REVIEW: Bolle Tactical protective goggles Raider

There are ballistic goggles everywhere, but in recent years I have been wearing and testing the Bollé Raider. When choosing, it was important to me that the goggles have a single lens and do not have thick temples that may be uncomfortable with hearing protection or reduce the level of protection.The Bollé Tactical comes in a kit with a bag, the contents: 1x Raider goggles, 3x interchangeable lenses (clear, yellow, smoke), 1x prescription lens insert, 1x elastic strap, 1x microfiber cloth, 1x hard case.

For eyeglass wearers, there is also an insert included in the set (which according to Amazon reviews may not be so successful; we did not test it, as we do not wear glasses). After a short trial, I only used the version with the clear lens and the headband, as I prefer clear vision and the headband is much more comfortable with my MSA Sordin than the temples. The basic data:

Width of headband: 25 mm.

Glass thickness: 2.45 mm.

Weight: approx. 38 g.
The switch between temples and headband is very easy with internal clips, so that no external influences can lead to accidental opening. Incidentally, the goggles are tested according to STANAG 2920, which is sufficient for me, even if there are surely better options (both in tests and in protective effect).

The different lenses have the following protection classes:

Clear lens: V50 test according to STANAG 2920: 695 km/h - 193 m/s.

Yellow lens: V50 test according to STANAG 2920: 713 km/h - 198 m/s.

Smoke lens: V50 test according to STANAG 2920: 666 km/h - 185 m/s.

All certified according to CE EN166 FT.

Inside the frame, the goggles have a removable rubber piece that acts as a dust protector. When using the headband, I found it necessary to use this as a spacer, otherwise the goggles sit too close to my eyes and the eyelashes touch the lens, which can be very irritating in the long run (think: blinking).

Regarding fogging, with the earlier model, it is definitely advisable to use a suitable cleaning + antifog agent, as otherwise the goggles fog up, especially when using the dust guard in combination with sweating. The lenses of the new models have a "Platinum" treatment in this regard, whatever that may mean, they fog up much less. The manufacturer promises "antifog and antiscratch coating," both are relative, depending on how hard you scratch, how much you move. Protective goggles are, after all, practical items.

CONCLUSION: The goggles are not perfect, but completely satisfactory for the average consumer. It is advisable to regularly maintain the inside of the lens, otherwise it may fog when using the rubber edge. The headband and rubber edge are definitely advantageous in sandy environments. As with all goggles, it is advisable to try them on beforehand to see if they really fit the respective head shape. If that is the case, the value for money is very good.

You can get the Bollé Tactical Raider Kit at RECON COMPANY for 64.95 euros.

BOLLE TACTICAL on the Internet: www.bolle-tactical.com