Best sunglasses for running in 2025

Hang out at a track or scroll through photos of a running event, and you’ll notice that many runners don’t wear sunglasses. But they should. Eye experts consistently advise wearing sunglasses whenever you’re outside to decrease the risk of eye damage and diseases. 

Quality running sunglasses should be lightweight, so you feel like you’re not even wearing them. They should fit snugly, so they don’t bounce as you move. They should also have sweat-resistant nose pads and temples (the arms that go behind your ears). The last thing you want is for your sunglasses to keep sliding down while you’re out on the trails or sprinting that last 400 meters. 

I’ve been a runner for almost 30 years and have tried tons of running sunglasses. For this guide, I polled and interviewed running and eye experts and scrolled through data from third-party reviews. I also tested some of the final picks as I was training for my third marathon. My overall favorite was the Rudy Project Propulse because of the impressive clarity and the way the adjustable temples and nose pads sat lightly against my nose and ears—even deep into my long-distance runs.   

But every runner is different, so I found a few more running sunglasses to suit different needs. Here are all my top picks. 

A hundred percent UV protection should be non-negotiable, when shopping for running sunglasses. All our picks are made to provide complete defense against UV rays. Other features to pay attention to are weight and nose pad technology—you want the pads to grip your nose bridge even as you sweat.  

Of course, style is a personal choice. “It has to match the way you want to look, that you want to feel,” says Yuta Sano, a runner and general manager of the California sporting goods retailer Sports Basement. “Otherwise, you’re never going to use it.”  

Best sunglasses for running overall: Rudy Project Propulse 

Why we like it: Founded in 1985 in Italy, Rudy Project initially produced sunglasses for competitive cycling. The Rudy Propulse model is designed for running. I tested a few Rudy Project sunglasses while marathon training and found them to be lightweight, comfortable, and clear.  

The curve of the lenses protected my eyes from all sides, and the adjustable temples were snug and mostly unnoticeable on my ears, mile after mile. Ten tiny holes across the frame and four on the bottom corners of the lenses increase ventilation. On the rare occasion the lenses fogged up, the condensation vanished in a second. The “ImpactX” photochromic lenses transition from dark to light, so you can put them on in the dim early morning light and forget about them as the sun rises.  

Keep in mind: The Propulse is best for small to medium faces, so if you want a larger model, you may want to try the Rudy Astral Sphere, which has a wider wraparound design.  

Product details: Weight: 0.9 oz. | Fit: Small/Medium fit | Nose pads: Adjustable | Lens options: Rx, photochromic | Interchangeable lenses: Yes | Colorways: 11

Best running sunglasses for men: Oakley Radar EV Path  

Why we like it: You’ll frequently see Oakleys on marathoners, triathletes, and trail runners, as well as Tour de France cyclists and Major League Baseball players. “It’s cool to have an Oakley,” says Sano, who has a pair for running and biking. “When I’m talking to customers, it’s hard. I can’t tell you that this $200 Oakley is eight times better than the $25 Goodr, but it is better.”  

The EV stands for “Extended View,” which means that the sunglasses have a taller lens that lets you see clearly above your normal line of vision. The temples and nose pads are made of unobtanium, a rubber-like compound that’s made to get grippier as you sweat. There’s also an option for getting different-colored Prizm lenses for various light conditions.  

Keep in mind: These are expensive glasses, so they may not be worth the cost for a casual jogger. They’re also made for larger faces, so check out the Oakley Radar EV Pitch for a smaller option.  

Product details: Weight: Approximately 1 oz. | Fit: Regular | Nose pads: Adjustable | Lens options: Rx, photochromic, polarized, iridium | Interchangeable lenses: Yes | Colorways: 28 plus custom

(These are 8 of the best running shoes for men)

Best running sunglasses for women: Roka Barton 2.0 

Why we like it: These square-framed sunglasses look just like stylish everyday sunglasses, but they have the key features that make glasses comfortable for running, such as lightweight frames. Inspired by a gecko’s sticky feet, the temples (which are adjustable) and nose pads feel snug and stay put, but if they don’t fit quite right, you can get the no-slip pads in a different size.  

“You are paying for the quality,” says Jess Mena-Garcia, a running coach and physical therapist who leads SoCalTrail events in California. “They don’t scratch easily. The frames are durable and have spring hinges, so they fit great.”  

Keep in mind: These glasses are made for medium-sized faces. If you need to size up, try the Roka Barton 2.0 XLs.  

