9 Best Tactical Sunglasses For Survival Emergencies & Combat

The Best Tactical Sunglasses Buyers Guide

When you’re out and about on a sunny day, you need a good pair of sunglasses to shield the bright light of the sun.

Sure, any cheap pair of shades from the convenience store will do – sort of…

But if you’re an outdoorsman or survivalist, you NEED something better. You need a pair of high-quality tactical sunglasses.

Tactical sunglasses protect you from hazardous UV rays as well as dangerous ballistics.

In a crisis, you may need to travel through danger zones. You may need to bug out and could end up outdoors for days and even weeks on end.

So having the proper eyewear is essential to survive but also to thrive. And let’s be honest, not all sunglasses are the same.

Trendy Ray-Ban and Oakley sunglasses “look cool.” But you didn’t come to Skilled Survival for fashion advice.

And Gramma’s cat-eye shades aren’t gonna cut it when TSHTF.

So it’s time to gear up and invest in a proper set of military-grade tactical sunglasses.

Here are the following tactical sunglasses topics we’ll be covering today:

• What Are Tactical Sunglasses?
• Best Reasons To Invest In A Pair Of Tactical Sunglasses
• Best Tactical Sunglasses Features To Look For
• 9 Best Tactical Sunglasses On The Market Today

**Note: If you just want to know our top brands, feel free to SKIP AHEAD HERE.

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What Are Tactical Sunglasses?

Eye protection is essential during any serious survival emergency or military campaign. Why? Because your eyes are one of the most vital resources you have. That goes triple for survival situations!

In combat, protecting your eyes from dangerous debris and UV rays is a mandatory tactic. Tactical sunglasses provide superior eye protection for such dynamic situations.

That’s why they come with levels of certification, depending on the environmental severity.

Tactical Glasses

Tactical sunglasses is the term used for a step up from regular shades.

They should enhance your vision and protect against random flying debris.

Basically, they offer solid protection from the sun, dust, debris, and flying particles.

These military-grade sunglasses are an absolute minimum for any survivalist.

Ballistic Glasses

The term ballistics refers to free-moving objects and projectile impacts.

So if there’s a chance of encountering high-velocity debris, go with ballistic glasses.

These glasses are shatterproof to protect your critical but delicate peepers.

Polarized Glasses

Polarized sunglasses have specifically designed filters to reflect intense light and reduce glare.

This feature enhances your visual clarity and augments color. That way, you can keep focused on ALL critical objects within your field of vision.

They also provide 100% UVA and UVB protection from the sun.

Most military-grade ballistic sunglasses provide protection in all these categories – making them perfect for hunting, paintball, survival training, and active military exercises.

The bottom line is this:

Survival activities can include so many unique rugged scenarios. You must plan for the worst and hope for the best.

That’s why we recommend investing in the best, highest-performance pair you can afford.

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Best Reasons To Invest In A Pair Of Tactical Sunglasses

Nearly everyone enjoys spending some time in the great outdoors. But not everyone requires an investment in a set of tactical vision sunglasses.

So how do you know if you need them?

Here are 4 reasons you should invest in a pair of tactical sunglasses.

1. Ocular Trauma

If you’re in the military or practice survival training, injuries will occur from time to time. And a good IFAK kit can patch up scrapes, cuts, and other wounds successfully.

But it’s a different story with your eyes.

If a projectile punctures your eye, you’re immediately out of commission. And likely in need of severe and immediate medical attention.

So prevention is the best way to protect your eyes.

That’s why it’s vital to own a pair of military-grade sunglasses to shield your eyes from all manner of debris.

Even dust and dirt can slow you down in a crisis. That’s why keeping your sight 100% intact is the name of the survival game.

2. Ultimate Polarized Protection

The sun doesn’t care if you’re currently in a life-threatening survival situation. It’s an equal opportunity blinder.

And your vision is the most important of your five senses. It’s estimated to create around 70% of your sensory awareness.

Sure, even standard sunglasses can “sort of” protect you from some rays. But for serious survival, you need 100% guaranteed coverage.

And that’s just a starting point.

What about glare? You need to see what’s in front of you, even when the sunbeams are flaring.

Having a tool to filter out those reflective glares is more than just necessary – it’s essential.

You don’t want issues with depth perception or color when you’re mid-bug out.

3. Paintball and Airsoft

If you love the thrill of combat training and simulation games, you need to gear up. That’s why your eyewear should match your lifestyle.

