Pilot’s Guide to the Best Sunglasses for Eye Comfort

Wearing sunglasses definitely looks cool, but as a pilot, it's important for you to protect your eyes. They're extremely valuable and keeping them healthy is important for a successful and long-lasting flight career. 

The type of sunglasses you wear can impact the health of your eyes, so it's vital to choose the right ones. 

Let's take a look at what to keep in mind when searching for your next perfect pair.

SUMMARY

• Full UV Protection: Look for 100% UVA/UVB coverage at altitude.
• Non-Polarized Lenses: Avoid polarized lenses to keep cockpit screens clear.
• Snug Fit: Opt for lightweight, secure frames that stay in place with headsets.
• Tint Choice: Use gray for bright days and brown for better contrast in varying light.

Why Quality Sunglasses Matter for Pilots

As a pilot, you already know that your eyes are one of your most valuable assets. Flying exposes you to intense sunlight, more so at altitude where UV levels spike with each thousand feet you climb. 

Protecting your eyes from this exposure is important; not only for safety but also to prevent long-term damage. 

As a pilot, you want to make sure that your sunglasses provide both 100% UVA and UVB protection. You’ll be spending a lot of time in the sky and through the windshield both your skin and your eyes are exposed to the sun's rays.

Long-term UVA and UVB Exposure

Long-term UVA and UVB exposure can greatly affect your eyesight. It accelerates aging in the eyes, making you more likely to develop cataracts and that ends up clouding your vision. 

Over time, it also increases the risk of macular degeneration, a condition that can damage the retina and cause vision loss as you get older.

You might also deal with photokeratitis, which is like a sunburn on your cornea—painful and irritating. 

Constant UV exposure can even lead to skin cancer on your eyelids and cause pterygium, a growth on the eye that could eventually interfere with your sight. Using sunglasses with 100% UV protection can protect your eyes from these risks and help keep your vision strong in the long run.

Consider sunglasses with options like the Serengeti Carrara provide that needed UV defense with high-quality materials that stand up to frequent use and shifting cabin conditions.

Serengeti Carrara - Shiny Dark Gunmetal Experience clear vision and style with Serengeti Carrara sunglasses. Made for pilots, these strong Shiny Dark Gunmetal frames and adaptive Mineral Drivers Gradient lenses reduce sun glare and improve visibility in any lighting. Ideal for any cockpit, the Carrara seamlessly combines function and classic design.

Best Lens Types for Pilots: Polarized vs. Non-Polarized

Polarized lenses are popular for their ability to reduce glare, but they’re a tricky choice for pilots. 

They block horizontal light, and that helps in many outdoor situations but it can interfere with cockpit screens. That reduces the readability of your instruments and LCD displays. The FAA actually advises against polarization for this reason. 

Instead, non-polarized options maintain clear visibility on your instruments without the unwanted effects of polarization.

For reducing overall glare while flying, photochromic lenses can be a smart alternative; these adapt to light changes, enhancing visibility without compromising your screens clarity.

Finding the Right Fit and Shape for Pilot Sunglasses

As any pilot can tell you, adjusting frames mid-flight isn’t an option. Aviator styles provide wide coverage and a classic look, they are the top choice here. 

Large lenses help reduce the need for squinting and that lowers your eye fatigue. Serengeti’s Carrara and Bormio models, for example, offer this kind of extensive coverage, designed to sit comfortably with headsets and fit securely without slipping. 

Lightweight materials like titanium and durable alloys are also a huge plus, as they’re built to handle regular use in high-stress environments.

Serengeti Varese 2.0 - Brushed Brown The Serengeti Varese 2.0 sunglasses in Brushed Brown are perfect for stylish pilots. They have Mineral Drivers Gradient lenses that adjust to light changes and make it easier to see while flying. The hidden spring hinges also keep them comfortable during long flights. These sunglasses have both great performance and a sleek design for any aviator.

Tint and UV Protection: Choosing the Right Shades

Finally, the last step is to consider the tint of your sunglasses in conjunction to UV protection.

The right tint is about more than personal preference since it can improve visual contrast and reduce eye strain. 

Neutral gray tints are popular among pilots. They distort colors the least and work well for bright days. 

Brown tints enhance contrast in hazy or overcast conditions, so they can be a good choice for variable lighting. 

Look for sunglass with a gradual tint that transitions smoothly from top to bottom, letting your eyes adapt to both bright skies and shaded cockpit areas without needing to swap glasses.

If you make sure your glasses fit all the features we’ve covered in this article then you’re all set to take to the skies!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the best aviator sunglasses?
  Serengeti Carrara and Bormio 2.0 models provide top-tier eye protection and visual clarity.
• Are aviator sunglasses in style in 2024?
  Absolutely. Aviator sunglasses remain classic and are especially practical for pilots.
• Do aviator sunglasses look good on men?
  Yes, aviators offer a universally flattering shape, making them ideal for both style and functionality.
• What are the best cheap aviator sunglasses?
  You get what you pay for, and cheap sunglasses for pilots tend to fall apart easily. We recommend Lift Aviation Tanium for sunglasses under $200 with reliable and long-lasting quality.
• What type of lens material is best for pilot sunglasses?
  Pilots should consider the lens durability and clarity. Materials like mineral glass (used in Serengeti’s lenses) offer excellent clarity and scratch resistance, while polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and shatter-resistant, making both options reliable choices in the cockpit
• Are photochromic lenses suitable for pilots?
  Photochromic lenses, which adjust to changing light. This can be helpful for pilots flying in changing conditions. Though, consider that they may not darken enough in some cockpits due to UV-blocking windows, so pilots often pair them with other lens features like gradient tints.
• Do tinted lenses affect color perception in flight?
  Yes, lens tints like gray and brown impact color perception differently. Gray tints are neutral, maintaining true colors, while brown tints improve contrast in hazy or low-light conditions.

Takeaway

As a pilot the right pair of sunglasses can be your best ally. Try to choose lenses with great UV protection, a comfortable fit, and the right tint to make sure that your eyes are protected and ready for the skies.

For both function and style, sunglasses with pilot-specific models can bring together classic design and top-notch lens technology to meet the demands of your cockpit and beyond.

Fly safe!

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