ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles Review

Let’s Dive into ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles are designed to provide optimal eye protection in demanding environments, particularly for those working in aviation or tactical settings. Manufactured by ESS, these goggles are built for all-day comfort and compatibility with cranial-style helmets, offering both clear and smoke gray lenses for various lighting conditions. My search for the perfect goggle started after too many range days plagued by irritating debris. I needed something that would fit comfortably, offer clear vision, and withstand harsh conditions, and the ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles seemed to fit the bill.

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles arrive in simple, functional packaging. The initial impression is one of ruggedness; the frame feels substantial and the lenses appear durable. The included Speed Clip strap immediately catches the eye, promising easy adjustments. While I was initially impressed with the apparent build quality, I couldn’t help but notice the simple design; they seemed like a no-frills piece of kit.

Compared to other goggles I’ve used, such as the Revision Locust and Oakley SI Ballistic Goggles, the ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles seemed more focused on a specific user: those needing integration with helmets. I chose them because of the promise of all-day comfort and impact resistance, something the other goggles I tested didn’t quite deliver. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see how they performed in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles was at an outdoor shooting range during a particularly dusty day. I used them in conjunction with a cranial helmet, as intended. The goggles performed admirably, keeping dust and debris out of my eyes and providing clear vision through the smoke gray lens. They proved invaluable as a tactical google.

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles held up well in the dusty environment, and the ventilation system seemed adequate in preventing fogging. It did take a short period to adjust the Speed Clip strap perfectly to ensure a snug fit with the helmet. After dialing in the fit, the goggles were comfortable and unobtrusive, even during extended periods of use.

However, I did notice a slight pressure point around the bridge of my nose after a few hours. I also experienced some minor fogging during a brief rain shower, though it cleared quickly once the rain stopped. Despite these minor issues, my initial impression was positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles have proven to be a reliable piece of gear. They’ve accompanied me on hiking trips, hunting expeditions, and more range days. While the frame has held up remarkably well, the lenses have accumulated a few minor scratches despite the ClearZone FlowCoat treatment.

Despite the scratches, the optical clarity remains acceptable. Cleaning the lenses is straightforward with a microfiber cloth, and the closed-cell face padding is easy to wipe clean, preventing the build-up of sweat and grime. Compared to other goggles I’ve owned that quickly degrade with use, the ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles have held up surprisingly well. However, the strap has started to show a little wear, with some fraying around the edges.

Breaking Down the Features of ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles

Specifications

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles feature optically-correct polycarbonate lenses, ensuring distortion-free vision. The lenses are 2.6mm thick and offer 100% UVA/UVB protection. The frame is designed for comfortable fit with standard helmets and provides an extra-wide field of view.

The lenses have a premium ClearZone anti-fog / anti-scratch coating, which provides enhanced visibility in diverse conditions. ESS Modular Technology allows for easy replacement of all product components. The kit includes both clear and smoke gray lenses. These specifications are significant because they directly impact the goggles’ ability to provide clear, reliable, and comfortable eye protection in demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles perform their primary function – eye protection – exceptionally well. They effectively shield the eyes from impacts, dust, and UV radiation. The lens clarity is excellent, providing a wide and unobstructed field of view.

The goggles’ strengths lie in their ruggedness, helmet compatibility, and reliable eye protection. The weakness, based on personal usage, lies in the potential for pressure points around the nose and the limited effectiveness of the anti-fog coating in high-humidity conditions. The goggles generally meet expectations for a mid-range tactical goggle, but fall short of being truly exceptional due to minor comfort and fogging issues.

Design & Ergonomics

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles feature a gray frame made from durable materials. The design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The weight is reasonable; they are noticeable but not excessively heavy, even during extended wear.

The goggles are generally user-friendly, with the Speed Clip strap offering quick and easy adjustments. However, achieving a perfect fit can take some experimentation. The closed-cell face padding is comfortable against the skin and effectively seals out debris.

Durability & Maintenance

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles are built to last, with a robust frame and impact-resistant lenses. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward; cleaning the lenses and padding with appropriate materials is sufficient.

The modular design allows for easy replacement of worn or damaged components, further extending the lifespan of the goggles. While the lenses are prone to scratching, their impact resistance and overall durability are commendable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles come with two lenses: clear and smoke gray. An ESS Striker Prescription Lens Insert can be mounted for those requiring vision correction. The goggles are also compatible with various helmet systems, making them versatile for different tactical and recreational applications.

While there are limited direct customization options, the ability to swap lenses and integrate with prescription inserts enhances the goggles’ adaptability. The modular design, as mentioned, allows for replacing the strap or face padding if needed.

Pros and Cons of ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles

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Who Should Buy ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles?

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles are perfect for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and anyone requiring reliable eye protection in demanding environments. They are particularly well-suited for those who frequently use helmets and need goggles that seamlessly integrate with their headgear. These are exceptional goggles for tactical professionals.

Those seeking the absolute best in anti-fog performance or prioritize all-day comfort above all else might want to explore alternatives. Someone wanting goggles that are more fashionable should avoid this product. A must-have accessory is a dedicated goggle cleaning kit with microfiber cloths and lens cleaning solution to maintain optical clarity.

Conclusion on ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles

The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles are a solid choice for anyone needing rugged, reliable eye protection. While they have minor drawbacks, such as potential pressure points and limited anti-fog performance, their strengths outweigh their weaknesses. The price is justified given their build quality, impact resistance, and helmet compatibility.

I would personally recommend these goggles to those seeking a functional and durable solution for eye protection in tactical or demanding environments. The ESS Striker Flight Deck Goggles are a worthwhile investment. Get yours today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your eyes are protected.