Best Running Sunglasses of 2025

While sunglasses can be an awfully polarizing accessory — bad pun alert! — for runners of all kinds, the simple fact is that most of us use them at one time or another. The best running sunglasses can be the ultimate style accessory for some; they’re a necessary and, in some cases, expensive evil for others. For those of us who spend a lot of time outside in the sun, especially at high elevations, sunglasses protect our eyes from harmful UV rays and help reduce the amount of squinting we have to do to see. Good sunglasses can reduce eye strain, improve contrast on the trail, and protect eyes from branches and other eye-level obstacles.

There are a limitless number of sunglasses available on the market, from expensive photochromatic ones that adjust their darkness based on the ambient light to cheap ones that are a bummer to lose or damage, but you probably won’t feel too bad if you scratch or misplace them. This guide can help you sort through the various types of sunglasses available, ranging from photochromatic to polarized to those with interchangeable lenses. After extensive testing in various conditions, we offer our suggestions for the best running sunglasses across different categories and price points, recognizing that some individuals prioritize top optics, while others simply seek a pair of affordable sunnies that can withstand daily use.

At the higher end of the optics and price spectrum, we loved the Smith Shift Split MAG and the Zeal Boone. Our budget-friendly choice for the best running sunglasses is the Knockaround Fast Lanes.

The iRunFar editorial team tested a wide variety of sunglasses, with primary criteria including lens type, cost, and style for different face sizes, to find the best sunglasses for running. For more background information, see our running sunglasses glossary, buying advice, testing methodology, and frequently asked questions below the picks.

Best Running Sunglasses

• Best Overall Sunglasses: Smith Shift Split MAG
• Best Polarized Lens Running Sunglasses: Zeal Boone
• Best Interchangeable Lens Running Sunglasses: Smith Motive
• Best Photochromatic Lens Sunglasses: Rudy Project Propulse
• Best Sunglasses for Small Faces: Julbo Spark with Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens
• Best Budget Running Sunglasses: Knockaround Fast Lanes
• Other Running Sunglasses We Love: Method Seven Silverton Trail26 and adidas Dunamis 
• Other Budget Running Sunglasses We Love: Tifosi Sanctum and Goodr OGs

Best Overall Sunglasses: Smith Shift Split MAG ($315)

Pros:

• Great optics
• Quick lens transition time
• Comfortable
• Good coverage

Cons:

• Expensive
• Style may not appeal for casual use

When it comes to versatility, performance, and style, the Smith Shift Split MAG covers all the bases. While these sunglasses come with a variety of lens options, we recommend the Black + Chromapop Photochromatic Clear to Gray option. While expensive, this lens makes these sunglasses suitable for nearly any condition.

Whether we like it or not, big-lens sunglasses are back on trend, and Smith does justice to the look with these slightly wrapped lenses. The lens shape provides excellent peripheral vision, as there is no frame to obstruct your sideways field of vision. The Chromapop lens technology enhances contrast, making it easier to see details on the trail, especially in low-light conditions.

We were impressed with how quickly and smoothly these lenses transitioned from full dark to full clear when we went from daylight into darkness. They’re ideal for runs that start in daylight and go into the night, or vice versa.

The lens has a smudge- and moisture-resistant coating, and we found that it worked remarkably well at keeping the lenses free from fingerprints and condensation. These glasses seemed to pick up oils from skin and other vision-obscuring grime less than other sunglasses we tested.

While the lenses are large, these sunglasses fit medium-sized faces best. If you’re looking for performance sunglasses that provide outstanding optics and great coverage, the Smith Shift Split MAG have you covered. Literally.

Shop the Smith Shift Split MAG

Best Polarized Lens Running Sunglasses: Zeal Boone ($159)

Pros:

• The frame feels solid and high-quality
• Stay in place during sweaty runs

Cons:

• The bigger frame is probably best suited to runners with bigger faces

The Zeal Boone sunglasses are not only one of our testing panel’s favorite running sunglasses overall, but also are the only ones in this guide with a clear environmental proclivity. The frame features Zeal’s Z-Resin, a material derived from castor plants, and the lens comes from plant-based Ellume. Additionally, Zeal partners with the National Forest Foundation and 1% for the Planet, with proceeds benefiting environmental projects.

