Good sunnies to wear for flying?
Another thumbs up for serengettis. I was wearing raybans (not the aviator style) for the last two pairs and thought I would give serengettis a go.
Your eyes feel like a million dollars and flying around the tropics with the builds makes cloud definition second to none.
I'll be buying another pair when these ones break! (Try ebay if you don't want to pay up to $400 for a pair)
Your eyes feel like a million dollars and flying around the tropics with the builds makes cloud definition second to none.
I'll be buying another pair when these ones break! (Try ebay if you don't want to pay up to $400 for a pair)
I use Randolf Aviator. I like the bayonet side arms because it doesn't disturb the headset seal. Bose headsets work much better with a full seal. Also they have glass lenses which have much better visual acuity. I'd go for glass lenses, neutral tint (military use AGX) and whatever frames feed your ego.
GG - I just got a pair of serengetis at DFO at moorabbin for $135 (its 50% off their lowest prices atm at the Bolle store, and I was told its always 40% off for pilots anyway)... so I saved about $200 off the original full price.
My original question still stands if anyone can answer it - regarding the link to the other forum thread I posted and the negative opinions regarding photochromatic lenses overseas.
My original question still stands if anyone can answer it - regarding the link to the other forum thread I posted and the negative opinions regarding photochromatic lenses overseas.
CASA told me that I must not have polarised sunglasses but gave me no other requirements
2.1.13 Sunglasses
Glare is often a cause of significant discomfort when flying above cloud or when flying into
the sun. Sunglasses may be required in such circumstances.
There are two basic factors to consider when selecting sunglasses, namely the frame and
the lenses.
Any spectacle frame reduces the field of vision. Narrow frames that carry large lenses are
desirable. The most critical problem with frames arises from the presence of wide sidearms
which significantly impair the peripheral visual field.
Sunglass lenses should protect the eyes from glare while not adversely affecting the visual
cues necessary for safe flight. Accordingly, lenses should not be too dark, and should
transmit at least 15% of incident light. The tint used should be "neutral density" (N.D.),
that is, a greyish tint that does not distort colour perception or adversely affect red signal
detection and recognition. The recommended tint is N.D.15.
Lenses of polycarbonate are preferred because of their impact-resistance and ability to
absorb ultra-violet and infrared rays. However, these lenses can scratch readily and any
scratched spectacles should be discarded.
To ensure that sunglasses provide adequate protection from solar radiation that may
damage the eyes, only those sunglasses that conform to the current Australian Standard
should be worn.
Sunglasses that conform to the current Australian Standard also meet acceptable
standards for lens quality, frame strength and lens retention.
For aviation use, those sunglasses marked "Specific Purpose Sunglasses" are
recommended, provided their frames are appropriate. The lenses of these sunglasses
have been specifically designed for use in conditions of intense glare, such as in flight
above cloud. At high altitude, atmospheric absorption of ultra-violet radiation is reduced.
Polarising sunglasses should not be used when flying. The polarising filter interacts with
the cockpit transparency to produce a distorted and degraded visual field that poses a
threat to air safety.
The pilot who already wears prescription spectacles for flying can choose from a number
of options for glare protection. Prescription sunglasses with N.D.15 lenses can be
obtained, or N.D.15 clip-on or flip-up sunglasses may be worn over prescription
spectacles.
Pilots who require correction of their near vision only and who wear "look-overs" are
advised to obtain bifocals and a plano upper segment. Clip-on or flip-up sunglasses can
then be worn. However, the dangers of flip-ups previously mentioned should be recalled.
the sun. Sunglasses may be required in such circumstances.
There are two basic factors to consider when selecting sunglasses, namely the frame and
the lenses.
Any spectacle frame reduces the field of vision. Narrow frames that carry large lenses are
desirable. The most critical problem with frames arises from the presence of wide sidearms
which significantly impair the peripheral visual field.
Sunglass lenses should protect the eyes from glare while not adversely affecting the visual
cues necessary for safe flight. Accordingly, lenses should not be too dark, and should
transmit at least 15% of incident light. The tint used should be "neutral density" (N.D.),
that is, a greyish tint that does not distort colour perception or adversely affect red signal
detection and recognition. The recommended tint is N.D.15.
