How to Pick Out the Perfect Sports Sunglasses

Sports sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory. They are a vital piece of equipment for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're a runner, surfer, or golfer, choosing the right sports sunglasses is crucial for optimal performance, eye protection, and comfort.

With numerous options available in the market, finding the perfect sports sunglasses can be overwhelming. It requires careful consideration of factors such as specific sports activity, lens technology, frame design, fit, and durability. This blog will serve as a guide.

Frames Suiting Your Sports Activity

Choosing glasses that match your sports activity is crucial for optimal performance and eye protection.

Team Sports

When selecting sunglasses for outdoor team sports like soccer and basketball, several important factors must be considered. Look for sports sunglasses made from durable materials such as polycarbonate or Trivex®, which offer excellent durability and protection against potential hazards. Outdoor team sports involve fast-paced movements, collisions, and the potential for impact from balls or other players.

Wraparound glasses provide extended coverage and protection. This design helps shield your eyes from various angles and reduces peripheral light from distracting your vision. Choose sunglasses with 100% UV protection (UVA and UVB) to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. When purchasing sunglasses, look for labels such as UV400 or 100% UV protection.

Water Sports

Sports sunglasses with hydrophobic coatings that repel water and prevent water droplets from obstructing your vision are ideal for water sports such as snorkeling or surfing. Polarized lenses are ideal for reducing glare from the water's surface, enhancing visibility.

Consider wraparound styles for maximum coverage and protection against wind and splashes. It is also wise to choose
sunglasses with a secure fit and lightweight frame to ensure they stay on during water activities.

Golf And Tennis

Optical clarity and contrast enhancement are very important to improve visual perception and tracking fast-moving objects while playing sports like golf and tennis. Golfers avoid using polarized sunglasses because they can hinder depth perception. Choose lenses with a darker tint to reduce bright light and enhance contrast on the green court.

Opt for sports sunglasses that won’t interfere with your swing and movement. Specialized lens coatings that enhance color and depth perception can be beneficial.

Running And Cycling

For running and cycling, lightweight sunglasses with a secure and comfortable fit are best to prevent them from slipping during vigorous movements. The wraparound sports sunglasses provide better coverage and protection against wind, dust, and insects.

Consider polarized lenses to reduce glare from the road or reflective surfaces, enhancing visibility. Opt for lenses that offer 100% UV protection and lens color that suits lighting conditions—darker tints for bright, sunny days and lighter tints for low-light environments.

Durable And Impact-Resistant

When it comes to sports, shop for sunglasses that are durable and impact resistant. Use frames made of sturdy materials that can withstand accidental drops, collisions, and other impacts that may occur during sports activities.

ANSI Z87.1

ANSI Z87.1 is a certification that indicates the sunglasses have passed rigorous safety tests for impact resistance. It ensures the sunglasses meet specific standards and offer reliable protection against high-velocity impacts. Sports sunglasses must pass this safety standard.

Lens Technology

The lens material is equally important for durability and impact resistance. Polycarbonate lenses are ideal due to their exceptional strength and resistance to impact. They are significantly more impact-resistant than glass or standard plastic lenses, making them ideal for active individuals.

Maintenance

When choosing sports sunglasses, it's essential to consider the maintenance requirements to ensure they remain in good condition and provide optimal performance throughout their lifespan. Sunglasses featuring interchangeable or removable lenses allow you to switch lenses based on lighting conditions or activity. Removable lenses can make cleaning more convenient, as you can easily access and clean each component separately.

Consider if the sports sunglasses come with a microfiber cleaning cloth or a protective case. These accessories are essential for proper maintenance. Manufacturers’ guidelines often provide specific instructions for cleaning, storage, and maintenance to ensure the longevity of the sunglasses.

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