How to Choose Sports Sunglasses?

In sports, a good vision guides your footwork, breathing, and precision of movements. A pair of sports sunglasses is not just an accessory; it's a tool for protection and performance. This guide covers filter categories, lens types, frames, and adjustments to help you make a safe and lasting choice.

1 Protection Adapted to Brightness

Filter categories determine the light transmission of the lenses. They do not influence UV blocking (which must be UV400, UVA/UVB), but they impact comfort and terrain readability.

Cat. 0 (0–20% absorption): night / overcast weather.
Cat. 1 (20–57%): low light, undergrowth.
Cat. 2 (57–82%): average brightness — versatile base.
Cat. 3 (82–92%): strong sunlight (sea, medium mountains).
Cat. 4 (≥ 92%): high mountains / glacier — forbidden for driving.

Tip CE marking and UV400 indication are essential. Tint is not an indicator of UV protection; it mainly modifies contrast.

2 Frame: Fit, Comfort, Ventilation

Alpine / High Mountain Environment

Wrap-around shape + side shields to block rays, wind, and snow.
Straight or adjustable temples for wearing under a helmet/beanie.
Cat. 3 to 4 filters, possibly photochromic to read the terrain.

Endurance (running, cycling, triathlon)

Lightweight + anti-slip nose pads/temple tips for stability.
Ventilation (semi-rimless lens, open bridge) to limit fogging.
Thin/adjustable temples to fit with a cap/helmet.

Water Sports (sailing, SUP, surfing)

Flexible and wrap-around frame, ventilated lenses.
Floating option useful near water.
Polarized lenses to eliminate glare and reflections.

Materials

Titanium: ultralight and durable.
Plastic / acetate: lightweight and robust, good weight/price ratio.

3 Recommended Lens Types

Polarized: cut reflections (road, sea, snow), reduce visual fatigue.
Photochromic: variable tint (e.g., 1→3 or 2→4) depending on light; practical if the weather changes.
Mineral (mountain): very scratch-resistant, but heavier.
Hydrophobic/oleophobic: repel water and smudges, useful in rain and at sea.
Internal anti-fog: limits condensation during intense efforts.

Tip: for a night start (ultra-trail), a photochromic 0→3 lens avoids changing glasses at dawn.

4 Tints: What Look for Which Sport?

Orange / yellow: contrast & terrain readability, boosted light — MTB, mountain.
Grey: neutral color rendition — nautical, hiking, golf.
Green: faithful colors, comfort — tennis, golf.
Brown: enhanced contrast — mountain, running, walking.
Mirror coatings: comfort in strong light, glare reduction.

5 By Discipline: The Essentials

Mountain

Wrap-around, shields, straight/adjustable temples. Cat. 3/4 filters, brown/orange tints, photochromic useful, polarized for leisure.

Nautical

Flexible & ventilated frame, polarized essential, floating option. Photochromic recommended for cloudy conditions.

Endurance (running, cycling, MTB)

Ultralight, anti-slip, good ventilation. Photochromic lenses 1→3 (changing weather) or 2→4 (strong light).

To go further

6 FAQ

Which filter category for the mountains?

Prefer Cat. 3 for medium mountains and Cat. 4 for high mountains/glaciers (forbidden for driving). A photochromic 2→4 lens is a versatile option.

Polarized or photochromic: which to choose?

Polarized lenses eliminate reflections (sea/snow); photochromic lenses adjust tint according to light (practical if the weather changes). Some models exist in distinct versions.

How to avoid fogging during a run?

Choose a ventilated frame (semi-rimless lens, air channels), avoid pressing on cheekbones, and prefer an internal anti-fog treatment.

Can you drive with a Cat. 4 lens?

No. Category 4 is forbidden for driving because it is too dark. Opt for Cat. 3 for driving in bright sunlight, or a suitable photochromic lens.

Last updated on October 23, 2025 — Editorial: Visionet.