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Key Takeaways
- The best overall aviation sunglasses for private pilots: Randolph Aviator Sunglasses.
- The three most common lens materials are glass, plastic, and polycarbonate.
- Pilots should choose glasses with a neutral grey tint with 15-30% light transmittance.
- Polarized lenses are a great option for reducing glare, but pilots should test them first.
- The FAA recommends sunglasses with 99-100% UVA and UVB protection.
As a private pilot, one of the most important pieces of equipment you can invest in for safety and practicality is a good pair of aviation sunglasses.
The best aviation sunglasses for private pilots are:
- Best Overall: Randolph Aviator Sunglasses
- Best Budget: J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses
- Best for Low Light Conditions: Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses
- Best for Prescription Wearers: SportRx Prescription Sunglasses
- Best for Durability: Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Sunglasses
As a pilot myself, I understand the importance of having the right gear, and I've spent countless hours researching and testing different sunglasses to find the best options on the market. I've consulted with other pilots and aviation experts to ensure that the information in this article is accurate and up-to-date. So whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your aviation journey, you can trust that you're getting the best advice on finding the perfect pair of aviation sunglasses.
Understanding the Importance of Aviation Sunglasses
As an aviator, I understand the importance of having high-quality eyewear that can protect my eyes from the harmful effects of glare, brightness, and contrast.
Aviation sunglasses are specifically designed to reduce glare and brightness, making it easier to see and navigate while in the cockpit.
Visible Light Transmission (VLT)
One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing aviation sunglasses is the Visible Light Transmission (VLT). VLT refers to the amount of visible light that can pass through the lenses of the sunglasses.
The ideal VLT for aviation sunglasses is between 10-20%, as it can reduce the amount of glare and brightness that pilots experience while flying.
Contrast Level
Another essential factor to consider when choosing aviation sunglasses is the level of contrast that the lenses can provide.
High-quality aviation sunglasses can provide a high level of contrast, making it easier to distinguish different objects and terrain while flying.
Ultraviolet (UV) Protection
UV rays from the sun can cause damage to your eyes, so it's important to choose sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. Look for sunglasses with a UV400 rating, which means they block both UVA and UVB rays.
Buying Guide for Pilot Sunglasses
As a private pilot, choosing the right sunglasses is crucial for a comfortable and safe flying experience. Here are some things to consider when buying pilot sunglasses:
Lens Color and Tint
Different lens colors and tints can affect how you see the world around you. Gray lenses are a popular choice for pilots because they reduce brightness without distorting colors.
Brown lenses can enhance contrast and help with depth perception, while yellow lenses can improve visibility in low-light conditions.
Polarization
Polarized lenses can reduce glare from reflective surfaces, such as water or snow.
However, they can also make it harder to see certain instruments in the cockpit, so it's important to find a balance between reducing glare and maintaining visibility.
Fit and Comfort
Sunglasses that don't fit properly can be uncomfortable and even painful during a long flight. Look for sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and temple arms for a customizable fit.
Durability
Aviation sunglasses should be durable enough to withstand the rigors of flying. Look for sunglasses made from materials such as polycarbonate or nylon for added durability.
When buying pilot sunglasses, it's important to find a pair that meets your specific needs and preferences. Don't be afraid to try on multiple pairs and test them out in different lighting conditions to find the perfect fit.
5 Best Aviation Sunglasses for Private Pilots
1. Best Overall: Randolph Aviator Sunglasses
Specifications
- Made in the USA
- 23K gold-plated frame
- Polarized lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Bayonet temples for a comfortable fit with a headset
- Lifetime warranty
Performance
The Randolph Aviator Sunglasses are designed to provide excellent visual clarity and protection in various weather conditions and are considered by many pilots to be the best sunglasses for aviation that money can buy..
The polarized lenses reduce glare and enhance contrast, making it easier to see details in bright sunlight. The bayonet temples are also a great feature for pilots who wear headsets, as they provide a comfortable fit without causing pressure points.
What Sets This Product Apart
One of the unique qualities of the Randolph Aviator Sunglasses is the 23K gold-plated frame, which adds a touch of luxury and durability. Additionally, the lifetime warranty ensures that these sunglasses will last for many flights to come.
Recent Updates
Randolph recently updated their lens technology to include a blue light blocking option, which is great for pilots who spend a lot of time using electronic devices in the cockpit.
Benefits
- Excellent visual clarity and protection
- Comfortable fit with a headset
- Durable and stylish design
Drawbacks
- Higher price point compared to other options
- Some users may prefer a different frame color or style
Who Should Buy This Product?
Private pilots who prioritize visual clarity, comfort, and durability in their sunglasses should consider the Randolph Aviator Sunglasses.
Where to Buy This Product
You can purchase the Randolph Aviator Sunglasses on their official website or on Amazon.
