As the cross country season is about to be in full gear this fall, having the right running gear can make all the difference in a runner’s performance and comfort on the trails. While shoes and apparel often get the most attention, a quality pair of running sunglasses is a running product worth looking into purchasing.
Wearing sunglasses on a run protect the eyes from the sun’s harsh rays. It can also enhance visibility in various weather conditions. When shopping for a pair of sunglasses for running, consumers need to make sure they are durable to withstand the conditions of a run, that they won’t slip down the nose and cause discomfort, that they actually have UV-protecting properties, and come at an affordable price.
In this article, we’ll explore the best running sunglasses for cross country runners this season, highlighting options that combine durability, comfort, and style to keep you at the top of your game.
Here are the best running sunglasses for the fall cross country season.
Nathan Sports Polarized Running Sunglasses
Nathan is a sports brand known for its high-quality products. And when it comes to running sunglasses, the Sunrise Polarized Running Sunglasses should be packed in every runner’s gym bag. That’s because these are such a comfortable pair to sport during cross country season.
One of the best features is its lightweight TR90 flex frame. The frame is super soft to the touch and bendable, yet still strong and durable and will not break easily. In short, these are designed for the trails. That means if these fall, they are not cracking or breaking.
These sunglasses can be worn in the summer through the winter, able to withstand all kinds of temperatures.
The selling point for us is the slightly grooved rubber grip at the nose that keeps the sunglasses in place without slipping along the bridge of the nose. After wearing these in runs for weeks, these are tried and tested to great review.
Nathan’s running sunglasses have polarized lenses that provide 100 percent UV protection that meet industry standards. The Sunrise Running Sunglasses also are RX lease compatible for those who need glasses.
While the Nathan Sunrise Running Sunglasses retail for $60, they are currently on sale for $24—perfect to get for the cross country season.
Tifosi Optics Selca Sunglasses
By look alone, the Tifosi Selca sunglasses are one of the best options to buy this fall. These sunglasses have a sleek and stylish design that pairs well with just about any running fit. The Selcas are aviator sunglasses that simply look great ton. These come in a few color options including the “Plum Crazy Frame” with green mirror lenses that are perfect for fall.
But of course, looks aren’t everything.
However, the Selca has pretty much everything in more a runner needs in a pair of sunglasses. First and foremost, these absolutely won’t slip when running. Tested on the track, road, and trails, in sweaty weather conditions, this pair isn’t moving.
While the frames of the Nathan Sunrise are slightly softer, the Tifosi Selca glasses are very similar in feel. The frame and soft yet durable and has hydrophilic nose pads that have lots of grip. The nose pads are more pronounced than the Nathan Sunrises, so those who like the security of knowing these won’t slide will be happy with this pair.
These sunglasses are lightweight at only 22 grams. Tifosi also puts suitability at the forefront since these are made of plant-based material.
The lenses are scratch-resistant and won’t shatter if dropped. There is no distortion with the lenses, so safe for hitting the trails. The lenses also protect from UVB and UVA rays.
The Selca sunglasses also won’t bounce around the ears, so feel free to speed through those cross country workouts wearing this pair.
These sunglasses retail for $34.95, with a lifetime guarantee.
Adidas Sport CMPT SP0099
This option is one of the most unique on the list when it comes to design. The Adidas Sport CMPT SP0099 running sunglasses feature a wraparound spherical lens with a semi-rimless plastic frame.
There is no bridge allowing for plenty of ventilation with these, and there still is an adjustable nose pad so these won’t slip when running the trails or racing. To add to its secure fit are the other non-slip contact points on each of the temple tips to make sure these frame the face for a perfect fit.
These are compatible with the SP5010-CI clip-in for runners who need a sports frame that can mount prescription lenses.
These sunglasses are lightweight and are designed with a regular hinge so repairing and tightening is easy. Adidas also offers gradient tint lenses on some of the colors, which are darker tints towards the top of the lease and fade towards the bottom. This helps with visibility when running on the trails.
The Adidas Sport CMPT SP0099 retails for $149.99.
Goodr Running Sunglasses
Those looking for an adorable, stylish, and reliable pair of sunglasses to wear on a run should check out the company goodr. The options sold by the company are known to not slip or bounce.
The company is known for its clever names for its sunglasses, which come in various styles like the more traditional OG style, along with aviators, cat eye, and its new half-rim frames. With so many different styles, the company’s website informs consumers on sizing recommendations which is a great tool.
The glasses provide UV400 protection, and depending on the color and style may have different colored frames. The only potential downside is color distortion depending on the color choice, so keep that in mind for runs. But depending on the lens, the eyes are hidden, which is a cool feature if you are into that look.
The frames are soft comparable to Nathan’s Sunrise option and these absolutely won’t need to be adjusted during runs. After owning pairs for years, the only thing worth mentioning is the frames might stretch a bit after wearing them on top of the head. However, this is only with years of wear and there is a hinge to be tightened. The frames themselves are durable yet provide ample flexibility. No matter how many times dropped, these won’t break and the lenses won’t scratch.
Goodr glasses are fun as they are practical and worth the buzz. Its running sunglasses retail for $25-$35.
Tifosi ShutOut
This is the second time Tifosi glasses have made our list, and for a great reason with the ShutOut option. These running glasses are designed for smaller face frames, perfect for youth runners.
The ShutOut glasses combine style, performance, and comfort together. The frames are 23 grams, just slightly heavier than the Selca butt not by much. It is made of resilient material that won’t break when thrown in a gym bag or if dropped when on the trails. It has hydrophilic nose pads with plenty of grip that keep the glasses in place.
The lenses are hard to scratch and provide UV protection. It also has a glare guard feature to eliminate squinting when running outside.
The soft, textured coating on the frame is comfortable to wear and won’t bounce when running.
The glasses come in various colors, with the option to customize your own pair. The ShutOut running sunglasses retail for $29.95.