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CNN
17-07-2025
- General
- CNN
We ran hundreds of miles to find the best running shorts for women. There's just one we recommend to all runners
The best running shorts for women we tested Best running shorts for women: Janji 2-Inch AFO Split Shorts Whether you're training for a marathon or your first 5K, what you wear should add to your running experience, not detract from it. After testing the best running shoes for beginners, I discovered that building a running outfit is not as easy as it sounds. Finding comfortable shoes is one thing, but scoring activewear that is functional, affordable and stylish is a tall order. For ultimate, long-lasting comfort, running in leggings isn't always going to cut it. So, when it comes to women's running shorts, I wanted to find a trusty pair that could withstand many miles and more than one tumble in the washing machine. To do so, I gathered a small group of runners from the CNN Underscored team to test the performance, design and fit of six popular running shorts. The panel consisted of a seasoned marathoner in the Northeast, an experienced runner from New York with one marathon under her belt and one beginner from California. (I'm the beginner, but I do jog weekly around my Los Angeles neighborhood and range anywhere from 1 to 4 miles.) Three testers, three cities and six running shorts later, we found a winning pair we'd recommend to any runner. Janji 2-Inch AFO Split Shorts The Janji AFO Split Shorts made our testers feel comfortable, supported and lightweight on their runs. This pair is short with its 2-inch inseam, but the flowy design offers additional coverage with a built-in liner and slightly longer fabric in the back. The material is breathable, moisture-wicking and flattering, and it has inner pockets plus a built-in clip for keys. The Janji AFO Split Shorts sprinted to the front of the pack with its sweat-wicking material and secure split style. While some design elements sparked debate, the shorts' combined performance, fit and design scores earned them the winning spot in our evaluation. The AFO Split Shorts have a 2-inch inseam, with slits on each side that do show a lot of leg. I initially thought they'd be too short, and updates writer Ellen McAlpine, a New Yorker who recently ran the New York City Marathon and is already training for her next race, had similar reservations. However, we all found that the split shorts ended up providing decent coverage and made us feel good on our runs. 'They didn't feel like they were blowing everywhere or way too high,' said digital content strategist Madison Yerke, a Boston-based runner who is a seasoned marathoner. The shorts are cut like a mullet: shorter in the front and a smidge longer in the back. The lining offers additional peace of mind but was the crux of some additional debate between panelists. Yerke and McAlpine both felt the liner was a tad tight on their initial runs. After washing her shorts, though, Yerke noticed the liner felt looser. While the initial fit was tight for the other two testers, I felt just fine. The lining seemed to grow on McAlpine as well. She appreciated how it did not budge while running and dubbed it 'comfortable and not restricting.' From long strides to quick sprints, I appreciated the flowy cut of the shorts and felt no major bunching or uncomfortable rubbing while I jogged. Another highlight of the AFO Split Shorts is the moisture-wicking fabric, a feature Yerke and I praised in evaluations (and one that helps avoid chafing). After running in the pair on a rainy day, Yerke said, 'They dried super quickly and hardly felt wet throughout the run.' In terms of storage, there's a pocket to fit your phone tucked away in the back of the lining. In the front, there's another inner pocket with a bungee and clip to hold your keys. 'I love this feature,' McAlpine said. 'I think it's smart and handy, and adds to the overall value. It's the little thing no one really thinks about.' Yerke did note some struggles with the pockets being able to hold her keys. If you have a bulky pair (guilty!), you'll need more than these inner-lining pockets — maybe even a running belt. Overall, the Janji AFO rose to the top of our testing pool. From seasoned marathoners to beginners, we found running in this pair felt effortless. They are comfortable and classic shorts that are bound to be in your rotation for a long time. We researched top running apparel brands and discussed running shorts recommendations with our active editors. We only considered shorts designed with running in mind, though our selections vary in price and inseam length. The one thing they do all have in common, though, is the inclusion of a lining. Once our research was complete, we laced up our shoes and got to running, taking these shorts on spins in our respective routines. The habits