This review first appeared over at FionaOutdoors
Trail running comes with its highs and lows. A definite low is taking a stick to the eye, which for a tall runner like me is more frequent than I prefer. For over 15 years, I’ve relied on Rudy Project sunglasses to protect my eyes through countless miles on trails and roads. I’ve tested a variety of brands and styles of sunglasses, but none have impressed me like the Rudy Project ASTRAL SPHERE Glasses. After three months of rigorous use –dodging branches, battling rain and navigating shifting light on mountain trails – these glasses have earned their place as my go-to pair.
Features of Note
- Ultra Lightweight (26g)
- New Spherical Lens Shape for Ultimate Clarity
- Blocks 100% of UV Rays
- Rilsan® Clear Sustainable Frame Material (a bio-based polyamide derived from 45% castor oil)
- Hydrophobic coating on the lenses repelling water and oils
- Adjustable Anti Slip Nosepads
- Comfort Fit
- Antislip Temple Arms
- Prescription Ready (Rx Sield or Optical Adapter)
- ImpactX® lenses are shatterproof (they exceed ANSI Z87.1 standards for high-velocity impact resistance)
- 2 Year warranty
- Retain price: $241.49 (rudyproject.com)
Pros: What’s good about the ASTRAL SPHERE Glasses?
Protection: I want to keep my eyes safe for as long as possible. Running trails or out in the woods, I never know when I won’t see a stick, or get something in the eye. If I can have a pair of glasses that doesn’t hinder with my eyesight (too dark, distorting shadows, etc), I am going to wear them. These glasses protect without causing more problems with shadows.
Adapting: These glasses move between dark and light as I am running. If the sun is out, they reduce glare and my need to squint. As it gets darker, they get clearer. It is amazing how effectively they do this. I don’t have to be constantly shifting my sunglasses as I run through dark patches, the clouds move in, or the sun breaks out. I keep them on my face and they do the work for me. Typically they take about 10 seconds for darkening and 25 seconds for lightening, depending on light intensity.
My wife and I were out on a 15-mile run and we got caught in a heavy thunderstorm followed by bright sunlight and heat. I was glad I had these on for both of those.
Weight and fit: These are extremely light and easy fit. I have had no problems with them slipping off my face in heavy rain, long runs with lots of sweat, or with wind.
Ventilation: The new design allows for airflow to keep the sweat from building up.
Cons: What’s not so good about the ASTRAL SPHERE Glasses?
The cost. They are not cheap. I am not sure how I am supposed to tell someone that they should go out and pay so much for a pair of glasses. My main arguments would be that your eyes should be protected and of any glasses I have tried, I think these glasses do the best at it. I also would mention that Rudy Projects glasses last a long time and with a two-year warranty, you know you will be covered.
I really think the difference here lies in the lenses. Can you find other photochromic lenses. Absolutely. Will they work well. I am sure they will be satisfactory. Will they last as long as Rudy Project glasses? I doubt it, but maybe that doesn’t matter if you can find something else cheaper.
However, if you are looking for good sunglasses and are ok with the investment, you will not be disappointed.
Conclusion
I put these glasses on nearly every time I run out the door. The times I don’t, it is because I forgot them and will be regretting it later. Are they worth the high price tag? That depends on your own economic position, the concern you have for your eyesight, and if you have ever taken a stick to the eye and wondered if you just lost your eyesight. I have no problems recommending these glasses to anyone who runs, especially trails.
- *I received these sunglasses free of charge in exchange for an honest review.