But Zeal’s pro-environment stance doesn’t compromise technical performance. The polarized lenses do an outstanding job helping them to see obstacles on the trail by increasing color variability. Many of Zeal’s sunglasses carry a lifestyle aesthetic, but perhaps none better weave the technical performance needed for running and sport with as much off-trail style for post-run socializing or casual use as these. These really are a single pair of sunglasses that you can take anywhere.

Some of our testers with smaller faces found these frames and lenses somewhat large and overbearing, so they’re probably better suited for people with wider faces.

You can get these sunglasses with prescription lenses, a bonus for those who need to wear glasses or contacts to see the trail ahead.

Shop the Zeal Boone Sunglasses

Best Interchangeable Lens Running Sunglasses: Smith Motive ($175)

Pros:

• Exceptional optics
• High level of coverage

Cons:

• The lens may feel overpowering for some

The era of big-framed sunglasses is back, and the Smith Motive provides a high level of coverage in an incredibly lightweight package. Weighing just 29 grams, you can almost forget that you have these glasses on your face if it weren’t for the exceptional contrast that the lenses provide. While these sunglasses are on the more expensive side of the range, their exceptional optics, coverage, and overall functionality make them a worthwhile investment for those who take good care of their sunglasses. If you’re someone who tends to drop, damage, or lose your sunnies, you may want to check out our budget options reviewed below.

These sunglasses offer various lens options, with each frame featuring both clear and tinted lenses. You can choose the lens that best suits your regular running conditions, whether you spend a lot of time in the high, bright alpine or in loamy, dark forests.

We found that the Chromapop lens increases contrast, allowing us to see details we wouldn’t have seen with our bare eyes. The wide lenses have good airflow, and we never experienced fogging issues while running, cycling, or skiing.

While the lenses are fairly large, we found that these sunglasses best fit medium-sized faces. However, they’re not necessarily the pair of sunglasses you’d wear in all casual settings.

You can learn more about the specifications of these sunglasses in our in-depth Smith Motive review.

Shop the Smith Motive

Best Photochromatic Lens Sunglasses: Rudy Project Propulse ($210)

Pros:

• Exceptional photochromic transition speed in changing light conditions
• Frame airflow channels move air around, preventing fog or moisture buildup

Cons:

• Styling is very sporty, and they are unlikely to be used as casual sunglasses

After more than seven years of testing photochromic lenses for running, one of our testers calls the Rudy Project Propulse, with its ImpactX 2 photochromic lens, the best. We can say only good things about these glasses if you’re looking for pure performance. The style, on the other hand, may not be for everyone. These lenses have a distinct look and styling, and we recommend them for individuals who prioritize performance over appearance.

In the performance department, the Propulse lens quickly transitions from completely clear to a protective amber hue. The experience of the lens darkening is undetectable, and at its darkest, the ImpactX 2 lens provides a soft brown hue, which is excellent for picking out details on the trail.

The quality doesn’t end with the lens. These sunglasses fit securely, and their flexibility allows them to accommodate winter hats and various facial sizes. The frame cutouts effectively reduce weight, and both the frame and lens have a system of vents that reduce fogging and increase airflow around the eyes. The venting is particularly effective on long climbs in conditions when many other glasses would fog. While the high price might deter some from investing in the Propulse, Rudy Project includes a warranty for up to three years, which might make it easier to justify the spend.

Read more about these glasses in our full Rudy Project Propulse review.

Shop the Rudy Project Propulse Sunglasses

Best Running Sunglasses for Small Faces: Julbo Spark With Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens ($230)

Pros:

• Exceptional grip on sweaty skin
• Performs and looks great on- and off-trail
• Lightweight

Cons:

• It doesn’t come with a hard case for storage

As a reprieve from hardcore sport styling but with every bit of excellent performance for running and other endurance sports, the Julbo Spark with Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens is a pair of sunglasses that can do it all. While marketed as a women-oriented pair of sunglasses, we found they’ll work for anyone with a smaller face. The photochromic performance of the Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens is an excellent option for running in variable light conditions.

The fit was a little tighter than the other sunglasses we tested, which our smaller-faced testers appreciated. We also found them to stay put better on our heads or hats when not in use. The Spark features curved temples, and Julbo’s Grip Tech is a soft, comfortable rubber placed strategically on the nose bridge and temple arms to prevent the glasses from slipping.

