Best Sunglasses
Best Aviator Sunglasses
If you’re in the market for a new pair of sunglasses, aviators are a classic and stylish choice.
We explore the history of aviator sunglasses, what sets them apart from other styles, the benefits of wearing them, how to choose the best aviator sunglasses for your face shape, and some popular brands to consider.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of aviators or considering trying them out for the first time, read on to learn everything you need to know about these iconic shades.
What Are Aviator Sunglasses?
Aviator sunglasses are a popular style of eyewear characterized by their oversized teardrop-shaped lenses and thin metal frames.
Originally designed for pilots to protect their eyes while flying, aviator sunglasses have evolved over the years to become a symbol of style and sophistication. Their timeless design and association with classic Hollywood movies have cemented their iconic status in the fashion world.
What sets aviator sunglasses apart is their versatile appeal, suiting a wide range of face shapes and outfits. The distinctive shape of the lenses not only lends a sense of coolness but also provides excellent coverage and UV protection for the eyes.
History of Aviator Sunglasses
The history of aviator sunglasses dates back to the 1930s when they were first developed by Bausch & Lomb for pilots in the US Army Air Corps. The original design featured large lenses to cover a wide range of vision and thin metal frames for lightweight comfort. Over the years, aviator sunglasses gained popularity beyond the aviation industry and became a symbol of style and sophistication.
One key factor that contributed to the widespread appeal of aviator sunglasses was their association with military heroes and the iconic figures of the aviation world. Innovators like Ray-Ban further propelled their popularity by incorporating anti-glare technology and enhancing the durability of the frames. The 1950s saw aviator sunglasses transition from functional eyewear to a fashion statement, endorsed by celebrities and movie stars, solidifying their status as a timeless accessory.
What Makes Aviator Sunglasses Different?
Aviator sunglasses stand out for several distinct features that set them apart from other eyewear options. These include their unique shape and design, the materials used in their construction, and their specific purpose and functionality.
One of the most striking design elements of the best aviator sunglasses is their teardrop-shaped lenses, which not only provide a classic and timeless look but also offer excellent coverage and protection from both the sun and wind. The frames are typically crafted from lightweight yet durable materials such as stainless steel, titanium, or high-quality plastic, ensuring both comfort and longevity. This combination of style and durability makes aviator sunglasses a popular choice for outdoor activities, driving, and everyday wear.
Shape and Design
The shape and design of aviator sunglasses feature oversized, teardrop-shaped lenses that provide ample coverage for the eyes and surrounding areas. The frames are typically made of lightweight metal, offering durability without compromising on style.
Aviator sunglasses have become an enduring fashion statement due to their timeless appeal and versatile design. The distinctive double or triple bridge across the top bar adds a touch of sophistication to the overall look, while the curved temples offer a comfortable fit for extended wear. Gradient lenses are a popular choice for aviators, transitioning from dark to light for both style and practicality, reducing glare without compromising visibility. The thin metal frame exudes a sleek, modern aesthetic, complementing a wide range of face shapes and outfit choices.
Materials Used
Aviator sunglasses are crafted from high-quality materials to ensure both style and durability. The metal frames are often made from stainless steel or titanium for strength and flexibility, while the lenses can be made from glass or polycarbonate for clarity and impact resistance.
While stainless steel offers a sleek and modern look, titanium provides exceptional strength without adding extra weight. Glass lenses boast superior optical clarity, making them ideal for purists seeking unparalleled visual quality. On the other hand, polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and shatter-resistant, offering excellent protection during outdoor activities. The choice of material influences not only the aesthetics but also the overall durability and performance of the best aviator sunglasses.
Purpose and Function
Aviator sunglasses are designed not just for style but also for practical purposes. They offer excellent sun protection with their large lenses that cover a wide area around the eyes. The teardrop shape helps reduce glare and improve visibility in bright conditions.
These sunglasses are equipped with UV protection, shielding the eyes from harmful rays and preventing potential damage. Their polarized lenses further enhance vision by reducing reflections and enhancing contrast, making them ideal for driving or outdoor activities. Aviator sunglasses are versatile, suitable for both casual wear and outdoor sports, providing a blend of style and functionality. Whether you’re at the beach, on the slopes, or driving on a sunny day, aviators offer reliable protection and clear vision in various lighting conditions.
What Are the Benefits of Aviator Sunglasses?
Aviator sunglasses offer a range of benefits beyond just enhancing your style. These benefits include protection from harmful UV rays, reduced glare for improved vision, versatility in style for various outfits, and comfortable fit for extended wear.
