The only mandatory piece of equipment in airsoft is eye protection. 
It doesn't matter what replica, uniform, or tactical gear you're using. Without proper eye protection, you simply shouldn't step onto the field. Replicas can be repaired or replaced. Your eyesight cannot.

Although awareness has improved significantly over the years, it's still common to see players lifting their goggles to clear fog, wearing uncertified eyewear, or relying on work safety glasses that were never designed to withstand the impacts that can occur during an airsoft game. 

Not All Glasses Are Equal

One of the most common misconceptions is that any polycarbonate lens is good enough. The reality is that a lens only provides reliable protection if it has passed specific impact-resistance tests.

The most common certifications today are: 
• ANSI Z87.1+, the U.S. standard for high-impact protection. 
• EN166 B or A, the European standard for professional eye protection. 
• MIL-PRF-32432, the military standard used by many tactical eyewear manufacturers.

If a pair of glasses doesn't clearly display one of these certifications, it's best to avoid it. 

Coverage Is Just as Important as Resistance

It's not enough for the lens to survive an impact. It must also prevent a BB from reaching your eye through the sides or underneath. 
For this reason, most fields require fully sealed goggles or full-face masks, especially for younger players or during CQB games. 

Fogging Is Still the Biggest Enemy

The main reason players remove their goggles during a game is still fogging.Fortunately, anti-fog technology has improved dramatically in recent years. Today, you can find lenses with permanent anti-fog coatings, dual-pane systems, and even models featuring active ventilation with integrated micro fans.

If your goggles constantly fog up, the issue goes beyond comfort—it increases the risk that you'll lift them during a game. 

Invest Where It Really Matters

It's surprising how many players are willing to spend hundreds—or even thousands—of euros on replicas, optics, and tactical gear, yet try to save money on the single most important piece of equipment they own. 
A quality pair of certified protective glasses can last for years and accompany you through hundreds of games. 
The price difference between certified and non-certified eye protection is often only a few euros.

Because in airsoft, there is one rule that should never be broken: 
If the goggles come off, the game is over.