Our testers with longer hair found that the rubber on the ear pieces didn’t stick to their hair and get tangled, which was appreciated. You can also purchase these glasses without photochromatic lenses.

Shop the Julbo Spark Reactive

Best Budget Running Sunglasses: Knockaround Fast Lanes ($35)

Pros:

• Impressive optics for the price
• Better durability than similarly priced sunglasses

Cons:

• It doesn’t include a hard case for storage
• The frame may pinch the head and ears after many hours of use

If you’re someone who doesn’t want to spend a lot of money on a pair of high-end sunglasses, the Knockaround Fast Lanes provide a lower-priced option that is still plenty protective and functional. Several of our testers were impressed with the performance of these sunglasses, especially given the price point. Like other sunglasses at this price, the Fast Lanes frame doesn’t feel as pliable or durable as higher-priced, dedicated sports glasses, but the lens quality is much better than expected.

The rubber grips on the nose bridge keep the glasses in place during vigorous runs, such as speed workouts and downhill bombing. However, on runs over four hours, those with larger heads felt the arms squeeze uncomfortably behind the ears, so these might be sunglasses that you turn to for shorter runs rather than longer ones.

The styling is slightly more sophisticated than the popular Goodr OGs reviewed below, and the colors are more understated, making it a more viable option for daily use, not just as your dedicated running sunglasses.

Shop the Knockaround Fast Lanes Sunglasses

Other Running Sunglasses We Love

Method Seven Silverton Trail26 ($175)

Pros:

• Exceptional optics
• Good coverage

Cons:

• Frames are too big for small faces

When it comes to outstanding optics, the Method Seven Silverton Trail26 sunglasses nail it in terms of tint and clarity. Designed to increase contrast and pick out obstacles on the trail, we found that the tint wasn’t quite dark enough for long days in the alpine when the sun was out, especially if we weren’t wearing a hat to provide some shade for our eyes. That said, for lower-light conditions, it’s hard to beat these optics.

Although the brand is fairly new to the trail running market, it developed its lens technology for those working in indoor grow spaces as well as for pilots. With that experience, it has created crystal-clear optics for these sunglasses, designed specifically to meet the needs of trail runners. They have a 26% visible light transmission rating and filter out specific wavelengths of light to increase contrast.

The lenses are also partially polarized. You don’t get the full polarization effect, which can be extreme in some sunglasses, but just enough to help bring out shadows in the trail, making it easier to negotiate roots and rocks.

They also excel under the protection of a hat, and iRunFar gear editor Eszter Horanyi chose to wear them while setting an unsupported FKT on the Nolan’s 14 line in Colorado, a route that spends most of its time above treeline. One of the most appealing features of these glasses is that they’re incredibly light at only 23 grams.

Our only gripe with these glasses is that they are a little big for smaller faces and can bounce around for some people. The flexible frames also make them less secure when sitting on a hat. But if you’re looking for some of the best optics on the market, it’s hard to go wrong with these.

You can read more in our full Method Seven Silverton Trail26 sunglasses review.

Shop the Method Seven Silverton Trail26 sunglasses

adidas Dunamis ($210)

Pros:

• Exceptional coverage
• Great optics
• Clear field of view

Cons:

• The wrap-around style is a bit much for some

The adidas Dunamis fully embodies the technical appearance of wrap-around sunglasses, combining style with exceptional optics to create an outstanding viewing experience. While the style may not be for everyone, we liked its bold appearance. We were impressed that these sunglasses didn’t dwarf smaller faces, though they fit medium-sized faces the best.

These sunglasses don’t have traditional frames. The polycarbonate lens itself provides the rigidity of the structure, and the earpieces are attached directly to the lens, rather than a frame that holds the lens. This minimizes the field of view obstructed by a frame and allows for increased ventilation since the lens is thinner than any frame would be. Ventilation holes near the temples also increase airflow and minimize the chance of fogging.

Weighing just 28 grams, these sunglasses are some of the lightest in this guide. You can put them on your face and essentially forget that they’re there.

