Best Aviation Sunglasses

Choosing  the best aviation sunglasses  can be hard because they are normally designed for fashion and not for function. So by choosing a good pair of sunglasses you will reduce glare, reduce eye fatigue and improve vision.

The optimal light transmittance for pilot sunglasses is between 16%-20% and neutral grey is considered to be the best tint. A lot of pilots will have a general pair and also special tinted ones for conditions that might be unique to their area. Yellow filters are considered good for snow or high altitude pilots. Green filters are considered the best if you are in and out of grass strips a lot like agricultural or bush pilots.

100% UVA and UVB is a must but that is pretty standard for almost all glasses these days. Polarized is not recommended because it will interfere with the LCD screens in the cockpit and it might filter out that flash of light that you need to see to locate another plane.

Lenses can be made out of  glass, CR29 and polycarbonate .Glass is the hardest and most scratch resistant. CR29 is best if you prefer very light in weight glasses but they will scratch easier.

When you try on a new pair take your headset with you to see how comfortable they sit under it.

RayBan Wayfarer

Ray Ban is the world’s most iconic eyewear brand and there are numerous models to suite everyone’s taste. The original Ray Ban Aviator is a classic, but if you are not so fond of that styling the Ray Ban  Wayfarer design is very popular among pilots.

A durable plastic frame with many different  crystal lens options  and modest pricing makes these sunglasses a favorite. Temple material is easily heat formed to better fit any face.The frame comes in a 52mm and 55mm size, but the later is the only size to buy if you are not buying for a child.

Randolph Enginering

Randolph Engineering is one of the prime contractors for military-style aviation flight glasses for the US Dept. of Defense. They are one of the original manufacturers of the classics aviator styled sunglasses and the quality is of a high standard.

The lenses are made of sapphire glass and are scratch resistant. The classic style aviators come in 3 sizes and 2 different colors.

The bayonet earpiece sits comfortably under your headset, although the glasses are a little heavy.

Serengeti

Serengeti
Serengeti sunglasses have been a trusted brand for pilots for a long time. Their frames tend to be lightweight and comfortable under a headset. The lenses are available in a variety of options.