Choosing the right pair of sunglasses for sporting activities goes way beyond which pair looks cool. The proper design and lens tint can actually improve your visibility and performance. Here is a guide to choose the right pair of sunglasses for various sports.

Snow activities: Skiing and snow boarding require maximum visibility on the slopes. To reduce the glare from the sun hitting the snow, try amber tinted lenses.

Water sports: Whether it's fishing or riding on a sea-doo, sunglasses that cut down the glare of the sun off the water's surface is what's important. Polarized sunglasses do a great job of eliminating this glare but still allow great visibility.

Runners: Dark brown or grey sunglasses for sunny days work best at protecting eyes from the sun while still allowing the runner to see well. Low lighting conditions, such as cloudy days or evening light, call for yellow or amber-tinted sunglasses for best visibility.

Higher end sunglasses usually come with a case and a cleaning cloth. Don't throw them away even if they seem unimportant. The case will protect new glasses far better than a pocket. The cleaning cloth is designed to clear the sweat and dust off lenses with the least probability of scratching. Also consider lens cleaning solutions or wipes to make lenses spotless and streak free.

Yes. Sunlight exposure has been linked to cataracts and pterygiums, and this exposure is magnified by the sun's rays reflecting off of the water's surface. Hence, it is all the more important to protect your eyes in and around water.

Color is a personal choice and doesn't affect how well the lenses protect eyes from harmful UV rays. Gray and brown are popular because they distort colors the least. Athletes may choose other tints for their color-enhancing properties. For example, yellow lenses are popular with skiers and target shooters because they work well in low light, reduce haze, and increase contrast for a sharper image.