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I have a few essentials I take with me on every run, but one thing I've become even more conscious of since moving to Texas is protecting myself from the sun. Of course, sunscreen is a must, but protecting my eyes from harmful UV rays is just as important as protecting my skin. That's where a good pair of running sunglasses comes in handy.
When it comes to choosing the best running sunglasses, a number of factors come into play. This shopping guide will help you breakdown the features you should look for when picking out the perfect pair.
First things first, you probably want a pair that looks good, right? This, of course, is a very subjective piece of criteria, but I'm a big fan of how Knockaround sunglasses look. They come in a classic shape that looks good on just about everyone, and their color choices are so fun. I have three different pairs to match my different running outfits. Of course, if you're into a more classic look, they have those, as well. You can also customize your own pair.
Try your sunglasses on and make sure they feel good. Are the ear pieces too long or too short? Do they squeeze your temples? Do they pinch your nose or slide down easily? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, they probably aren't the most comfortable shades. I have a hard time finding sunglasses that don't squeeze the side of my head and give me a headache (I guess I have a fat head!), but Knockaround Premiums have a slightly wider fit. I could (and have) worn these all day without a problem. Sometimes I even forget I'm wearing them!
So you found a pair that looks good and seems comfortable. Now it's time to do the bounce test. The best running sunglasses won't move around when you run, so run in place or jump up and down to see how your sunglasses fare. If they slide down the bridge of your nose or if you can feel them bouncing up and hitting your brow or coming back down on your cheek bones, they won't hold up well well during a run. I've tried a few different pairs on runs and Knockaround always end up being my go to. They are nice and light yet they stay put while I'm bouncing around on a run, and, like I said, I often forget I'm wearing them. Polarized lenses are also great for helping reduce glare from things like slick roads or car lights.
Runners put their sunglasses through serious use, so you definitely don't want a pair that's cheaply made. If the ear pieces flop around or feel like they could fall off at any second, if they lenses get scratched or pop out the second you toss them in your gear bag, they're a no go. The best running sunglasses should have things like scratch-resistant lenses (Knockaround Premiums have FDA approved impact resistant lenses) and a light but sturdy feel. I've had one pair of Knockaround sunglasses for almost two years. They've been worn, tossed into bags and really put through wear and tear, yet they still look great!
Protection
Just because a pair of sunglasses has dark-tinted lenses doesn't mean it offers UV protection. The best pair of running sunglasses will offer 100% UV protection or UV400 protection (this means all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers are blocked, which includes all UVA and UVB rays).
I've never been able to bring myself to buy a pair of expensive sunglasses. I think you can get a great pair of running sunglasses without breaking the bank. Knockaround fits the bill here, as well. In fact, the founder created them with that in mind, He said, "I wanted them to be affordable, if you lost them or broke them, no big deal. The Knockaround name seemed like a natural fit-like, I'm just going to knock around this pair of sunglasses." Knockaround non-polarized Premium sunglasses are only $15, and it's only $20 for the polarized version. You can also customize a pair for only $25. Plus, there's free shipping on orders of $50. Better still, you can get 20% OFF your order by using " BibRaveKnocks20 " at checkout.*
Style, comfort, function, quality, protection, price - all the things to look for when hunting for the best pair of running sunglasses. Happy shopping!
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Do you run with sunglasses? Do you have a favorite pair?
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