Sunglasses are an effective way to ensure the efficient protection of eyes from the ultra violet rays of the sun. They ensure glare protection and offer the convenience of a clear and unhampered vision for all. That is why the eyewear has been improved to accommodate and assist with the varied needs of individuals belonging to different lifestyles and professions.
Sunglasses for use in the army are restricted by a number of rules and regulations specified by the authorities, which prohibit the use of regular eyewear during service. The authorities have identified the specifications and stipulations which need to be adhered to in order to ensure that an officer uses sunglasses which are in accordance with the rules.
The army allows the use of sunglasses within a garrison environment, but restricts their wearing during the formation and while indoors. Soldiers are not allowed to wear sunglasses in the field, unless specifically specified otherwise by their commander. In some cases, the commanding officer might instruct the specific use of sunglasses for soldiers on a mission, because of some safety requirements for protection against high glare and other demanding field requirements.
MOST POPULAR MILITARY SUNGLASSES:
Sunglasses which are trendy and sport flashy styles and frame colors are not allowed for use within the forces. The lens color of the sunglasses is also required to be traditional gray, dark green or brown only. Any other lens color is denied for use. There are a few standard sunglass designs specified by the authorities, like the Ballistic Laser Protective Spectacles, the Sun, Wind, and Dust Goggle and the Special Protective Eyewear Cylindrical System. Some brands have incorporated the standard requirements of these eyewear designs and have created more models for use.
The sunglasses which sport initials, logos or other forms of adornments are also restricted from use by soldiers. Soldiers are not allowed to attach ribbons, chains, and bands with their sunglasses. The rules restrict the soldiers from hanging their sunglasses and sunglass cases on their uniform.
Reference: AR670-1
(3) Restrictions on eyeglasses and sunglasses. 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. Personnel will not wear lenses or frames that are so large or so small
that they detract from the appearance of the uniform. Personnel will not attach chains, bands, or ribbons to eyeglasses.
Eyeglass restraints are authorized only when required for safety purposes. Personnel will not hang eyeglasses or
eyeglass cases on the uniform, and may not let glasses hang from eyeglass restraints down the front of the uniform.
There is a great need to ensure protection of the eyes of the soldiers while out on the field and engaged in action. The standard sunglass designs have been specially designed to prevent any shrapnel or other hazard from damaging the eye during action. Mirrored lenses are not allowed for use in the forces, and soldiers are not allowed to place or hang their sunglasses on their uniform or helmet when not in use.
The use of sunglasses varies according to the nature of work of a soldier, and also with regards to their specific medical needs. Contact lenses are not allowed for use by soldiers, and the use of sunglasses by soldiers within garrisons and on field is dependent on the need of the soldier, and the military requirement.
Sunglasses which answer perfectly to the military specified requirements can be used by soldiers easily. Any deviance from the specified eyewear standards and any negligence to adhere to the military regulations can result in problems for the soldier.
