The Benefits of Wearing Running Glasses
As an athlete, you know the importance of protecting your eyes during outdoor activities. Running glasses provide the ultimate eye protection by shielding your eyes from dust, dirt, debris, and harmful UV rays. With a wide variety of styles and features to accommodate different sports, conditions, and preferences, running glasses have become an essential piece of athletic gear. This article will guide you through the benefits, types, proper fit, and care for running glasses. You'll gain the knowledge needed to choose the right eyewear for your sport so you can run safely and comfortably. We'll also recommend top brands and models based on testing and expert reviews, so you can find your perfect pair. Equip yourself with the eye protection you need to see clearly on every run.
Types of Running Glasses: Wrap-Around, Interchangeable Lenses, and More
Running glasses, also known as sport sunglasses, provide numerous benefits for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Protecting your eyes from the elements is crucial for performance and safety.
Wrap-Around Glasses
Wrap-around glasses offer nearly 180 degrees of coverage, protecting the sides of your eyes from elements like wind and glare that can dry and irritate them during long runs. The curved shape also helps prevent dust and insects from entering around the lenses. Popular brands of wrap-around running glasses include Oakley Flak 2.0 and Rudy Project Rydon.
Interchangeable Lens Systems
For runs that start in low light and end in bright sunshine, or for athletes who want options for different tints, interchangeable lens systems are ideal. Brands like Julbo offer frames that come with multiple lens options you can swap in and out, like photochromic lenses that adjust to the ambient light, low-light lenses for dawn or dusk, and polarized lenses to cut glare. Some systems offer lens options for nearly every light condition and activity.
The variety of lens and frame options for running glasses can be overwhelming, but focusing on your particular needs and running conditions will help determine the right choice for you. Protecting your vision and maximizing your performance should be the top priorities when selecting running eyewear. With the right glasses, you'll be able to train longer and push harder while keeping your eyes comfortable and focused on the road ahead.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Running Glasses
Lens Material
The lens material impacts durability, clarity, and UV protection. Polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant, providing protection from debris. Polyurethane lenses are highly flexible and shatterproof. Glass or resin lenses offer optical clarity but less impact resistance. Look for lenses that block 100% of UVA/UVB rays.
Lens Color
The lens tint affects how much light reaches your eyes. Amber or rose-colored lenses enhance contrast and are good for low light. Mirrored or flash silver lenses reduce glare and reflect light. Brown or gray lenses reduce brightness without distorting colors. Consider the conditions you'll run in to choose the right tint.
Frame Style
The frame style affects fit, coverage, and weight. Rimless or frameless styles are extremely lightweight but offer little coverage. Half-rim styles have frames on the top half only, providing more coverage while remaining lightweight. Full-rim styles offer the most coverage but can feel heavy during long runs.
Fit and Coverage
Look for running glasses that offer full coverage of your eyes to protect from wind, debris, and insects. They should fit snugly but comfortably, without pinching or slipping. Adjustable nose pads and temple arms help ensure a customized fit. For the best fit, shop for running glasses in person.
Added Features
Some running glasses offer additional features like interchangeable lenses for varying light conditions, prescription lens inserts, or heads-up display compatibility. Built-in ventilation prevents fogging, while shock-absorbing nose pads reduce vibration.
With the variety of running glasses available, you can find a pair tailored to your needs and budget. Keeping these factors in mind will help you choose glasses that suit your running conditions and maximize your performance. Your eyes will thank you for the protection and clarity good running glasses provide.
How to Properly Care for and Maintain Your Running Glasses
Clean Your Glasses Regularly
It is important to clean your running glasses on a regular basis to maximize their performance and longevity. Gently wipe both sides of the lenses with the microfiber cleaning cloth provided or a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dirt, sweat, and oils. For stuck-on debris, you can use a specialized lens cleaning solution and cleaning tissues designed specifically for sports glasses and lenses. Avoid using any harsh chemicals, as these can damage the lens coatings.
Store Your Glasses Properly
When not in use, store your running glasses in a hard case to prevent scratches and damage. Do not just throw them in your gym bag or pocket. The case should be ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. If possible, store the glasses in a location away from extreme heat or cold.
Inspect and Replace Worn Parts
Inspect your running glasses regularly for any damage or wear and tear and replace parts as needed. Look for any tears or holes in the frame padding and nose piece, loose or broken hinges, lens scratches, and loose lens coatings. Most running glasses brands sell replacement parts for their products on their website. It is best to replace these parts to ensure maximum comfort, fit, and safety.
Consider Prescription Running Glasses
If you require vision correction, you can purchase prescription running glasses. Speak to your optometrist about lens options suitable for sports use, such as polycarbonate lenses. These provide impact resistance and UV protection. Your optometrist can install the prescription lenses in a compatible running glass frame, allowing you to have customized eyewear for your athletic needs.
With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality pair of running glasses can provide many years of comfortable and protective use during your runs and workouts. Be sure to follow the recommendations from the glasses manufacturer regarding proper care, cleaning, and storage to maximize their lifespan. By taking good care of your running glasses, they will take good care of you.
