Gaming is an extremely popular—or, as some may argue, the most popular—form of entertainment we enjoy today. That’s because it appeals to a vast audience: with its diverse genres covering everything from fantasy to racing, there’s truly a title for everyone to enjoy. 

Gen Z gamers are no exception. In fact, the latest data from Statista reveals that the 16-24 and 25-34 age groups play video games the most. Since Gen Z comprises individuals born between 1997 and 2012 and are turning 12-27 years old this 2024, they currently make up the most committed population of gamers in the world. 

However, that doesn’t take away from the fact that gaming has health impacts, especially when done frequently. Long gaming sessions can result in blue light overexposure, and our article  notes that this can permanently damage your vision over time. 

That’s, fortunately, why dedicated gaming glasses exist. These block out blue light and are specifically designed to be worn comfortably while gaming. But with all the gaming glasses options available on the market, where should you start? Here are a few of the best eyewear brands to try. 

Oakley

Though you may know it best for its sports apparel, this brand also counts gaming as part of its activewear niche. Video game enthusiasts can seek eye protection from Oakley’s gaming glasses, which customize the brand’s trademark technologies for gamers. They boast PRIZM Gaming 2.0 lenses for improved color and contrast and blue light filtering, enlarged O-Matter frames that enhance your field of vision while gaming, ultra-thin temples for headset compatibility, and adjustable nosepads so they don’t slip off during intense play.

And through its partnerships, there’s no doubt that Oakley designs its gaming glasses for younger gamers. One need only look at its new collaboration with Fortnite, one of the most well-known video games among Gen Z. Their Oakley Helux Fortnite gaming glasses offer all the features mentioned above while translating the aesthetics of Fortnite into Oakley eyewear, ultimately making Oakley one of the best brands for understanding Gen Z’s gaming needs and preferences.

GUNNAR Optiks

GUNNAR Optiks has always specialized in creating gaming and computer glasses, which is why Gen Z may prefer the gaming glasses that come from this brand. After all, McKinsey’s 2018 report “True Gen” notes that individuals from this generation prefer to research brands before buying from them. The fact that GUNNAR’s eyewear is clinically proven to be effective and is approved for HSA/FSA purchases may persuade Gen Z gamers to trust this brand for their needs. 

With two lens tints – “Clear,” which blocks 35% of blue light, and “Amber,” which blocks 65% – and anti-glare and smudge-resistant coatings, even the youngest and clumsiest Gen Z gamers can benefit from investing in GUNNAR Optiks glasses. The styles even come in a protective case with a clip for attaching to backpacks, so users can bring them wherever they go.

Roshambo

Roshambo has designed eyewear for everyone, from babies to adults, since 2012, with frames manufactured in Italy and assembled in the United States. Most of its offerings are designed with kids in mind, which may appeal to younger Gen Z gamers. Yet since the brand’s eyewear encompasses all age groups, anyone Gen Z may appreciate this crucial fact: you can buy sustainable glasses from Roshambo. The company is working toward a goal of ensuring all its glasses are made from recyclable materials, which they’re making great strides towards. In 2022 alone, it reused over 750 pounds of waste to sell 30,000 frames. 

That’s something that may make Roshambo one of the best gaming glasses options for sustainability-minded Gen Z consumers. Though kids can only get optional blue light filters on their specs, teen and adult Gen Z gamers can peruse the brand’s collection of Screen Time Specs that are extremely soft and durable and block over 80% of blue light, all while staying comfortable enough to wear for long gaming sessions. 

There’s no doubt about it: Gen Z loves gaming. However, these digital natives are at the most risk of incurring permanent eye damage from too much gaming screen time. Fortunately, these three eyewear brands provide options that can appeal to this generation and encourage them to protect their eyesight.  

Published by: Aly Cinco