If you play military sports like paintball and airsoft, tactical eyewear is essential.

Get some ballistic glasses or goggles to suit your needs.

That way, you’ll be more competitive even after taking a direct hit to the face. Heck, they could even save your vision.

4. Hunting And Camping

Some people think getting out in the wild is a passive pastime but think again.

If you’re on a hunting trip or camping, you better protect your precious optical nerves.

Because tracking prey takes time, but then all at once, you have to move through the bush fast.

Pokey branches and foliage can quickly turn into stabbing knives. Passive spears are just waiting to penetrate your unprotected eyes.

And this type of freak accident can take you down in an instant.

Instead, gear up with a pair of tactical sunglasses.

As A Way To Introduce You To Skilled Survival, We’re Giving Away Our Ultimate Survival Gear Checklist. Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy Of It.

Best Tactical Sunglasses Features To Look For

There are several styles of tactical sunglasses on the market.

Pick yours from the top sellers. But make sure you get the features you need for the situation you’ll be wearing them in.

Military Ballistic Rating

In the military, there is a list of approved goggles and sunglasses.

Look for the APEL rating, which stands for Approved Protective Eyewear List.

OR

MCEP (Military Combat Eye Program) is a program that selects and approves eyewear for the US Army.

In the top tactical sunglasses, you’ll see these letters marked on the glasses. It indicates they’ve met a comprehensive ballistic standard for ultimate eye protection.

Comprehensive UV Shielding

When you are out in the elements for an extended period, your eyes need protection from the sun.

You need 100% protection from the harmful UVA/UVB/UVC rays with a comfortable grip and wide coverage.

You can opt for the standard shaded lenses. OR the amber-tinted option. Some glasses allow you to swap between the two depending on the situation.

A Proper Fit

There are many different shapes and styles of tactical sunglasses. But everyone has a unique face shape.

So make sure your new tactical sunglasses fit right.

For example, some glasses include a brow on the top that rests against your forehead. But this design allows sweating to build up and become an issue.

So make sure the frame is thin and sleek, so they fit over your ears comfortably.

Enhanced Visibility

Tactical sunglasses should give you optimal situational awareness.

They help reduce the brightness and glare that the sun pumps out. That way, you always have a clear line of sight regardless of where the sun is.

Polarization also enhances colors and is scratch and fog-resistant.

These features all add to a distraction-free vision environment.

As A Way To Introduce You To Skilled Survival, We’re Giving Away Our #78 Item Complete Prepper Checklist. Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy Of It.

9 Best Tactical Sunglasses On The Market Today

Now it’s time to check out the best tactical sunglasses on the market today.

Here at Skilled Survival, we’ve done all the research, so YOU don’t have to. If you need ballistic eyewear, start with the following tactical sunglasses:

1. Milspec Tactical Eyewear

If you are looking for a comprehensive tactical glass kit, then stop. It’s all right here.

Milspec has an incredible bundle that includes:

• High-quality frame
• Four different lenses
• Headwrap band
• Hard case and soft case

Digging in deeper, we start with a hi-flex, polycarbonate frame that can take heavy wear and tear. Meaning it will go back to its original shape even when bent!

It also has a fast clip lens system to change out your lenses fast.

They also provide ultra-wide frameless, curved wrap design. This gives you coverage and unobstructed vision from every angle.

Plus, you get four different lenses with this pack:

1. Transparent Lens – For general eye protection from any foreign objects and UV rays.
2. Gray Lens – Gives you enhanced color perception and reduces light intensity.
3. Polarized Lens – These reduce glare, transforming intense light into a soft and flat light.
4. Yellow Lens – This lens enhances and brightens the scenery – ideal for hunting in foggy and rainy weather.

You also get a robust hard case for all the gear and a soft case with a microfibre cloth.

Plus, an expandable head brace keeps these on your head even in the harshest conditions. At this reasonable price point, it’s hard to pass up on these.

PROS

• 4 Swappable Lenses
• Hi-Flex Frame
• Comes With Hard & Soft Case
• Very Reasonable Price Point
• 60 Day Money Back Guarantee

CONS

• Carrying Extra Frames May Be A Hassle For Some

2. Oakley Ballistic Shocktube Terrain

Oakley’s superior military-grade ballistic sunglasses are MIL PRF 32432 compliant. So they’re aligned with all the best military specs.

