Top 8 Protective Glasses for Shooting in 2024

Recent studies revealed that over a six-year period, nearly 8,700 individuals suffered significant eye injuries related to firearms, underscoring the dangers of inadequate eye protection.

Standard shooting glasses often don't fit well over regular glasses, but advancements in the field have led to the development of specialized shooting eye protection for glasses wearers. These innovations offer enhanced visibility, coverage, and comfort, specifically designed to fit over corrective lenses.

These glasses feature customized padding and shapes to comfortably fit over vision correction glasses without limiting visibility or protection. Top models meeting ANSI Z87.1 safety standards ensure glasses wearers can shoot safely.

This article delves into the urgent need for specialized eye protection for glasses wearers to safeguard their vision and safety while shooting. Continue reading to learn the best options available.

The Importance of Eye Protection

The importance of eye protection for shooting, especially for those who wear prescription glasses, is a critical aspect of firearm safety.

For glasses wearers, the challenge is to ensure clear vision for accurate shooting and protect the eyes from potential hazards like ricochets, debris, and environmental elements.

A key consideration is that regular prescription glasses often do not offer sufficient protection for shooting activities. Many prescription glasses lack impact resistance and side protection, which are crucial in a shooting environment where debris can come from multiple directions.

Glasses wearers must find eye protection that fits well over their prescription glasses without compromising visibility or protection. This ensures safety during shooting activities and contributes to a better overall shooting experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Shooting Glasses

When prepping for shooting activities, choosing eyewear that balances vision, protection, and comfort is critical. Here are some factors to consider when you choose your shooting glasses.

1. Safety Standards Compliance

Selecting shooting glasses that comply with ANSI Z87.1 safety standards is crucial for ensuring adequate eye protection in shooting activities. This standard guarantees that eyewear can withstand high-velocity impacts. It mandates rigorous testing for materials like polycarbonate, ensuring they are durable and shatter-resistant.

Additionally, the standard covers aspects like optical clarity, side protection, and regular updates to reflect technological advancements. Compliant glasses are marked for easy identification, ensuring users can easily verify their safety credentials. This level of compliance also assures quality, durability, and clear vision, all essential for safety and performance in shooting scenarios.

2. Comfort and Style - Glasses or Goggles

When choosing between shooting glasses and goggles, consider both comfort and the level of protection needed. Glasses are lightweight, stylish, and adjustable, making them suitable for shooting activities and other outdoor sports.

Goggles offer more comprehensive coverage, ideal for extreme conditions or high-velocity shooting, but can be bulkier and prone to fogging. Ultimately, the choice depends on the shooting environment and personal preference for fit and style.

3. Anti-Fog Coating

Anti-fog technology in shooting glasses is critical for maintaining clear vision under various conditions, particularly during intense sports like shooting. This technology reduces surface tension on the lenses, allowing moisture to spread evenly instead of forming vision-obstructing droplets. Shooting can be physically demanding, often causing sweat leading to fogged lenses.

Anti-fog coatings prevent this moisture buildup, ensuring the shooter's sightline remains unobstructed. These coatings are applied to create a thin, invisible layer on the lens surface, effectively keeping the lenses clear and free from fog, which is essential for both safety and performance during shooting activities.

4. UV Protection

The UV protection in shooting glasses is crucial, especially for outdoor shooting activities, as it safeguards the eyes from harmful UV rays that can cause conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and eye cancer. Most shooting glasses today incorporate built-in UV filters in their lenses, regardless of lens color, offering protection from UVA and UVB rays.

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can damage not only the eyes but also the delicate skin around them, leading to premature aging and skin cancer. Therefore, choosing glasses that block at least 99% of UV radiation is essential. This protection is vital for maintaining long-term eye health and comfort during shooting and preventing the sun's glare from causing eye strain and discomfort.

5. Compatibility with Prescription Glasses

For those who wear prescription glasses, finding compatible shooting glasses is essential for comfort and safety. There are two main options: wearing safety goggles over prescription glasses or using safety glasses made with prescription lenses. Over-glasses safety goggles are a simple solution that fits comfortably over most prescription glasses.

However, some users find this option less comfortable. Alternatively, safety glasses with prescription lenses offer a more integrated solution, ensuring clear vision while meeting the necessary safety standards for shooting. Ultimately, the choice depends on the individual's preferences and shooting activities.

