The Best Sunglasses for Pilots
Aviator sunglasses are more than just a classic style choice for pilots—they are an essential piece of flight gear designed to protect vision, reduce glare, and enhance visual performance in the cockpit. From shielding your eyes against increased UV exposure at altitude to improving comfort during long hours in bright conditions, the right pair of pilot sunglasses can make a noticeable difference in both safety and fatigue. In this guide, we break down what pilots should look for in aviation sunglasses and highlight current, cockpit-friendly options trusted by professional and recreational aviators alike.
Those classic images appeal to our shared appreciation for freedom, courage, innovation, and exploration. Also, pilots tend to look pretty cool in a pair of shades.
For pilots, sunglasses are about far more than image. They protect one of the most important assets an aviator has vision.
More than perhaps any other occupation, pilots are exposed to harsh sunlight and solar radiation, which can fatigue eyes, cause long-term damage to tissue, and even lead to cataracts.
According to the FAA, ultraviolet radiation increases about 5 percent for every 1,000 feet of altitude.
The good news is that modern technologies exist that can protect your eyes and even improve your vision while you’re flying.
We have recently updated our curated collection of sunglasses. Browse through our carefully selected options and find the perfect shades to elevate your style this season.
What to Look for in a Pair of Aviator Sunglasses
The shape of your sunglasses is up to you. Whether you like a traditional wireframe aviator or a pair of wraparounds is a matter of personal preference.
For frames, the FAA suggests only that you look for sunglasses sturdy enough to take some abuse. Lenses are more complicated. When it comes to lenses, the FAA suggests:
- Wear sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection.
- Look for sunglasses with larger lens shapes.
- The lenses should be tinted to optimize visual performance while minimizing color distortion. Look for neutral tints with between 15-30 percent light transmittance.
- Avoid polarized lenses. They’re great for fishing, but they can be a problem for reading digital cockpit displays.
Our Aviator Sunglasses
Pilot Mall is your best source for aviator sunglasses, with options suited for both professional and recreational pilots.
Our sunglasses have built-in UV protection and glare-reduction features that help reduce eye fatigue and keep your view crisp and accurate in bright conditions.
Lift Aviation Titanium Aviator Sunglasses for Pilots
If your sunglasses arrive in a case reminiscent of an old ammo box, you know they mean business. Lift Aviation’s Tanium-AVX aviator sunglasses are designed with pilots in mind, pairing premium materials with a cockpit-ready lens approach for confident, comfortable wear.
Learn more about the Lift Aviation Titanium Aviator Sunglasses for Pilots.
Randolph Aviator Sunglasses
Originally designed for military use, Randolph aviator sunglasses are now available to the civilian market. Each pair is handcrafted in the United States to military standards and built for pilots who want durability, comfort, and classic aviator style.
Top Randolph Aviator Picks
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Randolph Aviator 23K Gold E.P. Bayonet Clear Non-Polarized American Gray Glass Military Sunglasses
A premium classic look with a cockpit-friendly non-polarized lens option—ideal for pilots who want iconic style without display visibility issues.
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Randolph Aviator Gunmetal & Atlantic Blue Non-Polarized Lens Sunglasses
A modern frame color paired with a non-polarized lens that stays practical for cockpit use and digital display readability.
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Randolph Aviator Matte Chrome & Non-Polarized American Gray Lens Military Sunglasses
A clean, professional look with a cockpit-compatible non-polarized American Gray lens.
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Randolph Aviator Matte Black & Non-Polarized American Gray Glass Lens Military Sunglasses
For pilots who prefer a darker, stealthy frame aesthetic while keeping a cockpit-appropriate non-polarized lens.
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Randolph Aviator 23k White Gold & Non-Polarized American Gray Lens Sunglasses
A striking frame finish with a non-polarized lens that stays cockpit-friendly.
Recommended Accessory
Randolph Engineering Military-Grade Aviator Care Kit for Sunglasses
Keep your aviators in great shape with a dedicated care kit. Clean lenses help reduce glare, improve clarity, and extend the life of your sunglasses.
PilotMall.com Sunglasses
Owning the right pair of sunglasses is a crucial piece of flight preparation. Your eyes are important. There’s a lot on the line, and there’s a lot to consider.
Buying your sunglasses from a company that understands the needs of pilots is essential. Many sunglass retailers simply don’t understand pilots’ needs and what’s at risk.
Embrace the American spirit with a pair of high-performance and stylish aviator sunglasses from Pilot Mall.
Your eyes will thank you, and you’ll look cool, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should pilots wear polarized sunglasses?
Most pilots avoid polarized lenses because they can make certain cockpit displays harder to read and may create odd visual effects with windscreens. Many pilots choose non-polarized lenses that still reduce glare while preserving display readability.
What tint is best for pilot sunglasses?
Neutral tints are a popular choice because they minimize color distortion, which helps with scanning instruments and spotting traffic. Many pilots look for lenses that balance glare reduction with clear visibility.
How important is UV protection for pilots?
UV protection is critical. Pilots spend long hours exposed to bright sunlight at altitude, and UV exposure can contribute to eye fatigue and long-term damage. Look for sunglasses with 100% UV protection.
Do aviator sunglasses fit under headsets?
Many aviator sunglasses work well under headsets, especially frames with slim temples designed for comfort. If you fly with a headset often, choose a frame that doesn’t create pressure points under the ear seals.
What are the best sunglasses for pilots?
The best pilot sunglasses combine 100% UV protection, a cockpit-friendly non-polarized lens, and comfortable frames that work under a headset. Many pilots also prioritize durable construction and a lens tint that reduces glare without distorting colors.
How do I keep my pilot sunglasses in great condition?
Use a dedicated cleaning kit and store your sunglasses in a protective case when not in use. Keeping lenses clean and scratch-free improves clarity and helps reduce glare and eye fatigue.
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