Shop the adidas Dunamis

Other Budget Running Sunglasses We Love

Tifosi Sanctum ($35)

Pros:

• Affordable
• Large coverage area

Cons:

• Not the best optics
• Style may not suit everyone

Like it or not — and the iRunFar team is definitely divided on this — big and loud frames are back in style, and the Tifosi Sanctum offers full-coverage protection and reasonable optics in an affordable package. These sunglasses are quite wide, so individuals with a narrower face may find them too large. The large lenses accentuate the size of the frames. While some may not be pleased with the re-emergence of this style of sunglasses, there’s no denying that they do an exceptional job protecting eyes from wind, moisture, and dust. This high level of protection, combined with the price tag, made these sunglasses stand out to our testers. We also like the wide array of color and lens options, so there’s something for everyone.

The polycarbonate lens is quite good for the cost. No one will argue that it matches the performance of higher-end sunglasses — because it doesn’t — but it will protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. The different lens color options allow you to choose one that suits the type of light you run in most frequently.

Many of us destroy our sunglasses regularly by dropping them, having them fall off our heads when we lean over, or because we’re not always the best at carrying a case for them when we’re out and about. If you want to avoid feeling bad about mistreating your sunglasses, getting a pair under $50 can make the sting of scratched lenses or broken frames slightly less.

You can read more in our full Tifosi Sanctum review.

Shop the Tifosi Sanctum Sunglasses

Goodr OGs ($25)

Pros:

• Low-cost investment
• Reasonable polarized lenses

Cons:

• Polarized coating can wear quickly
• The field of view is limited
• The frame is bigger than average and might be too large for small faces

The very affordable Goodr OGs sunglasses are perhaps the most ubiquitous frame in trail running right now. They are popular all over the world, and people use them in many different climates. The glare-busting polarized lenses provide an excellent optical experience, and the brightly colored frame choices are simply fun. Many will also find this wayfarer style appropriate for daily life.

One component that has made the OGs extremely popular is the silicone inserts on the nose bridge, which effectively prevent the glasses from slipping in very sweaty or rainy runs. The frame is snug and lightweight, but the field of view is square. This is similar to other value-priced sunglasses. Looking straight ahead is fine, but the lack of curvature of the lens makes peripheral viewing awkward.

We mostly appreciated these glasses for their lack of bouncing and very reasonable price. If you know you’re hard on sunglasses and would rather not have to worry about them than have exceptional optics, these are a great choice.

Shop the Goodr OG Sunglasses

Comparing the Best Running Sunglasses

SUNGLASSES	PRICE	LENS	SIZE
Smith Shift Split MAG	$315	Photochromatic	Medium
Zeal Boone	$159	Ellume polarized	Medium
Smith Motive	$175	Interchangeable	Medium
Rudy Project Propulse	$210	Photochromic	Medium
Julbo Spark with Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens	$230	Photochromic	Medium
Knockaround Fast Lanes	$32	Polarized	Medium
Method Seven Silverton Trail26	$175	Partially polarized	Medium
adidas Dunamis	$210	Standard polycarbonate	Medium
Tifosi Sanctum	$35	Standard polycarbonate	Medium
Goodr OGs	$25	TAC	Medium

 

Sunglasses Glossary

• Photochromic Lens: This lens type changes its tint in response to varying light conditions, transitioning from clear in darkness to strongly tinted in direct sunlight.
• Polarized Lens: Polarized lenses reduce glare from the sun. They don’t transition back and forth in varying light conditions, but they help minimize reflections from the surface of water and snow. While sunglasses across the spectrum (from expensive to cheap) may come with polarized lenses, lower-end options are significantly less durable. Reputable polarized sports sunglasses should also offer ultraviolet protection.
• Standard Lens: These are non-photochromic and non-polarized. Running sunglasses with a standard lens often include multiple lens options you can swap out based on conditions.
• Ultraviolet (UV) Protection: Some lenses have a UV protective coating or are made with a UV protective compound to provide additional protection from solar radiation. All sunglasses offer some UV protection, but higher-end options block sun rays better.
• Hydrophobic Lenses: These lenses have a coating that prevents your sunglasses from fogging up in the cold or condensation buildup when you sweat.
• Anti-Scratch Lens: While no lenses are entirely scratch-proof, look for sunglasses with a polycarbonate lens. They are more durable and wear-resistant than plastic.
• Interchangeable Lenses: Brands commonly offer these with sunglasses that don’t have a photochromic lens. These allow you to easily swap in a different lens based on light or weather conditions.

