When it comes to performance under pressure, few know the importance of reliable gear like Navy SEALs. So what kind of sunglasses do these elite operators trust in the field?
Function Over Fashion SEALs aren’t choosing sunglasses based on trends. Their eyewear has to perform in harsh environments — protecting their eyes from UV rays, shrapnel, water glare, sandstorms, and more.
Top Features They Look For:
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Ballistic-rated lenses for impact protection
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100% UVA/UVB protection
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Polarization to cut glare on water
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Wrap-around frames for full coverage
Popular Military-Grade Brands Brands like Oakley SI (Standard Issue), ESS, and Wiley X are often used in military contexts. These brands produce eyewear that meets or exceeds ANSI Z87.1 ballistic safety standards.
But What If You’re Not a SEAL? You might not need battlefield-grade protection—but you can still learn from their criteria. Whether you're navigating city streets or trekking through rough trails, the need for lightweight, glare-cutting, durable eyewear is universal.
ROAV Eyewear: Built for Real-World Toughness While ROAV sunglasses aren’t made for combat, they’re designed for life on the move. Made from ultra-thin stainless steel, ROAV’s foldable frames are insanely durable, scratch-resistant, polarized, and compact enough to slip into your pocket. They use G15 lenses—the same lens technology originally developed for the U.S. Air Force, offering exceptional clarity, contrast, and reduced eye strain in bright conditions. They're engineered for real-world adventure—not just the runway.