I know what you are probably thinking: Really? Another pair of "ballistic eyewear"? The answer is yes, but this isn't just another pair of ballistic glasses. They're also pretty interesting photography sunglasses - and it's all because of Revision Military's "I-Vis" lens technology.

Follow along with me here. 

Speed Demon glasses by Revision militarySpeed Demon glasses by Revision military

First, let's discuss lens tech: what is I-Vis technology? 

Revision developed I-VIS technology in part using artificial intelligence. The goal was to develop a lens that would provide improve greater color reception and clarity without cutting light out. That's what polarized lenses do - they narrow down the specific wavelengths of light coming through to provide greater contrast...and although you might not realize it, you're paying for that with a reduction in detail. You are not looking at real, actual color when looking through tinted or polarized sunglasses. 

Revision achieved its goal and went a step further. In addition to a standard lens that works superbly in lots of places, they were also able to determine an optimized lens color for a variety of environment types (the white, often overcast frontier between Finland and Russia, for instance, vs. the frequently reddish- or yellow-tinted glare of the Sahel. Each specialty i-Vis lens dye was developed to perform in a specific environment based on that location's color palette and prospective light conditions. 

The result is a system of lenses that allows you to experience greater color depth in a given environment versus the naked eye. This greater color perception provides faster recognition of targets on an otherwise "flat range"; in layperson's terms, you will optimize your eye performance with better depth perception and contrast while reducing eye fatigue. 

I don't work in law enforcement, and I'm not in the military, but I am a photographer. I understand "Vision" and how to manipulate what my naked eye or camera lens can capture when using photo filters. 

I don't want to get into an in-depth photography lesson right now, but in simplest terms, photo filters help minimize glare and reflections. They enhance colors, reduce the light coming into a lens, and more.

Each lens filter serves a specific purpose, as each is built to deliver a particular effect that can help enhance the final look of my image.  
I can only create compelling landscape images with specific filters on my lens. 

Horseshoe Bend Paige, AZHorseshoe Bend Paige, AZ

Why wouldn't I want that same vision advantage if I were out working in situations where my vision can give me the upper hand in combat? Or out in the field pursuing a bad guy? Or walking a roadway where just the slightest sign of disturbance in ground color might be the only warning I have of an IED? 

That is the best way I can describe I-VIS technology and the advantages these glasses offer. Wear a pair of these while practicing perceptions skills in a Kim's Game, then do it without. You'll see what I mean.

I mentioned earlier these would be interesting photography sunglasses. By that I mean wearing them while finding your muse - not literally photographing sunglasses. That's not to say you should shoot your pics while wearing i-Vis; just like a final photograph, the lenses you put over your eyes greatly affect how you perceive the world. That's one of the pluses of i-Vis, though.

You'll still have to worry about reflective surfaces (a reflection is a reflection whether it's on an i-Vis sunglasses lens or a polarized lens), account for shadow, angle, background, and all that. BUT. Wearing these allow you to see true color, allowing you to pick out subtle changes that aren't immediately noticeable to the naked eye. This could be a far better chroma-related catalyst that inspires a fantastic shot idea (or series of shot ideas) than you'd get through polarized glasses (or with what my Tribe calls the "Mk. 1 Eyeball"). 

Plus, they'll protect your eyes from shrapnel, fragments, and other threats to your eyes. These aren't the glass lenses of your corrective eyeglasses or typical sunglasses, they're ballistically rated polycarbonate infused with a high-tech dye. 

Though hopefully, it won't matter. Hoepfully, you're not in that sort of danger while out taking photos.

The only real downside to Speed Demons cost (they are pricey) and possibly fashion style - the aesthetic won't suit everyone, though I like it just fine. Happily Revision is expanding the i-Vis line with different styles. 

Now, let's get to some of the features of the Speed Demon:

Flexible Design 

No two heads are shaped the same; the Speed Demon features a metal frame and temples that can be adjusted for maximum comfort and coverage. 

speed demon by revision militaryspeed demon by revision military

Ocumax anti-fog coating 

Tested under EN 166 standards, Revision's OcuMax Plus is proven to last longer than competing anti-fog solutions by 10-20 times, is chemical-resistant, and prevents scratches and streaks, and smears.

 

Ballistic Protection 

Built to exceed ANSI Z87.1-2015 requirements, the American National Standards Institute's rating for safety eyeglass lenses adequately protects your eyes from projectiles, chemicals, and harmful dust.

If you want those same "vision advantages" photographers get when using the proper photo filter for the landscape image we are trying to capture, I recommend you try these glasses. They're really cool (and protective) shades.

Once you look through these tactical sunglasses, you'll "see" what I mean.