What is the difference between Z87.1 and Z87.1+ safety standards?

ANSI Z87.1 is the base safety eyewear standard designed for general workplace hazards, passing a basic drop-ball test where a 1-inch steel ball is dropped from 50 inches onto the lens. ANSI Z87.1+ with the plus sign adds two additional and significantly more demanding tests: the High-Velocity Impact Test where a quarter-inch steel ball is fired at approximately 150 feet per second at the lens, and the High-Mass Impact Test where a pointed steel weight is dropped directly onto the lens from height. To pass Z87.1+, the lens must remain intact and stay retained in the frame through both tests. The difference between Z87.1 and Z87.1+ is the difference between protection against falling tools and protection against high-speed projectiles, a meaningful distinction for shooters, tactical professionals, and industrial workers around high-speed machinery.

Does POPZULU meet ANSI Z87.1+ standards?

Yes. Every pair of POPZULU ballistic eyewear is certified to ANSI Z87.1+ across both lens and frame. The Z87+ marking appears on both the lens surface and the frame, verifying that the complete assembly meets the standard. Additionally, POPZULU exceeds Z87.1+ by meeting MIL-PRF-32432 military ballistic standards, which tests at approximately 660 feet per second versus Z87.1+'s approximately 150 feet per second. For users who need to verify compliance for occupational safety requirements, POPZULU's Z87+ marking on both lens and frame constitutes verification of ANSI Z87.1+ compliance as defined by the standard.

Is Z87.1+ enough for shooting range use?

ANSI Z87.1+ is the minimum accepted standard for shooting range eye protection and provides meaningful protection against the primary range hazards of brass ejection, powder blowback, and low-velocity fragmentation. However, for steel target shooting, military-style drills, or any scenario involving high-velocity ricochet potential, MIL-PRF-32432 compliance provides a higher confidence level of protection at the 660 fps test velocity versus Z87.1+'s 150 fps. Most range safety standards mandate Z87.1+ as the minimum. POPZULU's dual Z87.1+ and MIL-PRF-32432 certification provides compliance at both the minimum range safety standard and the higher military protection specification. Professional instructors and competitive shooters who have the option consistently choose higher-rated protection.

The Difference Between Z87.1 and Z87.1+ - And Why the "Plus" Matters

By The Popticals Team 2 min read

Two Labels. Big Difference.

Walk into any hardware store or job site, and you'll see eyewear marked "Z87"—but that doesn't mean it can protect you from high-speed impact or serious eye injury. There's a critical difference between ANSI Z87.1 and ANSI Z87.1+ and if you're using your eyewear on a shooting range, industrial site, or in tactical settings, the "plus" isn't optional.

What Is ANSI Z87.1?

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) developed the Z87.1 standard to rate eye protection for basic workplace hazards like dust, debris, and chemical splashes. While Z87.1-certified eyewear passes a basic drop-ball test, it does not guarantee protection against high-velocity or high-mass impacts. This level of certification is suitable for low-risk environments but not for shooters, law enforcement, or high-risk industrial use.

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What Does the "+" in Z87.1+ Mean?

The Z87.1+ rating signifies that the eyewear has passed much more rigorous impact testing. This includes a High-Velocity Impact Test, where a 1/4 inch steel ball is shot at over 150 fps, and a High-Mass Impact Test, where a heavy pointed object is dropped directly onto the lens. To pass, the lenses must stay intact and stay in the frame. This is the minimum standard required for tactical eyewear and serious industrial applications.

Why POPZULU™ Is Z87.1+ (And More)

Every pair of POPZULU™ eyewear is certified to ANSI Z87.1+, protecting you from fast-moving projectiles, flying brass, and nail gun misfires. Furthermore, POPZULU™ also meets MIL-PRF-32432 military ballistic standards, offering protection at even higher combat thresholds.

When selecting gear, always check the mark. True Z87.1+ eyewear will have "Z87+" stamped on the lens or frame. If there is no "+" sign, there is no impact rating. Don't assume you're covered—only Z87.1+ certified eyewear will keep your eyes truly protected in high-risk environments.