This means you KNOW for a fact you’re protected against pretty much everything.

Their lenses give 100% protection from UVA, UVB, UVC sunlight, and blue light up to 400nm.

They also have a high-definition optics patent for optical clarity and vision. You can swap out lenses easily with a hex key, and the arms have three-way adjustments for the perfect fit.

The frame is also stress-resistant, so it can take the beating of a harsh environment.

It also comes with a well-designed nosepiece, and thin arms allow users a comfortable fit.

You get all-day comfort and protection wearing these tactical sunglasses. And achieve an industrial style, military look in terrain tan/grey.

PROS

• Protects from UVA, UVB, & UVC
• MIL PRF 32432 compliant
• Comfortable Fit
• Cool Look From Trusted Brand

CONS

• More Expensive Than Other Options On This List

3. Smith Elite Aegis Echo II Compact Eyeshield Sunglasses

Smith Elite works with special operators to produce innovative solutions to real-world problems. This real-life pipeline helps Smith Elite create top-quality protective eyewear.

It meets all military specs with these high-grade tactical sunglasses, including:

• US MIL-PRF-31013 standard clause 3.5.1.1 and
• ANSI Z87.1, EN 166 compliant

They’re constructed with a super-thin moldable alloy – allowing you to maintain a complete seal and an adjustable nose piece for an ideal fit.

The lenses are anti-fog and scratch-resistant while providing total UV protection. They are also fast changing when you need a different lens with their PivLock technology.

They strike the perfect balance of eyewear essentials:

• optics
• ballistics
• anti-fog
• rugged design

Hence, making them the go-to choice for military, hunting, shooting, and war games.

These glasses should be in your survival bag at all times.

PROS

• Meets All Military Ballistic Specs
• Rugged Design
• Lightweight Super Thin Frames

CONS

• Clear Glass (unless you buy other lenses)

4. Bolle Tactical Swat Glasses

Bolle has solid tactical SWAT glasses. They’re ballistic rated for shooting firearms and providing protection from flying debris.

They’re polarized lenses, which is something you definitely want in your tactical sunglasses.

The LCD display in your car can cause problems with typical tactical sunglasses. But these polarized lenses don’t give you an issue.

Instead, you get optimal clarity from edge to edge. This feature is essential for both law enforcement and military personnel. So if you need to read a screen while on duty, these glasses have you covered.

Users have rated these polarized lenses as among the best they have ever come across.

Another great feature is the rubber pads to help keep the glasses anchored to your face.

If you’re sweating or any splashing happening while you are on duty, they’re going to stay on your face, period.

These sunglasses come with a nice nylon case with a velcro opening for easy in and out. The microfibre bag inside protects them and lets you give them a quick clean when on the go.

It comes with a belt loop and plastic hook. This setup gives you several stowing options. For example, you can hook them to your backpack, pants, or plate carrier, so you’ll always be hands-free.

PROS

• Edge To Edge Clarity
• Polarized Lenses
• One Of The Lowest Price Options On The List

CONS

• Very Few User Reviews

5. Magpul Radius Sunglasses

Who says tactical sunglasses can’t look cool? Not us! The Magpul Radius sunglasses are the solution.

This stylish ballistic rated eyewear is something that you’re going to want to wear all the time.

And that’s important. If your sunglasses are uncomfortable and look stupid, they’ll never make it onto your face.

These tactical sunglasses from Magpul are very rugged and versatile. They use lightweight materials, so you have strength and flexibility.

Their ballistic-rated glasses have Z87+ and MIL PRF 32432 lenses. These ratings will keep your eyes safe from flying debris and high-velocity impact. Plus, they come in polarized and non-polarized options.

The Oleophobic lenses also protect from:

• Chemicals
• Oil
• Sweat
• Sunscreen
• And repel water

The design is low profile, so you won’t disturb hearing protection or headgear when wearing them. Anti-slip rubber nose and temple pads round out these excellent tactical sunglasses.

They have a stylish, modern profile while giving complete military-grade protection. You should hang them off your rearview mirror, ready to go when you need them.

PROS

• Stylish and Ballistic Rated
• Strong & Flexible Frames
• Oleophobic Lenses
• Low Profile – So Plays Well With Hearing Protection

CONS

• Not Adjustable So Won’t Fit Everyone’s Face

6. Gatorz Magnum Tactical

Gatorz is in the tactical sunglasses game with their hand-crafted, US-made military sunglasses. The Magnum is their no.1 selling glasses, and for a good reason. They look great and give excellent protection.

