Safety glasses are crucial for anyone working in environments where eye protection is essential. From construction sites to laboratories, the right pair of safety glasses not only shields your eyes from potential hazards but also ensures comfort and clarity throughout long workdays.
As safety standards become more stringent and workplace conditions more demanding, selecting the best safety glasses requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure optimal protection and performance. In this guide, we’ve reviewed the best safety glasses available today and highlighted the key factors to help you make an informed decision.
Top 3 Factors To Consider:
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate lenses are the most popular choice due to their impact resistance and lightweight nature. Other materials like glass or plastic offer varying levels of scratch resistance and clarity.
- Frame Material: Frames made from materials like nylon or polycarbonate are known for their durability and flexibility. They should be lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand daily use without causing discomfort.
- Lens Tint: Depending on the environment, different lens tints such as clear, yellow, or gray can enhance visibility or reduce glare. Clear lenses are ideal for indoor use, while tinted options are better suited for outdoor activities.
Overview Of The Best Safety Glasses
| Safety Glasses | Safety Standards | Protective Features | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| NoCry Clear Safety Glasses | ANSI Z87.1 | Anti-scratch, UV Protection | Check On Amazon |
| Dewalt Dominator Safety Glasses | ANSI Z87.1 | Anti-fog, Anti-scratch | Check On Amazon |
| TICONN Clear Safety Glasses | ANSI Z87.1 | Anti-scratch | Check On Amazon |
| MAGID Y50 Safety Glasses | ANSI Z87.1 | Anti-fog, Side shields | Check On Amazon |
| BISON LIFE Safety Glasses | ANSI Z87.1 | Anti-scratch, Wrap-around | Check On Amazon |
| SolidWork Safety Glasses | ANSI Z87+, DIN EN 166 | Anti-fog, Anti-scratch, Anti-glare, Side shields | Check On Amazon |
| 3M Safety Glasses Virtua | ANSI Z87.1 | UV Protection | Check On Amazon |
| KleenGuard V30 Maverick Eye Protection | ANSI Z87.1+ | Anti-fog | Check On Amazon |
| Jackson Safety SG Safety Glasses | ANSI Z87.1+, CSA Z94.3, CE 166 | Anti-scratch, UV Protection | Check On Amazon |
Best Safety Glasses| Reviews
1. NoCry Clear Safety Glasses
The polycarbonate wraparound lenses of the NoCry Safety Glasses offer solid protection against direct and side impacts. The construction feels sturdy, which is great for anyone needing reliable safety eyewear. With ANSI Z87.1 certification, these glasses meet high standards for safety, so they’re a good fit for tasks like construction or lab work. It also has features such as better fog resistance and a lifetime warranty.
Comfort is another plus with these glasses. The adjustable temples and nose pads make it easy to get a snug fit, which is especially useful if you wear them for long periods. We liked that they come with non-slip rubber grips, which kept the glasses in place during use. This feature is a nice touch for anyone who’s active and needs eyewear to stay put. In summary, NoCry Clear Safety Glasses are a strong choice for anyone needing reliable eye protection with added comfort and features.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Frame Type: Semi-Rimless
- Frame Material: Polycarbonate (PC)
- Item Weight: 1.06 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 5.78 x 1.9 x 10 inches
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate
- Frame Material: Polycarbonate (Plastic equivalent)
- Protective Features: Anti-fog, Anti-scratch
- Fit: Adjustable, snug fit
Pros:
- Durable polycarbonate wraparound construction
- Meets ANSI Z87.1 safety standards
- Adjustable temples and nose pads for a custom fit
- Non-slip rubber grips keep glasses secure
- Anti-fog coating is more effective than many competitors
Cons:
- Non-adjustable lens tint
2. Dewalt Dominator Safety Glasses
Comfort is where the Dewalt Glasses shine. The rubber-tipped temples and integrated rubber nosepiece make them quite comfortable for extended wear. They don’t slip easily, which is great for active work or daily use. However, the lack of adjustable features means they might not fit everyone perfectly. This could be a minor issue if you need a more customized fit.
The high-impact polycarbonate lenses and full-frame design ensure good coverage, though they don’t offer the advanced coatings found in some pricier models. They meet ANSI Z87.1+ standards, making them a reliable choice for general use, but they lack some of the more specialized features of higher-end glasses. In short, Dewalt Dominator Safety Glasses are a practical choice for everyday use. They offer essential safety features and a comfortable fit at a low price.