of this testing panel vary mileage-wise. Yerke averages 40 to 50 miles a week and McAlpine runs anywhere between 10 to 15 miles. As the beginner of the cohort, I'm nowhere near their pace or their mileage; I run one to two times a week, focusing more on hitting a movement goal than a specific distance. By capturing this range of perspectives, we were looking to find something that worked well for everyone. Once we wore our shorts on a run, we washed them to see how well they held up. Any difference in fit or functionality lost the shorts some points. After exhausting ourselves over many runs, we based our evaluation on the following criteria. Fit: Our testers represent sizes XS to medium. We noted how the fit and feel of the shorts were on our first run and after the first wash. Design: The shorts in our testing pool varied in design. We tested split-shorts and those with plain, flowy pockets on the side or tucked away on the waistband. Others had a zipper compartment or no additional storage. The designs that made shorts comfortable to sport but functional to perform in scored high in this category. Performance: After taking each pair of shorts for a run, our panel described how the pair either enhanced or hindered their performance. As Yerke described in one of her evaluations, shorts you don't notice during your run are a good pair. Our favorite shorts also kept us cool and comfortable on the trail or treadmill. Shorts that felt bulky or that bunched up while running fell behind the pack. Wash test: After working up a sweat in each pair of running shorts, our testers threw each pair in the wash and laundered them based on manufacturer instructions, then noted any difference in fit or performance. Most shorts held up well, but a few felt looser after the initial wash. At the end of the day, your running shorts need to work for you. Fit and style will vary, but investing in a quality item means looking for performance and lasting wear. The length of the shorts you choose is also important. Flowy, split-short designs will feel light when you're speeding away, but they provide less coverage than shorts with a longer inseam. Choose based on your preference and what will keep you most comfortable for miles and miles. Shorts with built-in storage make your life easier on the go too. Not all pockets are created equal, of course, with some of our testers noted that things flew out of their shorts while testing. But shorts with pockets that kept miscellaneous items secure made runs easier. When it comes to running in shorts, there's also always the possibility of chafing. As CNN Underscored's resident marathon runner, Yerke spoke about her experience dealing with this discomfort. 'To avoid chafing, make sure to prioritize wearing and running in loose shorts that don't ride up in the thighs,' she said. 'Spandex or tight shorts are fine, as long as they stay comfortably put when you're moving and don't ride up to the point where your thighs are scraping each other and the material.' Elaina Raponi, a running coach with Team RunRun, echoes this sentiment. 'Ultimately, it comes down to finding what works best for your body through a bit of trial and error,' she said. Athleta Weekender High-Rise Stripe Run Shorts The Athleta Weekender High-Rise Run Shorts were praised by our panel for their flattering fit. However, while the high-waisted style made them stand out, our more advanced runners deemed this pair better for athleisure. 'I was obsessed with these the moment I put them on,' McAlpine said. I echoed this sentiment, writing in my notes that these shorts were the most flattering on my body. The lining of the shorts fit comfortably, the waist felt snatched and the 3-inch inseam felt comfortable around my hips. When it came to running in the shorts, though, the reviews were mixed. While I enjoyed running in the Weekend High-Rise, the fabric of this pair is not as lightweight as others in the testing pool. I was mostly running in an indoor gym with A/C, so this did not bother me as much, but Yerke and McAlpine expressed frustrations with the bulkier fabric during their runs. The lining in the Weekend High-Rise shorts stayed in place across our panel, and we all found this pair one of the most comfortable. To the seasoned runners, these shorts felt more like athleisure than high-performance workout gear. In the end, the Athleta Weekender High-Rise Stripe Run Shorts ranked second overall. Where it lost points in performance and design, it made up for in the fit category. Bandit 4-Inch Vento Wave Shorts The Bandit Vento Wave had an overall strong performance score. Our panelists loved the feel of the fabric and appreciated the functional design. However, the fit was inconsistent, making the Vento fall short in our ranking. Bandit makes some of my favorite compression shorts I've tested, so I was ready to put the Bandit Vento Wave shorts to the test. Yerke praised the length of these Vento shorts with their 4-inch inseam. 