Black aviator sunglasses are one of the most enduring styles in men’s eyewear. Originally created as practical sun protection for pilots, the shape has become a reliable choice for men who want a frame that feels classic, masculine and easy to wear.
This guide explains what to look for, who black aviators suit and which designer brands are worth considering.
Why choose black aviator sunglasses?
The aviator shape combines a slim metal frame with a gently curved lens and distinctive double bridge. In black, the design feels sharper and more modern than traditional gold or silver aviators.
Black aviators are popular because they:
- Work with both casual and smarter clothing
- Offer a strong look without oversized branding
- Suit a wide range of face shapes
- Remain stylish beyond short-term fashion trends
- Are available with standard, polarised and prescription lenses
Browse men’s designer sunglasses
Who do aviator sunglasses suit?
Aviators are particularly flattering on oval, square and heart-shaped faces. Their curved lenses can soften angular features, while the brow bar adds definition to the upper part of the face.
Men with rounder faces can also wear aviators, but a slightly more structured or squared aviator often works better than a very soft teardrop shape.
The most important factor is proportion. The frame should not extend too far beyond the sides of your face, and the lower edge should not rest heavily on your cheeks.
Read our guide to choosing the right glasses frames or use our Help Me Choose Glasses consultation for personalised advice.
What should you look for before buying?
A secure bridge fit
Many aviators use adjustable nose pads. These should sit comfortably without slipping or leaving deep pressure marks. A frame that repeatedly slides down will become frustrating, particularly in warm weather.
The right lens size
Traditional aviators can be quite large. If you have a narrower face, look for a smaller eye size or a more compact pilot shape. If your face is wider, avoid frames that pull at the temples or leave the sides angled outwards.
Reliable UV protection
Dark lenses alone do not confirm UV protection. Buy from a reputable retailer and choose sunglasses manufactured to recognised standards.
Polarised or non-polarised lenses
Polarised lenses reduce reflected glare from roads, water and other flat surfaces. They can be especially useful for driving, holidays and time spent outdoors.
Learn more in our polarised lenses guide.
Prescription suitability
Many aviators can be glazed with prescription sun lenses. Suitability depends on your prescription, the lens size and the curvature of the frame.
Explore our prescription sunglasses guide or view all designer and prescription sunglasses.
Our recommended black aviator brands for men
David Beckham: understated and refined
David Beckham sunglasses are ideal for men who want classic aviator styling with a more refined, premium finish. The collection often combines traditional metal shapes with subtle branding and wearable lens colours.
Best for: timeless styling, smart-casual wardrobes and men who prefer quieter designer eyewear.
Giorgio Armani: discreet Italian luxury
Giorgio Armani sunglasses suit customers looking for a more elevated aviator. The brand is known for restrained design, refined materials and frames that feel luxurious without relying on obvious logos.
Best for: subtle luxury and premium everyday wear.
Police: bold and masculine
Police sunglasses tend to have a stronger, more assertive look. Black metal finishes, darker lenses and distinctive bridge details make them a good choice for customers who want their aviators to feel more noticeable.
Best for: statement styling, darker finishes and bold masculine shapes.
Carrera: sporty heritage
Carrera is a strong option for men who want an aviator influenced by motorsport and performance design. Many styles combine classic pilot proportions with thicker bridge details and more contemporary materials.
Best for: sporty styling and men who want a less traditional aviator.
Are black aviator sunglasses good for driving?
They can be an excellent choice for driving, provided the lenses offer reliable UV protection and the frame does not restrict your peripheral vision.
Grey lenses are popular because they keep colours looking natural. Brown or green lenses may improve contrast in some conditions. Polarised lenses can reduce glare from wet roads and vehicle surfaces, although some digital displays may appear different through polarisation.
Always choose sunglasses suitable for normal daytime driving and avoid lenses that are excessively dark.
Can black aviators be made with prescription lenses?
Yes. Many black aviator frames can be fitted with single-vision or varifocal prescription sun lenses. Polarised lenses may also be available.
Large aviator lenses can require careful consideration with stronger prescriptions because lens thickness and weight may become more noticeable. Burghley & Co reviews each prescription order before glazing to make sure the chosen frame and lens combination is suitable.
Read the prescription sunglasses guide
How should aviator sunglasses fit?
A well-fitting aviator should:
- Sit level across your face
- Remain secure when you look down
- Rest comfortably on the nose without pinching
- Clear your cheeks when you smile
- Avoid pressing behind your ears
- Give sufficient coverage without overwhelming your face
Use our virtual try-on guide to compare styles online. Virtual try-on is useful for judging shape and proportion, but measurements and fit should still be considered before ordering.
Are designer aviators worth paying more for?
A higher price does not automatically guarantee a better fit, but established designer brands often provide better finishing, stronger hinges, more refined materials and more consistent lens quality than very cheap fashion sunglasses.
The best value comes from buying a genuine frame that fits properly, provides reliable eye protection and is backed by a clear returns and aftercare process.
For advice on avoiding counterfeit eyewear, read our guide to the dangers of fake sunglasses.
Final verdict
Black aviator sunglasses remain popular because they are versatile, recognisable and easy to style. David Beckham offers a refined interpretation, Giorgio Armani brings understated luxury, while Police delivers a bolder, more assertive look.
Choose the brand that suits your style, but do not overlook the essentials: fit, UV protection, lens quality and prescription suitability.
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Written by Scott Phippen, UK Registered Dispensing Optician and founder of Burghley & Co.