar levels and help people track the foods they eat and how they impact those levels. When healthy people eat a meal that contains carbohydrates, their blood sugar rises, peaks and falls in response to the food. A healthy fasting blood glucose level for a person without diabetes is roughly 70 milligrams per deciliter to 99 milligrams per deciliter. A range from 100 to 126 milligrams per deciliter indicates prediabetes and above 126 milligrams per deciliter indicates diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. In adults without diabetes, blood sugar levels can climb to 140 milligrams per deciliter or more within an hour of a meal, before falling back to baseline levels within two or three hours, according to the association. It's a sign the body is processing sugar normally. Continuous glucose monitors have been available since the late 1990s For decades, these devices were available only for people with diabetes. The monitors revolutionized care by allowing more precise adjustment of insulin used to treat diabetes and giving people the ability to modify meals and activity more accurately. Last year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first over-the-counter monitors. Since then, many companies have emerged to market them, claiming to provide intensive, individualized health monitoring. Cost is generally about $100 a month. They've really caught on with consumers curious about how food and activity affect their blood sugar levels. For instance, Noom, the weight-loss and fitness app, launched a blood glucose feature last year that has proven extremely popular, said Alexander Fabry, a company executive. 'Of the people who are using a CGM, the vast majority of them don't have a diabetes diagnosis,' he said. Who can use the monitors? The devices have been lifesaving for people with diabetes. And they can be helpful for people with risk factors for the disease, including obesity, prediabetes, a history of gestational diabetes or a family history of the condition. The devices can allow users to see how specific food and activity choices affect their blood sugar in near real-time, said Dr. Alaina Vidmar, a pediatric obesity specialist at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. 'After a large meal, you may watch your blood sugar go up and sort of learn something about yourself,' Vidmar said. 'For example, I drink a sugar-sweetened soda and my blood sugar goes up really high, really fast. And maybe I don't feel as good, right?' What are the cautions? People without risk factors for diabetes may turn to the monitors just because they're curious, said Dr. David Kessler. A former FDA commissioner, Kessler doesn't have diabetes, but he wore a monitor for a couple months during research for his recent book, 'Diet, Drugs and Dopamine.' 'I think it's a very interesting tool to experiment with if you're so inclined,' Kessler said. But, he noted, the devices can't be used to diagnose or treat disease. Even experts don't agree on how to interpret or provide health advice for people without diabetes based on blood sugar data. 'No one knows what's optimal in the nondiabetic state,' he said. Before using a monitor, Dushay asks patients to consider their motives. 'What do you think you're going to get from the data?' she said. 'What is to be gained from wearing that monitor?' ___ The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Jonel Aleccia, The Associated Press