Top 8 Eye Protection Options For Shooting

Selecting the ideal shooting eye protection for prescription glasses requires carefully weighing attractiveness and performance.

We assembled a list of top eyewear for glasses-using shooters based on key factors like:

• Fit
• Pricing
• Frame design
• Comfort

Examining these key areas enables the best match for those needing shooting eye protection. Below are some top shooting eye protection options for glasses wearers.

The DEX FIT Safety Work Over Glasses SG210 OTG are priced at $14.69 and stand out as highly durable shooting glasses. Available in Green, Grey, Orange, and Red, they are designed to fit comfortably over most prescription eyeglasses.

The construction is a blend of silicone, rubber, and polycarbonate, offering significant impact resistance — a critical feature for shooting activities. The lenses are treated with anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings, providing UV385 protection for clear vision under various conditions.

One of the key highlights is their compliance with OSHA, ANSI, and CE safety standards, adhering to CE EN 166, EN 170, and ANSI ISEA Z87.1 requirements. This certification ensures they meet rigorous quality and safety benchmarks, making them suitable for professional and recreational shooting environments.

Pros

• Complies with OSHA, ANSI, and CE regulations, ensuring top-notch protection in shooting scenarios.
• The frame's combination of materials provides exceptional durability and protection, essential for the rigors of shooting.
• They are designed to fit over most prescription glasses, catering to a wide range of users without compromising on vision.
• Features anti-fog, scratch-resistant, and UV385 protection, crucial for maintaining clear vision in various outdoor and indoor settings.
• Adjustable temples allow users to tailor the fit, enhancing comfort and stability, which is vital for accurate shooting.

Cons

• It may only accommodate moderately sized or uniquely styled prescription eyeglasses, limiting their usability for some shooters.
• Weighing 1.76 ounces, they could be perceived as heavier than typical shooting glasses, potentially impacting comfort during extended use.
• While adjustable, they might offer a better fit for users with very small or large head sizes.
• Despite being fog and scratch-resistant, extreme environmental conditions may still affect lens clarity.
• The modern design may not align with the preferences of those seeking traditional or more professional-looking shooting eyewear.

The Pyramex Safety Capture Plus Safety Glasses are designed for superior eye protection and comfort. Priced between $13.70 and $14.24, these glasses feature a non-conductive frame that fits over most prescription glasses.

They are available with clear and gray lenses, and the flexible rubber foam gasket prevents lens fogging. The extended temples ensure no interference with prescription frames. Meeting ANSI Z87.1 and CAN/CSA Z94.3 safety standards, these glasses offer high environmental protection standards.

Pros

• They are designed to comfortably fit over most prescription eyewear, making them versatile for those who wear glasses.
• Meets ANSI Z87.1 and CAN/CSA Z94.3 safety standards, ensuring a high level of protection.
• They are equipped with a flexible rubber foam gasket to keep lenses from fogging, maintaining clear vision in different conditions.
• Suitable for environments where electrical hazards are present.
• They are reasonably priced between $13.70 and $14.24, making them an accessible option for safety eyewear.

Cons

• Available only in specific colors and styles, which might appeal to only some users.
• It might only fit perfectly over some prescription glasses, particularly very large or unique frame designs.
• For some users, wearing two glasses might be uncomfortable or heavy over long periods.
• Limited to clear and gray lenses may not be suitable for all lighting conditions or user preferences.
• While they meet safety standards, their long-term durability is not specified under heavy use or in harsh environments.

The NoCry Over-Glasses Safety Glasses, priced at $20, cater to professional and personal users needing over-prescription eye protection. Constructed with durable, lightweight materials and a scratch-resistant lens finish, they maintain clear visibility and withstand regular use.

Certified by ANSI Z87.1 and OSHA-approved, they fit comfortably over most standard prescription frames, with soft tips and adjustable arms for added comfort. The adjustable design ensures comfort for various face sizes, enhancing their usability in diverse activities, including shooting, where comfort and a secure fit are essential.

Pros

• Explicitly designed to be worn over prescription eyewear, offering a practical solution for glasses wearers.
• Their lightweight nature minimizes discomfort, which is especially important during long periods of use.
• It enhances the durability of the glasses, making them suitable for various settings.
• Ensures precise and undistorted vision, vital for precision work or safety.
• Features like adjustable frames and soft components contribute to a comfortable and snug fit.

