Summer is a season filled with warmth, vibrant colors, and opportunities for outdoor activities. For runners, it's an excellent time to hit the trails, roads, or parks and get out in nature. However, it's important to prioritize your health and protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays while enjoying your summer runs. In this blog, we will explore the essential summer running gear, focusing on sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, to help you stay safe, comfortable, and protected during your sunny summer outdoor workouts.
Sunscreen: Protecting Your Skin From the Sun's Harmful Rays
Running under the sun's scorching heat can cause sunburns, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. To protect your skin, applying sunscreen before heading out is crucial. Go for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, as it effectively blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Remember to generously apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Reapply every two hours, especially if you sweat. You can even opt for a sweat resistant sunscreen for those extra hot days.
Hats: Stylish and Protective Hat
Wearing a hat not only adds a fun touch to your running outfit but also shields your face, scalp, and eyes from direct sunlight. Look for hats that offer coverage and are made from breathable materials. Wide-brimmed hats provide excellent shade for your face, neck, and ears, protecting them from harmful UV rays. Alternatively, lightweight and breathable running caps are perfect for those seeking a more streamlined look. If you are running in the morning or evening, make sure you choose hats with reflective elements to enhance your visibility.
Sunglasses: Eye Protection for Clear Vision
Protecting your eyes from the sun is as crucial as shielding your skin. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to various eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and can even sunburn your cornea. Invest in a pair of sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. Look for lenses that block both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your eyes are shielded from harmful radiation. Choose wraparound styles or oversized sunglasses for maximum coverage, as they reduce peripheral light and minimize glare, enhancing your visibility and providing a more comfortable running experience. Some of the best running sunglasses are the Vogel SL from Tifosi Optics. Vogel SL has a shield frame that offers the utmost protection for runners. Not to mention it has UVA/UVB protection.
Additional Tips for Summer Running Gear:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing: Go for clothes with polyester or nylon blends to keep you cool and dry during summer runs. Plus they can soak up all that sweat.
- Cooling accessories: Consider using cooling towels, headbands, or neck gaiters to regulate your body temperature and keep you cool under the sun.
- Hydration: Don't forget to hydrate properly before, during, and after your runs. Carry a water bottle or invest in a hydration pack to ensure you stay hydrated throughout your workout.
- Time your runs wisely: Schedule your runs during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to minimize exposure to intense sunlight and high temperatures.
Summer running allows you to enjoy the outdoors and soak up the sunshine while staying active and healthy. However, it's crucial to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. Prioritize your well-being by investing in essential summer running gear such as sunscreen, hats, and the best running sunglasses. These items not only provide protection but also enhance your comfort and performance during your runs. With the right gear, you can make the most of the summer season while keeping yourself safe and healthy on the trails, roads, or wherever your running adventures take you.
Shop all of Tifosi Optics running sunglasses here.
