Review
I’ve always heard about the hype around Wiley X eye protection, but never got a chance to actually use any of their products. I got to demo a set of goggles, and now I understand the hype.
Overview:
The Nerve goggles are some of the latest eye protection that Wiley X offers. They are a smaller, lighter weight, much less cumbersome goggle than most other types on the market. The Nerve googles meet VO ballistic impact test MIL-V-43511C, and are night vision compatible. The Nerve goggles are the first goggle intended to fit men and women, and the first Spheric lenses designed to give the user an unmatched field of vision. The Nerve comes with an interchangeable clear and grey lens.
I received the Wiley X Nerve goggles and said to myself “how can I test these properly”? Since I’m not in the military and therefore wouldn’t be deploying any time soon, I figured the next best thing would be to take them on an excursion to Aruba with me. I had had plans to rent ATVs and drive them around the island and wore the goggles while I was driving. First thing I have to say is that the goggles are EXTREMELY comfortable. I spend a lot of time on ski slopes and use mostly Oakley and Bolle goggles, and they’re much larger than the Nerve, so I was worried about comfort, but was pleasantly surprised that the smaller size was still 
very comfortable.
I was worried maybe the goggles would get itchy after a while and start to steam up, but they were very breathable. My other concern was how the seal would be against my face with the smaller frames. The goggles were comfortable and breathable for the entire 5 hour ride. Through the dirt, fumes, and kicked up sand, I didn’t get anything in my eyes.
The other noticeable trait of the goggles is that the strap is extremely comfortable. It holds the goggles in place on your head, and does so without irritating your head (I shave my head so this is a HUGE factor for me). I didn’t have to adjust it or take the goggles off once. The strap is secure and comfortable, not too thick, not too thin, more than I can say for some other company’s goggles.
Final Thoughts:
While I don’t wear goggles as part of my everyday life, I can see where there is a need for them in MIL/LEO circles. Wiley X has delivered a comfortable, lightweight, breathable and rugged product to the market. The size and contour would make them ideal for use with a helmet. I’m looking forward to getting them out and testing them in some cold weather conditions this winter.