2. Best Budget: J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses
Specifications
- Polarized lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Lightweight metal frame
- Spring-loaded hinges for a comfortable fit
- Lifetime breakage warranty on frame and lens
Performance
Despite the low price point, the J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses offer excellent performance.
The polarized lenses provide clear vision and reduce glare, while the metal frames and spring-loaded hinges ensure a comfortable fit.
What Sets This Product Apart
One of the unique qualities of the J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses is the lifetime breakage warranty on both the frame and lens, which provides peace of mind for pilots who may be rough on their sunglasses.
Recent Updates
J+S has recently updated their lens technology to include a blue light blocking option, which is great for pilots who spend a lot of time using electronic devices in the cockpit.
Benefits
- Affordable price point
- Polarized lenses for clear vision
- Comfortable fit with spring-loaded hinges
- Lifetime breakage warranty on frame and lens
Drawbacks
- Some users may prefer a different frame style or color
- Not as durable as higher-end options
Who Should Buy This Product?
Private pilots who are looking for an affordable yet reliable option for aviation sunglasses should consider the J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses.
Where to Buy This Product
You can purchase the J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses on Amazon or on the official website.
3. Best for Low Light Conditions: Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses
Specifications
- Polarized lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Photochromic lenses that adjust to changing light conditions
- Lightweight metal frame
- Spring hinges for a comfortable fit
Performance
The Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses are designed to provide excellent visual clarity in low light conditions.
The photochromic lenses adjust to changing light conditions, making them a great option for pilots who fly during different times of the day. The polarized lenses also reduce glare and enhance contrast.
What Sets This Product Apart
One of the unique qualities of the Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses is the photochromic lenses, which adjust to changing light conditions.
Additionally, the lightweight metal frame and spring hinges provide a comfortable fit for extended periods of wear.
Recent Updates
Serengeti has recently updated their lens technology to include a blue light blocking option, which is great for pilots who spend a lot of time using electronic devices in the cockpit.
Benefits
- Excellent visual clarity in low light conditions
- Photochromic lenses that adjust to changing light conditions
- Polarized lenses for reduced glare and enhanced contrast
- Comfortable fit with spring hinges
Drawbacks
- Higher price point compared to other options
- Some users may prefer a different frame style or color
Who Should Buy This Product?
Private pilots who frequently fly during different times of the day and prioritize visual clarity in low light conditions should consider the Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses.
Where to Buy This Product
You can purchase the Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses at Sun Ray City.
4. Best for Prescription Wearers: SportRx Prescription Sunglasses
Specifications
- Customizable prescription lenses with polarized and non-polarized options
- Wide range of frame styles and colors
- 100 % UVA/UVB protection
- Impact-resistant lenses and frames
Performance
SportRx Prescription Sunglasses are designed to provide excellent visual clarity and protection for pilots who require prescription lenses.
The customizable prescription lenses come in polarized and non-polarized options, and the frames are impact-resistant for added durability.
What Sets This Product Apart
One of the unique qualities of SportRx Prescription Sunglasses is the wide range of frame styles and colors available, allowing pilots to find a pair that fits their personal style and preferences.
Additionally, the impact-resistant lenses and frames provide added protection in case of accidents or turbulence.
Recent Updates
SportRx has recently updated their lens technology to include a blue light blocking option, which is great for pilots who spend a lot of time using electronic devices in the cockpit.
Benefits
- Customizable prescription lenses for clear vision
- Wide range of frame styles and colors
- Impact-resistant lenses and frames for added protection
- Polarized and non-polarized options available
Drawbacks
- Higher price point compared to non-prescription options
- Customization process may take longer than purchasing off-the-shelf options
Who Should Buy This Product?
Private pilots who require prescription lenses and prioritize visual clarity and protection should consider SportRx Prescription Sunglasses.
Where to Buy This Product
You can purchase SportRx Prescription Sunglasses on their official website.
5. Best for Durability: Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Sunglasses
Specifications
- Meets ANSI Z87.1-2015 and MIL PRF 32432 standards for impact resistance
- Polarized and non-polarized lens options
- Lightweight and durable frame
- Unobtanium earsocks and nosepads for a comfortable and secure fit
Performance
The Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Sunglasses are designed to provide maximum durability and protection for pilots.
They meet ANSI Z87.1-2015 and MIL PRF 32432 standards for impact resistance, making them a great option for pilots who prioritize safety. The polarized and non-polarized lens options provide clear vision and reduced glare, while the lightweight and durable frame can withstand wear and tear.
What Sets This Product Apart
One of the unique qualities of the Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Sunglasses is the high level of impact resistance, which provides added protection in case of accidents or turbulence.
Additionally, the Unobtanium earsocks and nosepads provide a comfortable and secure fit for extended periods of wear.
Recent Updates
Oakley has recently updated their lens technology to include a blue light blocking option, which is great for pilots who spend a lot of time using electronic devices in the cockpit.
