Pilot Sunglasses

Aviator or pilot sunglasses are defined by their teardrop-shaped lenses, thin metal frame, and double bridge across the nose. Originally designed as pilot eyewear for military use in the 1930s, they have become one of the most recognised and enduring sunglasses styles in the world. The teardrop shape provides generous coverage, suits a wide range of face shapes, and gives the frames their distinctive, instantly recognisable look.

The terms are used interchangeably. Pilot sunglasses refers to the original functional eyewear developed for military aviators, while 'aviator sunglasses' describes the fashion style that evolved directly from that design. Both share the same defining features: teardrop lenses, a metal frame, and a double bridge. At Direct Sight our range covers both classic pilot-faithful interpretations and updated contemporary styles.

Yes. All tinted lenses at Direct Sight include 100% UV400 protection as standard, blocking both UVA and UVB rays. This applies to standard tinted and polarised lenses alike across the entire aviator sunglasses range.

Standard tinted lenses reduce overall light levels and provide UV400 protection. Polarised lenses do the same but additionally contain a filter that eliminates reflected glare from flat surfaces, water, wet roads, snow, and glass. For aviator sunglasses, polarised lenses are a particularly strong choice. The teardrop shape's generous coverage combined with glare elimination makes them ideal for driving, water sports, and high-brightness outdoor conditions.

Yes. Photochromic lenses are available across the aviator glasses range. They automatically darken in UV light outdoors and return to a clear state indoors, making them a practical all-day option for those who move between environments. Photochromic lenses are especially popular for commuting, cycling, and outdoor work.

Aviators are among the most universally flattering sunglasses shapes. The teardrop lens works particularly well on oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. For those with round faces, a slightly wider or more angular aviator interpretation adds helpful definition. See our full frames and face shapes guide for detailed guidance.

Prescription aviator sunglasses are available through our glasses collection, where all aviator frames can be fully customised with your prescription. Single vision, bifocal, and varifocal prescriptions are all supported, with lens options including standard tints, polarised, photochromic, and high index lenses for stronger prescriptions. Every pair is glazed in our own UK optical laboratory.

Standard tints are available in brown, grey, green, blue, gradient, and mirrored finishes. Brown enhances contrast and warmth, grey provides neutral colour rendition, and green, the original aviator tint, offers a classic look with good clarity. See our tint options guide for a full breakdown of what each colour suits.

Non-prescription in-stock styles are available for Next Day Delivery. See our production and delivery guide for full details if ordering aviator frames UK with prescription sunglasses lenses.