Lenses of polycarbonate are preferred because of their impact-resistance and ability to
absorb ultra-violet and infrared rays. However, these lenses can scratch readily and any
scratched spectacles should be discarded.
To ensure that sunglasses provide adequate protection from solar radiation that may
damage the eyes, only those sunglasses that conform to the current Australian Standard
should be worn.
Sunglasses that conform to the current Australian Standard also meet acceptable
standards for lens quality, frame strength and lens retention.
For aviation use, those sunglasses marked "Specific Purpose Sunglasses" are
recommended, provided their frames are appropriate. The lenses of these sunglasses
have been specifically designed for use in conditions of intense glare, such as in flight
above cloud. At high altitude, atmospheric absorption of ultra-violet radiation is reduced.
Polarising sunglasses should not be used when flying. The polarising filter interacts with
the cockpit transparency to produce a distorted and degraded visual field that poses a
threat to air safety.
The pilot who already wears prescription spectacles for flying can choose from a number
of options for glare protection. Prescription sunglasses with N.D.15 lenses can be
obtained, or N.D.15 clip-on or flip-up sunglasses may be worn over prescription
spectacles.
Pilots who require correction of their near vision only and who wear "look-overs" are
advised to obtain bifocals and a plano upper segment. Clip-on or flip-up sunglasses can
then be worn. However, the dangers of flip-ups previously mentioned should be recalled.
2.1-14
Graduated lens tint is another option. This provides glare protection for distant vision
outside the aircraft, while near vision inside the aircraft is not impeded by the tint. It is
usually considered that the use of a single tinted segment in bifocal glasses should be
avoided as the visual effect of a "false horizon" may be disturbing and dangerous.
Graduated lens tint is another option. This provides glare protection for distant vision
outside the aircraft, while near vision inside the aircraft is not impeded by the tint. It is
usually considered that the use of a single tinted segment in bifocal glasses should be
The tint used should be "neutral density" (N.D.),
that is, a greyish tint that does not distort colour perception or adversely affect red signal
detection and recognition.
that is, a greyish tint that does not distort colour perception or adversely affect red signal
detection and recognition.
the lenses are light brown and to my surprise colours do change when putting them on... after reading that I am wondering if they're suitable? Any opinions of other guys here who have the brownish glass lenses?
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Ive got the Serengeti Velocity ones with the brown photochromatic lenses and haven't found the adjustment of colour to be any problem (whilst completing my CPL training).
Also I have to say after using RayBan for a year previous to swapping to Serengeti (about 7 months ago) which I thought were great at the time, I have not looked back after swapping great pair of glasses and I find that the brown lenses are better as they don't block out as much light and the lenses also give a sharper image than the Ray Bans I previously used.
Also I have to say after using RayBan for a year previous to swapping to Serengeti (about 7 months ago) which I thought were great at the time, I have not looked back after swapping great pair of glasses and I find that the brown lenses are better as they don't block out as much light and the lenses also give a sharper image than the Ray Bans I previously used.
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I just got a pair of serengetis at DFO at moorabbin for $135 (its 50% off their lowest prices atm at the Bolle store, and I was told its always 40% off for pilots anyway)... so I saved about $200 off the original full price.
).And should I get polarised lenses or non-polarised lenses?
$135 is more like the price range I can afford. May I ask what model of Serengetis did you get? And do they require proof that you're a pilot, like showing your license? (I don't go around wearing gold bars on my shoulders ).
And should I get polarised lenses or non-polarised lenses?
And should I get polarised lenses or non-polarised lenses?
I got the Navigators (photochromatic). From what I've read - polarized lenses aren't suitable for flying.
If you're a fan of the snow - stock up on the snow goggles too while you're there, nice and cheap for 50% off as well
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Gotta be Raybans...aviators are a bit "TOPGUN", particularly the mirror ones...but if they make you look as hot as this...
...then I'm all for them!!!
...then I'm all for them!!!
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United issue Serengetis to their aircrew. I wear Velocity but many in my company go for the bigger lense to block out glear, wich is any of the aviator range. Probable about 20 different nationalities here and the majority wear them. Can not do polaroid as the gold in the window for heating stops you from seeing out. Only my opinion and observations. No apology for spelling, I'm a pilot.