Their protective features shield your eyes from both UVA and UVB rays, safeguarding your vision and reducing the risk of eye damage. By minimizing glare, these sunglasses enhance visibility in bright sunlight or reflective surfaces, making activities such as driving, skiing, or fishing more comfortable and safer. The visual enhancements they provide include heightened contrast, sharper clarity, and reduced eye strain, making them ideal for outdoor adventures and everyday wear.
Consider Your Face Shape
When choosing aviator sunglasses, it’s essential to consider your face shape to ensure a flattering fit. For example, individuals with round faces may opt for angular aviator styles, while those with square faces can balance their features with softer, curved aviator frames.
People with heart-shaped faces can complement their narrower chin by selecting aviator sunglasses that are wider at the bottom.
Oval faces have the advantage of being versatile and can pull off most aviator frame designs.
It’s important for those with diamond-shaped faces to choose aviator sunglasses that don’t accentuate their wider cheekbones, so opting for rimless or thin frames may be ideal.
Matching the right aviator sunglasses to your unique face shape can enhance your overall look and style.
Choose the Right Lens Color
Selecting the right lens color for your aviator sunglasses is crucial for both style and function. Darker lenses like gray or brown are ideal for bright sunlight, while mirrored or colored lenses can add a fashion statement to your eyewear.
Regarding reducing glare, polarized lenses are a top choice, as they provide exceptional clarity by blocking reflected light. These lenses are highly effective in high-glare environments, such as on water or snow.
On the other hand, gradient lenses offer a stylish touch by blending different tint colors from top to bottom. This design not only looks trendy but also allows for better visibility of instrument panels and dashboards while driving.
Check for Quality and Durability
Ensuring the quality and durability of aviator sunglasses is essential for long-term satisfaction and protection. Look for reputable brands known for their craftsmanship, sturdy materials, and reliable UV-protection features to invest in sunglasses that last.
When considering durability, materials play a crucial role. Opt for sunglasses crafted from high-quality metals like stainless steel or lightweight titanium for enhanced resilience against wear and tear. These materials not only provide a sleek design but also ensure longevity.
UV-protection standards are another vital factor to evaluate. Check for sunglasses labeled with UV400 protection, as this indicates they block 99 to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. This shields your eyes from harmful sun exposure and preserves the lenses’ clarity over time.
How to Choose the Best Aviator Sunglasses?
Selecting the best aviator sunglasses involves considering factors like your face shape, the right lens color for your preferences, and ensuring quality and durability of the eyewear. By evaluating these key aspects, you can find aviator sunglasses that not only look great but also provide optimal protection and comfort.
Regarding face shape, aviator sunglasses are versatile and can complement various profiles – from round and heart-shaped to square and oval. It’s essential to try different styles to see what suits you best.
Additionally, lens color plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. For instance, green lenses enhance contrast, while gray lenses maintain natural color balance.
Assessing the quality involves checking for sturdy frames, UV protection, and polarized lenses for reduced glare. By following these guidelines, you can confidently select your perfect pair of the best aviator sunglasses.
What Are Some Popular Brands of Aviator Sunglasses?
Several renowned brands offer a wide selection of best aviator sunglasses to choose from, each with its own unique style and quality. Among the popular brands known for their aviator eyewear are Ray-Ban, Oakley, Maui Jim, Persol, and Prada.
Ray-Ban
Ray-Ban is a leading brand in the aviator sunglasses market, known for its timeless designs, quality craftsmanship, and UV protection features. Their aviator models come in various frame materials and lens options to suit different preferences.
One key strength of Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses is their iconic status, stemming from their use by military pilots and subsequent popularity in the fashion world.
The brand offers a wide range of design variations, from classic gold frames with green lenses to modern interpretations with mirrored or polarized options. Click this link to find out what are the best polarized sunglasses for women.
This product diversity caters to a broad customer base, ranging from trendsetters seeking a retro aesthetic to outdoor enthusiasts prioritizing sun protection.
Oakley
The brand’s commitment to technological advancements is evident in its use of Prizm lens technology, which enhances color, contrast, and detail, providing a clear and sharp vision in various lighting conditions. Oakley’s impact-resistant frames make them ideal for sports enthusiasts who demand durability and protection during intense activities.
Maui Jim
Maui Jim’s aviator sunglasses are not only stylish but also prioritize eye protection through their cutting-edge lens technology. The polarized lenses in Maui Jim sunglasses not only reduce glare and enhance color but also provide 100% UV protection, safeguarding your eyes from harmful sun rays.
What sets Maui Jim apart is its dedication to delivering the best visual clarity possible in every pair of aviator sunglasses. Their lenses are engineered to minimize distortion and offer sharp, clear vision, allowing you to see the world in vivid detail.