Product details: Weight: 0.8 oz. | Fit: Regular fit | Nose pads: Interchangeable | Lens options: Polycarbonate, Trivex, high-index, Rx | Interchangeable lenses: No | Colorways: 7 frame colors and 4 lens colors

(Here are 8 best running shoes for women)

Best prescription sunglasses for running: Roka Falcon 

Why we like it: The Roka Falcons were inspired by athlete Jesse Thomas, who secured his first surprise triathlon win in 2011 while wearing drugstore aviator sunglasses. Roka’s shades have the brand’s signature geko-inspired temples and nose pads, made of a clear elastomer (elastic polymer) that’s grippy even when wet. The frames also have Roka’s signature spring hinges that allow the arms to flex outward and adjust to your head for an exact fit.  

Roka Falcons have three lens options: a lightweight polycarbonate, an upgraded Trivex for runners who prioritize optical clarity, and high-index thin lenses for stronger prescriptions. All come with UV protection and made to be scratch-resistant, anti-reflective, fog-resistant, water-repellent, and oleophobic (which reduces oil buildup). 

Keep in mind: These frames are extremely lightweight, so they may not feel sturdy enough for runners who want more intense protection. There aren’t many colorway options.  

Product details: Weight: 0.7 oz. | Fit: Small/medium fit | Nose pads: Interchangeable | Lens options: Polycarbonate, Trivex, high-index, Rx | Interchangeable lenses: No | Colorways: 3 frame colors, 4 lens colors 

Best running sunglasses for small faces: Rudy Project Rydon Slim 

Why we like it: The Rydon Slims are the smaller version of the Rudy Project Rydons, which have been around for 15 years. They’re almost an inch narrower across the face, with temples that are about a quarter inch shorter. They also have the Rudy Project signature adjustable nose pads, so you can control where the glasses sit on your nose and how far they are from your face. These glasses also have super bendy arms that hug your ears without putting too much pressure on your head.  

The slim silhouette could also work for teen and kid athletes who need eye protection. We also love that the frames come in pink or cobalt blue, for those who prefer a pop of color.  

Keep in mind: These are expensive, high-quality glasses, so if you are thinking of getting them for your kids, save them for the responsible teen who won’t forget where they put them.  

Product details: Weight: 0.9 oz. | Size: Small | Nose pads: Adjustable | Lens options: Rx, photochromic | Interchangeable lenses: Yes | Colorways: 13 

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Best polarized sunglasses for running: Maui Jim Ho’okipa 

Why we like it: Hawaiian sunglasses company Maui Jim is known for its PolarizedPlus2 technology that helps make everything look sharp and vibrant. For running, experts recommend the Maui Jim Ho’okipas. They’re lightweight with rubberized nose pads that help prevent glasses from sliding down.  

The Maui Jim Ho’okipas have a semi-rimless frame (the lenses are held together by a black nose bridge and black temples), which provide an unobstructed view of your surroundings. The polycarbonate lenses are curved in a way that provides good coverage and protection without the frames.  

Keep in mind: You don’t necessarily need polarized lenses for running, especially since they may alter depth perception on uneven terrain. They may make it hard to see the screen on your running watch as well.  

Product details: Weight: 0.6 oz. | Fit: Medium | Nose pads: Adjustable | Lens options: Polarized, Rx | Colorways: 8 lens colors with the Gloss Black frame

Best sunglasses for trail running: Smith Shift Split MAG 

Why we like it: Wraparound sunglasses like the Smith Shift Split MAG are great for serious trail runners because they give extra protection from UV rays, wind, dust, rain, or other unpredictable weather conditions.  

Photochromic or photochromatic lenses, which adjust to light conditions, are especially recommended for trail running. “If you’re going from light to dark to light to dark, going underneath some trees or through a tunnel, it takes a while for your eyes and your brain to adjust to that,” says Sano. You want sunglasses that can transition quickly. 

Smith Shift Split MAG’s ChromaPop photochromic lenses are designed to enhance colors and contrasts, so you can fully appreciate nature’s beauty, even if your legs are burning. They’re sturdy and protective without being heavy and have Megol gripping technology on the nose pads and temples.  

Keep in mind: These running sunglasses are huge. They’re best suited for larger faces or for runners looking to channel some of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “Terminator” vibe to push through that last mile.  

