Aviator sunglasses, also known as “pilot” or “stunner” shades, are one of the most popular styles today. Everyone from famous American generals to celebrities to law enforcement officials – and yes, even pilots – have been rocking this classic style for over 70 years. But who invented them, and why? How did they become so popular?
The story begins in the 1930’s, when the U.S. Army Air Corps contracted optical experts to create flying goggles. Their goal: to protect pilots’ eyes from the bright glare experienced at high altitudes. Scientists perfected a unique dark green tint for the lenses designed to filter out the yellow. The frame itself had a slightly drooping design to shield eyes as they glanced down at the plane’s instrument panel. The goggles were quite efficacious; however, they were not favored for use other than in flying as they produced uneven tan lines on the flyboys’ faces.
In 1936, sunglasses were developed for U.S. fighter pilots that were modeled on the “oblique teardrop” shape of these early flying goggles. These shades were a major leap ahead in sunglass technology. The lenses were designed to be big enough to cover almost the entire range of the eye, and the slight curve of the lens gave additional protection from glare. Further, they incorporated the new “polarized lens” technology – another highly effective way to cut down on glare.
These glasses were issued to U.S. fighter pilots free of charge and became enormously popular due to their efficacy. Contrary to popular belief, at this time they were not worn during flying. “Aviator” sunglasses became available for purchase to the general public in 1937.
The sunglasses were also used in other military branches. In fact, General Douglas MacArthur made a public appearance wearing them in the Philippines. Along with a pipe, this became his signature look. The spread of these shades within the military and their popularity with high-profile military figures spurred demand in the public as well.
Since then, aviator sunglasses have remained extremely popular, with resurgences in the 60’s and the 80’s as well as today. Their look is reminiscent to many of Tom Cruise’s style in 1986 blockbuster “Top Gun,” but also has been featured in many more recent movies like “The Aviator” and “Pearl Harbor.”
Modern versions of these sunglasses are typically two to three times the size of the eye socket, and feature metal frames. They are favored among celebrities and fashionistas everywhere. Part of the reason these amazing shades are still so desirable is the fact that they look great with both casual wear and more formal attire. The dark lenses, especially when combined with a mirrored coating, make it difficult to make eye contact with the wearer. This creates an air of authority which probably accounts for their popularity among law enforcement officials.
In addition, aviators are still issued in the U.S. military. They are still widely used by both military and civilian pilots because they work so well. It is interesting to note that while most modern aviator lenses have a polarized coating, polarization is not recommended for flying today. While it blocks glare well, polarization can make it hard to read modern cockpit displays and also blocks glare off other aircraft, making them harder to see. Pilots generally opt for versions with graduated mirror lenses instead.
Whether or not you are a pilot, you can enjoy looking great in a pair of classic aviator sunglasses. Many different designers make their own versions for both men and women in a wide variety of colors and sizes to suit any face shape. Thanks to their classic look and their effectiveness, your pair of aviators may not ever go out of style!
For a wide range of aviator sunglass styles as well as a huge variety of other designs, check out Pacific Link Sunglasses, a wholesaler featuring the latest eyewear fashions in all categories to meet your customers’ needs, including Citiwear, Surf wear, Sportswear and Nightclub wear. They also provide private label options.