As a soldier, your vision is one of your most critical assets in the field. Military eyewear plays a crucial role in protecting your eyes and enhancing your visual capabilities across diverse combat scenarios. From rugged combat goggles to sleek aviator sunglasses, modern armed forces utilize a range of specialized eyewear. This article will examine five key types of military glasses: combat goggles, aviator sunglasses, ballistic eyewear, prescription military eyewear, and night vision goggles. Understanding the features and applications of each type will give you insight into how the military safeguards soldiers' vision while optimizing their performance in various environments and missions.
What Glasses are Allowed in the Military?
Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL®)
The U.S. military has strict standards for eyewear worn by service members. The Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL®) is the official list of eyewear that meets the Army's ballistic protection requirements. This list includes various types of spectacles, goggles, and specialized eyewear from approved manufacturers.
Lens and Frame Regulations
According to military regulations, lens colors must be traditional shades of gray, brown, or dark green. Extreme or trendy colors like red, yellow, or bright green are not permitted. Frames should be conservative in size and style, avoiding conspicuous designs or logos that detract from the uniform's appearance.
Ballistic Protection Standards
Military eyewear must meet rigorous safety standards. Military-grade ballistic eyewear provides 5-7 times greater protection against high-velocity projectiles compared to standard safety glasses. To receive military ratings, eyewear must undergo testing to meet MIL-PRF-31013 (Spectacles) and MIL-DTL-43511D (Goggles) standards, withstanding projectiles traveling at impressive speeds.
Prescription Options
Service members requiring vision correction can obtain the Universal Prescription Lens Carrier (UPLC) filled with their prescriptive lenses through military optometry clinics or medical support sections. This ensures that all personnel have access to compliant, protective eyewear that meets their individual vision needs while maintaining safety standards.
Combat Goggles for Protection in the Field
Enhanced Safety and Durability
Combat goggles are essential for protecting soldiers' eyes in harsh environments. These specialized goggles offer 5-7 times greater protection against high-velocity projectiles compared to standard safety glasses. They undergo rigorous testing, withstanding projectiles traveling at speeds of 550-560 ft/sec, ensuring superior protection in combat situations.
Versatile Functionality
Modern combat goggles provide more than just impact protection. They shield eyes from debris, dust, wind, and other environmental hazards that could impair a soldier's vision during operations. Many models feature anti-fog coatings, interchangeable lenses, and compatibility with night vision devices, enhancing their versatility in various combat scenarios.
Improved Situational Awareness
One of the key advantages of combat goggles is their design for optimal field of view. The browless frame design, as seen in some modern models, removes the top part of the frame, allowing for less obstruction to the user's view. This feature is particularly beneficial in stressful situations or when using gun optics, providing soldiers with enhanced situational awareness and a potential tactical advantage.
Aviator Sunglasses for Pilots
The Classic Choice for Aviation
Aviator sunglasses have long been the go-to eyewear for pilots, combining style with essential functionality. These iconic shades, originally designed for military aviators, offer large lenses that maximize sun coverage, providing crucial protection for pilots exposed to intense sunlight at high altitudes. The teardrop shape and thin metal frames not only look sleek but also allow for a wide field of vision, essential for maintaining situational awareness in the cockpit.
Specialized Features for Flight
Modern aviator sunglasses for pilots go beyond the classic design, incorporating advanced technologies to enhance performance and comfort during flight. Many models now feature non-polarized lenses, as recommended by the FAA, to prevent interference with cockpit instrument readings. Additionally, some aviator sunglasses offer 100% UV protection, shielding pilots' eyes from harmful radiation at higher altitudes where exposure is intensified.
Comfort and Practicality
Pilot-specific aviator sunglasses are designed with the unique demands of aviation in mind. Lightweight titanium frames and rubberized nose pads enhance comfort during long flights, while some models feature a slide-off design for easy use with helmets. The best aviator sunglasses for pilots strike a balance between durability, optical clarity, and ease of use, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of frequent flying while providing optimal vision protection.