Cons

• The over-glasses design can be more cumbersome than traditional safety glasses.
• It primarily focused on functionality, offering fewer style options.
• May fog up in humid conditions or during physical exertion.
• The design could limit peripheral vision more than other eyewear types.
• While scratch-resistant, higher-end models may be less robust than in extreme environments.

The Allen Company Safety Glasses (SKU 2170) are priced at $12.59. These are specialized eyewear designed for shooting enthusiasts, featuring a durable wrap-around frame that comfortably fits over most prescription glasses.

These safety glasses offer robust eye protection with ANSI Z87.1 impact resistance and 100% UV protection, thanks to their high-quality polycarbonate lenses with a metallic coating.

They are designed to maintain clear vision in various conditions, featuring built-in vents and an anti-fog lens design. With a focus on comfort and protection, these glasses are ideal for those needing reliable eye safety while accommodating prescription eyewear during shooting activities or other outdoor ventures.

Pros

• These glasses are certified with ANSI Z87.1 impact resistance, ensuring robust eye protection during shooting activities.
• The metallic coating on the lenses provides 100% UV protection, safeguarding the eyes from harmful sun rays.
• It is designed to fit comfortably over most prescription glasses without compromising the wearer's vision.
• Built-in vents and anti-fog lens design help maintain clear vision in humid conditions.
• Features like the rubber guard, oversized temple space, and wrap-around frame enhance comfort, especially during prolonged use.

Cons

• Available only in yellow and clear, which might not be preferred by all users or suitable for all lighting conditions.
• It may not fit all head sizes and shapes comfortably, especially for those with very small or large prescription glasses.
• Weighing 0.3 pounds, they could be considered heavier than typical safety glasses, potentially causing discomfort over extended periods.
• The design is functional but may appeal to something other than those seeking a more stylish or less conspicuous option.
• While vents are designed to reduce fogging, they might not be sufficient for highly humid or active conditions, potentially affecting visibility.

The Wiley X Saber Advanced glasses represent a pinnacle of high-performance protective eyewear, tailored to exceed stringent military ballistic standards and provide exceptional ANSI Z87.1 impact resistance, ensuring robust eye protection across diverse environments.

This model, known for its durability and safety, is priced according to the retailer and region, generally within the $40 to $100 range. As such, the Wiley X Saber Advanced stands out as a reliable and practical choice for those seeking top-tier eye protection, balancing cost with superior protective capabilities.

Pros

• These glasses are built to withstand extreme conditions, meeting military specifications for ballistic impact resistance. This makes them suitable for a wide range of high-risk environments.
• They also meet the ANSI requirements for eye protection, ensuring high safety against impacts.
• The adjustable temples provide a customizable and comfortable fit, accommodating different head sizes and shapes and ensuring the glasses stay securely in place.
• This feature offers versatility, allowing users to switch lenses based on different lighting conditions or specific requirements of their environment.
• They are ideal for various settings, including military use, outdoor activities, sports, and industrial work, making them a versatile choice for eye protection.

Cons

• While offering high-quality protection, these glasses can be more expensive than standard safety glasses, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
• Some users might find the design less stylish than casual or fashionable eyewear, limiting their appeal for everyday use.
• Changing the lenses might be challenging for some users, especially when quick adaptation is required.
• Due to their robust construction, they might be heavier than typical glasses, potentially causing discomfort during prolonged use.
• Like many safety glasses, they may be prone to fogging in certain conditions, and ventilation might be limited, affecting visibility and comfort.

The Delta Plus OVR-Spec II Safety Glasses are priced at $6.49 USD. These safety glasses are designed to fit comfortably over prescription eyewear, featuring a translucent frame and clear lens. They offer 99.9% UV protection and have a soft rubber temple trim for added comfort.

The glasses also feature a molded nosepiece and comply with ANSI Z87.1-2015, CE EN166, and VO Ballistic standards. The design includes small side windows for unobstructed peripheral vision. With a frame width of 154 mm, temple length of 138 mm, and lens height of 45 mm, they are suitable for various environments, including laboratories, workshops, and shooting ranges.

Pros

• They are designed to fit over prescription eyewear up to 138mm, making them versatile for those who wear glasses.
• Priced at $6.49, they are an economical choice for safety eyewear.
• They provide 99.9% UV protection for indoor and outdoor use.
• They are equipped with a soft rubber temple trim and a molded nosepiece for enhanced comfort.
• Meets ANSI Z87.1-2015, CE EN166, and VO Ballistic standards, ensuring high protection.

