Bolle X500T Goggles
Photos:
   
Basic Information:  
Manufacturers Name: Bolle
Model: X500T (X500)
Lens Material/Type Double Polycarbonate Lens
Anti Fog? P80 Anti Fog coating and Equalizer Gore Venting
OTG? Yes, also has RX inserts available.
ANSI Z87.1 rated? Meets or exceeds
Cost as tested: 45 USD
Purchased from: DEN Trinity Shop, Hong Kong
   
Review Details:  
Introduction:

I had been using a full face mask for the first year and a half of my Airsoft skirmishing years, but I decided it was time to go for goggles only. My problem was, at the time, I did not have contacts, and needed Over The Glasses goggles. The best I could find that were listed as OTG were the Bolle X500's. Then later I found that they were offered in a "Tactical" model from most reputable online Airsoft retailers. This "tactical" model was designated X500T and basically, the only difference appeared to be that it came with clear lenses only, and the bolle label on the strap was subdued. I found these at DEN Trinity, and ordered them along with an AEG last year.

 

Operation:

Fogging: The main thing you always seem to have to worry about with eye protection(other than impact resistance) is fogging, and when you wear glasses, its not only fogging of the goggle lenses, but the lenses of your glasses as well. I am happy to say, that these goggles have NEVER fogged on me, not even in 90 degree humid summer heat. I have worn these both with and now, without glasses and I can say that "They have NEVER fogged" This comes from an entire season of use, which includes use in the cold late winter/ early spring months, the summer and the early fall.

OTG: The Over The Glasses feature of these goggles have served me well. The manufacturer states that the X500's will fit over "medium sized frames". I have medium to small sized frames and they fit just fine inside the goggles. My eyeglass lenses have also never fogged inside the goggles.

Helmet Compatibility: I have worn these goggles with a PASGT replica helmet, and I can say that they fit well with it. I have had trouble with wearing the goggles with the strap OVER the helmet, as many do. That may stem from the fact that my helmet has a very smooth surface, and the goggle strap cant seem to grab onto it. I am going to try a helmet cover to see if that can fix that problem. Until then, I will just have to put the goggles on before the helmet, and take the helmet off before removing the goggles.

Lens Scratch Resistance: In the year that I have used these goggles, I have played indoor CQB, Urban, and Woodland (both in low and dense underbrush). My lenses have suffered an acceptable amount of scratching in that time. I am guessing that I may end up replacing the lenses mid next year.

 

Upgrades:

You can buy prescription lens inserts from Bolle for these goggles as well as replacement lenses of Clear, Vermilion, and Gray.

 

Conclusion: I can wholeheartedly recommend these goggles to anyone. Mine have served me quite well, and I expect them to serve me well for a long time to come. I have to say though, that I recommend the use of a balaclava with ANY non full-face goggles. You don't want to suffer the now infamous "BB down the throat" as I did :)