How to Choose the Best Aviators To Wear Under Pilot Helmets

Since 1978, Randolph has been worn by pilots and tastemakers alike. We engineer our Aviators according to rigid military specs so you can rely on them in the toughest situations.

They’re built to last a lifetime–or two.

But why exactly do pilots rely on our eyewear?

“As the Flight Test Editor for Pilot magazine I get to fly literally hundreds of different types of aircraft, from obscure one-offs and unusual prototypes to WWII bombers and even jet fighters. My job is demanding, which is why I demand the best equipment. And that is why I wear Randolph Aviators.”

– Dave Unwin, Pilot

Comfortable Sunglasses for Helmets

When choosing your Randolph Aviators, you’ll notice two temple types: Bayonet and skull.

Bayonet temples are straight and have a slight curve inwards to shape with the back of your head.

Skull temples have a slight curve downwards to slightly wrap around the back of your ear.

Most sunglasses fanatics are accustomed to skull temples, whereas bayonet temples are superior underneath hats, headphones or helmets.

Pilots find bayonet temples made with premium acetates to be the most comfortable. They slip snuggly behind the ears and remain in place with self-adjustable nose pads.

• BUY NOW: Aviator in Matte Chrome and Non-polarized Gray Glass


• SKU: AF085

Why non-polarized aviator sunglasses for pilots?

Sunglasses for pilots are non-polarized so that pilots can see reflections while in the air. This is essential for managing controls within the cockpit and spotting other planes, projectiles or unidentified objects during flight.

Every Randolph lens is engineered to protect from damaging UVA/UVB rays, as well as shielding to prevent eye fatigue. There are many health benefits to wearing sunglasses, and both non-polarized and polarised lenses protect your eyes from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Randolph lenses are premium and have 100% UVA/UVB protection.

Our lenses are also created with SkyTec™ Lens Technology, designed with military aviation in mind. Depending on the frame, we offer two premium lens material options with either chemically-tempered Mineral Glass to help resist breakage and scratches or Lite Lens which is incredibly lightweight and scratch resistant.

What is the meaning of “aviator sunglasses?”

The first aviator style was invented in WWI with a tear-drop shaped lens. Today’s aviators are designed with more variety for different shaped lenses but with the same extreme environments in mind.

Randolph’s flagship Aviator has a square shaped lens while Randolph’s Concorde has the familiar tear-drop shape.

However, all of Randolph’s sunglasses are designed to endure your toughest adventures. Your frames might bend, but very rarely break. They’re made with only the highest quality metals and finishes for a jewelry-quality look and military-grade endurance.

We offer a variety of styles to choose from, all made to meet rigorous standards.

Source: Top_Gunning

Why do pilots wear aviators?

While many consider the “aviator” to just be a style, the shape actually provides an additional benefit to pilots. This original style shields more of the pilot’s eye, dipping down to the cheeks, and allowing the pilot to see more from behind their lens.

On Randolph Aviators, the lens is engineered to wrap further around the sides and tilts inwards towards the nose, providing beneficial coverage. Randolph Aviators are unlike other aviators. While others are similar in style, Randolph’s are military-spec aviators and feature durable SkyTec™ Lens Technology.

That’s why pilots tend to wear aviators. But pilots don’t exclusively wear aviators, and many others enjoy the aviator style for different reasons.

Browse our selection of sunglasses and find the perfect frame and lens to fit your extraordinary lifestyle.

While pilots continue to rely on the tried and true Aviator or Concorde, we offer variety for those who see things differently. Be on the lookout for our new releases.

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