The Best Aviator Sunglasses Any Guy Can Pull Off

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AVIATOR SUNGLASSES are synonymous with badass style. In movies like Top Gun, Drive, and Skyfall, your favorite action stars always get a mega boost of "Bring it on!" coolness by wearing aviator sunglasses. However, the best aviator sunglasses should not only make a style statement but also provide you with optimal eye protection in any sun-filled environment—in the park or sky. From 100% UV400 protection to polarized lenses that reduce glare, the best aviator sunglasses need to check all the boxes.

Because of their military heritage, the best aviator sunglasses are also tough as nails and will withstand daily wear and tear in a sturdy construction of high-quality materials. Comfort is also just important; the best aviator sunglasses will have adjustable nose pads and lightweight frames to ensure a snug fit for extended periods of wear.

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Finally, let's not forget about style. The best aviator sunglasses will enhance your overall look while exuding timeless appeal and versatility. From vintage-inspired frames with a celebrity following to colorful lenses that look more refined than tacky, our editors at Men's Health have tested and found the 18 best aviator sunglasses from trusted sunglasses brands that not only make a statement but also provide the ultimate eye protection.

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Premium Military Style Classic Aviator Sunglasses

When we first put these shades on, we were immediately impressed by their polarization. Designed with a specialized multi-layer lens, the lenses effectively filter and block glare. We also found that the vertically oriented filter layer embedded in the lens helped eliminate horizontal reflections and improve visibility during outdoor activities—or just walking around under the sun.

When it comes to UV protection, J+S’s aviator sunglasses also has us covered. These shades are equipped with UV 400 lenses, meaning they block 99%-100% of both UVA and UVB radiation. We were also impressed by the metallic alloy frame which is not only ultra-lightweight but also incredibly strong and durable. Plus, with spring-loaded hinged legs and adjustable silicone nose pads, we found that these shades offer maximum comfort and flexibility.

All these features in a pair of aviator sunglasses at under $20, we’ll be damned if you’re not sold.

Retro Square Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

Elevate your style and protect your eyes with these vintage-style polarized aviator sunglasses. They feature a sturdy plastic frame and polarized Tri-Acetate Cellulose lenses with UV protection, which we’ve found to be able to really filter out sunlight-reflected glare (in fact, our testing shows that the UV400 polarized TAC lenses even help enhance the definition of our views). We also love that the dimension—a lens width of 55mm and a height of 52mm—actually fits great on all facial shapes.

In terms of durability, these shades are made of solid metal hinges in a classic double-bar square frame, which we love not only because of how tough it will hold up but also how fashionable it looks all in all.

RB3025 Classic Aviator Sunglasses

You don’t need us to tell you that Ray-Ban makes one of the best aviator sunglasses on the market. The classic metal aviators look good on anything and look good on everyone. And they perform great as well. The lenses offer 100% UV protection to optimize visual clarity in different light conditions, for instance. And the metal frame plus silicone nose pads are not only long-lasting but are also comfortable o wear all day long.

Additionally, we love that Ray-Ban now offers a variety of metal frame and lens colors to choose from, as well as multiple sizes, so you’ll definitely be able to find one pair of Ray-Ban 3025 aviators that suits your style and your face shape.

Fielder

Looking for a classic aviator style that combines style and sustainability? Look no further than Warby Parker's Fielder. For starters, the lightweight design of the Fielder aviators is not only comfortable but also exudes confidence, and I love that the brow bar adds a stylish touch. However, what sets these sunglasses apart is their construction. They are made from a combination of 50% nylon and 50% recycled TR90, making them equally eco-friendly and durable as hell.

In addition, having worn these to brave the glaring sunlight this summer, I found that the scratch-resistant lenses were able to block 100% of UV rays to ensure my eyes are shielded from harmful sun exposure. The round shape also looks good on a squared-face fellow like myself.

Astra

A pair of polarized aviators for under $75? Count us in. Sunski uses recycled materials and performance lenses to create incredible minimalist-inspired shades. One of the standout features is the premium CR-39 polarized lenses. With superior clarity, abrasion resistance, and strength, these lenses offer enhanced optics for a clear view of the world. They also provide 100% UVA/UVB protection, ensuring your eyes are shielded from harmful rays.

What’s more, the Astra frame is a hybrid of an electroplated stainless steel exoskeleton and a frame with sculpted surfaces. This combination not only provides durability but also maximum comfort. The sunglasses also stand out with their balanced and precise proportions inspired by Top Gun aviator frames. Overall, they are lightweight and designed to be worn all day sans any discomfort.

The Bruce 2.0 Sunglasses

Elevate your eyewear game with these exceptional shades that combine optical quality, protection, durability, and style. We found that the TAC polarized lenses of the Bruce 2.0 Sunglasses provided exceptional visibility under the sun. With anti-glare and scratch-resistant coatings, these lenses also ensure a clear and distortion-free view. Additionally, they offer 100% UVA/UVB protection, keeping your eyes safe from harmful rays.

