Vortex Optics is a name everyone is familiar with in the firearms world. They are known for producing some of the finest scopes, binoculars, and other optical devices on the market. With their VIP warranty, it’s really hard to not buy Vortex products.
This past summer, I had the opportunity to visit the Vortex facility in Wisconsin. It was far more impressive than I could have imagined and not just because of their facility or products. It was clear the people are what make Vortex such a great company to do business with.
But in the past, that business would need to include some type of optic. But that is no longer the case. As I walked through their facility during my visit, I started noticing items far from the optics world. At one point, I found myself standing smack dab in the middle of a clothing store.
This caught me by surprise because well, Vortex is an optics company right? As I began checking out their new line, I saw a link between the two worlds. One of their newest products they have just released is the Anarch Golf Laser Range Finder. I’ll talk more about that in a minute.
But where else do you go when you start making something for golf? Hats, shorts, sunglasses, polos, and more. Here are a few of the cool things you can now pick up from Vortex and retail partner stores.
Ballistic Rated Sunglasses
One of the first things I noticed in the apparel section at Vortex was their newest addition of sunglasses. Of course they are from Vortex so they are ballistic-rated and ready for golf or the range.
I left with a pair of both the BANSHEE and JACKAL sunglasses. Both are great looking glasses and would be perfect for hunting, sports, shooting, and everyday wear.
The BANSHEE and JACKAL sunglasses have a lightweight and flexible, yet durable frame. This is a perfect combination for glasses you plan to wear for extended periods.
Both pairs have a 100% UV protection lens, which shields you from harmful rays while enjoying crystal-clear optics. The ballistic rating adds an extra layer of confidence, knowing your eyes are protected from unexpected impacts.
I used to wear a pair of sunglasses for driving and kept generic safety glasses in my range pack for shooting. It’s nice to wear the same pair for every activity and not keep track of more than one pair.
And I have to point out that their sunglasses come with their VIP warranty so if they ever break, just give Vortex a call and they will make it right.
Here are the specs for the Vortex BANSHEE and JACKAL sunglasses:
Sunglasses Specs:
- Frame Material: High-impact resistant polymer
- Lens Protection: 100% UV protection
- Ballistic Rating: MIL-PRF-32432A, ANSI Z87.1
- Lens Options: Polarized and non-polarized
- Fit: Medium to large faces
Clothing and Apparel
In addition to eyewear, Vortex has expanded into the apparel market, offering a range of clothing items. I was surprised at how many clothing options they had.
While I haven’t been able to try out all their clothing items yet, I’ve tired enough to know they are great quality and fit.
Vortex’s apparel collection includes a variety of items for both men and women. From rugged outdoor jackets to casual t-shirts, shorts and hats, Vortex has it all.
The men’s shirts, for example, are made from durable, moisture-wicking materials. This is perfect for keeping you cool and dry, even in the heat of summer. The women’s line features similar materials but with cuts and styles that are both functional and fashionable.
Among my favorites in their lineup were the hoodies and jackets. I went with the Storm Silencer Pro Rain Breaker Jacket. It’s a light jacket but is surprisingly warm. It has zip-up pockets, a drawstring around the hood, and it folds into a small compact bundle that is easy to carry.
When I saw their socks, I had to try those as well. What caught my eye was the name on the label. “Game Trail Tick Repellent Hunt Socks.” Socks that repel ticks? This was something I had to try and guess what… they work. I didn’t want to push my luck and just lay down in tall grass, but I’ve worn a pair out hiking multiple times and never had a single tick on me. Besides that, they are comfortable too.
Vortex Anarch Golf Range Finder
For those who love to spend their weekends on the green, Vortex has introduced the Anarch Golf Range Finder. It looks like their ballistic rangefinders, but this one is programed just for golfers.
The Vortex Anarch Golf Range Finder is a compact, lightweight device that delivers quick and accurate readings at the push of a button. It has a lot of features that were aimed just for the sport. One such feature is the slope compensation, which adjusts distance readings based on the incline or decline of the terrain. This gives you a more accurate read on your shot. The display is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight.
Using the Anarch on the golf course can help you accurately gauge distances to hazards, pin placements, and other key points. This helps you choose the right club and improve your overall performance.
I’m a very amateur golfer, as in I hit the ball and hope it goes forward. So for someone like me, using this thing is great when it comes to choosing the correct club.
It’s water-resistant, so it can withstand the occasional rain shower, and of course Vortex extends the VIP warranty to the Anarch as well.
Vortex Anarch Golf Range Finder:
- Range: Up to 1,200 yards
- Accuracy: +/- 1 yard
- Features: Slope compensation, scan mode, target locking
- Display: Clear LED display with adjustable brightness
- Battery Life: Up to 5,000 uses on a single CR2 battery
- Water Resistance: IPX4 rating
- Warranty: Vortex VIP lifetime warranty
Find something you like?
Vortex Optics has clearly set its sights on expanding beyond the optics industry. With the introduction of so many new products, they are becoming a lifestyle brand, not just an optics company.
With a customer service team that rivals any other, and a no-questions-asked warranty behind their products, it’s hard to tell where they will stop. Will there be boots, golf shoes, or gloves someday? Who knows, but I’m excited to see what their next move is. If you haven’t tried any Vortex products before, I would give them a gander. It’s one of the best purchases you can make.