Specifications:
- Material: High-impact Polycarbonate lens
- Frame Type: Full rim
- Item Weight: 32 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 3 x 8 x 2 inches
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate
- Lens Tint: Clear
- Fit: Non-slip, comfortable fit
- Safety Standards: ANSI Z87.1+
- UV Protection: 9% harmful UV rays
- Special Features: Rubber-tipped temples, Integrated rubber nosepiece
- Included Components: 1 pair of Dewalt Safety Glasses
Pros:
- Integrated rubber nosepiece for added comfort
- Non-slip fit for secure wear
- High-impact polycarbonate lenses
- The full-frame design offers good coverage
Cons:
- Frame material is less durable
3. TICONN Clear Safety Glasses
These glasses from TICONN are built from polycarbonate, which is known for its durability and resistance to scratches. This makes them a solid choice if you need something that can handle daily wear and tear without losing clarity. The clear lenses are great for a wide range of tasks, from woodworking to lab work, and they meet ANSI Z87.1 standards for safety.
They’re designed to fit a variety of face shapes and sizes comfortably. Although there isn’t a lot of adjustability, the general fit should work for most people without causing fatigue, even during extended use. The lightweight nature of the glasses adds to their comfort, so they’re less likely to feel cumbersome during long tasks. Overall, TICONN Clear Safety Glasses are a practical choice and offer good durability and a comfortable fit for most users.
Specifications:
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate
- Lens Tint: Clear
- Protective Features: Anti-scratch
- Fit: Comfortable fit
- Safety Standards: ANSI Z87.1
- Department: Unisex Adult
- Included Components: 1 pair of TICONN Safety Glasses
- Special Features: Scratch resistant
- Warranty: 30-day money back, 12-month warranty
- Usage: Construction, woodworking, lab work, shooting, cycling, outdoor sports
Pros:
- Adequate UV protection
- Clear lenses for various tasks
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Made from durable polycarbonate
Cons:
- Lacks anti-fog coating
4. MAGID Y50 Safety Glasses
The integrated side shields are a standout feature, providing additional coverage that’s useful for more comprehensive eye protection. This makes them a good choice if you need glasses that can handle a bit more than the average safety eyewear. The clear lenses are effective for both indoor and outdoor tasks, and the anti-fog feature helps maintain clarity even in challenging conditions. Comfort is a strong point with these glasses, thanks to their lightweight nylon frame. They fit well and provide decent protection without feeling overly heavy.
The anti-fog lenses are particularly beneficial if you’re working in fluctuating temperatures or high humidity. the MAGID Y50 glasses are competitively priced, especially considering the added features like side shields and anti-fog lenses. They’re slightly more affordable than some alternatives, yet they deliver on key safety aspects. Compared to the TICONN Clear Safety Glasses, these offer better fog resistance and extra side protection, though both are priced similarly.
Specifications:
- Color: Clear Lens | Black Frame
- Material: Nylon
- Frame Type: Full Rim
- Frame Material: Nylon (Plastic equivalent)
- Lens Tint: Clear
- Protective Features: Anti-fog, side shields
- Safety Standards: ANSI Z87.1
- Product Dimensions: 5 x 6 x 2 inches
- Item Weight: 41 ounces
- Department: Unisex Adult
- Included Components: 1 pair of MAGID Safety Glasses
- Special Features: Anti-fog, side shields
- Comfort Features: Lightweight, stylish design
Pros:
- Anti-fog lenses suitable for various conditions
- Integrated side shields for extra protection
- Offers comprehensive eye protection
- Provides 99.9% UV protection
Cons:
- Frame material may not be very durable
5. BISON LIFE Safety Glasses
Since the BISON Safety Glasses exceed ANSI Z87.1 standards, they offer reliable impact protection and the scratch-resistant polycarbonate lenses give peace of mind against debris and flying particles. With a wrap-around lens style, these glasses provide built-in side shield protection, which is great if you need coverage from all angles. The wrap-around design and deep, universal-fit temples offer good side and brow protection without feeling too tight. These glasses are flexible enough to fit adults, teens, and even older kids.
