Running Sunglasses
Running sunglasses need to stay put, sit light on the face and keep sun, wind and dust out of your eyes. Here is what to look for when you choose sunglasses for running, and how Tempo, our sports model, is built for it.
What makes good running sunglasses?
Good running sunglasses are light, stay in place when you move and cover enough of the eye to keep out sun, wind and dust. A curved lens that follows the face gives better coverage, and a grippy nose bridge helps the frame stay put on a sweaty face.
Protection matters as much as fit. You spend long stretches outdoors when you run, so check that the label or product description states UV400 or 100% UV protection.
Tempo: Corlin's sports sunglasses
Tempo is our sports model, with a curved shield lens that follows the face, a lightweight frame and an adjustable rubber nose bridge. It comes in three colors and with a hard case.
Tempo running sunglasses
All shield sunglasses
What to look for in running sunglasses
Four things decide whether a pair of sunglasses works on a run:
Tempo is built around the first three: an adjustable rubber nose bridge for the fit, a lightweight frame and a curved shield lens for coverage.
Which lens color is best for running?
The best lens color depends on where and when you run. Tempo comes with three lenses:
| Lens | Good for | Tempo |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Bright sun and open roads, with colors kept close to natural | Tempo Black Black |
| Brown | Changing light and trails, with warmer colors and more contrast | Tempo White Brown |
| Blue | A cooler view and a bolder look | Tempo Black Blue |
Read more about what each color does in our sunglasses lens color guide.
Are wraparound sunglasses better for running?
Yes, for most runners. A wraparound or shield lens curves around the face, so less sun, wind and dust gets in from the sides, and your field of view stays open.
Regular sunglasses work for a short, easy run, but they tend to slip and let more light in at the edges. Tempo has a curved shield lens that follows the face.
Should running sunglasses be polarized?
Not necessarily. Polarized lenses cut the glare that bounces off water and wet roads, which some runners like near the sea or after rain. For most runs, fit and coverage matter more.
Tempo lenses are not polarized. If you often run along water or on wet roads in low sun, a polarized lens may suit you better.
How should running sunglasses fit?
Running sunglasses should sit close to the face without pressing on the nose or behind the ears. Shake your head or jog on the spot: if the frame moves, it will move more after a few kilometers.
An adjustable nose bridge, like the rubber bridge on Tempo, lets you set how high and how firmly the frame sits.
Running sunglasses for women and men
Most running sunglasses are unisex, and Tempo is no exception. What matters is how the frame fits your face, not who it is marketed to.
Choose by color and lens instead. The white Tempo with brown lenses stands out on a run, while the black versions are more discreet. See also our unisex sunglasses.
How to care for running sunglasses
Sweat and salt can leave marks on the lens. Rinse the sunglasses in lukewarm water after a run and dry them with a soft microfiber cloth, never with your shirt.
Keep them in the hard case that comes with Tempo when you are not wearing them. Our cleaning kit has what you need for the lens.
Questions about running sunglasses
What are the best sunglasses for running?
The best running sunglasses are light, stay in place and have a curved lens that covers the eyes from the sides. Check that they state UV400 or 100 percent UV protection. Tempo is our sports model, with a curved shield lens and an adjustable rubber nose bridge.
Are wraparound sunglasses better for running?
Yes, for most runners. A wraparound lens keeps more sun, wind and dust out from the sides and tends to stay put better than a regular frame.
Do running sunglasses need to be polarized?
No. Polarized lenses cut glare from water and wet roads, but fit and coverage matter more for most runs. Tempo lenses are not polarized.
Which lens color is best for running?
Black and brown lenses work for most runs. Black keeps colors natural in bright sun, while brown adds contrast in changing light and on trails.
How do I stop my sunglasses from slipping when I run?
Adjust the nose bridge so the frame sits close, and choose a light frame that does not press behind the ears. Wiping sweat off the nose bridge before a run also helps it grip.
Can you run in regular sunglasses?
Yes, for short and easy runs. Regular sunglasses are often heavier and less curved, so they can slip and let in more light from the sides on longer runs.
Are Tempo sunglasses unisex?
Yes. Tempo is designed to be worn by anyone. Choose the color and lens you like and adjust the nose bridge for your fit.
Can I return running sunglasses from Corlin?
Yes. Shipping is free, and you have 30 days to return sunglasses from Corlin, so you can try the fit on a run at home before you decide.