Durability is a standout of the Bruce 2.0 Sunglasses. Customized barrel hinges and Akulon-coated screws make them tough as nails and long-lasting. Additionally, the temple wire core adds stability, maintaining the shape of the sunglasses over time.

And then there is their blue-light blocking feature which we love and need in this digital age.

CA133/S Pilot Sunglasses

Acetate frames are a great option for guys who always bend their metal sunglasses. Avoid the wonky, slanted eyewear look with these durable vintage-inspired aviators for a suave ‘70s vibe. These shades offer a bold and thick acetate frame that we found to be able to look great on various facial shapes. Moreover, we love how these aviator sunglasses are designed for outdoor activities. For instance, the hypoallergenic plastic construction ensures protection against wind and impact. Plus, the lightweight, corrosion-resistance temples provide maximum comfort all day long while adding to the sunglasses' overall stylish look.

Featuring a non-polarized CR39 plastic polymer lens with a 100% UV protection coating, these sunglasses also offer the essential defense against harmful sun rays you need when braving the outdoors.

High Key

With Quay's High Key aviator sunglasses, you get both fashion and functionality. In our testing, we found that not only do these complement a variety of face shapes, but we also came to love its blend of style, UV protection, and comfort.

Crafted with a metal frame and stainless steel hinges, these sunglasses are built to last. The signature triangular hardware adds a touch of gleam and enhances the overall look. And the standout feature is the 100% UV protection provided by the polycarbonate polarized lens. With these sunglasses, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your eyes shielded from harmful UV rays. The adjustable nonslip nose pads then ensure a comfortable fit, allowing you to wear them all day without any discomfort.

Howlin'

These shades are designed to be the perfect companion for all your athletic and outdoor adventures. The rounded aviator design features polarized performance optics that provide exceptional optical clarity and offer superior vision with reduced distortion. We also found them to be 20% lighter than other materials while providing excellent impact resistance and 100% UVA/B protection. In addition, the polarization filter in the lenses helps reduce glare and enhance contrasts for sharper vision.

These aviator sunglasses also come with a detachable head strap, ensuring they stay securely in place during activities like trail running, kayaking, sailing, or climbing. For a perfect fit, the temple-ends of these sunglasses have adjustable metal cores. You can easily adjust them to find the most comfortable and secure fit for your face shape.

Theseus Silver

In the past couple of years, hexagonal-shaped lenses have risen in popularity due to their versatility, so it was about time they made their way into an aviator shape. Made from top-notch Monel metal, it'll take a lot of wear and tear to break these. We also love that it features a handsome double bridge, elegant arms, and adjustable silicone nose pads for a snug, custom fit.

PO0649 Aviator Sunglasses

Since their introduction in 1957, Persol's iconic 649 style sunglasses have been worn on celebrities from Jay Z, to Ryan Gosling, and everyone in between. Its crystal sun lenses are some of the best on the market, giving you clarity unlike any other.

Aviator Metal Sunglasses

If you’re ready to lay down some major cash on a pair of designer aviator glasses, Gucci’s aviator sunglasses have the luxury house’s recognizable signature colors sans large logo. The tasteful look is best for enduring style, especially if you believe in cost-per-wear.

Aviator in Gunmetal

Todd Snyder teamed up with legacy brand Randolph—the eyewear supplier to Air Force fighter pilots—to create some elevated stylings. These bad boys are made in the USA and plated with high quality metals that glisten and shine. And polarized lenses and and anti-reflective technology makes is so you can see a crystal clear picture on even the sunniest of days.

Stonewalls

Really lean into that Top Gun look with these polarized sunnies. We love the Stonewalls' snug but-not-too-tight fit, making them a trusted go-to for all your adventures.

Original Pilot Sunglasses

Step into a timeless classic with American Optical’s OG aviator sunglasses. They feature a sleek bayonet temple style with clear acetate temple tips, giving them a vintage look that sets them apart while looking never out of style. This unique design allows for easy on-and-off even while wearing a helmet as well to render them a practical choice.

In addition, the click-in nose pad arms are designed to avoid breakage, and the lenses provide 100% UVA/UVB protection and are impact-resistant. We also found that these sunglasses offer a comfortable fit for various face shapes.

M3019 Clear Blue Sunglasses

The sky blue color of these acetate vintage-inspired frames is just the right amount of color without being too overbearing. This style doesn't have adjustable nose pads, so you can expect a reliable fit every time you put them on.

Malcom No Middle Aviator Sunglasses

Westward Leaning always gives their sunglasses special tweaks for a one-of-a-kind look that merits a place in your eyewear collection. While it might not have the lowest price tag, these aviators have high-quality craftsmanship to last a lifetime with a flexible, lightweight, surgical stainless steel construction, and shatterproof lenses. Rose gold perfectly accents the gradient blue lenses, while the single brow bar makes this option look ultramodern.