Replacing Lenses and Other Parts of Running Glasses
Lenses
The lenses in your running glasses will eventually become scratched or damaged over time with frequent use and exposure to the elements. Replacing the lenses is often more cost-effective than buying a completely new pair of glasses. Most running glass brands offer lens replacement services where you can order replacement lenses specifically matched to your frame.
To replace the lenses, you will need to remove the nose pad and ear pieces from the frame. Then, carefully pop out the old lenses from the front of the frame. Insert the new replacement lenses with the curved side facing outwards. Reattach the nose pad and ear pieces and your glasses will be good as new. For the best performance, look for replacement lenses made of polycarbonate, which offers impact resistance and protection from UVA/UVB rays.
Nose Pads
The nose pads on your running glasses sit on the bridge of your nose and help keep the glasses securely in place. If the nose pads become loose, damaged or no longer stick properly to your nose, they should be replaced. You can find replacement nose pads from the same brand that made your running glasses to ensure a proper fit. Simply peel off the old nose pads from the frame and stick on the new replacement pads. Press firmly so they adhere securely.
Ear Pieces
The ear pieces, also known as temples, are the parts of the glasses that extend from the lenses to your ears. They can become bent, twisted or broken over time. Replacement ear pieces can be ordered to match your specific glasses frame. To replace the ear pieces, use a small screwdriver to remove the screws or bolts attaching the old ear pieces to the frame. Remove the old ear pieces. Attach the new replacement ear pieces using the same screws or bolts and tighten securely.
With occasional replacement of lenses, nose pads and ear pieces as needed, a good pair of running glasses can last for many years. Keeping your glasses in working order will ensure maximum performance, protection and comfort during all your runs and workouts. Replacing individual parts is an economical way to extend the lifespan of your running glasses.
When selecting running glasses, choosing a reputable brand is key to getting a high-quality, durable product. Several brands stand out in 2022 for their innovative, functional designs and commitment to athlete performance.
Oakley
One of the most well-known brands for performance eyewear, Oakley offers an array of running glass options like the Flak 2.0 and Radar EV Path. Oakley uses proprietary lens technologies like Prizm and Polarized to enhance color and reduce glare. Their frames are made from ultra-lightweight, durable materials that can withstand intense activity. While on the higher end of the price spectrum, Oakley running glasses are an investment in performance and protection.
Tifosi Optics
For runners on a budget, Tifosi Optics provides affordable yet functional running glasses. Models like the Swick, Davos, and Dolomite 2.0 offer polarized or Prizm lens options, rubber nose pieces, and hydrophilic rubber temple tips for comfort and grip. Tifosi keeps costs down by avoiding expensive brand marketing, allowing them to provide quality running eyewear at lower price points, from $30 to $100.
Goodr
With fun, retro-inspired designs, Goodr aims to make running glasses accessible and stylish. Their affordable models like the OG, BFG, and Mile offer polarized lens options, non-slip grips, and complete UVA/UVB protection. Goodr glasses start at around $25, appealing to runners who want simple, functional eyewear on a budget. The brand donates a portion of profits to charity and works to reduce waste, appealing to eco-conscious athletes.
In the end, choosing between Oakley, Tifosi, Goodr or another reputable brand comes down to your needs, running style, and budget. Any of these brands will provide the protection and performance you need for your runs. With regular use and proper care, a quality pair of running glasses can last for years to come.
Finding the Right Fit - Running Glasses Sizing Tips
To get the most out of your running glasses, finding the proper fit is essential. Ill-fitting eyewear can be uncomfortable, distracting, and potentially unsafe. When sizing running glasses, consider the following tips:
Frame Fit
The frame should fit snugly but comfortably around your head. Running glasses that are too loose may slip and slide, while frames that are too tight can cause headaches. For the best fit, measure the circumference of your head and compare it to the sizing chart provided by the running glasses brand.
Adjustable Components
Look for adjustable components like removable padding, adjustable nose pieces, and adjustable ear stems or straps. These features allow you to customize the fit and increase stability and comfort. Removable padding, in particular, helps prevent the frame from slipping when sweaty.
Face Shape
Consider the shape of your face. Round frames tend to suit round or oval faces, while rectangular frames are more flattering on square faces. Rimless or semi-rimless frames are a versatile choice that suits most face shapes.
Proper Alignment and Coverage
Ensure proper alignment and coverage. The lenses should cover your eyes and sit evenly on your nose. There should be no gaps that allow air, light, or debris to enter. For wraparound sunglasses, the lenses should follow the contour of your face with full coverage from all sides.
Testing
Test the running glasses to ensure they do not move or bounce excessively when running or engaging in physical activity. Jump, twist, and shake your head to simulate the motions of running. Ill-fitting glasses that move around too much can be distracting and unsafe.
With the proper fit and features, running glasses can provide protection, enhance your performance, and make your run safer and more enjoyable. Taking the time to find running glasses suited to the size and shape of your head will ensure maximum comfort, stability, and benefit.