Havoc ANSI Z87 Rated Sunglasses vs The Competition
Havoc Racing Co. Z87 Sunglasses:
The Ultimate Guide to the
Best ANSI Z87.1+ Eyewear
Military ballistic protection. Certified Z87.1+ impact resistance. UV400 blocking. All starting at $60 — and built tougher than anything near its price.
Your Eyes Are the One Thing You Can’t Replace
Every single day, approximately 2,000 U.S. workers suffer a job-related eye injury that requires medical treatment, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Even more alarming, roughly 90% of those injuries could have been prevented with proper eyewear.
Whether you’re grinding metal on a job site, tearing through the desert on an ATV, mowing the lawn, or simply spending hours under the sun, unprotected eyes are constantly exposed to projectiles, UV radiation, dust, chemical splash, and flying debris — all hazards that certified safety eyewear is specifically engineered to stop dead in their tracks.
The gold standard for protective eyewear in the United States is ANSI Z87.1+, and not all sunglasses come close to meeting it. But here’s the great news: Havoc Racing Co. has built a lineup of five exceptional Z87.1+ rated sunglasses — the Atlas, Reaper, Raptor, Diablo, and Magnum — that deliver military-grade eye protection at a price that simply cannot be beaten.
What Does ANSI Z87.1 Mean?
The Complete Guide You Need to Read
When you see the letters “Z87” stamped on a pair of sunglasses, you’re looking at a certification that carries serious weight. ANSI stands for the American National Standards Institute — a nonprofit organization that establishes uniform testing benchmarks for products and equipment used across virtually every industry in the United States. The Z87.1 portion specifically refers to the Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices standard — the authoritative, government-recognized rulebook for safety eyewear.
In plain language: if a pair of glasses carries the Z87 mark, it has been independently tested and verified to protect your eyes from a defined set of real-world hazards. If it carries Z87+, it has passed the highest tier of impact protection testing — engineered to stop high-velocity projectiles and heavy impacts from destroying the lens and reaching your eye.
Z87 vs. Z87+: The Difference That Matters Most
Basic Impact Rating
Eyewear has passed the standard lens and frame impact tests. Suitable for lower-risk environments. The lens must not shatter under moderate force.
High-Impact / High-Velocity Rating
The premium tier. Passed both the high-mass AND high-velocity impact tests — simulating flying debris, grinding sparks, and high-speed projectiles. This is what you need on any job site, shooting range, or trail.
Unless you are absolutely certain you won’t encounter high-impact hazards, always choose Z87+. The cost difference between Z87 and Z87+ is minimal, but the protection difference can mean the difference between a close call and a permanent eye injury.
What Tests Must Z87.1 Eyewear Survive?
To earn the ANSI Z87.1 certification, eyewear must pass a rigorous battery of tests designed to simulate real-world hazards:
A 6mm steel ball fired at 150 ft/sec directly at the lens. The lens must not fracture, crack, or allow penetration.
A pointed 500g steel weight dropped from 50 inches onto the lens — simulating a falling tool or heavy debris strike.
A sharp needle dropped from height — the lens must resist penetration from pointed objects entirely.
Lenses must block harmful non-ionizing UV radiation across the defined wavelength spectrum.
Frames must not ignite or continue to burn when exposed to an open flame — protecting against arc flash and fire.
Frame materials must withstand chemical exposure without degrading structural integrity.
Decoding Z87.1 Lens Markings
When you pick up a pair of Z87 glasses, you’ll see letter codes stamped on the lens or frame. Here’s your decoder:
What Is MIL-PRF-31013? (And Why It Matters)
Several Havoc Racing Co. sunglasses models also carry the MIL-PRF-31013 ballistic certification — a military-grade ballistic standard that is even more rigorous than standard ANSI Z87.1+. Originally developed for U.S. combat eyewear, this certification tests lenses against ballistic projectile impact at velocities exceeding those required by ANSI testing. The fact that Havoc Racing Co. includes this certification across their lineup — at $60–$85 — means you’re getting protection engineered for the battlefield, at a price built for the job site.
Why UV400 Is Non-Negotiable
UV400 means the lenses block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays across the entire UV spectrum up to 400 nanometers. Long-term UV exposure is a primary risk factor for cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (a sunburn of the cornea). Every Havoc Racing Co. Z87 model includes UV400 protection, ensuring your eyes are fully shielded from solar radiation from the moment you put them on.
Who Is Havoc Racing Co.?
Based out of Temecula, California, Havoc Racing Co. built its reputation in the off-road world, crafting premium goggles for dirt bike riders, ATV enthusiasts, and UTV pilots who demand peak optical performance in the harshest conditions imaginable — dust storms, roost, rocks, and high-speed debris. That same engineering DNA carries directly into their ANSI Z87 safety sunglasses lineup.
