If you’re a pilot who is in IFR training, you need a pair of IFR training glasses that is comfortable to wear while using an aviation headset or wearing eyewear, sufficiently blocks your vision so you only see the instrument panel, and is built to last.
Here are 3 of the best options so you can make the most of your instrument training.
3 Best IFR Training Glasses
Blockalls IFR View Limiting Device
The Blockalls are recommended by AOPA due to their comfort, durability, and ability to comletely prevent glare.
New: $31.95
The Blockalls IFR View Limiting Device has everything that a pilot in IFR training could want or need. Recommended by AOPA, they are light, comfortable, stylish, and durable.
What really sets the Blockalls apart from other IFR training goggles, though, is how they prevent glare even when flying on the sunniest of days – an issue that is unfortunately all too common with these types of glasses. This is due to the design decision to forgo the frosted lenses that other IFR glasses manufacturers are so set on.
The glasses are also comfortable to wear thanks to the soft silicone nose piece, smooth temple tips, and lightweight design, which makes them easy to slide on and off while wearing your headset.
With the Blockalls, your eyes will stay focused on the instrument panel only while fully blocking your peripheral vision.
KMD Aero Aviation Flight Training Glasses
 The KMD Aero Aviation Flight Training Glasses are an excellent inexpensive alternative to the Blockalls.
New: $17.99
The KMD Aero Aviation Flight Training Glasses are an excellent inexpensive choice for pilots in IFR training.
The main problem that many IFR training glasses suffer from is that they are uncomfortable to wear – not only when wearing an aviation headset but also when wearing any eyewear. Thankfully, that isn’t an issue with the KMD Aero Aviation Flight Training Glasses thanks to their comfortable, adjustable lightweight design.
Made from shatterproof polycarbonate, the frosted lenses are definitely built to last and manage to mostly block out everything but the instruments. The high brow area is smartly designed to prevent peeking, which is just as well as we all know the temptation to peek can at times be too much despite our best intentions.
Feather Hood – IFR Training Hood
The Feather Hood is lightweight and uniquely designed to maximize comfort.
New: $19.95
Okay, so the Feather Hood, which was designed by an 11,500+ hour CFII-ATP pilot and is accepted by the FAA for check rides, isn’t actually a pair of IFR training glasses, but it is still worth your consideration.
This is mainly due to the Feather IFR Training Hood’s unique design that ensures you won’t run into any issues no matter which pair of sunglasses or aviation headset you wear.
The Feather Hood is also very light at just 1 ounce and folds flat to easily store in your flight bag, seat pocket, or kneeboard.
Other IFR Training Glasses We Looked At
We had a look at two other popular IFR training goggles, including the Foggles View Limiting Device and Jeppesen Shades IFR Flip-Up Training Glasses.
The Foggles do just an okay job at blocking sight but leave too much of your peripheral vision available. They don’t do well on very sunny days either, resulting in blinding glare. They also suffer from poor build quality and don’t provide the most comfortable fit when wearing glasses or an aviation headset.
We like how the Jeppesen Shades have a flip-up design, but they are a no-go due to their poor workmanship. Many pilots find that they break at the hinge point after a while. They can also be a bit of a hassle to first put on.
Benjamin is a licensed pilot who has tested and reviewed countless aviation supplies and equipment over the years on his way to becoming certified.
Aspiring pilots know that the cost of becoming a pilot can be steep, especially when it comes to purchasing the necessary supplies and equipment. Luckily, Benjamin is here to help, sharing his product recommendations so that others can save time and money.
Whether you're in need of an aviation headset, handheld radio, ADS-B receiver, or any other product for the cockpit, Benjamin has the knowledge and experience to guide you in the right direction.
With Benjamin's guidance, aspiring pilots can feel confident in their equipment choices, and focus on their training to become licensed pilots.
Benjamin has been quoted or mentioned in major publications, including The Savvy Globetrotter.
You can email Benjamin at productreviews@executiveflyers.com
