Aviator sunglasses date back to 1936, when the U.S. Armed Forces, seeking a solution to help fighter pilots deal with eye strain at higher altitudes, teamed up with Bausch and Lomb to produce eyewear that countered light. The result is one you’re likely familiar with: It featured convex tear-drop glass lenses made from G-15 tempered glass, which transmitted 15 percent of incoming light, and thin metal frames. Though originally called ‘Anti-Glares,’ the frames were rebranded ‘Ray-Ban’ upon release to the public. Today, aviators are offered by countless brands. While lenses, details and price-points vary widely, they all stem from the same military aesthetic — one that champions simplicity, functionality and versatility. Here are 10 to choose from.
Warby Parker Raider Sunglasses
Featuring scratch-resistant polarized lenses made with CR-39 composite for clarity, these aviators are one of the more affordable pairs on the market. They feature a large tear-drop lens, a straight brow bar and Akulon-coated screws for durability.
American Optical has been a favorite of the U.S. military since the ’50s and is one of the few brands still making its frames in the States. Each pair of its General sunglasses is built to military specifications using lightweight metal frames and glass lenses.
Made in the USA, these sunglasses feature non-polarized, scratch-resistant mineral ground-glass lenses. They also have a multi-layer flash coating, a full-metal frame and adjustable silicone nose pads.
Designed by 5th generation Moscot owner, Zack Moscot, these handcrafted aviators offer a streamlined take on the airborne classic, thanks to its straight brow bar and bridge. They feature acetate tips and silicone nose pads as well as a set of dashing Cosmitan Brown lenses.
Crafted in Japan, SALT.’s Resin Sunglasses have are made with titanium for the frames as well as the nose pads. The grooved frames recall art deco aesthetics while the polarized C-39 lenses offer clarity and protection.
These elegant aviators feature a slightly-flattened tear-drop shape and a gently-curved brow bar and nose bridge. They’re are made in Japan with hand-polished gold-toned titanium from temple to nose tip.
Using a patented spiral hinge design, these modern aviators are built with stainless steel and powder-coated for a serious finish. The angular upper half of the lenses in combination with the rounded tear-drop shape give these frames a fashion-forward feel.
Made for the 2020 James Bond film, No Time to Die, these limited edition sunglasses feature engraved gunmetal frames encased in smoky, translucent acetate. The shadowy sunglasses come with C-39 lenses with an anti-reflective coating and come with a commemorative 007-branded case.
Inspired by gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson, these frames are made in collaboration with The Gonzo Foundation with beta titanium gold frames and polished Havana tortoise acetate at the brow bar and at the temple inserts. Hairline details throughout give these sunglasses subtle, but significant, attention-to-detail.
Right now, Backcountry is offering 25 percent off must-have jackets like the Arc'teryx Cerium LT, Macai and Alpha SV in addition to hard-wearing pants like the Sabre AR. But act fast, the sale won't last for long.
The Sonos Move is the brand's first portable speaker and is the right speaker for anyone looking to add quality sound to their Wi-Fi-enabled outdoor space. It also can be a great speaker in any room of the house.
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Our Just Get This pick for a better office chair, the Steelcase Series 1 chair is the best value on the market. On sale for under $400, this is the office chair purchase to make.
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Everlane’s jeans come from a highly-respected Japanese denim mill but at a price point way less than you'd expect. And at half off they're an easy buy in any of the washes.
With temperature adjustability in one-degree increments, temperature hold and a gooseneck spout, this electric kettle from a trusted brand has you covered from your morning pour-over to afternoon tea.
For years, critics and consumers have praised the Jarvis Standing Desk, and for good reason: its stability, design and breadth of customization options make it a worthy investment for the home or office.
Saving over $200 off any Autonomous chair, makers of one of our favorite budget chairs, is always worth it. The Kinn is similar in concept to Herman Miller's Sayl, utilizing a suspension tower support. This equals less materials, more flexibility and optimal support.
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