'I thought the length and material were perfect,' she said. Not only did the material feel nice but the lighter shorts did not show sweat marks, a major win for annoying running in hotter temperatures. Where the Vento shorts lost momentum was in the fit. All three testers struggled with a functional aspect of the design. For Yerke, the waist of the shorts was not secure; she had to pause to adjust the drawstring. McAlpine and I had similar experiences with the loose waistband. On my smaller frame and curvier body type, I also did not like where these shorts sat on my hips and waist. In the future, I would consider sizing up. These inconsistencies in fit did not mean the shorts performed poorly on our runs. All three participants enjoyed jogging or training in them. Still, the fit gave us pause when it came to deciding if we would continue reaching for them. Nathan Sports Essential Shorts The Nathan Sport Essential Shorts proved to be a divisive pair for our panel. While we appreciate the breathable fabric and flowy design, the low-waisted and ultra-short fit did not work for two of our panelists. If you're OK with rocking short shorts and prefer a lightweight feel, you'll enjoy getting your steps in with this pair. To put it simply, the Nathan Sports Essential Shorts were a mixed bag for our panel. The 2.5-inch-inseam design is also extremely low-waisted and feels short across the board. While Yerke praised this fit for being breathable and flowy, McAlpine and I had some qualms about it. I've never run in anything this low-rise before, so while I enjoyed the material, the fit took me some time to get used to. Had their performance not felt as great as it did on my run, I wouldn't consider wearing them again. McAlpine felt similarly, stating she felt 'exposed' in the fit. Of course, the lining offers extra comfort and coverage, but there is no denying that these are short shorts. Concerns on fit aside, these shorts performed well during my run. I appreciated the lightweight feel, something that Yerke raved about in her assessment of theses shorts. 'A good running short is a pair that you don't notice during a long run,' she said, 'and these fit the bill for me when I had almost no notes by the end of my run.' Yerke's assessment reminds us that high-performance running shorts should be comfortable and functional. McAlpine's and my evaluations of Essential Shorts' fit and design made this pair fall in the ranking, but there is no denying the quality of the lightweight material. Tracksmith Session Shorts The Tracksmith Session Shorts include an inner liner, three inner pockets and a drawstring to cinch the waist. Unfortunately, the fit did not work for different reasons across our panel. Each felt the shorts either sat on them weirdly or felt tight in certain places. While fit was a concern, our panel did note their comfort. 'As much as I didn't love the fit, these were comfortable to run in,' McAlpine said. All three testers appreciated the functionality of the Tracksmith Session Shorts but did not love the fit. My first impression of the 3-inch-inseam shorts was that my legs were eating the material; in other words, the flowy fabric was bunching while I was jogging. Since the fabric is lightweight, this didn't cause any discomfort, but it was something I noticed while running. McAlpine and Yerke also had fit concerns with the Session Shorts. According to McAlpine, the shorts were 'a little too tight and hit in just a strange spot waist-wise,' while Yerke described them as being 'bottom heavy.' Compared to previous iterations of the Session Shorts she owns, Yerke felt a difference while testing, and not in the best way. All testers validated the Session Shorts for being comfortable, though. The fabric felt soft on my runs, from the liner to the outer fabric, and the material felt almost cooling at times. It's also available in five colors, the yellow being my personal favorite. Aesthetics aside, this thicker fabric proved to cling to our bodies when we sweat. In the end, these Tracksmith shorts were vastly outpaced by our winner (and others made of a lighter material). Janji 5-Inch Multi Shorts The Janji Multi Shorts are the longest pair in our testing pool with a 5-inch inseam. If you're thinking they look like gym shorts from middle school, two-thirds of our panel thought the same thing. The longer Multi meant more fabric and some extra bunching on runs. If you're interested in longer shorts that still have a lining, this pair will keep you covered while you're being sporty. The Janji Multi Shorts have a 5-inch inseam, separating them from the other, shorter pairs our panel tested. Yerke noted they are 'surprisingly comfortable,' while I appreciated the small slits on the hem of the shorts, making them feel elevated as well as comfortable. I love an oversized shirt look, and as someone with thicker thighs, I appreciate the extra length. But with a longer length comes more fabric. This excess fabric was a tad bulky, but it didn't bother me during my runs as much as it did the other testers. For instance, McAlpine did not enjoy the fit or the performance of this pair. 