How to Choose Running Sunglasses

We acknowledge that sunglasses are a very subjective and personal purchase, and choosing the best running sunglasses isn’t necessarily straightforward. Size, shape, and style preferences differ from person to person. Some people prefer large and loud lenses, such as those found in the Smith Motive, while others opt for a more discreet option that can be worn socially after a run, like the Zeal Boone.

However, aside from appearance, sunglasses have a few objective features that can help you choose the best one for you. So, which running sunglasses are best for you? To find out, consider a few of these factors.

Purpose

Ideally, we would have one pair of sunglasses that worked equally well for running and daily life. Unfortunately, the characteristics of the best running sunglasses don’t always align with those needed for driving, socializing at the park, or going on a business trip. Let’s just say we wouldn’t necessarily wear the Smith Motive with a suit and tie.

Fortunately, some options, like the Knockaround Fast Lanes and the Zeal Boone, offer running-ready lenses with more casual styling. That said, some people don’t mind going to a coffee shop after a run in some of the louder sunglasses we’ve included in this guide, like the Smith Shift Split MAG.

Shape and Style

Trends in running sunglasses have lately returned to the 1980s and 1990s, with loud, windscreen-like shapes that dwarf even those with bigger faces. Luckily, those who prefer something more standard still have many options with a more subdued shape and profile.

Some sunglasses in this guide are significantly smaller than others and tend to fit women’s faces better, like the Zeal Boone. Others have a more general appeal, with colors and shapes to suit all runners, including the Goodr OGs.

The shape of sunglasses also affects their performance. Brands design more technical sunglasses with a focus on performance. The shape of the lenses and frames allows air to pass through, preventing fogging. We found that the relatively large lenses of the Smith Motive and Smith Shift Split MAG provided a high level of protection and never fogged.

Other sunglasses with a more traditional lens and frame shape may not perform as well in sweaty conditions when running, but they can be more comfortable to wear in social situations before or after a run.

Lens Type and Features

There are three main types of lenses found in running sunglasses: standard, photochromic, and polarized. A standard lens in sunglasses is generally darker and provides a high level of protection against ultraviolet light. The sunglasses might also have a second or even a third pair of interchangeable lenses in clear and another color so that you can choose the right lens for your specific running conditions.

Many sunglasses come with a variety of lens options, so it’s essential to select the lens you want when making a purchase. The Smith Motive comes with two different lenses, allowing you to choose the combination that best suits the environmental conditions you encounter most often.

A photochromic lens, such as the one on the Smith Shift Split MAG and Julbo Spark with Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens, is the gold standard for running in changing light conditions due to its ability to adapt to varying light conditions. While they’re great for those who run from daylight into darkness or from alpine environments into the woods all in one run, they are expensive.

A polarized lens, like the one found on the Zeal Boone, reduces glare and enhances the contrast of obstacles on the trail. This can help you see roots, rocks, and variations in the trail more easily. Polarized lenses appear at the bottom and top of the price spectrum for sunglasses, but lower-quality polarized lenses are easily damaged and scuffed. The Method Seven Silverton Trail26 comes with partially polarized lenses that we found provided outstanding optics in a variety of light conditions.

Fit, Adjustability, and Comfort

As with all running gear, comfort is a top priority when choosing sunglasses. Pressure around the head, especially at the ears, is a common complaint when wearing sunglasses for extended periods, such as more than four hours. A runner wearing a hat or headphones that wrap around the back of their ears can make this worse.

You’ll want sunglasses with frames that fit your head well. Sunglasses that are too tight on your head will eventually cause pain, while frames that are too big can flop around on your face when you’re running. The Method Seven Silverton Trail26’s lightweight and flexible frame made it so we never experienced any discomfort with them, while the Knockaround Fast Lanes would pinch our heads after several hours on the trail.

If you want a single pair of sunglasses for all your running needs, consider getting a pair with interchangeable lenses. You can swap out the lenses of these frames based on the light conditions. A photochromic lens, like the one on the Julbo Spark with Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens, will be your best bet for runs with changing light conditions, such as those that start in daylight but end in darkness. We think photochromatic lenses are fantastic for running, which is why we love the Smith Shift Split MAG.

