How Should Aviators Fit? | Find the Right Aviators for You
Imagine this: you walk into a store and spot the perfect pair of aviators. You have always loved that classic look, the teardrop lenses, the gold wire frames that make you feel like Tom Cruise or even "The Rock" Johnson.
You try them on and then… they slide right down your face.
The lenses feel way too wide, almost like there is extra space at your temples, and nothing sits quite right. Frustrated, you put them back and start to think aviators just are not for you.
But that is not the case.
The right pair of aviators can look incredible on you, it just comes down to finding the right fit. Keep reading to learn exactly how aviators should fit so you can choose a pair that stays in place and highlights your best features.
Getting the Right Fit for Your Aviator Sunglasses
Just like clothing, sunglasses need to fit properly to look and feel their best. Finding the right aviators comes down to a few key factors: knowing your size, choosing the right nose pads, and selecting quality materials for both the lenses and frames.
Find Your Size
Everyone has a different-sized head, so you need to take some measurements to ensure you purchase sunglasses that are the right size.
Frame Width
Start by determining your frame width, which is the distance from one side of the frame to the other. The easiest way to do this is by measuring a pair of sunglasses you already own and love. When shopping, look for frames within a few millimeters of that measurement for the best fit.
If you do not have a well fitting pair to reference, there are a couple of simple ways to check. The space between your temples and the frame should be no wider than the width of your finger, and your eyes should sit centered within the lenses. If either of these are off, the fit is likely not right for you.
Arm Length
The arms, or temples, are the parts of the sunglasses that fold in. Arm length is measured from the hinge near the lenses to the curved tip that rests behind your ears, typically ranging from 135mm to 150mm.
If the arms dig into the sides of your head or ears, they are likely too short. If they extend too far past your ears and cause your sunglasses to slide around, they are too long.
As a general rule, if your frames feel too tight, look for longer arm lengths closer to 150mm. If they feel loose or unstable, opt for shorter lengths around 135mm for a more secure fit.
Choose the Right Nose Pads
Nose pads are the tiny plastic pieces you sometimes find beneath the nose bridge to better hold your glasses in place. If you struggle with sunglasses that tend to slide down your face, a pair with adjustable nose pads can help secure them.
However, if you want a pair of men’s aviator shades that feels lighter on your face, opt for aviators without nose pads. If you find the right fit using the methods listed above then you shouldn’t have any problems with slippage.
Pick Quality Materials
Finally, choose high quality materials so your sunglasses hold their shape and last over time. Lower quality plastic frames and coatings can warp, peel, or fade, leading to discomfort and an uneven fit.
Instead, choose high-quality plastic like acetate or a sturdy metal like stainless steel to ensure your aviator sunglasses last for years to come. To give you an idea, stainless steel sunglasses can last for 10 years or more if you take care of them properly. This is also great if you're trying to find a durable pair of prescription eyeglass frames that can last until you need a new prescription.
Review How Aviators Should Fit
Aviators should fit snugly so that they cover your eyebrows but are not so big that they hit your cheekbones.
Should Aviators Cover Your Eyebrows?
Yes, aviators should cover your eyebrows. Aviators were developed for the armed forces in the 30s and 40s, and they were made to protect every corner of a person’s vision. This means that they feature a larger lens than most sunglasses, so it covers your entire eye and frame of vision. As a rule of thumb, most of your eyebrows should be behind the aviator lenses.
The Importance of Lens Size
The traditional teardrop lens was made to cover the entire eye while remaining comfortable and not irritating the cheekbone. If the lenses are hitting your cheekbones, then they’re likely too big for your face.
And remember, if the space between the edge of the frame and your face is wider than your finger, then the frames are too oversized for your face.
Top-Rated Featured Aviator Styles for Everyone
While you can’t go wrong with the classic aviator styles, there are tons of fantastic modern takes on the aviator as well.
Single-bridge
While classic aviators featured a double nose bridge with a “bullet hole,” modern aviators made of acetate can feature a single nose bridge. If you have a round face shape, then you should check out Emerson.
These frames feature square lenses to complement the softer edges of a round face. It comes in six cool colors and at only $49, so you could get multiple pairs. Plus, they’re made of sturdy acetate with ultra-cool blue lenses, so you can be the trendiest person in the room. Need them in prescription? Check them out with eyeglass lenses.
Oval
Anyone with a square face should opt for rounder frames to help balance sharper features. Instead of traditional aviators with strong angles, go for a softer, more rounded style like Sterling.
Sterling takes timeless aviator design to the next level with its modern acetate frame and rounded, polarized lenses. Tapered arms and a sturdy double bridge add extra detail, creating a bold, refined look that is sure to stand out. At just $45, it delivers standout style at an accessible price.
Classic
Why change a good thing? One of the best things about aviators is that they look good on most people. So no matter your face shape, try out a pair of classic shades like Maxwell, which flies in at only $39. With a stainless steel frame, teardrop lenses, and three different colors of wire to choose from, you’ll be ready to land a plane in no time!
Rectangular
If you have an oval face, pretty much every pair of sunglasses looks good on you. Go bold and try rectangular aviators like Lance. These retro frames feature a double nose bridge out of crystal brown, caramel brown, or jade black polycarbonate.
The arms are made of stainless steel for durability and a cool, multi-textile vibe. Snag a pair or two at the affordable price tag of $49.
FAQ's:
Should Aviators Be Wider Than Your Face?
Yes, aviator sunglasses should be slightly wider than your face. However, shouldn’t be so wide that it’s noticeable. The width of the front of the frames should be just about the width of one temple to the other. You shouldn’t be able to fit wider than a finger within the sides of your sunglasses near your eye.
What Face Shape Do Aviators Look Best On?
Aviators fit best on oval, square, or heart-shaped faces. The benefits of wearing aviators is having a nice mix of lines and curves, softening harsh features or making rounder face stand out.
Can Everyone Pull Off Aviators?
Yes, everyone can pull off aviators. However, not every type of face shape can pull off every type of aviator. If you have a round face, then look for aviators with square lenses instead of the more traditional tear drops. But if you have a square or heart shaped face, then that classic aviator style will look great on you.