They feel secure and don’t slip much, which is a plus if you’re moving around a lot. The pack of 12 pairs is also quite appealing for schools, workplaces, or families looking for multiple pairs at a reasonable price. In summary, the BISON LIFE Safety Glasses are a practical choice for those who need a reliable set of safety glasses without fancy features. They’re suitable for a range of uses, from medical and dental to industrial and construction.
Specifications:
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate
- Protective Features: Anti-scratch
- Fit: Snug fit
- Safety Standards: ANSI Z87.1
- Department: Unisex Adult
- Pack Quantity: 12 pairs
- Side Shields: Built-in
- Included Components: 12 pairs of BISON LIFE Safety Glasses
- Usage: Medical, Industrial, Dental, Construction, Janitorial, etc.
- Visibility: High level of direct and peripheral protection
- Frame Type: Wrap-around style
- Protection Against: Large debris, slivers of wood, metal, liquid, etc.
Pros:
- Wrap-around style offers full coverage
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Built-in side shields for additional protection
- Secure, snug fit helps prevent slippage
Cons:
- No anti-fog coating
6. SolidWork Safety Glasses
The Solid Work glasses are equipped with anti-fog, anti-scratch, and anti-glare lenses, which means you get clear vision in most conditions. The side shields add another layer of security, especially if you’re in an environment with flying debris or where dust is an issue. Plus, they meet both US ANSI Z87+ and German DIN EN standards, so you know they’re built to handle tough situations. The polycarbonate-TRP frame feels sturdy yet comfortable, with soft nose pads and secure temples that prevent slippage.
This makes them ideal for long hours of use without discomfort, even in physically demanding settings. The lenses offer a clear panoramic view, so there’s no distortion or blind spots, which is crucial when safety is on the line. The anti-fog and anti-glare features are particularly helpful if you work in varying light conditions or environments that are prone to fogging. The added UV protection is another plus, especially for those who work outdoors frequently.
Specifications:
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate-TRP
- Lens Tint: Clear
- Protective Features: Anti-fog, anti-scratch, anti-glare, side shields
- Fit: Secure, pressure-free fit
- Safety Standards: ANSI Z87+, DIN EN 166 & EN 170
- Weight: Lightweight
- Frame Type: Wrap-around with side shields
- Visibility: Clear panoramic view
- Included Components: 1 pair of SolidWork Safety Glasses
- Comfort Features: Soft nose pads, secure temples
- Usage: Industrial, outdoor activities, construction
Pros:
- Anti-fog lenses for clear visibility in all conditions
- Anti-scratch and anti-glare for additional protection
- Includes side shields for extra safety
- Secure temples prevent slippage
- Soft nose pads reduce pressure and discomfort
- Durable frame with polycarbonate-TRP material
Cons:
- Might be overkill for light-duty tasks
7. 3M Safety Glasses Virtua
We tried the 3M Safety Glasses Virtua, and they are a solid choice for anyone looking for basic but reliable eye protection. These glasses are incredibly lightweight, which makes them comfortable to wear even for long periods. They have a full-rim frame with a wraparound design that offers extended eye protection and a wide field of vision, making them a practical pick for both industrial use and other settings where eye safety is a concern.
The polycarbonate lenses provide robust impact resistance, and they also absorb 99.9% of UV rays, which is useful if you’re working outdoors. They are very budget-friendly, especially when compared to other safety glasses on the market. For the price, you get a good level of protection, as they meet the ANSI Z87.1 standard for high-impact safety. In conclusion, the 3M Safety Glasses Virtua are a practical choice for those on a tight budget or those who need basic eye protection for short periods. They’re lightweight, offer decent protection, and are quite affordable.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Frame Type: Full Rim
- Frame Material: Polycarbonate (PC)
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate
- Lens Tint: Clear
- Protective Features: Anti-fog, anti-scratch
- Fit: Wraparound design, fits well
- Safety Standards: ANSI Z87.1
- UV Protection: Absorbs 99.9% UVA, UVB, UVC
- Included Components: 1 pair of 3M Safety Glasses
Pros:
- Wraparound design provides good coverage
- Clear lenses offer unobstructed vision
- Hard-coated lenses for durability
- Full-rim frame adds durability
Cons:
- Lack of comfort features like nose pads
8. KleenGuard V30 Maverick Eye Protection
With their sleek, modern design, the KleenGuard V30 glasses are much more than just protective eyewear – they look good too. They come with anti-fog-coated lenses, which is a major plus if you’re working in conditions where fogging is a problem. The lenses are also made from polycarbonate, which provides 99.9% protection against UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, making them a great choice for outdoor work. The glasses meet the ANSI Z87.1+ standard, so they’re up to the mark for industrial safety requirements.
