As the weather starts to warm, it’s time to start thinking about sunglasses. Since every 22-year-old Pitchfork devotee in America is wearing Ray-Ban Wayfarers, it’s a good time to think about other classic styles, like aviators.
Aviator sunglasses were developed for aviators. Fliers need comfort and performance, above all else, and where function is paramount, style is often a byproduct. Above are aviator sunglasses by American Optical. Randolph Engineering currently makes the military’s shades, but AO made them for decades before. American Optical shades are made to high standards, but are surprisingly inexpensive - in the $50 range at your local surplus store (less if you look around). They have high-quality glass lenses, solid hardware and are available in three sizes. I know from personal experience that with a big face, it’s tough to find un-sized aviators that don’t look pinched.
You can find these in Portland, OR at a military surplus store called Andy & Bax. I bought a pair yesterday as a matter of fact for a whopping $39. These sunglasses are also sold at Winn Perry in Portland—I’m not sure they charge.