It’s also important to consider how well the sunglasses will stow when unused. Do they stash easily in your running vest? Will they stay in place when you store them on your head? How do the arms fit with a hat? Our testers found that the flexibility of the Rudy Project Propulse helped them stay in place, whether they were wearing them during a hot summer run or had them on over a thick hat. The Method Seven Silverton Trail26 had really flexible arms, which made them comfortable, but they felt less secure when worn on top of our heads than other sunglasses with more robust frames.

Several of the sunglasses in this guide, including the Julbo Spark with Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens and the Knockaround Fast Lanes, don’t come with a hard storage case, making it more difficult to protect them when not in use.

Durability

You won’t find any infomercial-type sunglasses in this guide — you can’t run over these sunglasses with a car or throw them off a cliff and expect them to survive. But all the sunglasses in this guide are reliably durable — they don’t scratch easily or break under normal wear and tear. Even the budget Goodr OGs and the Tifosi Sanctum performed well in the durability department.

If you frequently drop your sunglasses or tend to stash them in a pack without a protective case, you might want to buy less expensive glasses and replace them when they are damaged.

The most significant difference in durability is with polarized lenses. Less expensive polarized lenses, like those in the Knockaround Fast Lanes, can be damaged easily and become distorted over time. More expensive polarized lenses still require protection from abrasion, but with proper care, they should last for a long time.

Cost

Although the best running sunglasses are now more durable and functional than ever, the adage “you get what you pay for” is still relevant. All sunglasses are somewhat fragile, but better lens quality and durability are what you really get for a higher price. While the Smith Shift Split MAGs are quite expensive, we believe that their photochromatic lens, lens shape, and overall fit and functionality make them a worthwhile investment if you plan to wear a pair of sunglasses for an extended period.

Goodr is a very popular sunglasses brand, but its polarized lenses don’t hold up over time as well as those of more expensive brands like Zeal and Smith. If you want the best running sunglasses with polarized lenses that you can count on to perform for a long time, it could be worth shelling out for Zeal Boone. But some runners accept that they often handle their sunglasses roughly and drop them frequently. For these people, a less expensive pair of sunglasses could be the way to go, even if they get lost or broken occasionally.

Running in Unpredictable Light Conditions

For many, runs occur during the day with relatively stable light conditions. For these situations, having one lens option is plenty. Even if it starts to get dark on you on the occasional run, you can put your sunglasses on your head or in a pack while you get home.

If you’re running a lot early and late in the day, transitioning from darkness to daylight or daylight to night, it may be worth investing in a pair of sunglasses like the Smith Shift Split MAG with photochromic lenses, so you can keep your eyes protected regardless of the light conditions. We also loved the Julbo Spark with Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens, which is ideal for variable light conditions.

Interchangeable Lenses

Several of the sunglasses in this guide, including the Smith Motive, come with interchangeable lenses, some of which are polarized. These are not as convenient to swap out as photochromatic lenses, which automatically adjust the amount of light they let through, but they can allow one set of sunglass frames to work under various light conditions. The idea is to choose from your multiple lenses to match the specific condition.

Anti-Fogging Features

To prevent lenses from fogging, it is essential to keep moisture from accumulating on them. Many lenses have a hydrophobic coating to help prevent fogging. This coating helps keep moisture from the lens by not allowing the moisture to stick to the surface.

Other anti-fogging features on sunglasses include air vents in the frame or lens, as well as specific lens shapes that enhance airflow. We found that the frame shape of the Smith Motive prevented fogging, even under muggy and humid conditions. The ventilation of the adidas Dunamis also kept them from fogging.

Why You Should Trust Us

There’s a lot to consider when choosing the best sunglasses out of the seemingly endless options on the market. iRunFar’s gear testing team is based all over the U.S., including the Intermountain West and West Coast, areas that experience over-indexed sunny and gloomy days, respectively. Our team’s sunglasses preferences range from high-performance photochromic lenses to budget options, as well as varying frame sizes and shapes to accommodate faces of different sizes.

We selected some sunglasses designed for performance, as well as others that performed well but were deemed stylistically acceptable for wearing to the coffee shop after a run. Our team also tested a variety of glasses with photochromic lenses for changing light conditions. We also extensively tested budget options because we understand that not everyone wants to spend a lot of money on a pair of sunglasses.

