You’ve probably noticed how popular Oakley sunglasses are with soldiers. And there are good reasons too. Oakley military sunglasses include technology to protect your eyes on and off-duty! Keep reading as we review your top questions and the best Oakley military sunglasses!
Table of Contents
What sunglasses does the US military use?
There are no official sunglasses issued by the US to armed forces. That means soldiers can choose their own glasses. However, Oakleys are definitely the most popular sunglasses used by all US military branches. Plus the brand offers a variety of ballistic eyewear that’s perfect for the field. Keep reading as we explain why Oakleys are so popular and our top picks for Oakley military glasses!
Can you wear Oakleys in the Military?
Yes, but not every pair of Oakley sunglasses can be worn by all US military branches. This is because every US military branch has sunglasses regulations limiting what you can wear. In general, sunglasses need to be conservative and not be bright colors.
For service line specific guidance, check out the useful table below:
| Military Branch | Sunglasses Regulation |
|---|---|
| Air Force | Eyeglasses and sunglasses must not have any ornamentation. Sunglasses can't have mirrored lenses and can't be worn when in formation. Glasses are not permitted around the neck. |
| Army | Eyeglasses or sunglasses that are trendy, or have lenses or frames with initials, designs, or other adornments are not authorized for wear. Soldiers may not wear lenses with extreme or trendy colors, which include but are not limited to, red, yellow, blue, purple, bright green, or orange. Lens colors must be traditional gray, brown, or dark green shades. |
| Coast Guard | Sunglass frames shall be conservative (unadorned black or navy blue material: gold or silver wire) and lenses shall be black or brown in color (mirrored lenses are prohibited) |
| Marines | Eyeglasses/sunglasses, when worn, will be conservative in appearance. Eccentric or conspicuous eyepieces are prohibited. |
| Navy | Conservative sunglasses are permitted, except in military formations. Retainer straps are authorized for FOD prevention and safety only. If retainer straps are required, they shall be plain, black and worn snugly against the back of the head. |
Does Oakley have a Military Discount?
Yes, Oakley’s military discount program is called Oakley Standard Issue. This program offers military members receive 50%+ off Oakley military sunglasses. Plus it’s not only limited to military members. Government employees, DoD, and first responders are also eligible. But you can’t find this discount in stores. Instead, you’ll need to buy online through the exclusive Oakley SI website. Check out our complete Oakley Standard Issue guide for more information and how to join!
Best Oakley Military Sunglasses of 2021
We’ve listed our top Oakley military sunglasses of 2021, including ballistic glasses that are great for shooting. Plus if you’re looking for off-duty shooting glasses, be sure to check out our top Oakley shooting glasses.
1. Standard Issue Ballistic M Frame® 3.0 Array
The Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Array sunglasses (Product Link) not only meet ANSI Z87.1 but also MIL SPEC MIL-PRF 31013. With an O matter frame and impact-resistant Plutonite lenses, the M Frame 3.0 protects your eyes in every condition. The array version of this frame comes with 2 additional lenses, so you can adapt to a changing environment. Plus, it’s available in black and desert tan frame colors!
Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Array Highlights
- M Frame 3.0 Array comes with 3 total lenses perfect for shooting in different conditions
- Frame and lenses meet ANSI Z87.1 and MIL-SPEC standards
- Compatible with over-ear hearing and communication systems
2. Standard Issue Radar® EV Path®
The SI EV Path is the Military version of the popular EV Path cycling frame. This shield lens design is a more modern take on the classic M frame. Featuring an O matter frame features Unobtainium earsocks for added grip. And the EV Path is available with Oakley prescription lenses. Plus check out our complete Radar EV Path review here.
Radar EV Path Highlights
- Lightweight O Matter frame with Unobtainium earsocks for grip
- Available with Prizm lenses to enhance contrast and color
- Available with Oakley prescription lenses
3. Standard Issue Ballistic M Frame® 2.0 Array
The Ballistic M Frame 2.0 Array (Product Link) is the older version of the 3.0 model we highlighted above. Generally, both feature similar designs and features so it will really come down to personal preference. The M Frame 2.0 is ultra-lightweight weighing in at only 1.05 ounces.
Radar EV Path Highlights
- Lightweight chemical resistant O Matter frame weighing only 1.05 ounces
- Compatible with MICH, ACH, CVD, PASGT, and Crye™ Helmets
- Permanent anti-fog coating on the back of lenses
4. Standard Issue Flak® 2.0 XL Desert Collection
The Flak 2.0 XL (Product Link) is a half-rimmed design with enhanced lens coverage. Plus the desert tan colorway and Unobtainium grips make this one of our top Oakley military sunglasses. If you prefer a dual-lens design (as opposed to a shield), the Flak 2.0 XL is definitely worth a look.
Flak 2.0 XL Highlights
- O Matter frame with a dual-lens design and enhanced coverage
- Available with contrast-enhancing Prizm lenses and Polarized/Iridium options
- Unobtainium earsocks and nose pads for enhanced grip
5. Standard Issue Whisker
If you prefer a sleeker wire frame design, you’ll want to check out the Standard Issue Whisker (Product Link). While this may be more of an off-duty frame, the Whisker still has plenty of tech. The C-5 alloy frame features Unobtainium earsocks for added grip. Plus the impact-resistant Plutonite lenses are available with Standard, Prizm, and Prescription options.
Whisker Highlights
- Sleek ultra-lightweight C-5 alloy wire frame design
- Adjustable silicone nose pads for a perfect fit
- Impact-resistant Plutonite lenses available with Prizm options
6. Det Cord™ Industrial Safety Glasses
The Standard Issue Det Cord sunglasses (Product Link) feature a similar design to the popular Fuel Cell. But this military frame is ANSI Z87.1 stamped and meets MIL-Spec standards. Plus despite Det Cord’s larger earstems, they’re still comms compatible, making this one of our top military Oakley glasses!
Det Cord Highlights
- ANSI Z87.1 stamped safety glasses frame that also meets MIL-Spec standards
- Full frame design made of lightweight O Matter material
- Available with clear lenses perfect for low light and night time operations
7. SI Ballistic Shocktube
The Oakley Ballistic Shocktube (Product Link) features a design inspired by the Jawbone / Racing Jacket. And similar to those frames, the Shocktube makes lens swaps easy with an included hex-key. Plus its full-frame design offers additional protection and impact protection in the field. This frame is fully MIL PRF 32432 compliant. And it’s available in a variety of Prizm, Polarized, and standard lens options.
Shocktube Highlights
- Lightweight O Matter full-frame design similar to the Jawbone/Racing Jacket sunglasses
- Easy lens swaps for any environment using included hex-key
- Fully compliant with optical and ballistic MIL PRF 32432 standards
Where to buy Oakley Military Sunglasses?
If you’re looking to buy Oakley military sunglasses, your first stop should be Oakley Standard Issue. As we mentioned above, you can find military Oakleys for 50%+ off retail prices. But you must meet the program qualifications outlined here.
If you don’t qualify for the SI program, but still want military Oakley glasses you’re not out of luck. You can still find most Oakley military eyewear online through aftermarket retailers. Your top options are sites like eBay and the Oakley Forum Exchanges here. However, a quick Google search should return plenty of results.
And of course, buying these pairs aftermarket means you won’t get the Oakley military discount. So expect to pay retail prices similar to most other Oakley sunglasses.
What’s your favorite Oakley military sunglasses? Join the largest online Oakley community and let us know in the thread below!
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