Mavericks Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

Equipped with PolarizedPlus2® lens technology, these aviators provide unmatched clarity and protection. Say goodbye to glare and harmful UV rays, as these lenses go above and beyond in shielding your eyes. In addition, we love that the MauiGradient lenses add a touch of contemporary flair to the timeless aviator design. All in all, the optical performance of these shades is great for outdoor adventures.

With these shades on, you will enjoy your adventures without worrying about your sunglasses' durability. Crafted with MauiPure lens material that is lightweight in feel but heavy-hitting in resistance to scratch and shatters, these sunglasses will last and are thus worth the splurge.

How to Choose the Best Aviator Sunglasses?

UV Protection: Aviator sunglasses are known for their ability to provide adequate UV protection. Look for those that offer 100% UV protection, a high rating like UV400, or are labeled as blocking UV-A and UV-B rays. This is crucial for safeguarding your eyes from harmful sun rays and reducing the risk of long-term damage.

Frame Material: Aviator sunglasses should be made with a sturdy yet lightweight frame material. Metal frames like stainless steel or titanium are popular choices for aviators due to their strength and classic look. For a more lightweight option, consider frames made of high-quality plastic or acetate.

Polarization: Consider aviator sunglasses with polarized lenses, as they offer enhanced glare reduction and improved visibility under bright sunlight. Polarized lenses are particularly beneficial for aviators, reducing reflections from flat surfaces like water or the aircraft's instrument panel—if you ever choose to pilot a plane, that is.

Lens Quality: Opt for aviator sunglasses with high-quality lenses that offer clarity and distortion-free vision. Lenses made from materials like polycarbonate or glass are known for their durability and optical excellence in providing visibility. Additionally, consider lenses with scratch-resistant coatings to ensure they will last.

Fit Aviator sunglasses typically feature a distinct teardrop-shaped lens and a thin metal frame. In this case, the fit should be comfortable and secure, with the sunglasses resting snugly on your nose bridge and temples without causing discomfort or slipping. So look out for adjustable nose pads and temple tips that'll help with a secure and personalized fit.

What Color Lenses Are Best for Aviators?

Gray lenses are a popular choice for aviators due to their ability to maintain true color perception. They also provide excellent glare reduction while preserving natural contrast, which helps to minimize eye fatigue and offer accurate color representation, making them suitable for extended periods of wear.

Brown or amber lenses are also great for aviator sunglasses because they will enhance depth perception and provide good contrast in low-light conditions, making them beneficial for actual pilots when judging distances and distinguishing objects against the sky.

Lastly, green lenses offer excellent contrast enhancement and visual clarity, which helps soothe the eyes in a high-glare environment or areas with strong sunlight.

What Face Shape do Aviator Sunglasses Look Good on?

Aviator sunglasses are known for their versatile style that suits various face shapes and complements a wide range of facial structures.

Oval Face: The balanced proportions of an oval face complement the teardrop-shaped lenses and double-bar frame of aviator sunglasses.

Round Face: Aviator sunglasses will help add definition and angles to a round face shape. Their sharp lines and geometric design provide contrast to make the face appear slimmer and more balanced.

Square Face: Aviator sunglasses will soften the strong angles of a square face shape. Their curved lines and teardrop shape create a nice contrast to add a touch of elegance and balance to the squared face.

Heart-shaped Face: The teardrop-shaped lenses and double-bar frame of aviator sunglasses draw attention to the upper part of the face, balancing the wider forehead and narrower chin.

Diamond-shaped Face: Aviator sunglasses help enhance the features of a diamond-shaped face. The wide upper part of the aviators adds width to the temples while balancing out the cheekbones and jawline.

How We Selected

To find the best aviator sunglasses, our editors and writers have personally tried on over 50 options since 2021, and tested each of them for at least two weeks on different real-life occasions. To get a feel for how these aviator sunglasses really felt and how they looked, we vetted them by taking notes of their style, comfort, price point, versatility, and performance such as their sweat resistance and durability.

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

Why Trust Us?

At Men’s Health, our testing editors and writers always make sure to actually test and use the products ourselves before considering whether to include them. Therefore, rest assured that our product recommendations derive from first-hand experience, and you can read more about our testing process here.

For instance, we have a fashion closet in our NYC office dedicated to calling in, trying out, and selecting the best as well as the newest products in menswear. We put them on stylish, fit guys to hear what their opinions are and see how the items look on them before making our final decision. And as style editors, we constantly go into the fashion closet to feel a product’s fabric or materials—even put it on ourselves for a spin—to test it.

Lastly, you can trust our opinions on shopping recommendations, whether it’s the products, styling tips, or trends. Not only do we have Fashion Director Ted Stafford and Deputy Editor, Commerce Christian Gollyan who actually know that polyester isn't a breathable material, but we also have a panel of style experts—including stylists, fashion influencers, and designers—that we regularly seek shopping guides from. Therefore, our product recommendations and buying tips are all driven by professional, expert opinions.

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