Nathan Released $50 Sunglasses for Runners, So We Had 10 Runners Put Them to the Test
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You never know what you’ll face on your run—gnat clouds, sand-filled gusts, blinding sunlight—which is why putting on sunglasses is as crucial as tightening the strap on your GPS watch preworkout.
To get the maximum benefit, you need a pair of sunglasses that fits your face properly, shields your eyes from all angles, and just looks good. While there are many pricey models that do all that—some cost $275—we stan more affordable sunglasses, like Goodr ($25) and Knockaround ($28). Added to that list: Nathan’s slightly pricier shades for $50.
Tested: Nathan Polarized Running Sunglasses
Width: Narrow/Medium
Weight: 27g
Price: $50
Rx lenses compatible
Last year, the brand that’s best known for its hydration packs and handheld water bottles started selling running apparel. Now you can wear Nathan’s gear from head to foot. After more than a month of testing its sunglasses, we were most impressed with how comfortably they sat on our faces without slipping and how well the polarized lenses provided adequate UV protection and reduced glare.
Nine RW+ members and I tested these glasses for a combined 778 miles. Like many of our testers, I appreciated that Nathan’s lenses didn’t fog up and that the tint wasn’t too dark. I like to enjoy the sunlight without having my midday scenery appear as dark as night.
Several testers reported that they appreciated how little the glasses slid, even on hot days. One noted that she typically has issues with eyewear sliding midrun because of her low nose bridge. I’ve had the same problem and often have to push on the nose bridge to keep the frame in place. Nathan’s sunglasses stayed put—for the most part.
Once the temperature rose and it became Sweat City, there was a slight slip as well as some friction on the tops of my ears. But that’s a small compromise we found with these glasses, and one that’s easily remedied by attaching silicone ear clips for summer runs.
For more Field Test insight and to learn how you can be a tester, head to runnersworld.com/field-test
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