Cons

• The functional design may not appeal to users seeking style in their safety eyewear.
• While they are designed to fit over prescription glasses, they might only accommodate a few large or uniquely styled frames.
• Given the affordable price, the long-term durability under heavy use or in harsh environments might be a concern.
• The robust construction could produce a heavier and bulkier feel than lighter safety glasses.
• Available only with clear lenses, which may not be suitable for all lighting conditions or user preferences.

Xaegistac Safety Glasses with Case is a reliable eye protection for your shooting expeditions. Priced at $11.99, these glasses offer a comprehensive shield against harmful UV rays with their Anti-Fog Anti-Scratch Polycarbonate UV400 Lens, blocking 99.9% of UV rays. The soft rubber nose pieces ensure a comfortable fit without slipping, even in wet or sweaty conditions, while the lightweight semi-rimless black frame provides preferred comfort. The wrap-around lens design not only grants full side vision but also offers maximum protection, crucial for intense shooting environments. Additionally, the package includes a zipper hard case for easy carrying and optimal protection against damage, scratches, and dust, making it an ideal choice for both work and play, whether you're shooting, fishing, hunting, hiking, cycling, or woodworking.

Pros

• Anti-Fog Anti-Scratch Polycarbonate UV400 Lens
• Soft rubber nose pieces for a comfortable and slip-free fit
• Wrap-around lens design for full side vision and maximum protection
• Lightweight semi-rimless black frame for preferred comfort
• Comes with a zipper hard case for easy carrying and protection against damage

Cons

• Limited color options may not suit all preferences
• Some users may prefer additional lens options for varying light conditions

SolidWork Shooting Glasses offer reliable comfort and protection for shooting enthusiasts. Designed for both men and women, these glasses provide impact eye protection for shooting ranges and airsoft guns. With a SOLID. curve shape, the lenses ensure full coverage, while flexible temples and soft nose pads offer a secure and comfortable fit. Clear side extensions enhance safety and provide an unobstructed panoramic view. Certified to US ANSI Z87+ and German DIN EN 166 & EN 170 standards, these glasses feature scratch-resistant, fog-resistant, and UV-protective lenses. Despite their affordable price of $7.79, SolidWork prioritizes quality materials and construction, ensuring durability in demanding shooting environments. Safeguard your vision with SolidWork without compromising comfort or performance.

Pros

• Impact eye protection for shooting ranges and airsoft guns.
• Comfortable fit with flexible temples and soft nose pads.
• Clear side extensions for enhanced safety and panoramic view.
• Retina-coated lenses resist scratches, fogging, and UV rays.
• Certified to US ANSI Z87+ and German DIN EN 166 & EN 170 standards.
• Affordable price with high-quality materials and construction.

Cons

• Limited color and style options compared to other brands.
• May not fit larger head sizes comfortably.

Final Thoughts

After reviewing the various safety glasses and goggles, the Wiley X Saber Advanced is the premier choice for shooting activities. With ballistic protection meeting military specifications and durable, adjustable components to secure fit over prescription eyewear, they provide superior defense without sacrificing optics. Their versatility enables adaptation across shifting conditions, transitioning effortlessly between activities in the field to the shooting range.

While models like the Pyramex Safety Capture Plus and NoCry Over Glasses also allow layering prescriptions with protection, the Wiley X better shields against debris and recoil due to advanced lens coatings and ruggedized construction. Although offerings from Delta Plus and DEX Fit meet safety certifications at lower price points, the Wiley X better equips users for extreme, prolonged use without fogging or scratching.

Ultimately, the Wiley X Saber Advanced shooting glasses deliver best-in-class eye armor in one reliable, vision-protecting package for those seeking to combine prescription personalization with hardcore impact resistance. Their unparalleled optical clarity empowers accuracy, while their military-grade durability ensures eyes stay shielded even in the harshest conditions.

Can regular sunglasses provide adequate eye protection for shooting?

No, only impact-rated shooting glasses meet safety standards.

Does eye protection for shooting need to cover prescription eyewear sides properly?

Yes, sides should be fully covered by eye protection to protect against debris.

Is it all OK for someone using protective eyewear for shooting to remove their eyewear when not actively firing?

No, protective eyewear must be continuously worn when shooting or around firearms.