What To Look For
Initially commissioned by the Air Force, aviator sunglasses are a popular choice for athletes and other people who enjoy spending time outdoors. The best aviator sunglasses are lightweight, with wire rims and arms. In order to block harmful UV rays, look for sunglasses that claim to block 100 percent of UV rays. To block HEV rays, color matters. Most lenses that block a great deal of blue light will be bronze, copper or reddish-brown.
Common Pitfalls
Dark colored lenses is no guarantee of UVA protection. Make sure that you check the information on your sunglasses's protective abilities before purchase. Designer knockoffs are a big problem for sunglass vendors. Make sure that you check the authenticity of any designer label or logo affixed to your aviators.
Where To Buy
Department stores and speciality sunglass boutiques carry a wide variety of aviators. The Sunglass Hut, which has outposts throughout the country, has a wide selection of aviators from a variety of different designers. Visiting a store in person, as opposed to shopping for aviators online means that employees can help you choose the aviator sunglasses that are best for you, and you can be assured that you are getting a genuine product and not a knockoff.
Cost
Aviator sunglass prices range from as low as $15 to upwards of $500, depending on the brand you choose.
