Outdoor workouts and sports have become increasingly popular in recent years. In the United States, 57.3% of the population participated in outdoor sports, growing from 55% in the previous year. There are all sorts of activities to enjoy, from casual running and cycling to intense trail running and rock climbing. Heading outside for exercise is a great way to enjoy nature and boost health at the same time. However, being outdoors can expose you to the sun’s UV rays and the elements, obstructing and affecting your eyes and vision. You need a great pair of shades to stay safe and comfortable while exercising outdoors. Here are some factors to consider when finding the best sunglasses for your outdoor workout: 

UV protection

Sunglasses can elevate style, but their main purpose is to protect from the sun’s UV rays. If you enjoy exercising outdoors but don’t wear shades, you can suffer from photokeratitis (eye sunburn), which can cause pain and discomfort. In worse cases, it can increase your risk of developing eye conditions like cataracts or macular degeneration. When choosing sunglasses, always look for a label that indicates 100% UVA and UVB protection. This ensures utmost safety when you head outdoors for a quick walk or a game of golf. For extra protection, you can wear sports sunglasses with a wraparound-style frame. They can provide coverage from more angles to prevent UV rays, dust, dirt, and other irritants from entering your eye and disrupting your exercise. They’re also great for outdoor sports as they offer an uninterrupted field of vision, allowing you to spot any obstacles and navigate your environment easily.

Vision needs

Choosing sunglasses can be tricky when you have vision issues like nearsightedness or farsightedness. You need clear vision to stay aware of your surroundings when outside, but you also need protection from UV rays and the elements. Prescription sunglasses can provide both benefits, so you won’t have to sacrifice one for the other. Top models like the Oakley Holbrook or the Wiley X WX Kingpin can offer perfect vision outdoors with your prescription while keeping the sun’s harsh rays at bay. They’re lightweight and durable, making them suitable for outdoor use. Whether hiking, running, or cycling, they can stay snug on your face to provide convenient vision correction and UV protection. You won’t have to bother with bringing two pairs of eyewear, clipping on lenses, or putting on contact lenses to see clearly and stay protected.

Lens types

While UV protection should be your main priority for sunglasses for your outdoor workout, there are various lens types and coatings available to enhance the experience even further. Polarized shades can provide protection against glare from reflective surfaces. These lenses are a great choice if you enjoy water or snow sports, as the sun’s rays can bounce off these surfaces and impede your vision when you’re kayaking or skiing. The sunglasses from Maui Jim come with PolarizedPlus2 lens technology, which can enhance color and contrast while staying glare-free. Transition sunglasses with photochromic lenses that adapt to the light can also be convenient if you forget your sunglasses often or constantly move from outside to indoors and vice versa. Consider your preferred activities, where you often exercise, and your personal preference to make a smart choice.

Want to enjoy an outdoor workout close to home? Check out the best outdoor spots in Nashville, where you can enjoy a variety of activities, such as running hill sprints, step workouts, calisthenics, and more.