ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit Review

Let’s Dive into ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit

The ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit from ESS promises rapid lens exchange and rugged durability, features vital for anyone operating in demanding environments. I was immediately drawn to the promise of easy lens swaps, a common pain point with many ballistic eyewear options. I always seem to be fumbling with lenses when light conditions change unexpectedly.

I needed sunglasses that could keep up with my unpredictable days, transitioning seamlessly from the bright desert range to low-light training scenarios. I was searching for eye protection that wouldn’t fog easily, would fit comfortably under my ear protection, and offered genuine ballistic protection. I’m always skeptical of “tactical” gear that doesn’t perform under pressure.

Upon unboxing, the ESS Rollbar felt solid and well-made. The Terrain Tan frame has a matte finish, and the lenses appeared scratch-resistant. The included zippered hard case, microfiber pouch, and elastic retention strap were welcome additions.

I was also considering the Oakley M Frame 2.0 and the Revision Military Sawfly. I chose the ESS Rollbar because of its Rollbar Lens Gate system for rapid lens exchange and its compliance with U.S. MIL Spec MIL-PRF-32432. The Oakley M Frame 2.0 lacks a quick lens change system, and the Revision Sawfly, while lighter, didn’t seem as robust as the ESS.

My initial impression was positive. The ESS Rollbar felt substantial and ready for hard use. I was excited to see how the Rollbar Lens Gate system would perform in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the ESS Rollbar at an outdoor shooting range in bright sunlight. I wore them during pistol and rifle drills, focusing on how well they stayed in place and whether they interfered with my hearing protection. The Smoke Gray lenses provided excellent glare reduction, and the glasses felt secure even during rapid movements.

The ESS Rollbar performed well in dry, sunny conditions. There was no fogging, and the lenses offered a clear, unobstructed field of view. They fit snugly under my Howard Leight Impact Sport ear pro without creating pressure points behind my ears.

The Rollbar Lens Gate was initially a little stiff, but after a few practice runs, I could swap lenses in under a minute. I didn’t experience any unexpected issues during the first use. They were comfortable and functional.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the ESS Rollbar has held up remarkably well. I’ve used them during various activities, including hiking, fishing, and force-on-force training. They have proven to be both durable and reliable.

The ToughZone Lens Coating has prevented any significant scratches, even after being exposed to dust, dirt, and occasional impacts. The frame shows no signs of stress or cracking. Cleaning is simple. I just use the included microfiber pouch and lens cleaner.

Compared to other tactical sunglasses I’ve used, the ESS Rollbar stands out for its combination of comfort, durability, and ease of lens exchange. They outperform my previous Oakley SI M Frame Alpha in terms of lens swapping speed and are more comfortable than my older Revision Sawfly glasses. The ESS Rollbar is a solid step up in performance.

Breaking Down the Features of ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit

Specifications

The ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit features a medium-to-large fit frame made from durable polymer. The Frame Color is Terrain Tan. The kit includes Clear and Smoke Gray Rollbar Lenses.

The lenses are 2.2mm thick and made from high-impact 100 percent UVA/UVB polycarbonate. This lens material offers exceptional clarity and protection against projectiles. ESSOPTICS deliver distortion-free optical precision throughout the entire field of view.

The thin temple arms are designed to be compatible with hats, helmets, hearing protection, and communications gear. This design reduces pressure and enhances comfort during extended wear. The Rollbar Lens Gate allows for rapid lens exchange.

The Rollbar Sunglass exceeds U.S. MIL Spec MIL-PRF-32432, ANSI Z87.1-2010, OSHA and CE EN166 (except polarized eye pro which meets ANSI Z87.1-2010 (impact) and OSHA). These certifications ensure the sunglasses meet strict safety standards for ballistic protection and impact resistance. The Maximum Wrap design offers enhanced lateral protection and a wider peripheral view.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the sunglasses’ ability to protect the user’s eyes in hazardous environments. The ballistic rating and lens material ensure impact resistance, while the UVA/UVB protection safeguards against harmful sun rays. The design considerations for compatibility with other gear are essential for tactical users.

Performance & Functionality

The ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit excels in its primary job: protecting the wearer’s eyes. The lenses provide excellent clarity and impact resistance, and the frame stays securely in place during strenuous activity. The Rollbar Lens Gate system allows for quick and easy lens changes.

The sunglasses’ strengths lie in their durability, comfort, and ease of use. The lenses are scratch-resistant, and the frame is robust. The thin temple arms ensure compatibility with other gear. One area for improvement is the initial stiffness of the Rollbar Lens Gate.

The ESS Rollbar meets and exceeds my expectations for tactical eyewear. They provide the necessary protection and performance for demanding environments, while remaining comfortable for extended wear. The rapid lens exchange system is a game-changer.

Design & Ergonomics

The ESS Rollbar features a sleek, low-profile design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Terrain Tan frame has a matte finish that reduces glare and provides a tactical look. The sunglasses are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The ESS Rollbar is very user-friendly. The Rollbar Lens Gate system is intuitive, and the sunglasses fit comfortably on a variety of face shapes. There is a slight learning curve associated with the lens changing mechanism.

Durability & Maintenance

The ESS Rollbar is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure long-term durability. The ToughZone Lens Coating provides excellent scratch resistance.

Maintenance is simple. The lenses can be cleaned with the included microfiber pouch and lens cleaner. The frame can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit includes the following accessories: One Rollbar Sunglass Frame Terrain Tan with Silver ESS Logo, Clear and Smoke Gray Rollbar Lenses, Elastic Retention Strap, Microfiber Cleaning Pouch, Zippered Hard Case. These accessories provide everything needed to protect and maintain the sunglasses.

The ESS Rollbar is compatible with other ESS lenses, allowing for customization based on specific environmental conditions. While there are no other officially supported customization options, the standard 19mm nosepiece width makes it compatible with some aftermarket nosepieces. The user should confirm fitment, however, before purchasing.

Pros and Cons of ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit

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Who Should Buy ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit?

The ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit is perfect for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and anyone who needs reliable eye protection in demanding environments. They are also well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hikers, hunters, and shooters. Anyone who requires rapid lens changes due to varying light conditions will benefit from this kit.

Individuals primarily engaged in activities where ballistic protection is not a major concern may find other, less expensive sunglasses more suitable. Those with particularly small faces might find the medium-to-large fit uncomfortable.

A must-have accessory is additional lenses. Getting yellow or mirrored lenses can expand the usefulness of the ESS Rollbar for different light levels.

Conclusion on ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit

The ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit is a high-quality, durable, and versatile eyewear option for anyone who needs reliable eye protection. The rapid lens exchange system, ballistic protection, and comfortable fit make them a top choice for tactical users and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The initial stiffness of the lens gate is a minor drawback offset by the overall performance and durability.

At $125.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and features offered. The ESS Rollbar provides excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend the ESS Rollbar Tactical Sunglasses Kit to anyone looking for a durable, reliable, and versatile eyewear option. The ESS Rollbar is a worthwhile investment that will provide years of reliable service. If you value your eyesight and need a sunglass solution for dynamic environments, give the ESS Rollbar a serious look.