Product details: Weight: Approximately 0.9 oz. | Fit: Medium | Nose pads: Adjustable | Lens options: Includes photochromic and clear lenses | Interchangeable lenses: Yes | Colorways: 9 

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Best running sunglasses with adjustable bridge: Nike Flyfree 

Why we like it: Many of the sunglasses on our list have an adjustable bridge, but Nike Flyfrees are classic running sunglasses with adjustable silicon-coated nose bridges that reviewers praise for comfort. The flexible temples are made with the same silicone material, giving the sunglasses an overall snug fit. We also like the venting across the top of the flat four-base frames.  

The lenses feature Nike Max Pro technology, designed to resist reflections, water, and oil. Lens options include Nike Road Tint, which blocks harsher lights on road runs; Nike Low Light Tint Glasses, ideal for early morning or dusk runs; mirrored lenses, which have a reflective coating; and polarized lenses for reducing glare. We love that each purchase comes with an extra set of lenses.  

Keep in mind: These sunglasses have a narrow frame.  

Product details: Weight: Unlisted | Fit: Medium | Nose pads: Adjustable | Lens options: Nike Road Tint, Nike Low Light Tint, polarized, mirrored, and Rx | Interchangeable lenses: Yes | Colorways: 9  

Best budget running sunglasses: Tifosi Vogel SL 

Why we like it: Tifosi sunglasses generally fall in the $25-$95 range, which make them far easier on the wallet than the $200 luxury brands. One reason budget-conscious runners go for Tifosis over others is because they have the basic elements of more expensive offerings: holes for ventilation, prescription options, soft and adjustable nose pads, and flexible temples.  

The Tifosi Vogel SL is a popular model for runners—they’re frameless, which provides an unobstructed view, and surprisingly lightweight for the amount of coverage you get. The hydrophilic rubber ear and nose pads keep them from slipping. The best part? Since they don’t cost an arm and a leg, you won’t be too devastated if you drop them by accident.  

Keep in mind: Like many budget products, these sunglasses aren’t as durable as more expensive options. But they’re functional and should hold up well for most runners and anyone who wants to keep up their routine while traveling.  

Product details: Weight: 0.9 oz. | Fit: Large/X-large | Nose pad: Adjustable nose bridge | Lens options: Polycarbonate, Rx | Interchangeable lenses: No | Colorways: 7 

Best fun fashion running sunglasses: Goodr OG 

Why we like it: Arguably, no other running sunglasses are as fun as Goodrs. At about $25 ($30 for special editions) for hundreds of styles and color combinations, from classic black to flamingo pink and even mirrored or emblazoned with designs repping your favorite national park. We love them for getting us out the door on days when we’re not feeling as energetic.

“Goodrs are—bang for your buck—a pretty good option,” says Sano, who recommends the original design, the OGs. “I know a lot of elite trail runners and marathoners who just use Goodrs because they do everything you need them to do.”  

Keep in mind: Optical clarity isn’t the best and they scratch easily. But at the end of the day, $25 sunglasses won’t hurt your wallet too much to replace. They’re also perfect for travel, when you want just one pair of affordable glasses for sightseeing and maintaining your training regimen.   

Product details: Weight: 0.8 oz. | Fit: Medium | Nose pads: Not adjustable | Lens options: Polarized | Interchangeable lenses: No | Colorways: 90 

(Our writer tested Hoka’s popular Clifton 9 across 600 miles. Here’s how they held up.)

Best running sunglasses for tech geeks: Engo 2 and Ray-Ban Meta Headliner 

Why we like them: If you’re into tracking data about your runs, the Engo 2s are made for you. These running sunglasses display metrics in your peripheral vision as you run, so you don’t have to look down at your watch to keep yourself on pace. There are plenty of display options, from time to heart rate and everything in between. Reviewers say it’s a game changer for serious runners training to improve performance. 

The Ray-Ban Meta Headliners are another great option for tech geeks. They’re voice-enabled, so you can ask Meta AI to tell you more about a landmark you’re sprinting by and capture video through the camera lens built into the frame—especially ideal for runners who travel. 

Of all the Ray-Ban Meta models, the Headliner is made for sports, with its slight wrap-around design, lighter weight, polycarbonate lenses, stainless steel hinges, and acetate frames. 

Keep in mind: These glasses are heavier and less ergonomic than other running sunglasses. But perhaps they’ll help you finally hit that goal time—or capture stunning social media video, in case you left your action camera behind. 

