Advice for Purchasing Glasses
1 of 11
Photo by Shawn Parkin
Things to consider when looking for a good pair of sunglasses: - Comfort - UVA/UVB protection - Style - Price "You pay for what you get," Tavakoli says.
Oakley Racing Jackets: $220
2 of 11
These are great for cyclists and runners. For cyclists it's very important that the top of the sunglasses start right around the brow line because you're in the drop position. These have interchangeable lenses (comes with two lenses) and are light and comfortable. Tavakoli points out, "If you want prescription sunglasses, these are a great option because people with very high prescriptions can get these."
Oakley Commit: $90 to $150
3 of 11
The Oakley Commit is a great option for women who run. It has a good fit and sits higher on the cheekbones. Women tend to have smaller heads, so Oakley made this frame to fit the woman's head, but give the oversized lens look for optimal protection. The wrap frame is perfect to block UV rays from all directions. It's extremely light, has good ventilation and offers interchangeable lenses.
Rudy Project Exceptions: $365
4 of 11
The Rudy Project Exceptions offer an array of features. The sunglasses lay over the clear lens. So if you wear glasses, or just want a clear lens for protection, you can have both options in one frame. These are great for high-prescription athletes, have quick-change interchangeable lenses, adjustable nose pads (good for ventilation), and have an adjustable T-Lock? system around the temples for a customized fit.
Oakley Overtimes: $120 to $140
5 of 11
Perfect for the fashion-forward athlete. This oversized frame is nice to wear for everyday use or when you set out for a long run or ride. "Oakley makes great lenses, you can take a screw driver to the lens and it won't break," says Tavakoli. Excellent to block sun because of the oversized lenses, very light and has a good grip. The only downfall to these shades, your hair tends to get stuck on the grip every once in a while.
Tifosi Tempt: $70
6 of 11
You definitely get your bang for your buck with these sunglasses. They are durable and inexpensive. You get three sets of lenses and can adjust the ear and nose pads for a customizable, comfortable fit. "These are becoming extremely popular in the endurance world. I see more athletes showing up to races wearing these because they are so affordable and pretty durable," says Tavakoli.
Bollé Bolt: $140 to $170
7 of 11
While Bollé offers a wide array of sunglasses for endurance athletes, these glasses were designed for cyclists. The interchangeable lenses are perfect for any weather condition you may encounter. Due to sweat or change in temperature, glasses tend to slip around. But these ultra-light glasses stay put with the thermogrip temple arms and nose pads. Bollé has been around for a while in the endurance world, so they have a good reputation for sturdy glassware.
Nike Gaze: $100
8 of 11
These sporty lifestyle sunglasses are very stylish and lightweight. They're perfect for someone who wants to head out for a quick run and then meet some friends for lunch. There is an anti-slide feature on the sides; it's not rubber, but plastic ridges to keep these from sliding off. Be prepared for slight bouncing and/or fog.
Rudy Project Horus: $185
9 of 11
These Italian-made sunglasses have a great wrap-around feature, which is perfect for a triathlete. The glasses come up to the brow for nice protection during the bike leg and protection from your peripheral vision—perfect for runners. There's a fully integrated performance clip system for quick change of your spare lenses. Perfect for any weather condition and for high-prescription or contact lens wearers.
More Gear Items
10 of 11
Check out Active GearUp for discounts on high-performance gear from your favorite brands.
Discuss This Article