Havoc Racing Co. doesn’t just slap a safety rating on a fashion frame. Their Z87 sunglasses are engineered from the ground up with tactical-grade impact-resistant lenses, military ballistic certification, UV400 blocking, and replaceable lens systems — all wrapped in a durable, stylish package you’d actually want to wear day in and day out. And critically, they do all of this at a price point that aggressively undercuts every major competitor.
“Securely see the world with our new ANSI z87 rated sunglasses! We’re putting comfort, style and protection all in one bundle! For any occasion, you’ll be prepared!”
— Havoc Racing Co.
The 5 Havoc Racing Co. Z87 Sunglasses — Full Breakdown
Each Havoc Racing Co. Z87 model is purpose-built for a different use case, face shape, and style preference — but all share the same core DNA: certified impact protection, UV400 blocking, and industry-leading value.
🗺 Havoc Atlas
The Havoc Atlas is Havoc Racing Co.’s most accessible Z87.1+ model — making it the perfect starting point for anyone who needs certified eye protection without going over budget. Don’t let the price fool you. The Atlas punches well above its weight class, carrying the same military ballistic certification as premium-tier glasses that cost 3–4x more.
Included in the Box:
- Havoc Atlas Sunglasses
- Microfiber bag & cleaning cloth
- Premium hard case
💀 Havoc Reaper
The Havoc Reaper is Havoc Racing Co.’s most feature-packed Z87.1+ model — a true tactical-grade sunglass designed for professionals who log long hours in demanding environments. The standout feature is the interchangeable lens system, letting you switch from tinted to clear without tools, ensuring you always have the right optical setup regardless of lighting conditions.
Included in the Box:
- Havoc Reaper Sunglasses (tinted lens)
- FREE clear ANSI Z87.1+ lens
- Replacement nose piece
- Blank prescription insert
- Microfiber bag & cloth
- Premium hard case
🦅 Havoc Raptor
The Havoc Raptor is Havoc Racing Co.’s large-coverage model — featuring a bold wraparound lens design that extends peripheral protection to shield your eyes from hazards approaching from the sides as well as head-on. If you work in environments where flying particles, dust, and UV exposure come from all angles, the Havoc Raptor was built specifically for you.
Included in the Box:
- Havoc Raptor Sunglasses (tinted lens)
- FREE clear ANSI Z87.1+ lens
- Blank prescription insert
- Microfiber bag & cloth
- Premium hard case
😈 Havoc Diablo
The Havoc Diablo is Havoc Racing Co.’s most aggressive-looking model — a bold, full-coverage wraparound frame available in striking colorways that makes an undeniable statement without sacrificing a single spec of protection. The Havoc Diablo’s broad lens covers the entire orbital area, providing comprehensive protection from debris, UV, and impact hazards approaching from any angle.
Included in the Box:
- Havoc Diablo Sunglasses (tinted lens)
- FREE clear ANSI Z87.1+ lens
- Replacement nose piece
- Blank prescription insert
- Microfiber bag & cloth
- Premium hard case
🔫 Havoc Magnum
The Havoc Magnum is the most unique model in the Havoc Racing Co. Z87 lineup — a hybrid sunglass that bridges the gap between traditional eyewear and full goggle-style protection. Its defining features are a removable foam gasket around the lens (sealing out dust, sweat, and fine particles like a goggle) and a fully removable lens system, making it the most versatile option in the lineup. One pair. Two setups. Any condition.
Included in the Box:
- Havoc Magnum Sunglasses (tinted lens + foam seal)
- FREE clear ANSI Z87.1 compliant lens
- Premium hard case
- Microfiber pouch
All 5 Havoc Racing Co. Z87 Models at a Glance
| Model | Price | Z87.1+ | Polarized | Swappable Lens | MIL-PRF Ballistic | Rx Insert | Foam Seal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Havoc Atlas | $60 | ✓ | ✓ | — | ✓ | — | — |
| Havoc Magnum | $60 | ✓ | — | ✓ | — | — | ✓ Removable |
| Havoc Raptor | $75 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — |
| Havoc Diablo | $80 | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — |
| Havoc Reaper | $85 | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — |
Havoc Racing Co. vs. The Competition
The safety sunglass market is crowded — Wiley X, Oakley, Pit Viper, and Heat Wave Visual all compete in the Z87 space. So how does Havoc Racing Co. stack up? When you compare price, included accessories, and certification level, the picture becomes unmistakably clear.
Price Comparison: What You Pay vs. What You Get
| Brand | Entry Z87 Price | Extra Lens Included | Rx Insert Included | Hard Case Included | Ballistic Cert. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ★ Havoc Racing Co. — Atlas / Magnum | $60 | ✓ Most models | ✓ Most models | ✓ | ✓ MIL-PRF-31013 |
| ★ Havoc Racing Co. — Raptor | $75 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ MIL-PRF-31013 |
| ★ Havoc Racing Co. — Diablo / Reaper | $80–$85 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ MIL-PRF-31013 |
| Heat Wave Visual | $55–$120 | — | — | — | — |
| Pit Viper | $79–$130+ | — | — | — | — |
| Wiley X | $95–$225+ | — | Extra cost | Extra cost | Select models only |
| Oakley | $154–$432 | — | Extra cost | Extra cost | Select models only |
Oakley’s entry-level Z87 safety glasses start at $154+ — sold without an extra lens, without a prescription insert, and without a hard case. Wiley X starts at $95 for basic models where accessories cost extra. Meanwhile, Havoc Racing Co. gives you a complete, ready-to-use safety eyewear system for $60–$85, including the extra lens, prescription insert, microfiber cloth, and hard case. That’s the Havoc Racing Co. value proposition in a nutshell.
