Blog article

Should I wear sunglasses when I run?

By HBF
5 MINUTES
11 February 2024
Couple running together
There’s nothing like an Australian summer; beach days, barbecues, days spent with friends and family and perfect weather to begin your New Year’s resolution.

And what better way to challenge yourself than entering the Specsavers 12km in this year’s HBF Run for a Reason.

Our warm, sunny climate means Aussie’s need to take care while being active in the sun.

Whether you’re attending the HBF Run for a Reason or going out for your morning stroll to grab a coffee, being sun smart should always be part of your routine.

With an El Niño weather event now confirmed with hot and dry conditions ahead, optometrists across the country are urging Australians to remember to protect their eyes this summer.

This warning comes as new research^ from Specsavers found that 54% of Australians admit that they would not be confident recognising the signs and symptoms of sun damage to their eyes, despite Australia experiencing some of the highest levels of UV1 and rates of skin cancer in the world.2

The research found that on average, Australians spend almost 2.2 hours outside a day during summer, yet 40% say they don’t wear sunglasses most of the time they go outside.

Additionally, over half (52%) of Australians say that they often pick sunglasses based on their look and style rather than how much sun protection they provide. Younger Australians are more likely to choose style over safety compared to their older counterparts.

Specsavers optometrist Karen Walsh says, “It’s worrying to hear that 40% of people are still not wearing sunglasses.

“It’s important that we all understand the long-term damage of the sun on our eyes and how to prevent it.”

Additionally, research revealed over 2 in 5 (42%) Australians, don't consider the level of UV protection when choosing sunglasses, and 1 in 4 don’t know what polarised lenses are.

“Everyone should know what to look for when choosing sunglasses,” Karen says.

“Just as sunscreen is critical for protecting your skin, you should ensure you are wearing sunglasses that have UV protection. I recommend polarised lenses as the best option to block sun glare.

“We also encourage good sun safe habits. The most important thing is to follow the SunSmart guidelines - slip, slop, slap, seek and slide.

“It’s important to remember that the sun can still cause damage even on an overcast day.”

Specsavers optometrists are encouraging all Aussies to be sun smart as we head into warmer weather, and to visit an optometrist for a routine eye test or if they have any concerns about their eyes.

Karen’s top tips to preventing sun damage of the eyes

Visit https://www.specsavers.com.au/stores to book your appointment or for more information.


^ YouGov, Sun Safety – AU, prepared for Specsavers, 18th September 2023. The study was conducted online between the 11 Sep-13 Sep 2023, conducted online and comprised of a nationally representative sample of 1,016 Australians 18 years or older.

1 Sun Smart - https://www.sunsmart.com.au/uv-radiation/what-is-uv

2 Cancer Council - https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/skin-cancer/about-skin-cancer/


This article contains general information only and does not take into account the health, personal situation or needs of any person. In conjunction with your GP or treating health care professional, please consider whether the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances.

Related topics