For many gamers, a gaming headset is a must-have for competitive advantage in-game and a more immersive experience. However, another gaming essential that has become increasingly common is a good pair of glasses. According to data from Fortune Business Insights, the global eyewear market is projected to grow $172.42 billion by 2028. Some of the factors associated with this market growth are the heightened awareness of optical issues as well as the increasing prevalence of vision problems.
A common issue among gamers is the eye strain we suffer after hours of long gaming sessions. This may lead to vision issues like blurriness or dizziness for some people. As such, it’s no wonder that glasses are becoming more and more in demand among gamers. However, a dilemma persists — how do you wear your gaming headset with glasses on, without your ears or head hurting after long periods? Below, we’ll provide some tips:
Get headset-compatible glasses
One of the things you can do to ensure comfort while wearing your headset and glasses simultaneously is to get glasses that are designed to be worn with headsets. Eyewear brand Oakley has many high-performance glasses in their collection, but some are more headset-compatible than others. The Holbrook, for example, features flat arms made with the brand’s patented lightweight O Matter™ material, ensuring all-day comfort for wearers. Oakley’s O Matter™ technology makes models like the Holbrook more durable, flexible, and sweat-resistant, which can come in handy for intense gaming.
To ensure full comfort, it’s best to avoid eyewear with thick or chunky frames that end up squeezing into your head when you have a beefy headset clamping down on your ears. You’ll also want to ensure your glasses are the right fit for your head size and aren’t necessarily tight to begin with.
Look for headsets with adjustable headbands
Aside from changing the kind of glasses you wear, you can always adjust your headset of choice. In a previous post explaining tips for buying a gaming headset, we highlighted how wireless headsets can provide more mobility and reduce clutter. Wireless headsets also ensure no cables can get tangled in your glasses’ frames when you take your headset off. We also mentioned that comfort is vital. You should look for headsets with cushioned ear cups and adjustable headbands so that you can find the perfect fit.
Having adjustable headbands, of course, also ensures you can try various headset fittings with different glasses. If you find that your glasses are digging too much into your skin, you may want to adjust your headbands for a looser fit. If it stops hurting later, you’ll always be able to tighten it back for a more comfortable fit.
Consider IEMs
IEMs, or in-ear monitors, have not always been associated with gaming. Most people would opt for a headset or earbuds when they think of gaming and audio. However, IEMs have recently become increasingly popular for uses outside of music. Many companies have begun investing in gaming IEMs that are aesthetically designed to fit the gamer vibe and often have audio profiles that are more suited for gaming. Today, gaming IEMs offer various features like portability, noise isolation, and clear voice communication for mobile and multiplayer gaming.
One of the benefits of wearing IEMs instead of a headset is that your ears are freed from the weight and pressure of earmuffs squeezing your glasses into your head. Of course, whether you opt for gaming IEMs or a gaming headset depends on your preferences and priorities. Some people take issue with the flatter sound in IEMs as they may want more bass.
Ultimately, there are many ways you can ensure all day comfort when gaming with a headset and pair of glasses on. Of course, it’s important to prioritize your comfort and well-being, so if you find that your ears or head are starting to hurt during longer grinds, it may be a sign to take a short break.
