Shooting Glasses and Goggles — Page 3: Shooting Eyewear Frames

Choosing the frame in shooting eyewear is just as important as the lens.

• Material - Tough polycarbonate lenses are used in a number of different goggles and glasses. Although you will see metal frames in many aviator-style shooting glasses, be aware that this may not be the safes and most comfortable choice. Many shooters prefer a wrapped frame for safe coverage. Plastic frames give the wearer flexibility and enhances their ability to absorb shock, but they also provide a snugger and more comfortable fit.
• Coverage - A larger pair of sunglasses or goggles will cover more of your face, and in turn extend the protected area beyond your eyes. Your eyes aren't the only vulnerable part of your face, so using a good pair of goggles with a helmet will provide you with a great deal of protection. Coverage goes back to the difference between glasses and goggles, with the tradeoff of style and comfort with a pair of glasses for greater protection with goggles. When comparing goggles, check how large the lenses are and how much of your face is covered. If you have large enough lenses and a wide frame you will have optimal protection along with a wide field of view (FOV).
• Fit - Always make sure that whatever you pick, shooting glasses or goggles, that they fit correctly. On goggles, make sure to check if you have a proper seal and adjust the strap for comfort. If you continuously have to re-adjust your glasses you won't perform your best. Constantly adjusting your eyewear can be distracting. When purchasing ballistic goggles be sure to consider variables such as helmets, hearing protection or any other headgear that might get in the way of a proper fit, so choose a model designed with helmets or ear muffs in mind so you don't have to make adjustments later.