They’re constructed from 7075 billet aircraft aluminum. And come with a Cerakote finish and polycarbonate, polarized lenses.

These tactical sunglasses give you a wrap-around fit and are adjustable to hug your eyes.

You are good to go for many hours wearing them. And with their slim fit, you won’t break your ear pro seal.

They’re simply a great fit with fashionable styling.

Let’s face it; you want to have the best possible protection in a life-threatening crisis. You also don’t want to look like a dork.

So get the best of both worlds with Gators Magnum tactical sunglasses.

PROS

• U.S. Made Military Sunglasses
• Won’t Break Ear Pro Seal
• Adjustable To Hug Your Eyes

CONS

• Expensive Compared To Other Options On This List
• Not Very Many Ratings To Review

7. Smith Hunson Elite Tactical Sunglasses

These tactical glasses are part of Smith’s elite line. The Smith Hudson tactical sunglasses are heavy hitters in the tactical category.

They’re built with composite frames that work in all settings because you don’t want anything too bulky.

And these are comfortable with hydrophilic metal temple pads and soft nose pads.

They come with non-polarized photochromatic lenses with an impact-resistant coating. That’s gonna keep your vulnerable eyeballs safe from flying debris.

You also have 100% UVA/B/C protection from those harmful rays, so it’s safe to wear these outside all day long.

They also meet all the critical ratings with MIL-PRF-31013 clause 3511 and ANSI Z871. They’re available in matte black or camo, so this is where safety meets superior style.

Get yourself a pair of these elite tactical sunglasses and never look back!

PROS

• Composite Lightweight Frames
• Lense Has Impact Resistant Coating
• Different Color Options To Choose From

CONS

• Fits Larger Head Sizes Best

8. Venture Gear Overwatch Tactical Sunglasses

Having the best survival gear for protection is vital. And the Venture Gear tactical sunglasses are up for the challenge.

They start with full coverage around the sides. And are metal-hinged with high impact resistance. That means you aren’t gonna break them without a lot of deliberate effort.

With that much strength, you’d think they weren’t that comfortable but think again. These glasses have a soft nosepiece and added rubber pads at the temple for easy all-day wearing.

You are also getting incredible UVA/B/C protection here too. They are anti-fog polycarbonate lenses, so you’re good to go if you’re out on the range all day or on patrol.

They’re made in the US and meet all MIL-PRF 32432 High-Velocity Impact Standards.

These glasses are perfect for the most demanding environments. They’ll protect you on all fronts when called upon.

PROS

• Soft Noise Piece & Temple Pads
• Meet All Tactical Standards
• UBA/B/C Protection
• Super Low Price Point

CONS

• Some Durability Issues

9. Revision Military Sunglasses

Revision is a company dedicated to providing top-quality, cutting-edge protective eyewear. They have been in the balletic glasses field for 20 years and are an industry leader.

The Revision Military Stingerhawk safety glasses are what you have been waiting for. They’re widely used by militaries around the world.

They combine the concept of lightweight, low-profile modernized design with unparalleled fragmentation protection. How do they do it?

They built them to exceed all US and international ballistic impact requirements. That covers all those fancy letters and numbers that correspond to safety ratings.

And they include robust, extendable arms for a stable fit while being comfortable. And there is no worry about the rest of your head and ear pro fitting either.

The lenses are single or dual-band laser protective lenses with Ocumax anti-fog. This provides you with distortion-free vision.

The carry bag comes with Molle straps to attach to your plate carrier or other tactical gear. This gives you hands-free transport.

Inside the bag, there are several pouches for extra lenses and accessories. Lenses are easy to swap out with the frame too. You are fully covered with these tactical sunglasses, that’s for sure.

PROS

• Exceeds All US And International Ballistic Requirements
• Robust Extendable Arms
• Ocumax Anti-Fog Lenses
• Comes With A Nice Carry Bag With MOLLE

CONS

• Not Enough Reviews To Instill Extreme Confidence

Final Thoughts

Protection against injury is your best defense when in the outdoors. Your eyes are vital for keeping moving and protecting yourself when it’s needed.

Be prepared for everything that comes at you with ballistic tactical sunglasses.

They are more than necessary to live a resilient lifestyle. And will protect you when the world goes sideways!

“Just In Case” Jack

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