'The length is just not the vibe,' she said. Yerke echoed this, sharing that she is not the biggest fan of longer shorts to begin with. She admitted that these did not hinder or enhance her performance. If you're not a fan of long shorts, skip this pair from Janji. If you're in the market for running shorts with extra coverage and don't mind a gym-shorts aesthetic, then you might consider stepping out in the Multi Shorts. The following FAQs have been answered by Becky Wagner, the general manager of th specialty run store Fleet Feet; running coach Elaina Raponi; and seasoned marathoner Madison Yerke. Do all women's running shorts have liners? Do all women's running shorts have liners? Wagner described two distinct categories for women's running shorts: flowy or split shorts, and compression, biker-shorts style. According to Wagner, flowy or split-cut shorts typically include a liner that offers additional coverage. Compression or biker shorts are tighter; therefore, they don't include an additional liner. Can women run in men's running shorts? Can women run in men's running shorts? 'There really aren't — and shouldn't be — any rules about what you wear to run, as long as it's comfortable and functional for you,' Raponi said. 'It's all about personal preference and what helps you feel your best while moving.' What is the range of inseam lengths for women's running shorts? What is the range of inseam lengths for women's running shorts? Women's running shorts range in length. According to Raponi, inseam lengths vary from 3 to 10 inches. 'The right length depends on what you're looking for: more coverage, greater freedom of movement or help preventing chafing,' she said. 'It's all about what feels most comfortable and functional for your body and your run.' How can you prevent chafing when running in shorts? How can you prevent chafing when running in shorts? 'To avoid chafing when running, fit and fabric are key,' Raponi said. 'I look for shorts with moisture-wicking materials and minimal seams. Some runners prefer longer inseams or shorts with built-in liners to reduce friction.' Raponi and Wagner also shared that anti-chafing balms can help ease discomfort caused by running in shorts. 'The formulas aren't greasy, and one application can usually protect for an entire race,' Wagner said. What tops can you pair with running shorts? What tops can you pair with running shorts? 'I always look for a top that is lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking so it doesn't get too uncomfortable,' Yerke said. 'Bonus points for a shirt that fits a bit loose on the skin and sits right past the waistband of the shorts, so it can be tucked in and/or doesn't go too far past the bottom of the shorts.' If you're interested in a cropped look, Yerke recommends the Tracksmith Turnover Top. 'This top has a built-in bra for extra support, is cropped at just the right length and makes me feel speedy no matter what miles I'm logging that day,' she said. If you're not feeling a crop top, Yerke's recommendations for a classic T-shirt include the Ciele FSTTShirt and this classic Nike tank. I asked two CNN Underscored editors to join me in testing the best running shorts for women. Our panel of three included different sizes and running experiences. Updates writer Ellen McAlpine had completed on marathon and is training for another as we speak. She runs weekly and logs around 10 to 15 miles a week outside of her race training. Associate testing writer Gareen Puglia is a beginner when it comes to running. While she typically prefers a ballet class, she runs anywhere from 1 to 4 miles weekly. Digital content strategist Madison Yerke has run over 200 races and averages between 40 and 50 miles per week. Elaina Raponi, marathon runner and NCCP-certified running coach with TeamRunRun Becky Wagner, general manager of specialty run store Fleet Feet Madison Yerke, digital content strategist at CNN Underscored and a runner with over 200 completed races and the 26th American-born Black woman to break three hours in a marathon CNN Underscored thoroughly tests the products in our testing guides and provides full transparency about how we test them. We have a skilled team of writers and editors who have many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Associate testing writer Gareen Puglia enlisted the help of seasoned runners and fellow CNN staffers Madison Yerke and Ellen McAlpine. The panelist put in miles and miles to evaluate six different pairs of running shorts to find the very best.
