Can performance and enjoyment in sports also depend on the accessories you use? Yes, the answer is absolutely yes. And, in particular, there is one accessory that also involves health and safety in running: sunglasses.
We have already talked about this a few times, but it is good to go into more detail because there are really so many positive aspects involved in using sunglasses.
But I think it is a good idea to start from the beginning. Shall we go?
Health
Protecting ourselves from UV rays is extremely important, especially now that the season when the sun’s rays are strongest is approaching. Although-even on cloudy days-some of the UV rays may still filter through.
Protecting the cornea and retina from the sun’s rays is as crucial as-for example-protecting our skin. In short, the sun is beautiful, it puts one in a good mood, it warms, it tans, but it is imperative that we protect ourselves properly.
Security
Sunglasses also provide the eye with mechanical protection from sand, dust and all debris raised by cars racing down the street. Think of them as a helmet for our eyes.
In addition, wind can also be an annoying antagonist for our eyes during sports: in addition to carrying dust and debris, it can excessively dry out the ocular mucous membranes. Be careful, however, the glasses must also provide adequate ventilation, otherwise they may fog up or cause excessive sweating and thus become instruments of torture rather than an aid.
Another important element when we are on the street is the quality of vision. Sunglasses enable us to better see the road and, with it, the dangers that may arise, thus becoming more responsive in the face of – knock on wood, wishing it never happens – dangerous situations.
Performance
And here we return to the question in the opening: can sunglasses improve our performance? Yes, they do, both directly and indirectly.
First of all, without sunglasses we tend to contract our facial muscles while wearing them we have a more relaxed posture and expression. As a result, fewer contracted muscles means a more natural running position and energy savings.
Mentally, too, the benefit is noticeable because sunglasses help reduce the disturbing elements that come from sunlight or annoying glare. This brings with it greater concentration and the ability to enjoy our training or competition more. If you have doubts, watch the very famous Athens 2004 marathon-won by Stefano Baldini-in which athletes ran with the sun on their faces the entire time.
The quality of vision
For those who use corrective lenses, this can be particularly problematic, but-don’t worry! – Is solvable.
Beyond the use of contact lenses or sunglasses with graded lenses (including polarized), it is possible to choose a frame suitable for sports and–at the same time–fitting prescription lenses. A great job on this front is being done by Rudy Project, which offers several solutions, all of which are interesting and worth considering.
In this case, you can literally combine the benefit of eyewear designed for sports with the correct vision provided by corrective lenses.
How to choose sunglasses
Before navigating the choice, it is necessary to understand in what context we will use the glasses because-as you will imagine-there are for the most specific uses. Running glasses are different from cycling glasses, although there are models that are good for both sports. What is important, as I mentioned earlier, is that in any case they provide protection and ventilation; in addition, the materials must be designed for use in a sporting context so that the glasses do not move even on a sweaty face.
Imagine how irritating it can be to use sunglasses that skip or slip.
The things to consider when buying are quite simple:
- UV protection: for the reasons we have seen before;
- Type of use you plan to make of it;
- Light filter: lenses can limit varying amounts of light and color and improve vision on the road or in off-road settings for safer sports;
- Robustness and build quality: if they weren’t a protective element, we probably wouldn’t even use them. And, considering that we have to keep them on for quite some time, it is good that the weight should always be extremely low.
- Ability to change lenses: many models give the option to interchange lenses without replacing the frame. Thus using different types of filters according to weather conditions. This is undoubtedly a plus to watch out for. Better still use glasses with photochromic lenses that adapt to light conditions.
- Aesthetics: because we are all vain, aren’t we! ;)
Can I use “traditional” sunglasses?
This is a question I am asked quite frequently. And, certainly, no one is stopping you from using “traditional” glasses. But they often and frequently have two major limitations.
First of all, the weight and materials: a traditional sunglass is not designed for sports use, so it is more likely to move around in use and can become uncomfortable.
Second, body heat and humidity can fog the lenses, especially in areas near the nose. And no, it is no fun at all to run with fog in front of your eyes even in the middle of August.
(Main image credits: monkeybusiness on DepositPhotos.com)