Engo 2 product details: Weight: 1.3 oz. | Fit: Standard and large | Nose pads: Not adjustable | Lens options: Regular and Photochromic | Interchangeable lenses: No | Colorways: 3 

Ray-Ban Meta Headliner product details: Weight: 1.8 oz. | Fit: Regular | Nose pads: Not adjustable | Lens options: Solid, polarized, transition, and Rx | Interchangeable lenses: No | Colorways: 7   

How we chose the best sunglasses for running 

I’ve been a runner for almost 30 years. While training for my third marathon, I spent lots of time researching upgrades for my running gear. For this guide, I consulted third-party reviews; talked to running and eye experts; polled runner friends; talked to local eyewear sales associates; and tested out products myself.  

• Third-party reviews: I scoured customer reviews, expert analyses, best-of lists, and video breakdowns of the latest running sunglasses.  

• Expert opinions: I got advice from Yuta Sano, a runner and general manager of Sports Basement in California; Jess Mena-Garcia, a running coach, physical therapist, and leader of SoCalTrail events in California; Brian Metzler, a long-time running journalist, author, and content strategist based in Colorado; Impact Vision Therapy optometrist and runner Joshua Watt, from Colorado; and Gina Yu, an ophthalmologist and a medical doctor and clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.  

• Informal polling: I chatted with family, friends, run club participants, and running shoe associates about what sunglasses they recommend.  

• Testing: I received samples of some of our final product choices and wore them during my runs.  

Tips for buying running sunglasses 

UV Protection 

“The most important thing to look for when buying sunglasses is a label stating the glasses block at least 99 percent of all UV light (both UVA and UVB rays),” says Gina Yu, an ophthalmologist and a medical doctor and clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “UV absorption up to 400nm” is the same as 100-percent UV absorption. “Price, style, and lens color do not reflect UV protection,” she emphasizes.  

Style 

Style is a personal choice, but some aesthetic features can serve practical purposes. Larger glasses can give you greater peripheral coverage, if you’re worried about dust, rain or snow. For the most part, however, sunglass buyers should choose a style that they’ll feel good wearing.  

Materials 

For running, you want sunglasses that are lightweight, so avoid metal frames and glass lenses. Running sunglasses are commonly made with nylon-based materials and polycarbonate. Avoid brittle plastics or lenses that aren’t scratch-resistant—running glasses need to be able to withstand the impacts of running in all kinds of conditions, whether you’re on the trail or the road. 

Fit 

You want a balanced fit on your face, says Watts. Pay attention to the sunglasses’ main touch points: the forehead over your eyes, the pressure on your nose, and the comfort against your ears. For running-specific glasses, the fit is extra important—there’s nothing more distracting than having to adjust your glasses while you’re pounding the pavement.  

Clarity 

For driving and biking, clarity is a safety issue. For running, clarity is important if you’re running on uneven trails and need to avoid rocks. Clarity will likely be better with a $200 pair of glasses versus a $25 one. But for road running, it’s more about comfort.  

Price 

How much you’re willing to spend on sunglasses will likely depend on how well you take care of sunglasses. Are you accident-prone? Do you always lose things? Do you usually toss your sunglasses in a gym bag without its protective case? Or will you treasure your sunglasses and treat them like the key to unlocking future running success? Be realistic about your lifestyle and buy accordingly. 

Prescription 

Do you need prescription lenses? Many sunglass brands have Rx options. Even the large wraparound sunglasses will often offer prescription inserts that slip on or snap in behind the main sunglass lens.  

Interchangeable Lenses 

Some people may want interchangeable lenses, whether they’re prescription or a specific color for a different viewing experience. For example, amber, brown, and blue-green lenses enhance colors and contrasts more than a neutral gray lens. Lenses with a mirrored coating reflect and reduce light that passes through the lens, which can be easier on the eyes.

Frequently asked questions 

How do you clean running sunglasses?

Soap and water can be used to clean your sunglasses, says Yu. Use a microfiber cloth as well to avoid scratches. 

What makes running sunglasses different? 

Running sunglasses tend to have a more secure fit to withstand the constant bouncing. They also tend to have sweat-resistant nose pieces, lightweight frames, and scratch-resistant lenses.  

Should I get polarized sunglasses for running? 

The purpose of polarized sunglasses is to reduce glare, so they aren’t necessary for running. Some experts even advise against polarized glasses for runners, as they can distort your depth perception on uneven trails or disorient you during low-light conditions. Polarized lenses can also make it harder to see the screen on your running watch.