Life Style

Wiley X Saint Vs. Valor: Which Sunglasses Are Right For You?

Published by
Matthew William

When it comes to protective eyewear, Wiley X is one of the most trusted brands on the market. Two of their popular models are the Wiley X Saint and the Wiley X Valor. But what are the key differences between these two pairs of sunglasses? Which one is better for your needs?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the Wiley X Saint and Valor, looking at the pros and cons of each model. We’ll cover factors like appearance, fit and comfort, lens technology, durability, and price so you can determine which Wiley X sunglasses are the best choice for you.

Brief Comparison Table

SpecsWiley X SaintWiley X Valor
Frame MaterialTriloid NylonTriloid Nylon
Lens MaterialShatterproof Selenite PolycarbonateShatterproof Selenite Polycarbonate
Lens TypePolarizedNon-Polarized
UV Protection100% UVA/UVB 400nm100% UVA/UVB 400nm
ANSI RatingZ87.1 High Velocity ImpactNot Rated
Price$$$$$

Frame And Fit

When it comes to the frames, the Wiley X Saint and Valor are quite similar. Both models feature durable yet flexible triloid nylon frames. This material is designed to withstand impacts while providing a secure and comfortable fit.

Wiley X Saint

The Wiley X Saint has a wraparound style frame with wide temples and nose pads. This helps block out peripheral light and keep the glasses firmly in place. The Valor has a more scaled down frame but still offers full eye coverage.

Both the Saint and Valor come in a range of sizes to accommodate different face shapes. The Saint runs from size 52 to 62, while the Valor ranges from 53 to 58. Trying both models on is recommended to find your ideal fit.

Lens Technology

One of the biggest differences between the Wiley X Saint and Valor is lens technology.

The Saint features polarized lenses that filter out 99% of glare. This reduces eyestrain and improves clarity, especially in bright, sunny conditions near water. The polarization also enhances color and contrast.

The Valor has Wiley X’s standard Selenite polycarbonate lenses. These are not polarized but still offer excellent optical clarity and 100% UVA/UVB protection up to 400nm. The Valor lenses have a subtle emerald tint to enhance definition.

So in terms of lenses, the polarized Saint provides the very best glare reduction. But the Valor still delivers superb optical quality and UV protection, just without polarization.

Durability

Both the Wiley X Saint and Valor deliver superior durability, as expected from Wiley X sunglasses.

Wiley X Valor

The Saint meets ANSI Z87.1 High Velocity Impact standards. This means they can withstand impacts from high speed particles up to 150 ft/s.

The Valor lenses are not ANSI rated. However, they still provide excellent impact resistance thanks to the shatterproof Selenite polycarbonate material.

For frames, the nylon construction on both models is extremely hardy and built to last. So in terms of everyday wear and tear, the Saint and Valor perform similarly. The Saint simply meets that extra ANSI safety rating for extreme impacts.

Price

In terms of price, the Wiley X Saint retails for around $180-$200 while the Wiley X Valor costs $115-$135.

So the Valor is clearly the more budget-friendly option. However, the Saint offers extras like polarized lenses and ANSI certification to justify the higher price tag.

For many, the polarized lenses of the Saint will be well worth the additional investment. But the Valor still delivers outstanding performance for those who don’t require polarization or ANSI impact ratings.

Pros And Cons

Wiley X Saint

Pros

  • Polarized lenses drastically reduce glare
  • ANSI rated for high velocity impacts
  • Full wrap-around frame with wide temples for extra coverage
  • Comes in larger size range to fit more face shapes

Cons

  • More expensive than Valor model
  • Larger frame not ideal for smaller faces

Wiley X Valor

Pros

  • More affordable price point
  • Compact sizing works well for smaller faces
  • Clear Wiley X lenses provide 100% UVA/UVB 400nm protection
  • Durable nylon frames

Cons

  • Lenses not polarized
  • No ANSI impact rating
  • Smaller fit not ideal for larger heads

Also watch this video!

FAQs

Why are Wiley X sunglasses so expensive?

Wiley X sunglasses are more expensive than average sunglasses for a few reasons. First, they use high-end materials like polarized lenses and impact-resistant polycarbonate that increase manufacturing costs. Second, many Wiley X models meet ANSI safety standards, requiring extra durability testing.
Finally, as a leading protective eyewear brand, Wiley X can command higher prices in the market. While the price tag is higher, you’re paying for top-tier quality.

Are Wiley X glasses made in China?

No, Wiley X sunglasses are made in the USA. Their headquarters and manufacturing facility is located in Idaho. A few select models may use imported materials, but the glasses themselves are assembled right in the USA. The American-made quality allows Wiley X to tightly control standards and construct durable, safe products.

Is Wiley X Saint ANSI rated?

Yes, the Wiley X Saint meets ANSI Z87.1 High Velocity Impact standards. Specifically, it is rated to withstand impacts from particles travelling up to 150 feet per second. This ANSI rating provides assurance of the Saint’s ability to protect against fast-moving projectiles and impacts. Wiley X puts each pair of Saint sunglasses through rigorous testing to achieve ANSI certification.

Is Wiley X a good brand?

Wiley X is widely considered one of the best protective eyewear brands available. They’ve built a reputation for durable, high-quality sunglasses that meet ANSI safety standards. Key benefits of Wiley X include:

Innovative lens technology like polarization and Rx-ability
USA-based manufacturing with strict quality controls
Extensive style and size options to suit different needs
Consistent protection from UVA/UVB rays across all lenses
Frames and lenses engineered to withstand rugged use

So whether you need ANSI-rated sunglasses for work or outdoor recreation, Wiley X is regarded as a top brand that delivers exceptional vison protection. Their sunglasses may cost more than average, but users agree the quality and safety is well worth it.

Also Read: Differences Between North Face Recon And Jester.

The Verdict

Overall, both the Wiley X Saint and Valor deliver rugged dependability and crystal clear vision that Wiley X is known for. The choice between the two comes down to your needs and budget.

If maximizing glare reduction is critical and you want ANSI-rated impact protection, the Wiley X Saint is likely the best choice. The combination of polarized lenses and High Velocity rating make the Saint an elite protective eyewear option.

For those who don’t require polarization or ANSI certification, the Wiley X Valor provides an affordable alternative. You still get durable frames and superb optics. Just without the extras of the Saint.

Really, you can’t go wrong with either model. Both the Wiley X Saint and Valor are capable sunglasses constructed to the brand’s impeccable standards. Choose based on the features most important for how you’ll use your Wiley X shades.

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