Fallout Meets Eyewear: Going Under the Hood With GUNNAR’s Vault 33 and Brotherhood Glasses
I’m not going to lie, I’m definitely late to the Fallout Prime Series party. A recent injury knocked me on my ass, so I’ve had nothing but time to catch up on shows. Fallout is one of them, and I have zero regrets – it’s amazing and I cannot wait for Season 3. So when the opportunity came to check out GUNNAR’s officially licensed Fallout eyewear, I didn’t hesitate.
Introduced during the first season, the Fallout Vault 33 glasses bring a distinctly retro-futuristic aesthetic. The Brotherhood of Steel glasses, launched at the start of the second season, lean into the militaristic presence of one of the series’ most iconic factions. Both pairs come at a very reasonable $99 (USD) price point and offer advanced digital eye protection, yet each appeals to a distinct segment of the Fallout fanbase.
Even if you’re not a Fallout fan, you’ll immediately recognize the Vault 33 glasses, as they pay homage to the series’ classic Vault aesthetic. The design blends mid-20th century style with the rugged, survivalist tone of the game and TV series. According to GUNNAR, the square frames are crafted from a combination of stainless steel and nylon. They are also complemented by olive metal temples. It’s a slick yet subtle nod to the retro-futuristic style that Fallout fans have come to love.
One of the standout features of the Vault 33 glasses is their built-in side shields. These not only enhance the Fallout aesthetic but also offer a subtle measure of light protection. The frames feature flexible spring hinges, which add to overall comfort. Inside the lenses, GUNNAR says their patented technology blocks harmful blue light and provides 100 percent UV protection. I’m no glasses expert, so I have to take their word for it. The G-Shield Plus coating adds an anti-reflective, smudge-resistant layer. A welcome bonus for someone like me, whose grubby hands are constantly smudging their reading glasses.
I love that the Vault 33 glasses arrive in a sweet collectors’ package that feels as much a part of the fan experience as the frames themselves. Each set comes with a Fallout-branded microfiber pouch, a dedicated Fallout cleaning cloth, and a 12-month warranty. It’s this attention to detail that makes the Vault 33 glasses a must-have for those who appreciate slick gaming eyewear and collectible memorabilia.
That all being said, the square frame may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you are looking for a bold fashion statement, you won’t find it here. Additionally, the lenses come in a single standard tint, which may not suit every lighting environment or personal preference.
If you’re looking to make a louder statement, the Brotherhood of Steel glasses may be right up your alley. The rounded aviator design is finished in weathered gunmetal, paying homage to the steel plating of the Brotherhood’s power armor. Subtle engravings feature the faction’s emblem on one lens, while the temple has the battle cry “Ad Victoriam.” It’s these little details that fans will no doubt appreciate.
Unlike the Vault 33 glasses, the Brotherhood frames offer a range of lens tints, including Amber, Amber Sun-Shift, Sun, and Amber Max. This is a nice bonus for those who need to adapt to different lighting conditions throughout the day.
The Brotherhood of Steel glasses, like their Vault 33 counterparts, feature GUNNAR’s advanced lens technology, complete with the G-Shield Plus coating for anti-reflective, smudge-resistant protection. They are also designed to block harmful blue light and UV rays. This makes them perfect for marathon gaming sessions or extended screen time. The frames also feature those flexible spring hinges, which keep everything cozy.
Collector appeal is high, with each pair arriving in a metal “Area 51” case, accompanied by a microfiber pouch featuring Brotherhood artwork and a custom cleaning cloth adorned with Fallout designs. It is that attention to presentation that elevates these glasses beyond simple functional eyewear.
That said, the Brotherhood glasses are a little heavier and may feel bulky to some. Also, the Brotherhood designs could feel too niche for general Fallout fans.
Ultimately, choosing between the Vault 33 and Brotherhood of Steel glasses comes down to personal taste and perhaps even fandom loyalty. The Vault 33 glasses are a nod to classic Fallout design. The Brotherhood glasses, by contrast, offer up a design that proudly declares allegiance to one of Fallout’s most iconic groups. Either way, it’s a win-win.
Both glasses deliver on GUNNAR’s promise of eye protection, blocking harmful blue light, offering UV defense, and providing smudge-resistant, anti-reflective coatings. Both come with premium collector packaging, and the price is right. The choice is a matter of preference and which facet of the Fallout universe you want to embrace. Either way, these frames prove that in the Fallout universe, even eyewear can be immersive, collectible, and functional.
***Glasses provided to COGconnected for the purpose of this feature***