Persol
Persol is recognized for its luxury aviator sunglasses that blend classic design with modern sophistication. The brand’s handcrafted frames, crystal lenses, and iconic arrow hinges add a touch of elegance to aviator styles, making Persol a favorite among fashion-conscious consumers.
Handcrafted frames are meticulously created using high-quality materials like acetate and metal, ensuring durability and a luxurious feel. The precision in crafting each pair exudes a sense of artisanal craftsmanship that sets Persol apart in the realm of the best aviator sunglasses. The crystal lenses are not only visually stunning but also offer exceptional clarity and UV protection, perfect for both style and functionality. The iconic arrow hinges are a distinctive feature that not only adds a touch of flair but also ensures durability and flexibility in the frames, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
Prada
The appeal of Prada’s aviator sunglasses lies in their luxurious aesthetics which effortlessly elevate any ensemble. The brand’s commitment to design innovation is evident in the intricate details and modern twists on classic aviator styles. Prada’s eyewear exudes brand prestige that resonates with those who appreciate high-end fashion and style trends. The subtle branding and impeccable craftsmanship of Prada aviator sunglasses make them a coveted accessory for those who value both quality and elegance.
How to Properly Care for Aviator Sunglasses?
Maintaining the quality and longevity of aviator sunglasses requires proper care and handling. Regular cleaning, correct storage methods, and gentle handling are essential to protect the lenses and frames from scratches, dirt, and damage.
When cleaning aviator sunglasses, it is important to use a gentle lens cleaner or mild soap and water with a soft microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the lenses. Be sure to dry them properly with a lint-free cloth to prevent water spots.
For storage, consider investing in a protective case to shield the sunglasses from dust and accidental impacts. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures for extended periods to prevent warping or discoloration of the frames.
Clean Regularly
Regular cleaning is vital to keep aviator sunglasses looking their best and maintaining optical clarity. Use a clean microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution to remove smudges, dirt, and debris from the lenses and frames.
To effectively clean aviator sunglasses, start by blowing away any loose particles or dust. Then, gently wipe the lenses and frames with the microfiber cloth in a circular motion to avoid scratches or damage. For tougher stains, carefully apply lens cleaning solution to the cloth, not directly onto the lenses, before wiping. Remember to clean the frame and hinges as well to prevent buildup and maintain the overall appearance of the sunglasses. Store your sunglasses in a protective case when not in use to prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Store Properly
Proper storage helps protect aviator sunglasses when not in use. Store them in a protective case to prevent scratches, avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or extreme heat, and keep them away from abrasive surfaces that could damage the lenses or frames.
Consider investing in a durable and hard-shell protective case to safeguard your aviator sunglasses from accidental knocks or drops. Also, opt for a moisture-free environment to prevent any potential damage from humidity. When cleaning the sunglasses, always use a microfiber cloth instead of rough paper towels or clothing to avoid scratching the lenses. Never store your aviator sunglasses in cramped spaces where they could get bent or twisted, leading to misalignment of the frames.
Handle with Care
Handling aviator sunglasses with care is essential to avoid accidental damage or misalignment. Always use both hands to put on and remove the sunglasses, avoid bending the frames or applying excessive pressure, and take caution when cleaning or adjusting the fit.
When not in use, make sure to store your aviator sunglasses in a protective case or pouch to shield them from scratches or impacts. Be mindful of where you place them, avoiding surfaces where they could easily be knocked over or stepped on. Regularly inspect the hinges and screws for any looseness and tighten them if necessary to maintain the structural integrity of the sunglasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best aviator sunglasses for men?
Some of the best aviator sunglasses for men include Ray-Ban Aviator Classic, American Optical Original Pilot, and Maui Jim Mavericks.
What are the best aviator sunglasses for women?
The best aviator sunglasses for women include Ray-Ban Aviator Flash Lenses, Tom Ford Anoushka, and Michael Kors Chelsea.
What are the most durable aviator sunglasses?
Some of the most durable aviator sunglasses are made with titanium frames, such as the Randolph Engineering Aviator and the Serengeti Aviator Velocity.
What are the best polarized aviator sunglasses?
The best polarized aviator sunglasses include Maui Jim Mavericks, Oakley Gascan, and Costa Del Mar Blackfin.
What are the best budget-friendly aviator sunglasses?
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, some of the best aviator sunglasses include J+S Premium Military Style Aviator, Sungait Ultra Lightweight Aviator, and SOJOS Classic Aviator.
What are the most stylish aviator sunglasses?
Some of the most stylish aviator sunglasses include Gucci GG0062S, Saint Laurent Classic 11 Aviator, and Prada Linea Rossa PS 53QS.
