Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses are iconic. Starting from humble beginnings as military hardware in the 1930s, the brand has become one of the most sought after in the world. A pair of Ray-Bans are recognizable in an instant!
Contrary to popular opinion, Ray-Ban did not invent the pilot shape of Ray Ban Aviator glasses, but they certainly turned the Aviator model into a worldwide phenomenon.
Pilots wore big, bulky goggles during WWI to protect their eyes from ice, wind and dust. Open-cockpit aircraft flew very low and their journeys were slow and short. As technology evolved, pilots began to suffer from the intense glare of the sun at high altitudes.
Enter the US Army Air Corps Lieutenant John Macready, world record holder for altitude and flight duration, and an all-round aviation pioneer. After damaging his eyes while using goggles in an attempt to break the altitude record, he contacted Bausch & Lomb, beginning a lucrative partnership which led to the development of the anti-glare model. This was introduced in 1936 and was later renamed the Aviator.
The popularity of these sunglasses grew exponentially throughout and after WWII. Bausch & Lomb was just one of several contractors that made frames and lenses for the US Army Air Corps. In fact, the Ray-Ban was the “civilian” brand and remained as such until 1999.
Meanwhile, Hollywood picked up on the style and truly owned it. Starting with Marlon Brando’s 1951 film The Wild One, Ray-Ban Aviator glasses have become a favorite among film stars and celebrities. Most famously, they were featured in Tom Cruise’s 1986 smash hit Top Gun. Even after 80 years, the Ray-Ban Aviator remains one of the top iconic fashion accessories in the world. The classic design has proved to be a permanent fixture from Lagos to Los Angeles and shows no sign of relinquishing its place.
The Aviator Collection
The classic gold frame with dark green lenses combo may be the most iconic model. There’s a wide variety of styles. Read on for more information on the incredible styles available today, including the classic Large Metal Aviator, the Outdoorsman, Flash Lenses, Light Ray and the Folding Aviator.
Aviator Liteforce (Buy now for $219)
The Ray-Ban Aviator Liteforce has three unique funky features: blue plastic frames, flashy mirrored lenses and lightweight titanium temples. This combo makes them a very unique pair of sunglasses, even within the diverse Ray-Ban Aviator range.
Aviator Full Color (buy now for $200)
The
Ray-Ban Aviator Full Color model boasts thicker, colored rims that make it instantly recognizable. The large tear-drop shaped lenses are the main feature, but the subtle rim sets them apart. They’re available in a variety of colors, including red, green, brown and pink.
Aviator Flash Lenses (buy now for $180)
Arguably the coolest of them all, the Ray-Ban Aviator Flash Lenses have mirrored lenses. This is one of the most dominant trends of recent seasons. The combination of gold frames and bright blue lenses is unbeatable. Whether you’re at the beach or in the middle of the urban jungle, these versatile shades will never feel out of place.
Aviator Large Metal (buy now for $175)
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The Original Ray-Ban Aviator model is perhaps the most iconic pair of sunglasses of all time. Large, 62mm G-15 lenses, gold frames and transparent temple tips make them the true pilot’s sunglasses. These glasses give you great eye coverage and protect you from harmful rays.
We have over a hundred other Ray-Ban Aviator models on our website. You’re sure to find a pair that you love!