We started the initial version of this guide by polling the many members of the iRunFar team about their favorite sunglasses for different conditions. We also researched the market for options from both popular running brands and other lesser-known companies. We tested many of the best running sunglasses in this guide for over a year, and in some cases, for up to two years.

Our team tested sunglasses in various conditions, from short overcast runs to long days in the alpine. Our testers frequently go on extended above-treeline romps through the Colorado mountains, where UV protection for the eyes is paramount. We wore the sunglasses included in this guide for hundreds of hours to gain a thorough understanding of their performance and durability.

We evaluate sunglasses based on various factors, from lens performance to frame style. Some of our testers are admittedly hard on their sunglasses and put them through proper durability testing to see how easily the lenses scratch or frames break. We also considered weight, fit, and the ability to stay perched on a hat or head when not in use while evaluating sunglasses for this guide.

We tested these glasses across multiple sports — not just running — to determine how the fit and sport-specific lenses performed in various conditions, including cold, wind, sweat, low light, and bright light, in sports such as road running, skiing, cycling, and fishing. We also attempted fastest known times in these glasses, starting in the dark, going through the day, and finishing under the stars.

We included some very expensive sunglasses because they may offer more durability, higher performance, and better warranty coverage. We gave as much priority to budget options, which we defined as $35 or less, as we did to expensive options, defined as $150 and above in this guide. We found high performers are across both ends of the spectrum, so it’s a great time to be a sunglasses consumer.

At iRunFar, we’re continually testing new sunglasses to update this guide as new options become available.

Frequently Asked Questions About Running Sunglasses

Why is it important to wear sunglasses?

Sunglasses protect your eyes from ultraviolet A  and B (UVA and UVB) rays, help reduce eye fatigue, and improve clarity when running across terrain with different surfaces and flat light — scenarios we find in the mountains, forests, and on the coast. Even budget sunglasses like the Tifosi Sanctum can provide nearly 100% protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Sunglasses also physically protect the eyes from tree branches and other hazards. An errant branch to the eye can end a run prematurely and, in some cases, permanently damage eyesight. Wearing clear lenses at night may seem overkill, but they can save you from injury.

How do sunglasses protect my eyes?

Sunglasses block ultraviolet rays from penetrating your eyes and serve as a protective equivalent to sunscreen. As a literal barrier, sunglasses protect your eyes from wind, dust, sand, branches, and other debris that could scratch your corneas, causing serious damage. Sunglasses with a large lens can provide a high level of protection from errant branches and debris flying through the air.

Wearing clear lenses at night can also provide a barrier against unseen branches, bugs, and more. The Rudy Project Propulse, which are photochromatic, will go clear in the dark, allowing you to see while still protecting your eyes from branches.

What is a polarized lens, and is it better for running?

A polarized lens is excellent for any sport that requires terrain distinctions, as it increases contrast and helps you pick out differences in trail surfaces. When you’re running, sunglasses also act as your sunglasses for other sports, a polarized lens will be handy for water-based activities like fishing, boating, or snow sports.

Polarized lenses make it easier to see into bodies of water, and many people like how the world looks through them. Our testers loved the performance of the Zeal Boone sunglasses and found that the increased contrast they provided allowed them to pick out features on the trail more easily. The Method Seven Silverton Trail26 has partially polarized lenses that we found excelled in lower-light conditions.

What is a photochromatic lens, and why are they suitable for running?

Photochromic sunglasses are particularly well-suited for trail running and all-day, all-night outings due to their ability to adjust their tint based on ambient light. When you’re out in the sun and the lens is exposed to UVA and UVB rays, a chemical reaction occurs, darkening the surface of the lens. When the light decreases, the coloring fades to clear, making it easier to see in darker conditions.

Sunglasses with a photochromatic lens, like our favorite, the Smith Shift Split MAG, as well as the Julbo Spark with Reactiv 1-3 Glare Control Lens and Rudy Project Propulse, allow you to use one lens no matter what time of day or night you’re running. They take the hassle out of switching between dark and clear lenses, allowing you to keep your eyes protected if your run has gone longer than normal and you find yourself out in the dark.

