I am addicted to designer sunglasses. My collection includes oversized Chanel’s, Tom Ford “imitation Angelina’s” and hand-embroidered Ed Hardy’s. I have the perfect pair for every situation with the exception of…jogging. I hate to admit it, but giant, jewel encrusted shades on a dewy face (who am I kidding it’s completely sweaty) are a fashion and function disaster. They make you look ridiculous and they will also use your nose as a slip and slide throughout your run. And let me tell you, this is not good for pace group performance.

So, in my search for the perfect addition to my lunette museum here is what I discovered. Look for glasses that are:

• Small enough that they don’t rest on, or bounce all over your rosy running cheeks.
• “Grippy” in the nose bridge. Slippery plastic, although comfortable, just won’t keep those babies in place.
• Lightweight. Think aerodynamics, not neck injury. Put down your Swarovski bedazzled pair and pick something up that feels like a feather.
• Not too lightweight. Save your wire rim aviators for your next date with Tom Cruise and choose something more stable. On that note, cancel your date with Tom Cruise.
• Dark and polarized is the only way to go when protecting your eyes against glare, sweat, and sunscreen sting. Added bonus – you can check out the cute guys in your running group without getting caught.

Head to 4th avenue in Vancouver to get the top shops all in one location:

For the eco-warrior: Eco-Outdoor Sports
For the urban action chic: Comor Sports
For the sun-loving surfer girl: The DUB Shop