Does the Army ever issue polarized sunglasses? Does our standard issue eyewear protect against UV?

2019-08-30T01:19:35-04:00

Lets be clear, the Army issues eyewear and it works just fine.

Beyond that, those who have used polarized glasses, think they're worth it? Garrison? Field environment? Deployments?

As well, should we really be concerned about UV protection for our eyes? Seems like a big scare about nothing. All I care about is preventing headaches and eye fatigue, seeing clearly, and saving money.

...and looking cool.

Response by SFC Michael D. made Aug 30 at 2019 8:51 AM

2019-08-30T08:51:44-04:00

When in Desert Store we were issued glasses to protect from laser and also Gargoyles so I'd say yes if they still do that.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2019 12:26 PM

2019-08-30T12:26:09-04:00

When I was stationed at Florida phase of Ranger School we were on the water a lot. I found that polarized glasses reduced the glare significantly without darkening the whole scene. That's especially helpful during the hours before dusk as the light starts to fade but the glare is still present. I always wear polarized glasses now when driving or on the water. But they're still too expensive to wear out into the field

Response by LCDR Joshua Gillespie made Aug 30 at 2019 12:41 PM

2019-08-30T12:41:14-04:00

I'm not certain what they issue today...but I don't remember them being available (to us) around the early 2000s. Regardless, I think it's worth the investment, provided the Solider's command will allow it. I have a "custom" set; ANSI rated lenses, high impact frames, "Transitions" lenses (so they go from clear to dark depending on lighting). Ran me around $200 through an online vendor, and dang I wish I had 'em when I was deployed. Back then, I wore Oakley's when it was bright, and my standard prescrips when not...I had no good "in between" solution (other than smoke goggles down over my glasses), and just hoped I wouldn't get into a medium-range firefight with the sun in front of me (LOL).

From what I hear, they are considering fielding some high-tech specs soon...based on a lot of feedback and experience.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Aug 30 at 2019 1:46 PM

2019-08-30T13:46:05-04:00

When I was in flight school we were issued sun glasses and had an aviation physiology class where we were told that polarized glasses were not issued for a specific reason. Unfortunately, since I'm old and that was over 50 years ago, I don't remember what that reason was. Perhaps some of the others will remember, but I know it was aviation related.
Regarding UV protection, over time UV adversely effects your eyesight causing macular degeneration amongst other things. Although we aviators always thought we were issued the glasses to look good, the adverse impact upon vision, and the fact that your UV exposure is greater at altitude was the real reason.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 30 at 2019 6:27 PM

2019-08-30T18:27:28-04:00

The military should look at laser proof glasses.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Aug 30 at 2019 9:54 PM

2019-08-30T21:54:42-04:00

Don't know about the Army but back in my day, the Navy issued prescription B&L G-15 aviators that were polarized and had a double gradient application which cut the light down even more. Heavy on top and bottom so the glare was reduced. Additionally, there were added forehead and cheek pads so nothing metal touched. This was before plastic lenses and the double gradient feature was an ionized silver application. They cost about $385 at the time, which for the mid '70s were pricey indeed. They were issued to many Seabees who had outside work to do. They were also cumshawed out to people who didn't need them for their hero shot photographs. Mine were legit as 90% of my work was outside, many times away on traverses or doing construction, blasting, or SAR. I loved them so much my glasses today are a Flexon aviator with varied coatings including a "Glacier" which comes somewhat close to what I had (still have as keepsakes).