Certification Comparison
| Brand | ANSI Z87.1+ | UV400 | Military Ballistic Std. | Price to Reach Ballistic Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ★ Havoc Racing Co. | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ MIL-PRF-31013 | $60–$85 |
| Wiley X | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ Select models | $110–$225+ |
| Oakley | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ Tactical models only | $154–$432+ |
| Pit Viper | ✓ Z87+ models | ✓ | — Not offered | N/A |
| Heat Wave Visual | ✓ | ✓ | — Not offered | N/A |
The key takeaway: brands like Wiley X and Oakley do offer ballistic-certified models — but you need to spend $110–$200+ to reach that tier. Havoc Racing Co.’s Atlas ($60) and Raptor ($75) include MIL-PRF-31013 ballistic certification right at the entry level. Military-grade eye protection shouldn’t require a premium price tag — and with Havoc Racing Co., it doesn’t.
5 Reasons Havoc Racing Co. Is the Best Z87 Brand
for Price & Protection
🛡 Dual Certification — Z87.1+ AND MIL Ballistic
Most brands offer one or the other. Havoc Racing Co. builds sunglasses that earn both — ANSI Z87.1+ for occupational compliance AND MIL-PRF-31013 for military ballistic impact resistance. This dual certification across the $60–$85 range is essentially unmatched in the market.
💰 $60–$85 vs. $95–$432 for Competitors
Havoc Racing Co.’s entire Z87 lineup lives in a price band dramatically below Wiley X, Oakley, and Pit Viper — while delivering identical core safety certifications. You don’t pay a brand premium with Havoc Racing Co. You pay for protection.
📦 Every Purchase Is a Complete Kit
While competitors sell you just a frame, Havoc Racing Co. ships a complete system: tinted sunglass lens, extra clear Z87.1+ lens, prescription insert, microfiber cloth, and a hard case. You’re instantly ready for any lighting condition from day one.
🔄 Replaceable Lens Systems
The Havoc Reaper, Raptor, Diablo, and Magnum all feature interchangeable lens designs — when a lens gets scratched or you want a different tint, swap it in seconds for a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire pair. A feature typically reserved for premium-tier brands.
🏃 Built by Off-Road Goggle Experts
Havoc Racing Co. didn’t stumble into eyewear. They built their name crafting premium off-road goggles for riders who cannot afford optical failure at speed. That zero-compromise engineering mindset carries directly into every Z87 sunglass they produce.
What People Are Saying About Havoc Racing Co. Z87 Sunglasses
“Got the checkers ones and they are awesome. Absolutely love them. Best sunglasses I’ve ever had.”
Verified Buyer — Havoc Atlas (4.29/5 stars)
“I have some Havoc sunglasses that are z87.1+. I have them in G15 and copper lenses and absolutely love them!”
Reddit User — r/IBEW Community
“The shatter resistant lens protects me from all the bugs and debris. Best part, the ‘Temple’ part of the frame is incredibly thin, flexible and comfortable.”
Verified Buyer — Havoc Reaper Review
📄 Sources & References
- Havoc Racing Co. — Official ANSI Z87 Collection
- Havoc Atlas Z87.1+ — Baja Racing Gear
- Havoc Atlas Z87.1+ — Shoreline Apparel
- Havoc Reaper Z87.1+ — On 2 Wheels BMX
- Havoc Reaper Z87.1+ — Amazon
- Havoc Raptor Z87.1+ — Shoreline Apparel
- Havoc Raptor Z87.1+ — Becker Safety
- Havoc Diablo Z87.1+ — Shoreline Apparel
- Havoc Diablo Z87.1+ — Becker Safety
- Havoc Magnum Z87.1 — Throttle Co
- What Does ANSI Z87.1 Certified Mean? — Safety Glasses USA
- ANSI Z87.1 Demystified — Ocusafe
- ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2025 Current Standard — ANSI Official Blog
- Wiley X Safety Glasses Collection
- Pit Viper Z87+ Safety Collection
- Heat Wave Visual Z87 Safety Glasses
- Oakley Safety Glasses — Safety Glasses USA
- Community Discussion: Safety Sunglasses — r/IBEW Reddit
Disclaimer: Prices and product specifications are subject to change. Always verify current pricing and availability directly at havocracingco.com. ANSI Z87.1+ certification details and ballistic ratings are sourced from official product listings and authorized retailers at time of publication.
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