Don't Waste Your Money is supported by our readers. When you purchase an item through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Aviator Sunglasses

Last updated on August 3, 2024
Best Aviator Sunglasses

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in a category.

Our Picks For The Top Aviator Sunglasses

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Key Takeaway
 Top Pick

mxnx Composite Frames Classic Men’s Aviator Sunglasses

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

mxnx

Composite Frames Classic Men’s Aviator Sunglasses

These men's polarized sunglasses are lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear. They have an aviator design, a durable aluminum alloy frame and 400 UV protection. As an added bonus, the sunglasses come with a cleaning cloth, screwdriver, polarized test card, soft storage case and a hard storage case.

Overall Take

Multiple Color OptionsYou'll find these aviator sunglasses come in a choice of black, silver or brown frames.

 Runner Up

BOTPOV Unisex Adjustable Ends Aviator Sunglasses, 3-Pack

BOTPOV

Unisex Adjustable Ends Aviator Sunglasses, 3-Pack

You'll get not one, not two, but three pairs of aviator sunglasses when you opt for this set. Each has a sleek design with a durable metal frame. The lenses are mirrored and outfitted to both block glare and the sun's harmful UV rays.

Overall Take

Sleek and StylishThese aviator sunglasses come inside a protective bag made from a soft cloth.

 We Also Like

Livhò Polarized Unisex Aviator Sunglasses

Livhò

Polarized Unisex Aviator Sunglasses

Your eyes are one of your most valuable assets, which is why you'll want to protect them with these aviator sunglasses. They are made to shield your eyes from both UVA and UVB radiation. Users will appreciate that that glasses are lightweight and constructed to resist scratching or breaking when dropped.

Overall Take

Budget-Friendly OptionThanks to the affordable price tag on these aviator sunglasses, you'll be able to pick up multiple pairs.

 Strong Contender

SOJOS UV Protection Unisex Aviator Sunglasses

SOJOS

UV Protection Unisex Aviator Sunglasses

If you love all things vintage, then these aviator sunglasses are just up your alley. They are unisex in design and offer protection against the sun's strong UV rays. The frames are nice and lightweight, making them easy to wear. You'll also get a soft protective bag with your purchase.

Overall Take

Multiple Color OptionsYou'll find these aviator sunglasses in eight different colors, including pink, black, silver and blue.

Buying Guide

Whether you want to look like a fighter pilot or a movie star or just want to protect your eyes from the sun, aviator sunglasses are a great choice. These sunglasses are recognizable by their metallic frames, tear-drop shaped lenses and double bridge. Aviator sunglasses bring instant glamor to anyone who wears them, while offering a practical way to keep the sun out of the eyes.

Anyone can wear aviator sunglasses, but they are best suited for those with square, heart or oval-shaped faces. Typically, the frames of your sunglasses should contrast with the natural angles of your face. If you have a rounder face, for example, you can still pull off the aviator look but they might accentuate the curves of your face. When it comes to the fit, aviators are meant to be large on the face, covering your eyebrows. The lenses are convex and curve outward, so your eyelashes should not touch them.

Classic aviator sunglasses have metallic frames that are sleek, modern and highly durable. However, if you want to go with a more budget friendly option, you can find aviators that have plastic frames. While they are not as flashy as metallic frames, plastic frames offer functionality and affordability.

What to Look For

  • The lens color of aviator sunglasses affects how clearly you can see in bright sunshine. For better depth perception and enhanced contrast, go with brown or amber sunglass lenses. Yellow lenses are used to enhance definition and contrast, and are typically best for driving. If you suffer from eye fatigue, then you’ll want to go with gray lenses that reduce glare. Rose lenses are another option that provides good contrast in all weather conditions.
  • The tint of the lens refers to how dark the color is. Tints are typically rated between zero and four. Zero has no tint and four has a dark tint. Many people prefer the look of aviator sunglasses with a dark tint, though this is not recommended for driving. It’s best to have a tint of two or three if you spend a lot of time on the road.
  • To reduce glare while wearing aviator sunglasses, opt for polarized lenses. These work well in very sunny conditions, at the beach and also when the roads are wet from rainfall or melted snow.

More to Explore

Aviator sunglasses were first developed in 1936 by Bausch and Lomb. They were specifically made for military pilots to use while flying. Prior to aviators, military pilots wore goggles while flying, which were not as effective or comfortable. Later on, the style became famous with hunters and fishermen who also were looking for sun protection for their eyes. Aviator sunglasses didn’t become popular with the public until Gen. Douglas MacArthur wore them as he landed in the Philippines during World War II, and the moment was captured on camera.

From our partners