Fast Company
14-07-2025
- Health
- Fast Company
Parallels between marathon training and building a career
It's 9 a.m. on a Saturday, and I'm several miles into a long training run—legs heavy, pace slower than I'd hoped, and the finish line still miles away. Training for the NYC Marathon reshaped the way I approach leadership, personal growth, and long-term professional performance. It taught lessons that cannot be fully absorbed in any classroom or conference panel—real-life lessons in a highly practical case about resilience, structure, pacing, and long-term sustainability. While most people will never run a marathon, the principles behind this kind of endurance are broadly applicable to how we build careers with depth, purpose, and endurance. Here are five of the most valuable takeaways where parallels can be found: Training isn't linear. Some runs feel effortless; others feel like setbacks. Progress is often invisible in the moment, but over time, it compounds. What matters isn't a single session, but the sum of consistent effort over 15 weeks—or 15 years. Careers follow a similar rhythm. Promotions, recognition, or creative breakthroughs don't always arrive in sync with effort. You can put in months of work before anything outwardly changes, possibly even years. You may even encounter setbacks like an injury or a layoff. The delay between effort and reward can be discouraging—even when you know it's part of the process. Marathon Parallel: Improvement happens in the background—even when a run feels unremarkable and meaningless. Career Parallel: The work you're doing today may not pay off immediately, but it compounds over time. Takeaway: Like it or not, trusting the process is part of mastering it. Stick to your plan. 2. MENTAL ENDURANCE OUTWEIGHS NATURAL TALENT By the midpoint of any long-distance run, the physical challenge becomes mental, especially when you have properly prepped. Training your mind to override discomfort, stay focused, and push through doubt is often what separates finishers from those who burn out early. The same holds true in your career. Technical skills might get you hired, but it's emotional resilience, mindset, and adaptability that help you advance. Long-term success depends far more on your ability to 'stay the course' than on raw talent alone. Marathon Parallel: Grit and discipline carry you through the second half of the race. Career Parallel: Staying calm, focused, collected, and flexible is often more valuable than raw skill. Takeaway: Build mental stamina through repeatable daily habits. Discipline will always beat motivation. From Aristotle to Eliud Kipchoge, high performers across decades have echoed the same principle: discipline outweighs motivation. Discipline equals freedom. Don't be beholden to your 'moods' and motivation. 3. RECOVERY IS A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE Rest days are non-negotiable for runners. Without adequate recovery, performance declines and injury risk increases. Recovery isn't a break from training—it's part of the training strategy. Professionally, the same logic applies. Constant hustle leads to burnout. High performers learn how to integrate recovery into their routines, whether through boundaries, intentional downtime, or structured breaks that allow for mental recalibration. It's not indulgent—it's essential. It may sound familiar, but once applied, this approach transforms how you feel, and moreover, how you perform. However, once you formally apply this approach, you will not only see but rather feel the difference. From there, it is hard to go back to any other method. Marathon Parallel: Planned rest in your plan prevents injury and enables performance to be at peak. Career Parallel: Building in recovery allows you to sustain output, clarity, and energy. Takeaway: Sustainable performance beats constant hustle every time. Hustle culture is over-glamorized. Surely, you have never seen an executive of a Fortune 500 company appearing stressed, rushed, or disorganized. Distance running might seem like a solo endeavor, but community plays a crucial role. Training partners, cheering sections, and accountability networks help carry you through the most difficult parts of the course. In your career, support systems matter just as much. Mentors, colleagues, and advocates help you grow faster, avoid blind spots, and remain motivated. No matter how independent you are, nobody advances alone. If anything, this parallel feels like strongest of them all. Marathon Parallel: The crowd may not run with you, but they help you keep going. (There's nothing like the sound of the notorious roar of 1st Ave each November in New York City.) Career Parallel: The right people create the conditions for long-term professional success and become your biggest allies. Takeaway: Invest as intentionally in your support network as you do in your skill set, index funds, and other assets. Be sure to nurture those relationships and not just build them. 5. SUCCESS REQUIRES A PERSONAL DEFINITION Not every marathoner is racing for a podium finish. For some, it's about a personal best. For others, it's about crossing the finish line—period. The key is clarity around what success looks like and aligning your effort accordingly. For most of the marathon population, 'winning' is not the goal. Careers are no different. If your definition of success is borrowed from someone else, you'll constantly feel off pace. The most fulfilled professionals I know have defined their own metrics, whether that's leadership influence, creative autonomy, impact, or balance. Marathon Parallel: Every runner has their own goal, even on the same course hitting the same finish. Career Parallel: Your professional path should reflect your values, not someone else's expectations. Takeaway: Are you chasing your own definition of success? Especially as many grow families, pivot careers, care for elderly loved ones, and more, what looks like success to you may look vastly different from another. ENDURANCE IS A PROFESSIONAL SKILL Finishing the marathon didn't just mark the end of a training cycle—it marked the beginning of a deeper understanding of limits and how to approach challenges. In a work culture that prioritizes acceleration, and again, the hustle mentality, these lessons matter more than ever. So, whether or not you ever run 26.2 miles, consider this final thought: Identify the long-term challenge you're training for, and be sure to build the endurance to meet it with confidence.
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The best running sunglasses in 2025, tested and reviewed
Ask any runner what their favorite running accessory is and they'll likely mention a high-end GPS watch or wireless headphones. But for many runners, there's one essential they won't leave home without: a reliable pair of running sunglasses. The best running sunglasses offer sun protection without slipping, bouncing or fogging. Whether you're a casual runner logging a few miles at a time or a marathoner spending hours in the sun, there's no shortage of shades to match your face shape, running style and budget. 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.
