PMCI - April 2018

WILEY X XL-1 ADVANCED.
The XL-1 Advanced is an outwardly similar frame to the SG-1, but
the difference is that this is purely as an eyeshield frame; there’s
no customisable goggle fit. The frame boasts EN166 and Z.87+
markings, and the lenses have Wiley X + engravings. The arms
have mounting points for a retention lanyard which is supplied, as
well as a microfibre cloth and a hard nylon case. The frame inner
has a closed cell gasket to promote a close fit and comfortable
interface. Despite a similar fixed bridge to the frame across the
nasal area, the fit is significantly comfier for the wearer with a
larger nose, and I had no issues with comfort while wearing the
XL-1. Once more, an aggressively wrapped fit gives a particularly
close fit for an eye shield; it is almost goggle-like in its conformity.
It also has facility to swap lenses like the other eye protection
here, with a trademark tool-less swap easily achieved in the field.
Once again, attempting to fog the lenses by exhaling on them is
futile; Wiley X fog resistant coatings are very impressive.
WILEY X VALOR.
The Valor is an example of what is, for me one of the signature
products of the Wiley X range. This is outwardly a simple spectacle
frame, sunglass-like in appearance. The lenses are engraved, the
frame has EN166 and Z87 markings, but most strikingly these
frames are light. Very light indeed. So light that I had to weigh
them. According to my trusty kitchen scales, the Valor has an all-up
weight of thirty one grammes. Thirty one! Fit-wise, these things
are “wear & forget”, thanks to the weight and a grippy rubber
shoe on the arms, plus, as they are wrapped there are few gaps
peripherally. There’s also a push on lanyard for extra security and
of course, the lenses are changeable in under a minute. The only
small surprise was that the lenses misted under my breathe-on
test unlike the previous examples which all resisted my fogging.
I wouldn’t take this as a deal-breaker at all, as an application of
a good anti-fog product would be all that is needed here. In the
nylon case you’ll find the second set of lenses, lanyard, microfibre
cloth and instructions.
WILEY X GUARD ADVANCED.
The Guard Advanced is very similar in appearance to the VX Valor,
with the exception of having larger lenses which fit deeper. In
common with the Valor is the simple lens swap mechanism,
and lack of bulk. Conformal face fit again gives a close but not
claustrophobic fit. In my opinion there is always a trade-off
between close protective fitting and airflow; I think Wiley X has
it about right here. Once more there are engraved lenses and
Z87 marked frame, and a removable lanyard, but the frame fit is
secure even without this. The depth of the lenses naturally give a
slightly greater degree of protection for my face, but for a smaller
face this may not be necessarily the case. Without a little stand
off from the cheeks, lenses are more prone to fog, so consider
this when choosing. Despite the slightly larger lens, these also
weigh in at an incredible thirty one grammes, I was surprised to
find. As with the Valor, the lenses fogged under breath testing,
so plan on using an anti-fog preparation as a matter of routine. In
all honesty I always carry one in my trouser pocket for any airsoft
outing in any case, so there’s no hardship in this.
In summary, eye protection has evolved in response to the
needs of the primary consumer; the military end user. But we in
the wider spectrum “tactical” world are well placed to benefit
from the fruits of such development. Wiley X eye protection is a
prime example of the modern standard of protection now easily
available to us. Protection is now lightweight, adaptive and more
unobtrusive than ever before. Lens systems are interchangeable,
frames are now following suit and can be modified depending on
need at the point of use. Truly innovative, cutting edge products
that are manufactured to the highest standards have been
brought to the market by Wiley X. Your eyes are irreplaceable.
They deserve the best protection that you can give them.
All these products are available on the Military 1st website:
www.military1st.co.uk Many thanks to Military1st for supplying
the Wiley X products used in this review.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andy Bourne BSc, MCOptom, Prof Cert Glauc is also known as the
Tactical Optician. A former reserve forces officer, he works full
time at a large regional eye hospital. This gives him a unique
perspective on the importance of eye protection.
EYE PROTECTION | WILEY X