Wiley X is a second-generation, family-owned American business that continues to build on a legacy of creating innovative eyewear products without compromising on protection. Originally founded as Protective Optics in 1987 by U.S. Army Veteran Myles Freeman Sr., the company continues to pursue the same mission today: “Build the world’s best protective eyewear.” Over the years, they have become an iconic brand and one of the most trusted names in protective eyewear.
In full transparency, my training company, Stretz Tactical, has a relationship with WileyX; they support my classes with top-shooter prizes as well as my personal eye pro needs.
Supporting military, veteran & First responder communities
Supporting the first responder, active military, and veteran communities and their families is a core value for Wiley X. They strive to honor the memory and the sacrifices of those who have served, and continue to serve, their communities and our country.
Wiley X is a contributor to non-profit organizations and is proud to give back to those who serve through charitable donations, eyewear products, event sponsorships, employee community service programs, and marketing resources.
Eye protection
Every model of Wiley X eyewear is put through rigorous U.S. and International testing standards to ensure it meets or exceeds the highest ratings possible for safety and optics. Their entire range of eyewear is tested to meet or exceed at least one of these industry standards for safety and optics:[ANSI Z87.1+, MIL-PRF-32432(GL), MIL-PRF-32432A, ASTM F803].
All Wiley X ANSI-rated frames and lenses must withstand the impact of a .25” diameter steel ball. For spectacles, the projectile must be traveling 150fps and for a goggle, 250 fps. Several Wiley X eyewear models are tested to V0 ballistics, which consists of a spectacle frame and lens being impacted with a .15 caliber projectile traveling 640-725fps depending on Mil-Standard and model, or a goggle frame and lens with a .22 caliber projectile traveling 550-590fps depending on Mil-Standard and model. This test is meant to simulate shrapnel that may be encountered on the battlefield.
Wiley X has an entire list of NSN and NATO stock numbers. There are numerous models of ballistic eyewear and goggles on that list. You can review the list here: NSN_Sh
Prescription Sunglasses with ANSI Safety & Polarized Lens Options
Wiley X’s polarized and ANSI-rated prescription sunglasses are designed for fishing, tactical missions, motorcycle rides, and everyday wear.
As I now sport 51-year-old eyeballs, I can no longer see a front or rear sight with anywhere near the optical clarity that I did 10 or so years ago. Enter the Wiley X prescription sunglasses.
At around 43, I started to notice larger shot groups while shooting, first in diminished lighting like an indoor range or outdoor ranges when shooting under overhead cover. By the time I hit 50, I couldn’t see my sights clearly anymore, regardless of lighting conditions. It may be easy to say it’s 2026—just put a red dot on your gun, or, “You should only be target-focused even with irons, because that is what my favorite Instagram instructor says!”
Take a breath and realize two things.
1) There are times when you need a smaller concealable gun like a J-frame revolver, a Sig 365, Glock 26, etc. Putting a dot on it may or may not work for what you are wearing, where on your body you are carrying, the type of holster you are using, and for your body type and size.
2) Not everyone’s eyes are the same. I know a lot of really skilled shooters who have been in real-world engagements who agree on the need to be able to see their sights a little clearer—especially at distance and in low light. Your mileage may vary and may change with age.
You can shop Wiley X’s collection of prescription eyewear here: prescription-sunglasses
Customized eyewear
Why get customized eyewear? Simple! To match your style. With Wiley X custom eyewear, you can choose frames, lenses, and colors that match your look and lifestyle while sporting performance lenses with advanced optical tech designed for clarity, durability, and protection.
Find out more
This is just a glimpse into Wiley X. They offer numerous lens and frame color and style options in addition to accessories, cases, apparel, and swag. They are a great company, with great products and an even greater team of humans. Check them out!
