Safety is one of the most important aspects of airsoft, which begins by choosing the right eye protection. Airsoft goggles come in a variety of different styles, but they’re not created equally. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, investing in the best airsoft goggles you can afford is essential to ensure both safety and performance on the field. So, here’s what you should consider when choosing a set of airsoft goggles, as well as some of our top recommendations.
Impact ratings matter
One of the primary factors to consider when selecting airsoft goggles is their safety certification. Look for goggles that meet or exceed the ANSI Z87.1+ standard. This certification ensures that the goggles provide high-impact protection against projectiles and meet stringent safety requirements. These products will be marked with this certification on the goggles themselves or on the packaging, but this is a non-negotiable.
Avoid mesh goggles
Mesh goggles may seem like a good opinion because they will never fog, but they can post a safety risk. When mesh goggles are hit by an airsoft BB, they can cause the projectile to shatter. There have also been instances where the metal mesh itself breaks, and tiny metal fragments have gone into a player’s eyes. Do yourself a favor and skip these entirely.
Pick a full seal option
Opt for goggles with a full seal design, meaning they snugly fit around your eyes to prevent any gaps where BBs or debris can enter. This design is essential to protect your eyes from incoming shots and potential ricochets. While the lens will protect you from the front, goggles that are not full seal allow BBs to potentially hit you in the eye from any gaps around the sides or back of your head. A gasket or foam around the edge also helps prevent BBs that hit your face from bouncing into your lens, which can then hit you in the eye.
Choose clear lenses and a wide field of view
Look for goggles that offer distortion-free lenses with anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings. I typically choose lenses that do not have any coating to make sure that I can see my surroundings effectively. If you choose goggles with a tinted lens, it can make it very difficult to see during the night. You should also consider the size and shape of the lenses, as they can affect your peripheral vision and overall awareness on the field. Larger goggles will also protect more of your face, but can interfere if you plan on running a separate lower face mask for protection as well.
Ventilation and anti-fog
Every airsofter has had their goggles fog before, and it’s not fun. If you can’t see what you’re doing you won’t be effective on the field, so it’s important to find a pair of goggles that won’t fog. Look for goggles with adequate ventilation systems or anti-fog features, such as double lenses or built-in fans, to maintain clear vision throughout your matches. Moving around can also help reduce fog, as well as removing any pieces of kit that are trapping heat close to your body, like a helmet.
Comfort and fitment
You are never allowed to take off your airsoft goggles during a match, so it’s important to find a pair that are comfortable to wear. Choose goggles with adjustable straps and cushioning around the eyes for a secure and comfortable fit. Full face style protection, like a paintball mask, is heavier than shooter’s glasses, which can become uncomfortable after some time with the trade-off being extra protection. One of the issues I run into is shooting glass-style eye protection will hurt the sides of my head after extended use, so I chose options that are wider.
If you live near an airsoft or gun store, consider visiting them and trying some options before purchasing. Companies like Amazon also have a very forgiving return policy if the pair you try are not right for you.
Top recommendations
ESS Crossbow with Clear Anti-Fog Lens:
ESS goggles are heavily used by the U.S. military, and for good reason. Their frames are incredibly high quality, and the anti-fog coating on the lens means you won’t have to worry about fog. Combine them with their Gasket kit and you have a set up that is ready to hit the field. ESS also offers incredible customer service, and replacement lenses are easy to find if you need them.Â
There’s a reason this is one of the most popular options for airsoft players. The Dye i5 is truly in a class of its own, offering incredible protection for your entire face while still having a very comfortable strap system that’s adjustable. If you want something that is ‘grab and go’ for total face protection, this is for you.
Pyramex I-Force Sporty Dual Pane Anti-Fog Goggles:
These goggles offer a comfortable fit, excellent ventilation, and a wide field of view for a very affordable price. Seriously, these have no right being as affordable as they are. They also feature dual-pane lenses to prevent fogging, and padding that not only makes them full seal, but also very comfortable.
Conclusion
Airsoft goggles are one of those pieces of gear that you truly get what you pay for. Investing in high-quality airsoft goggles is essential to protect your eyes and avoid fog. No matter what goggles you choose, make sure to take care of them, and avoid scratching the lens. This can cause obstructions in your sight, and can also remove the anti-fog coating on the lens as well.
