This is What Happened When I Used the ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles
The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles are designed for wildland firefighting, rescue, and EMS, but their versatility extends far beyond. These goggles from ESS promise uncompromising safety, optical clarity, and comfort, making them a contender for anyone needing serious eye protection. I was intrigued by the sealed design and the promise of compatibility with eyeglasses, something I’ve struggled to find in other protective eyewear.
My need for these goggles stemmed from a frustrating experience at the range. I’m a dedicated shooter and firearms instructor, and eye protection is paramount, yet standard shooting glasses often fell short in harsh conditions. Dust, wind, and even the occasional brass ejection found their way into my eyes, disrupting focus and compromising safety.
Unboxing the ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles, I was immediately impressed by the robust feel. The frame is solid, and the lens appears incredibly durable. The soft, wicking face padding looked comfortable, and the fully sealed vents gave me confidence in their ability to block out debris.
I considered several other options before settling on these. Wiley X offers similar protective eyewear, but often at a higher price point. Revision Military goggles are also excellent, but can be bulky and overkill for general range use. The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles seemed to strike a good balance of protection, comfort, and affordability.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The goggles felt sturdy and well-made. I was eager to see how they performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at an outdoor shooting range on a particularly windy day. Dust and particulate matter swirled through the air. I was immediately impressed by how well the ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles sealed against my face.
No dust or wind penetrated the seal. The clear lens provided excellent visibility, even in the hazy conditions. I wore my prescription glasses underneath the goggles with only a slight feeling of pressure, not as obtrusive as I was expecting.
The Speed-Clip strap system made adjusting the fit easy and secure, even with gloves on. There were no immediate issues, and I was pleased with the initial performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles have proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve worn them during range sessions, while hiking in dusty terrain, and even while doing some light chainsaw work. They hold up extremely well.
The lens has resisted scratching remarkably well, despite being exposed to dust, dirt, and tree branches. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth keeps them clear. The face padding has retained its shape and wicking ability, even after prolonged use in hot weather.
Compared to other protective eyewear I’ve used, the ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles are in a different league. They outperform standard shooting glasses in terms of protection and comfort, and they are more comfortable and versatile than bulkier military-style goggles.
Breaking Down the Features of ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles
Specifications
The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles boast several impressive specifications. They are compliant with NFPA 1500, ANSI Z87.1-2010, and U.S. Federal OSHA standards. The 2.6mm high-impact polycarbonate lenses provide 100% UVA/UVB protection.
The frame is made of heat and flame-resistant materials, ensuring durability in extreme conditions. They feature fully-sealed vents to prevent smoke and particulate matter from entering the goggle. The patented Speedclip system allows for rapid strap adjustment.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the safety and performance of the goggles. Compliance with ANSI Z87.1 ensures that the lenses can withstand high-velocity impacts. UVA/UVB protection protects the eyes from harmful radiation. The sealed vents provide a critical barrier against environmental hazards.
Performance & Functionality
The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles excel in their primary function: protecting the eyes. The seal is tight and effective, preventing dust, wind, and debris from entering. The clear lens offers distortion-free vision across a wide field of view.
The goggles are comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the soft face padding and adjustable strap. The anti-fog coating on the lens works reasonably well, though some fogging can occur in humid conditions. One minor weakness is that they don’t come in black, as noted by another user.
Overall, they meet and exceed my expectations for protective eyewear. They provide superior protection and comfort compared to other options I’ve used.
Design & Ergonomics
The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles have a well-thought-out design. The materials are high-quality, and the construction feels solid and durable. Despite their robust build, they are relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear.
There’s no real learning curve to using them. The strap is easy to adjust, and the lens is easy to clean. The roomy frame is designed to accommodate most prescription eyewear, though fit may vary depending on the size and shape of the glasses.
Durability & Maintenance
The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles are built to last. The high-impact polycarbonate lens is scratch-resistant. The frame is made of durable, heat-resistant materials.
Maintenance is straightforward. The lens can be cleaned with a microfiber cloth and mild soap and water. The face padding can be wiped down to remove sweat and dirt.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles come with a clear lens and two tear-off lens covers. ESS offers a variety of replacement lenses in different tints and colors. The goggles are also compatible with the ESS Striker Prescription Lens Insert, allowing users to integrate prescription lenses directly into the frame.
While there aren’t extensive customization options, the availability of replacement lenses and the prescription lens insert provide some degree of personalization. The Speedclip system works well with a variety of helmets and headgear.
Pros and Cons of ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles
Pros
- Excellent seal provides superior protection against dust, wind, and debris.
- High-impact polycarbonate lens offers exceptional impact resistance and UVA/UVB protection.
- Comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to soft face padding and adjustable strap.
- Compatible with most prescription eyewear, allowing users to wear their glasses underneath.
- Compliant with NFPA 1500, ANSI Z87.1-2010, and U.S. Federal OSHA standards, ensuring a high level of safety.
Cons
- The anti-fog coating could be more effective in humid conditions.
- Limited color options for the frame (currently only available in gray).
Who Should Buy ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles?
The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles are perfect for a wide range of users. This includes firefighters, rescue workers, EMTs, and anyone working in dusty or hazardous environments. They are also an excellent choice for shooters, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable eye protection.
Individuals who need to wear prescription glasses and struggle to find comfortable and effective protective eyewear will also benefit. However, if you prefer a wider range of lens colors or are looking for a more stylized design, you might consider other options. A person who needs ballistic-rated goggles for combat situations may want to explore options specifically designed to withstand fragmentation.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality microfiber cleaning cloth for maintaining lens clarity. The ESS Striker Prescription Lens Insert is also a valuable addition for those who require vision correction.
Conclusion on ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles
The ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles are a top-tier choice for anyone seeking reliable and comfortable eye protection. They offer superior protection against dust, wind, and debris, thanks to their excellent seal and high-impact lenses.
The price of $55.00 is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance. Compared to similar products on the market, the ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles offer excellent value for the money.
I would wholeheartedly recommend these goggles to anyone who needs serious eye protection. They are a versatile and reliable investment that will keep your eyes safe and comfortable in a variety of environments. Don’t compromise on eye safety – choose the ESS Striketeam SJ Protective Goggles.