The lightweight build makes them comfortable to wear for long periods, and they fit snugly without feeling tight, thanks to their flexible design. They work well for both men and women, making them versatile for a wide range of uses, whether it’s in a factory, on a construction site, or even just mowing the lawn. All in all, the KleenGuard V30 Maverick Safety Glasses are a good choice if you want something that combines safety with style. They’re great for both professional and personal use, and the price is justified if you value the added comfort and appearance.
Specifications:
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate
- Lens Tint: Clear
- Protective Features: Anti-fog coating
- Fit: Sleek, lightweight design
- Safety Standards: ANSI Z87.1+
- Usage: Industrial, personal, professional
- UV Protection: 9% UVA, UVB, UVC
- Included Components: 1 pair of KleenGuard V30 Maverick Glasses
Pros:
- Anti-fog coating for clear vision
- Clear lenses for unobstructed vision
- Flexible frame for better fit
- Comfortable for extended wear
Cons:
- No anti-scratch coating on lenses
9. Jackson Safety SG Safety Glasses
These glasses from Jackson Safety have a lightweight, flexible frame that fits comfortably, almost like it was made specifically for your face. The soft-touch temples and flexible nose pieces help them stay put without causing any pressure, which is great for wearing them all day. Plus, they come with a neck cord so you don’t lose them, a small but thoughtful addition.
These glasses have a wraparound style that covers a wide area, so your peripheral vision is protected too. The polycarbonate lenses are clear and come with an anti-scratch coating, which helps them stay in good shape even with frequent use. They meet the ANSI Z87.1+ and CSA Z94.3 safety standards, so they can handle high-impact situations. The glasses also offer 99.9% UV protection, making them a good pick for both indoor and outdoor environments.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Frame Type: Rimless
- Frame Material: Polycarbonate (Plastic equivalent)
- Lens Material: Polycarbonate
- Lens Tint: Clear
- Protective Features: Anti-scratch coating
- Fit: Comfortable, near custom fit
- Safety Standards: ANSI Z87.1+, CSA Z94.3, CE 166
- Usage: Industrial, occupational, general safety
- UV Protection: 9% UVA, UVB, UVC
- Included Components: 3 pairs of Jackson Safety SG Glasses, neck cord
- Side Shield: Wraparound protection
- Field of Vision: Extended to the periphery
- Comfort Features: Soft-touch temples, flexible nose piece
Pros:
- Soft-touch temples and flexible nose piece for added comfort
- Neck cord included to prevent loss
- Anti-scratch coating keeps lenses clear longer
- Rimless design offers a modern look
Cons:
- Frame material could feel flimsy to some
What To Look For When Buying Safety Glasses
When buying safety glasses, you should consider several key factors to make the best choice. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to look for:
1. Lens Material
- Polycarbonate: Common in safety glasses. Lightweight and impact-resistant. Provides 99.9% UV protection. Good for environments with flying debris.
- Trivex: Similar to polycarbonate but offers clearer vision and more scratch resistance. Ideal for tasks needing clear, distortion-free vision.
- Acrylic: Less expensive but less durable. More prone to scratches. Suitable for basic protection in low-risk environments.
- Glass: Excellent clarity and scratch resistance but heavier. Can shatter on impact. Best for tasks with minimal impact risk but needing clarity.
- Look For: Polycarbonate or Trivex lenses for durability, UV protection, and clear vision.
2. Frame Material
- Polycarbonate (PC): Lightweight, durable, and resists impacts. Good for most industrial or general uses. Offers flexibility for comfort.
- Nylon: Strong, lightweight, and resists chemicals. More flexible than other materials and less likely to break.
- Metal (Stainless Steel or Titanium): Strong and durable but heavier. Less common for safety glasses due to weight. Prone to bending or rust in certain conditions.
- Acetate: Used for chemical splash protection. Flexible and comfortable but less impact-resistant.
- Look For: Polycarbonate or nylon frames for durability and comfort.
