The Best Nike Sunglasses for Running
Buying Guide
Tired of squinting during your runs? Nike running sunglasses are built with tinted lenses, anti-fog technology and adjustable features for better fit and grip.
Running outside has its perks: fresh air, vitamin D and the opportunity to explore new routes. However, especially in bright conditions, it’s important to protect the eyes from the sun with a pair of running sunglasses.
Benefits of Wearing Running Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses not only helps reduce the need to squint as you log miles outdoors, it also helps to reduce risk of certain eye conditions that can be caused by too much ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. These includes cataracts, eye cancers, sunburned eyes and growths on or near the eye, which can impair vision, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).
What to Look for in Running Sunglasses
The best running sunglasses can be worn in a variety of climates and seasons — from hot summer weather to blustery winter days. After all, not only do sunglasses help protect the eyes from direct sunlight, but shades with polarized lenses can also help reduce glare from sunlight that reflects off surfaces like pavement, car windows or water, per the AAO.
The best running sunglasses provide protection first and foremost and should be comfortable without sliding down your face. Here are key considerations to look for in a new pair:
- Fit: Will the sunglasses stay put as you rack up the miles? Or will they slide down your nose as you sweat? For the best fit, look for grippy nose pads, a customizable nose bridge and adjustable temple arms with rubber sleeves to provide better traction.
- Lenses: Tinted lenses help dim bright lights and make it easier to see objects in front of you. Also, consider whether you want a one-piece lens or two separate lenses. Running sunglasses made with one lens piece provide great coverage and little obstruction in your line of sight.
- Anti-Fog Features: The best running sunglasses won’t fog up as you start to heat up during a run. Shades made with a ventilated nose bridge help reduce fogging.
The Best Nike Running Sunglasses
1.Nike Victory and Nike Victory Elite
For runners looking for all-day comfort and top performance from running sunglasses, check out the Nike Victory and Nike Victory Elite. These sunglasses are made for competitive runners, and the Nike Road Tint technology in the lenses blocks harsh light on the track and the road. They’re adjustable to provide maximum comfort, especially around the bridge of the nose and temples.
2.Nike Windshield Elite
Lightweight and aerodynamic, the Nike Windshield Elite provides a wraparound frame for maximum eye coverage with high-quality, tinted lenses that cut glare. The lens-frame design adds ventilation both above the nose bridge and on the top of the frame to help reduce fogging.
3.Nike Aero Swift
These shades are built to reduce fog, thanks to the design of the lenses, which allow for air to circulate. The Nike Aero Swift is also made with a lightweight frame that comfortably wraps the sides of the face for a streamlined fit, while also reducing bounce. These sunglasses come with either mirrored or black lenses and are the most affordable style in the Nike running sunglasses collection.
4.Nike Show X3
Two more of the best running sunglasses from Nike, the Nike Show X3 and Nike Show X3 Elite are performance-driven shades that offer contoured lenses for great coverage, anti-fog ventilation holes and adjustable features. Plus, the optical clip-in makes it easy to add your prescription, if needed.
5.Nike Skylon Ace 22
The Nike Skyon Ace 22 sunglasses are equipped with rubber that extends the entire length of the temple for extra stability and a secure fit. Like the Nike Aero Swift, these sunglasses are offered at a lower price point than others in the collection.
Words by Claire Tak