Sport Sunglasses That Meet ASTM Standards

The ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) is an international organization that provides guidelines to govern over 12,000 different types of products around the world. Items that meet ASTM standards ensure the highest quality for protection and safety. Sunglasses are typically worn during outdoor sporting events. ASTM Standard F803 covers protective eyewear for sports such as baseball, softball, basketball and racket sports.

  1. ASTM F803 Certified

    • What do sunglasses need to do to be able to garner an ASTM certification? First, the eye-wear should offer protection to the eyes exclusively and not offer protection to any other part of the head. The lens or lenses need to be molded to the frames as one piece and any straps need to be separate pieces. The glasses are tested for their ability to absorb impact, their optical clarity, field of view and haze factors.

    Rec Specs

    • One of the industry leaders in ASTM-approved sunglasses and goggles is Liberty Sports, the manufacturers of Rec Specs. Over 20,000 eye care professionals suggest Rec Specs protective sports eye-wear to both children and adults. The most popular brand of Rec Specs sunglasses are the Rec Specs Maxx line which comes in a variety of colors, sizes and lens selections. The typical cost associated with the Maxx line of sunglasses starts at about $85 in 2011. Price will vary depending on whether the glasses require a prescription lens.

    Hilco

    • Another industry leader in ASTM certified sunglasses is Hilco. Hilco makes goggles, glasses, dive masks and sunglasses for sporting activities. The Hilco Z Leader line of glasses comes in a variety of colors and frame designs. The Phoenix/Trophy type has removable lenses for different lighting situations. These glasses start around $40 (in 2011), but do not accommodate prescription lenses. Be aware that while Hilco does make certified sunglasses, not every type of sunglasses Hilco makes has been ASTM certified.

    Other Sports Sunglasses

    • Other popular brands such as Bolle, Nike and Oakley make sunglasses and goggles designed for wear during sporting activities, but they are not ASTM certified. This does not necessarily mean that these sunglasses are made out of lesser materials or are of lower quality. Many companies choose not to have their products tested and certified.