Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87 Review

Why I Chose the Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87: A Hands-On Review

The Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87 promises reliable eye protection in demanding environments. The Bobster brand has a solid reputation for producing affordable, functional eyewear. This particular model boasts features like ANSI Z87+ impact resistance and an antifog lens, making it attractive for tactical use, outdoor adventures, and even everyday wear.

I sought a pair of no-frills, impact-resistant sunglasses that wouldn’t break the bank. My current safety glasses fogged relentlessly during intense range sessions. I needed something that offered reliable eye protection and clear vision in various conditions.

Unboxing the Bobster Shield III, I immediately noticed the frameless design and lightweight feel. The polycarbonate lens felt sturdy, and the closed-cell foam padding appeared comfortable. The overall build quality seemed decent for the price point.

Compared to my Oakley M Frame 2.0 (significantly more expensive) and a pair of Pyramex I-Force Slim safety glasses (similar price range), the Bobster Shield III offered a different approach. The Oakley offered superior lens clarity and impact protection, but at a much higher cost. The Pyramex had better ventilation but lacked the sleek, low-profile design of the Bobster.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Bobster Shield III appeared to strike a good balance between affordability, protection, and comfort. Only real-world use would reveal its true worth.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test involved a three-hour outdoor shooting session at my local range. The weather was sunny and warm, with a slight breeze. I tested the Bobster Shield III while shooting various firearms, from pistols to rifles.

The Bobster Shield III performed admirably in the sunny conditions. The lens provided adequate glare reduction, and the peripheral vision was excellent thanks to the frameless design. I did notice some minor fogging when I took a break and my body temperature rose.

The sunglasses were comfortable enough for extended wear. I did need to adjust the retainer strap to ensure a snug fit. There were no significant issues after the first use, although the fogging issue was a slight concern.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Bobster Shield III has proven to be a dependable piece of kit. I’ve worn them during hiking trips, fishing expeditions, and more range sessions. They have also been used in airsoft games to test the impact protection of the lens.

The Bobster Shield III has held up surprisingly well. There are a few minor scratches on the lens from being tossed around in my range bag, but overall, the durability seems decent. The ANSI Z87+ rating gives me peace of mind.

Cleaning the Bobster Shield III is simple: soap and water followed by a microfiber cloth. The anti-fog coating seems to have diminished slightly after repeated cleaning, but it still offers some benefit. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper safety glasses, the Bobster Shield III definitely outperforms in terms of comfort and field of view.

Breaking Down the Features of Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87

Specifications

The Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87 boasts several key specifications. The frame is frameless, constructed from polycarbonate with a matte finish. It features closed-cell EVA foam for comfort and minimal wind disruption.

The lens is made of impact-resistant polycarbonate, exceeding ANSI Z87+ standards for high-mass and high-velocity impact protection. The lens offers 100% UVA and UVB protection. An anti-fog coating is applied for enhanced clarity in humid or high-activity conditions.

The frame measurements are: Temple to Temple 135 mm, Height 43 mm, Temple Length: 118 mm, Lens Diameter: 75 mm, Distance Between Lenses: 15 mm, Vertical Lens Measurement B: 45 mm. The Bobster Shield III meets CE EN-1836:2005 and EN 166 high-speed impact standards. The Manufacturer is Bobster.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the sunglasses’ performance and user experience. The ANSI Z87+ rating ensures reliable impact protection. The anti-fog coating is crucial for maintaining clear vision in challenging environments. The frameless design maximizes peripheral vision.

Performance & Functionality

The Bobster Shield III performs its job well, providing reliable eye protection and decent clarity. The impact resistance is confidence-inspiring. The anti-fog coating helps, but isn’t perfect, requiring occasional reapplications of anti-fog solution in humid conditions.

The sunglasses excel in bright sunlight, reducing glare effectively. Weaknesses include the limited adjustability and potential for fogging. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly tactical sunglass.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bobster Shield III features a sleek, low-profile design. The frameless construction minimizes distractions and maximizes field of view. The closed-cell foam provides a comfortable, snug fit.

The design is generally user-friendly, although some users might find the lack of adjustable nose pads or temples a drawback. There’s no significant learning curve. The Bobster Shield III is intuitive to wear and use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bobster Shield III appears durable enough for regular use. The polycarbonate lens is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. With proper care, the sunglasses should last for a reasonable amount of time.

Maintenance is simple. Washing with soap and water and drying with a microfiber cloth is all that’s typically needed. Replacement lenses are not available.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bobster Shield III comes with a microfiber carry pouch and a retainer strap. The microfiber pouch doubles as a cleaning cloth. There are no other included accessories or customization options.

The sunglasses are not compatible with most aftermarket accessories. There’s no way to attach side shields or other specialized components. The Bobster Shield III is a simple, straightforward product with limited customization potential.

Pros and Cons of Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87

Who Should Buy Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87?

The Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87 is perfect for individuals seeking affordable, reliable eye protection for various activities. This includes shooting sports enthusiasts, airsoft players, hikers, and construction workers. Anyone needing basic impact protection and glare reduction will appreciate these sunglasses.

Those requiring advanced features or highly customizable eyewear should skip this product. This includes professional shooters or individuals working in extremely demanding environments. A must-have accessory would be an anti-fog solution for optimal performance in humid conditions.

Conclusion on Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87

The Bobster Shield III Military Tactical Sunglass with Antifog Lens ANSI Z.87 delivers on its promise of affordable and reliable eye protection. The ANSI Z87+ rating and lightweight design make it a practical choice for various outdoor activities. While the anti-fog coating isn’t perfect, and the lens scratches relatively easily, the overall value is excellent.

The price is certainly justified for what you get. For around $22, these sunglasses offer a solid balance of protection, comfort, and functionality. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly tactical sunglass.

If you need dependable eye protection without breaking the bank, give the Bobster Shield III a try. It’s a solid piece of gear for the price!