3. Lens Tint
- Clear Lenses: Best for indoor use. Good visibility without color distortion.
- Gray Or Smoke Lenses: Reduce glare in bright outdoor areas. Allow true color recognition.
- Amber Or Yellow Lenses: Enhance contrast in low light or fog. Useful in dim indoor spaces or outdoors at dawn or dusk.
- Mirrored Lenses: Reflect light and reduce glare. Ideal for very bright conditions.
- Blue Or Green Lenses: Used in high-glare areas like welding. Provide UV protection and reduce eye strain.
- Look For: A lens tint that matches your work environment and light conditions.
4. Protective Features
- Anti-Scratch Coating: Protects lenses from scratches caused by debris or contact. Important for dusty or abrasive environments.
- Anti-Fog Coating: Prevents fogging in humid or fluctuating temperatures. Helps in environments with changing conditions.
- UV Protection: Lenses should block 99.9% of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. Essential for outdoor work.
- Impact Resistance: Check for ANSI Z87.1 or Z87+ standards, which indicate high-impact resistance.
- Side Shields: Offer extra protection from side impacts or flying debris.
- Look For: Anti-scratch, anti-fog coatings, and UV protection if you work outdoors or in varying temperatures.
5. Fit
- Wraparound Design: Provides extended coverage and prevents debris entry. Good for construction or industrial work.
- Adjustable Nose Pads And Temples: Offer a custom fit, enhancing comfort and reducing slippage.
- Soft-Touch Temples: Add comfort and prevent glasses from slipping off. Ideal for long wear.
- Universal Fit: Fits different face sizes but may lack the comfort of more adjustable options.
- Look For: A comfortable, secure fit with wraparound protection and adjustable parts.
6. Safety Standards
- ANSI Z87.1 / Z87+:S. standard for eye protection. Ensures glasses can handle high-velocity impacts. The “+” indicates extra protection.
- CSA Z94.3: Canadian standard with similar requirements but adds coverage needs.
- EN 166 / EN 170: European standards for safety glasses. EN 166 is for general safety; EN 170 focuses on UV protection.
- CE Marking: Shows compliance with European health and safety standards. Needed for eyewear in the EU.
- Look For: Glasses that meet ANSI Z87.1+ for impact protection. Check for CSA Z94.3 or EN 166 if required by your job or location.
FAQs:
The key features to consider are impact resistance, lens material (like polycarbonate), UV protection, anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings, proper fit, and compliance with safety standards like ANSI Z87.1+.
Check for compliance with safety standards such as ANSI Z87.1+, CSA Z94.3, or EN 166. The marking should be on the frame or lens. These standards ensure the glasses meet impact and UV protection requirements.
ANSI Z87.1 is the basic standard for impact protection. The “+” designation means the glasses provide high-velocity impact protection, making them suitable for environments with high-risk activities.
Not all safety glasses offer UV protection. Look for lenses labeled with 99.9% UVA, UVB, and UVC protection. Polycarbonate lenses typically provide this level of UV defense.
Anti-fog coating is essential if you work in humid environments, or areas with fluctuating temperatures, or wear a mask or respirator. It prevents the lenses from fogging up and maintains clear vision.
The lens tint depends on your work environment. Clear lenses are good for indoor use, gray or smoke lenses for bright outdoor conditions, and amber or yellow lenses for low-light situations. Blue or green lenses are best for reducing glare in high-glare areas.
The lifespan varies depending on usage and care. Most safety glasses last between 6 months to 2 years. Replace them if the lenses become scratched, fogged, or if the frames become loose or damaged.
Yes, many safety glasses come in prescription-ready styles or have over-the-glasses (OTG) designs that fit over regular prescription glasses. Check if the glasses are compatible with your prescription needs.
Not necessarily. Higher-priced glasses may offer better comfort, additional features like anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings, or specialized lenses. However, the most important factors are safety standards and suitability for your specific environment.
Clean your glasses with a microfiber cloth and a mild lens cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or rough cloths that can scratch the lenses. Store them in a case when not in use to protect them from damage.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into finding the best safety glasses for your needs. Whether it’s understanding the right lens material, fit, or protective features, being informed will help you make the right choice for keeping your eyes safe and comfortable in any work environment. Remember to prioritize safety standards and your specific requirements to ensure the best protection.