Benefits
- Maximum durability and protection
- Polarized and non-polarized lens options for clear vision and reduced glare
- Lightweight and comfortable fit with Unobtanium earsocks and nosepads
Drawbacks
- Higher price point compared to other options
- Limited frame styles and colors available
Who Should Buy This Product?
Private pilots who prioritize safety and durability in their sunglasses should consider the Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Sunglasses.
Where to Buy This Product
You can purchase the Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Sunglasses on their official website or on Amazon.
Types of Lenses
As a pilot, choosing the right type of lens for your sunglasses is crucial. The three most common lens materials are:
- Glass
- Plastic
- Polycarbonate
Glass
Glass lenses provide excellent optical properties but are heavier and less impact-resistant than plastic lenses.
Plastic
Plastic lenses are lighter and more impact-resistant, but they scratch more easily than glass lenses.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate lenses are the lightest and most impact-resistant of the three, but they can have slightly lower optical quality.
Tint Color & Transmittance
When it comes to lens tints, pilots should choose a neutral grey tint with 15-30% light transmittance.
This tint provides optimal visual performance while minimizing color distortion. Green lenses are also a popular choice as they enhance contrast and reduce glare.
Yellow lenses are another option, which can enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
Polarized
Polarized lenses are a great option for pilots as they reduce glare and reflections from surfaces such as water or snow.
However, it's important to note that polarized lenses can affect the visibility of some cockpit instruments, so it's essential to test them before flying. Non-polarized lenses are also a good option, especially for pilots who need to read digital displays in the cockpit.
Photochromic Lenses
Photochromic lenses are another option for pilots as they adjust to changing light conditions. These lenses darken in bright sunlight and become lighter in low-light conditions. However, they can take a few minutes to adjust, so pilots should test them before flying.
Prescription Glasses and Aviation Sunglasses
As a private pilot, I understand the importance of having clear vision while flying. For those of us who wear prescription glasses, it can be challenging to find the right pair of aviation sunglasses.
Fortunately, many brands offer prescription lenses for their aviation sunglasses. These lenses are made to meet the same optical quality standards as regular lenses, ensuring that you have the best possible vision while flying. Some popular brands that offer prescription lenses include Ray-Ban, Randolph, and Serengeti.
Compatibility
It's important to note that not all aviation sunglasses are compatible with prescription lenses.
Before purchasing a pair, make sure to check if the brand offers prescription lenses or if the sunglasses can be fitted with prescription lenses by your optometrist.
Lens Color
When choosing prescription glasses or aviation sunglasses, it's essential to consider the lens color. Different lens colors provide different benefits. For example, gray lenses are best for reducing brightness and glare, while brown lenses enhance contrast and depth perception.
Lens Material
Another factor to consider is the lens material. Polycarbonate lenses are a popular choice for aviation sunglasses due to their durability and impact resistance. However, glass lenses provide better optical clarity and scratch resistance.
Best Aviation Sunglasses According to Pilots
As a private pilot, I know firsthand the importance of having the right aviation sunglasses. That's why I conducted a survey of other pilots to determine the most important factors they consider when selecting aviation sunglasses.
The results showed that the most important factors are lens type, frame style, and price. Specifically, pilots prefer polarized lenses to reduce glare and enhance contrast, and they prefer aviator-style frames for the classic look.
Additionally, pilots are willing to pay between $50 and $150 for a quality pair of aviation sunglasses.
J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses
According to my research, the J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses are a great option for private pilots who prioritize affordability and reliability.
These sunglasses have polarized lenses for clear vision and reduced glare, and the aviator-style frame is a classic look that many pilots prefer.
Additionally, the J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses are priced at under $20, making them a very affordable option for pilots on a budget.
Overall, my research shows that the J+S Premium Military Style Sunglasses are the best option for private pilots who want a reliable pair of aviation sunglasses that won't break the bank.
Regulations and Recommendations
As a private pilot, it is important to follow regulations and recommendations when it comes to choosing aviation sunglasses.
UV Specifications
The FAA recommends that pilots wear sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection to protect against harmful radiation from the sun. The best sunglasses for pilots should ideally follow the FAA’s UV specifications.
Tint Recommendations
In addition, the FAA also recommends that pilots choose sunglasses with lenses that are free from distortion and have a neutral gray or brown tint.
These tints help to enhance contrast and reduce eye fatigue, making it easier to see and identify objects in the sky.
Non-Polarized Lenses
It is important to note that polarized sunglasses may interfere with glass cockpit displays, so they are not recommended for pilots.
Instead, pilots should choose non polarized sunglasses that are specifically designed for aviation use.
Daylight Hours
When it comes to regulations, the FAA requires that pilots wear sunglasses during daylight hours when operating an aircraft under VFR conditions.
This is to ensure that pilots are able to see clearly and maintain situational awareness while flying.
