Selecting Top Sports Sunglasses: Polarized Excellence & Eye Protection

Introduction

You're about to head out for a run. You know you need to protect your eyes from the sun, the wind, dust, and environmental pollutants; but you don't know what kind of sunglasses to wear.  Should you wear sporty shades that will shield your eyes from the sun and wind or stylish aviators that will complement your look?

It can be tough to choose the right pair of sports sunglasses but don't worry, we're here to help. First, let’s discuss the different types of sports sunglasses available and which ones are best for specific activities. 

What is the difference between regular glasses and sports glasses?

Sports sunglasses are made of materials that are durable, sturdy, and safe to wear during sports. 

In addition, these sunglasses are more impact-resistant than traditional sunglasses. This is because they are made from materials like high-density plastics and polycarbonates that can withstand a lot of pressure.

Sports Sunglasses are shaped and designed differently from regular sunglasses. They protect the eyes from light and prevent vision disturbances throughout the game. Sports sunglasses provide full protection to the eyes and help the players focus on the game without causing any discomfort to the eyes.

How to Choose the Best Sports Sunglasses for Your Activity?

• Sport sunglasses should have a wrap-around style to protect the eyes from sun, wind, and debris from the sides as well.
• Impact resistant plastic or polycarbonate lenses are best for sports sunglasses. Impact resistant plastic lenses are less likely to shatter.
• Polarised lenses are ideal for reducing glare while participating in water sports, skiing, and outdoor activities on beach and in places at high altitude.
• When choosing sunglasses for a sport, you should always consider the frame material and the weight.
• The most important consideration when choosing sports sunglasses is whether they have a comfortable and secure fit.
• Look for a pair of sunglasses that is strong and durable yet lightweight and doesn't press into your face and cause discomfort at the temples or the bridge of the nose.

Why Are Sports Sunglasses Important?

Sports sunglasses protect the eyes from the sun and other environmental factors. For example, they protect your eyes from the glare of the sun and block harmful UV rays, which can cause eye damage.  Wind can dry the eyes and cause reflex tearing which can be uncomfortable and cause errors in visual judgment. 

Small insects and dust particles can be irritating and if they enter the eyes, then can be harmful.  Sunglasses will not only keep your eyes safe from the sun's harmful UV rays, but they'll also help keep them from getting injured if something goes wrong.

There are also special glasses for serious e-sports.  Although many would not associate esports or gaming as “sports' ' but these are serious activities today.  These Gaming Glasses have lenses with a tint that helps to reduce blue light and can help to reduce eye strain. 

That's why protecting them with a good pair of sports sunglasses is so important. 

How to Choose the Right Sports Sunglasses for Your Activity

When it comes to choosing the right sports sunglasses for your activity, it's important to think about the environment you'll be in and the level of protection you need.

For example, if you're going to be running outside in the sun, you'll need sunglasses that offer good protection from UV rays. On the other hand, if you're playing golf then you need sunglasses that enhance the contrast between the white ball and the greens. Did you know that special golfing sunglasses can help you appreciate up to 17 different shades of greens?  Similarly, requirements for sports like cycling, cricket during the day, and cricket during the night under lights will be different.  

Another thing to consider is how active you'll be. For example, if you're a serious athlete, you need sunglasses to keep up with your sports activity. But if you're just a recreational jogger, something more modest will do the trick.

So, think about your needs and preferences and find the perfect pair of sports sunglasses.

Moreover, here are a few of the other important points that you can follow in choosing the best sports sunglasses according to your sports activity: -

1.  You must consider the frame material

Do you play a sport where weight matters? If this is the case, then you should go with a lighter frame. The standard plastic frames are cheaper, but they can be a bit heavier and less aerodynamic. On the other hand, well-made plastic frames are sturdy and can last longer.

For the ultimate flexibility, you should go for nylon and nylon-hybrid frames. These frames are specially designed for sports. Therefore, they can be adjusted for your individual facial anatomy without disturbing their original form and function. 

You should avoid metal frames as they offer less flexibility and can potentially cause injury when broken.

2.  Go for a wraparound style

The wraparound sports sunglasses give protection and clear vision from the sides as well. In addition, it tends to grip tighter, resulting in less movement while engaging in sports activities.

3.  Must fit with other sports gear

Athletes need to consider how their sunglasses will work with other headgear. The glasses should work together with other items, such as a helmet, in order to provide the most protection.

What Are the Different Types of Sports Sunglasses?

The first step to choosing sports sunglasses is determining what type of activity you'll use them for. There are three main types of sports sunglasses: -

1. Mountain sports sunglasses

Sun’s UV rays can be even stronger in the mountains. Therefore, wraparound sunglasses are more suitable for activities like skiing and hiking. The curved shape of these glasses fits your face and skull shape. These sunglasses are even more important and useful at high altitudes with the reflection of snow, wind, stronger brightness, etc.

2.  Water sports sunglasses

Sports sunglasses are necessary to protect your eyes from the sun's rays if you participate in water sports like surfing on a board or kayaking on rivers. You should opt for floating sunglasses if you are indulged in water sports activities. 

3. Cycling and running sunglasses 

These types of sunglasses have a specific shape, Sunglasses made for cycling and running are comfortable and convenient to wear.  Specialized lenses are available that enhance contrast for mountain biking, trail racing, etc. where the sun may not be as bright but there may be a play of light and shadow or light conditions are less than bright.

How to take care of Your Sports Sunglasses

Now that you've got a new pair of sports sunglasses, it's important to know how to take care of them. Here are a few tips: -

-Protect your sunglasses from scratches using a soft cloth to clean them.

-Avoid using strong cleaners, commercial sanitizers, or solvents, as these can damage the lenses.

-Never leave your sunglasses in direct sunlight, as this can cause the surface of the lenses to warp or crack.

- Do not leave your sunglasses in closed cars, dashboards, sunglass compartments of cars, or similar spaces where heat can accumulate and cause damage to the lens surface and spoil the grip material of the frame.  Some rubberized treatments can “sweat” or become sticky, the grips can become loose if left in heated spaces.

-Store your sunglasses in a case when not in use.

Conclusion

When choosing sports sunglasses, it is important to consider the activity you will be participating in. Different activities require different features in sunglasses.

For example, if you participate in a contact sport such as basketball or football, you will need sunglasses with a strap to keep them in place. If you are participating in a non-contact sport such as running or biking, you will need sunglasses with good coverage to protect your eyes from the sun.

No matter what activity you choose, be sure to choose sunglasses that have UVA and UVB protection to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays.

FAQs

Why do athletes wear sunglasses?

In order to see clearly and focus on their game, athletes wear sunglasses. Sunglasses improve their performance by blocking out intrusive sunbeams. In addition, photochromic glasses and sunglasses can reduce the risk of serious vision-related issues such as irreversible UV damage to the eyes.

How do I choose sports sunglasses?

There are a few factors that you must consider while looking for sports sunglasses: -

-   Your sports sunglasses must come in a wrap-around style so that they can provide you with full protection against sun and debris.

-   Polycarbonate lenses are the best for sports sunglasses. 

-  There are many lenses available, and it is important to purchase lenses made of a material that is impact resistant if you're buying them for sports glasses.