Ballistic Eyewear for the Shooting Range
Essential Protection for Marksmen
When it comes to safeguarding your vision at the shooting range, ballistic eyewear is non-negotiable. These specialized glasses are designed to withstand high-velocity impacts, protecting your eyes from potential hazards like ejected casings and gunpowder blowback. According to experts, the best ballistic eyewear meets or exceeds stringent safety standards such as ANSI Z87.1, MIL-PRF-31013, or EN166.
Top Picks for Range Safety
For optimal protection and performance, consider investing in quality ballistic eyewear. The Wiley X Saber Advanced is a top choice, offering military-grade protection with interchangeable lenses for varying light conditions. If you're on a budget, the Radians Revelation provides affordable yet effective protection with a fully adjustable frame.
Features to Look For
When selecting ballistic eyewear, prioritize comfort and clarity. Look for glasses with anti-fog technology, like Edge Eyewear's Vapor Shield, to maintain clear vision during intense shooting sessions. For outdoor ranges, consider polarized lenses to reduce glare. Remember, the best ballistic eyewear combines superior protection with comfort and style, ensuring you can focus on your target without compromising safety.
Prescription Military Eyewear
Customized Protection for Soldiers with Vision Needs
For military personnel who require corrective lenses, prescription military eyewear offers a crucial solution. These specialized glasses combine vision correction with the robust protection needed in combat situations. According to RX-Safety, prescription tactical glasses adhere to the highest safety standards, including ANSI Z87+ High Velocity and MIL-PRF-31013 ballistic ratings.
Advanced Features for Enhanced Performance
Modern prescription military eyewear goes beyond basic vision correction. Oakley's Standard Issue (SI) collection showcases exclusive military-focused designs with advanced technologies. These include Prizm lenses for enhanced visual acuity, Unobtanium stems for a secure fit, and ballistic-rated frames for maximum protection. Many options also feature anti-fog coatings, polarized lenses, and photochromic capabilities, ensuring clear vision in varied environments.
Customization and Versatility
Military personnel can choose from a wide range of frame styles and lens options to suit their specific needs. Revision Military offers prescription options across their product lines, including spectacles, goggles, and sunglasses. This versatility allows soldiers to maintain visual acuity and protection whether they're on a routine patrol or engaged in specialized operations requiring night vision or laser eye protection.
Night Vision Goggles for Low Light Situations
Night vision goggles (NVGs) are essential equipment for military personnel operating in low-light conditions. These sophisticated devices amplify available ambient light, allowing soldiers to see clearly in near-total darkness. According to Army Surplus World, NVGs are primarily used by armed forces for nighttime surveillance and operations.
Types and Technology
Night vision technology has evolved significantly over the years. As reported by Hard Head Veterans, there are several generations of devices (Gen 1-4), each offering improved performance and functionality. The PVS-14 monocular is a versatile and widely-used military-grade option, featuring weapon mounting capabilities and gain control.
Choosing the Right NVGs
When selecting night vision goggles, you should consider factors such as battery life, weather resistance, weight, and comfort. ATN Corp suggests that key considerations include the generation of technology, resolution, field of view, and magnification. For tactical scenarios, binocular night vision devices (BNVDs) are often preferred due to their wider field of view.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the long-term performance and reliability of your night vision goggles. This includes regular cleaning, proper storage, and avoiding exposure to bright light. ATN Corp recommends regular inspection and servicing by professionals to keep your NVGs in top condition.
Conclusion
As you've learned, military eyewear plays a crucial role in protecting soldiers' vision across diverse combat scenarios. From impact-resistant combat goggles to specialized aviator sunglasses, each type of eyewear serves a distinct purpose in safeguarding your eyes while enhancing visual performance. Ballistic eyewear and prescription options ensure that every soldier, regardless of vision needs, can maintain optimal sight in high-risk environments. Night vision goggles further extend visual capabilities in low-light conditions. By understanding and utilizing these various forms of military glasses, you can ensure that your vision remains protected and mission-ready, no matter what challenges you face on the battlefield. Remember, clear vision is not just about seeing—it's about surviving and succeeding in the line of duty.