How long will my running sunglasses last?

In many ways, you get what you pay for when it comes to running sunglasses. While less expensive glasses will perform well and look good, the implicit agreement is that they won’t endure much abuse, and the lens quality may deteriorate quickly. Many of us will be okay with spending $25 on sunglasses like the Goodr OGs, knowing it’s not a big deal if we damage or lose them.

If you’re looking for the best running sunglasses, though, you have to be prepared to pay more. A more expensive pair of sunglasses, such as the Method Seven Silverton Trail26 or Smith Shift Split MAG, will be much more comfortable, and the lens will allow you to see more details. Perhaps you’ll even be more inclined to care for your sunglasses better when you know how much money you’ve invested in them.

How do I prevent scratches on my sunglasses?

Dropping your sunglasses in dirt, mud, or on rocks, especially sandstone, can damage the lens, and these impacts are just part of trail running for many people. But there are steps that you can take to protect your sunglasses otherwise. Using a lens-specific cleaning cloth is one way to keep your sunglasses scratch-free. There’s a good chance one comes with whatever sunglasses you purchase.

When covered with dirt, mud, or sweat, washing your frame and lens with mild soap and water is okay, and you can dry them with a sunglass- or eyeglass-specific lens cloth. A higher-quality lens in a more expensive pair of sunglasses, such as the Smith Motive, will be more resistant to scratches than a lower-quality one. Inexpensive polarized lenses are particularly prone to damage from abrasion. The Smith Shift Split MAG lens features a grime-resistant coating that helps keep it cleaner for longer.

How do I stop my sunglasses from fogging up when I run?

When choosing your sunglasses, look for two key features: a hydrophobic lens coating and a frame with cutouts that allow air to flow between your face and the glasses. Most high-end sunglasses feature an excellent hydrophobic coating that prevents them from fogging. This is especially important for people who sweat a lot.

Our testers appreciated the breathability of the Smith Motive and reported no issues with lens fogging. The Smith Shift Split MAG has an anti-moisture coating that helps the lenses resist fogging. When it comes to ventilation, it’s hard to beat the frameless style of the adidas Dunamis. 

I always lose, drop, or damage my sunglasses — help! How do I store my sunglasses when I’m not wearing them to prevent them from getting lost or damaged?

It’s best to treat your sunglasses like you would your puppy: don’t leave them in the car on a hot, sunny day; clean them gently with mild soap and water; and provide them with protection from the elements. Most sunglasses come with at least a soft pouch and, at best, a hard case. Use them! It’s an excellent policy to always travel with a hard case and keep it in your car to stash your glasses safely before and after a run.

Only clean your glasses with the soft case, or, when really dirty, with a gentle solution of water and soap. Avoid cleaning your sunglasses with your shirt when you’re out on a run.

If you frequently drop sunglasses or can’t be bothered to put them in a case when not in use, buying budget sunglasses like the Knockaround Fast Lanes or the Goodr OGs could be a good idea. That way, when your sunglasses get damaged, replacing them doesn’t cost much. For some of us, the best running sunglasses are those we don’t care about.

Why are running sunglasses so expensive?

As with all technical running gear, research into creating a high-quality pair of technical glasses results in a high price point. Fortunately, several brands have emerged recently offering low-priced sunglasses specifically for runners.

You might sacrifice some of the durability and high performance of more expensive sunglasses like the Smith Motive, but lower-cost sunglasses, including the Goodr OGs, will undoubtedly meet most runners’ needs. When it comes to versatile sunglasses, where you can use the same sunglasses for running as you might skiing, cycling, or traveling, sometimes paying more is really worth it.

Can I use the same sunglasses for different sports?

Most sunglasses on our list will perform well for many types of athletic endeavors. The key to multi-use sunglasses is to find a pair that is both breathable and hydrophobic, so they don’t fog up on your face.

Different sports may need different levels of coverage. We regularly used the Smith Motive sunglasses for cycling, skiing, and running, and found that they provided sufficient coverage for a variety of situations.

Call for Comments

It’s time for you to weigh in on your favorite running sunglasses! Leave a comment to share what sunglasses you love to run in and tell us in what conditions they perform best for you. We’ll continue to update this guide as this gear category evolves and we test more running sunglasses.

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