Aviator sunglasses are a classic style that changed eyewear forever. And it’s no surprise that the biggest brands like Oakley offer a wide variety of these sunglasses, combining the classic design with the latest in performance eyewear technology!
Keep reading as we review everything to know about aviator sunglasses. Plus the best Oakley aviator sunglasses of this year!
And for more great picks, check out the Best Oakley Sunglasses of This Year!
Table of Contents
What are Aviator Sunglasses?
Aviator sunglasses are a style of eyewear typically characterized by thin metal frames and large lenses often twice as large as the eye. But to really understand aviators, you need to know their history.
After World War I, military pilots complained of constantly having to wear flying goggles that were burdensome and uncomfortable.
The military worked with Bausch & Lomb who developed the first aviator sunglasses in 1936, to protect the eyes of military pilots. And the Pilots loved them, including how cool they looked!
What face shape looks best in Aviators?
Since many Aviator sunglasses feature teardrop or elongated lenses they tend to look best on oval, square or heart-shaped faces.
They aren’t always a style that everyone can pull off, but if you’re trying to look like Goose (Re: Top Gun) they’re a must-have.
Can you replace lenses on Aviator sunglasses?
Actually yes – You can replace the lenses on most Oakley Aviator frames. The process is similar to replacing lenses on X-Metals which requires loosening a screw on the frame to allow the lens to pop out.
Once the lens is out, simply swap in the new lens and re-tighten the screws.
If you’re looking for replacement aviator lenses your first stop should likely be Oakley’s website.
However, if you want to save you’ll definitely want to check out aftermarket suppliers where you can usually find lenses more than 50% cheaper than Oakley’s site. Be sure to read our complete guide to Oakley replacement lenses here where we compare various aftermarket retailers.
The Best Oakley Aviator Sunglasses of 2022
5. Crosshair
Oakley Crosshair (Product Link) sunglasses are a modern take on the aviator design with modern earstems and a curved frame. This modern look is highlighted by the Crosshair’s lenses that elongate the classic teardrop shape out to the sides. And with available Prizm Black lenses, this frame provides a clean and simple look!
Read more in our Oakley Crosshair comparison guide.
Crosshair Features:
- Modern aviator frame design with elongated teardrop lens
- Ultra-lightweight C-5™ alloy frame material
- Available with contrast enhancing Prizm Polarized lenses
4. Gauge 8
Offering a squared Aviator design, the Gauge 8 (Product Link) reminds us of the aviator version of the Holbrook. The Gauge 8 also features Oakley’s Mono Shock hinge technology that offers additional flexibility, comfort, and fit.
Read more in our full Oakley Gauge 8 review.
Gauge 8 Features:
- Squared aviator frame design
- Ultra-lightweight C-5™ alloy frame material
- Available with contrast enhancing Prizm Polarized lenses
- Mono Shock hinge technology for fit and comfort
3. Gauge 6
Gauge 6 (Product Link) sunglasses are the flatter and more squared sibling of the Gauge 8 mentioned above. While both pairs are a similar size, Gauge 6 sunglasses are slightly smaller. That means, if you’re looking for an aviator frame that looks great on smaller faces, we’d recommend the Gauge 6.
Gauge 6 Features:
- Squared aviator frame design that is modern and sleek
- Ultra-lightweight C-5™ alloy frame and temples that are durable and comfortable
- Available with contrast enhancing Prizm and Prizm Polarized Oakley lenses to protect against glare
2. Feedback
Oakley Feedback sunglasses (Product Link) make our list thanks to their blend of design and innovation. Featuring a classic round teardrop shape lens, the Feedback brings aviators to the 21st century with a variety of Prizm and Polarized lens options. And these sunglasses will look great on almost every face shape!
Feedback Features:
- Classic aviator design frame with a double nose bridge design
- Available with Standard, Polarized and Prizm Polarized lenses that block 100% of UVA, UVB and UVC rays
- Ultra-lightweight C-5™ alloy frame material for a comfortable fit all day
1. Contrail
Oakley Contrail sunglasses (Product Link) are the latest addition to Oakley’s aviator lineup, and they definitely deliver! The Contrail takes a classic aviator design and adds a modern twist, with hexagon-esq lenses and clean edges throughout the frame. Plus, with Oakley Prizm lenses including Prizm Sapphire (pictured), these sunglasses also bring the best in performance!
Contrail Features:
- Modern aviator design inspired by the classic teardrop design
- Available with Prizm and Prizm Polarized lenses that block 100% of UVA, UVB and UVC rays
- Ultra-lightweight C-5™ alloy frame material for a comfortable fit all day
Read more in our complete Oakley Contrail Review.
Where to Buy Aviator Sunglasses?
We’ve included direct links to each of the aviator Oakley sunglasses above. And chances are Oakley or one of its retailers like SunglassHut will likely be your first stop when shopping for sunglasses. But with only a few seconds of work you may be able to save even more.
First, you’ll want to sign up for Oakley’s MVP Loyalty Program, which includes exclusive discounts and sales throughout the year.
But if Oakley isn’t running a sale, you can still find savings online. Aftermarket sites like our Oakley Forum Exchange and eBay often have new and current Oakley frames for 20-30% off retail prices.
For more information on how to save check out our guide to Buying Cheap Oakleys Below Retail!
Looking for More?
Have a question about Aviators? Or want to share your favorite Oakley Aviator Sunglasses? Join the largest online Oakley community and let us know in the comments below.