Folks,
Any pilot who uses cheap sunglasses is not smart enough to be a pilot -- you need to do everything you can to protect your eyes.
Do NOT use "glass" sunglasses, they all splinter under impact, some worse then others, but CR-8 never will.
CR-8 or similar polycarbonate ONLY, and they will be more scratch resistant than optical glass.
Likewise, only ever use polycarbonate "safety" glasses (including playing squash), never "glass". Never use the "glassless" glasses often promoted by Squash "experts", when playing squash, you can still lose an eye all too easily, as a mate of mine found out the hard way, terminating your aviation career is a huge price for a moment's neglect --- but you can lose an eye in that moment.
"Sun" glasses made for ground level use (including ASA Kite marked) will not necessarily have the correct tint for flying, either density or colour.
Undoubtedly the best are right here in Australia, Martin X Hogan, 14 Collins St., Melbourne. They have been leaders in the business of "professional" aviation, military and civil (as opposed to "fashion"), including supplying their products to NASA for the Apollo program, specialist visors (with correction, to the USAF and US Navy) and so on.
They have cockpit dimensions for all common civil types, and can make tailored glasses of all tints, including bi and tri focals, including being able to see the overhead panel, either right or left hand seat. They are aviation experts, and way ahead of designs that haven't really changed since WW11.
As users of RayBan and Randolph (they are glass, dummy) will know, lens can relatively easily fall out --- the design of the flying range from Hogan eliminate this problem ---- scrabbling around the cockpit floor looking for a lens is no fun, and doesn't do the lens much good, either.
I have trialled Serengeti, a whole bunch of us did did, for the manufacturer, a "new model" "optimized" for flying, they were good, but I went back to my Apollos, even though I use the Serengeti sometimes for driving.
If you intend to stay a pilot, your eyes are too precious to treat with other than the greatest care and respect.
Tootle pip!!
Any pilot who uses cheap sunglasses is not smart enough to be a pilot -- you need to do everything you can to protect your eyes.
Do NOT use "glass" sunglasses, they all splinter under impact, some worse then others, but CR-8 never will.
CR-8 or similar polycarbonate ONLY, and they will be more scratch resistant than optical glass.
Likewise, only ever use polycarbonate "safety" glasses (including playing squash), never "glass". Never use the "glassless" glasses often promoted by Squash "experts", when playing squash, you can still lose an eye all too easily, as a mate of mine found out the hard way, terminating your aviation career is a huge price for a moment's neglect --- but you can lose an eye in that moment.
"Sun" glasses made for ground level use (including ASA Kite marked) will not necessarily have the correct tint for flying, either density or colour.
Undoubtedly the best are right here in Australia, Martin X Hogan, 14 Collins St., Melbourne. They have been leaders in the business of "professional" aviation, military and civil (as opposed to "fashion"), including supplying their products to NASA for the Apollo program, specialist visors (with correction, to the USAF and US Navy) and so on.
They have cockpit dimensions for all common civil types, and can make tailored glasses of all tints, including bi and tri focals, including being able to see the overhead panel, either right or left hand seat. They are aviation experts, and way ahead of designs that haven't really changed since WW11.
As users of RayBan and Randolph (they are glass, dummy) will know, lens can relatively easily fall out --- the design of the flying range from Hogan eliminate this problem ---- scrabbling around the cockpit floor looking for a lens is no fun, and doesn't do the lens much good, either.
I have trialled Serengeti, a whole bunch of us did did, for the manufacturer, a "new model" "optimized" for flying, they were good, but I went back to my Apollos, even though I use the Serengeti sometimes for driving.
If you intend to stay a pilot, your eyes are too precious to treat with other than the greatest care and respect.
Tootle pip!!
Last edited by LeadSled; 27th Feb 2010 at 06:26.
^^ to the few posts above... I've been using $20 plastic sunnies that apparently meet UV-A/B standards for the last few years but I aint too sure... my eyes still feel funny after flying for a while on sunny days - so it's either that or the air-vent blowing into my face dying my eyes off 
Either way, all the previous posts swear by their serengeti's and for that price I couldnt refuse... so far it's early days and I'm impressed mostly with the clarity. (yes they are glass, Leadsled).
In the end you can take peoples advice on what glasses suit them and try applying it to yourself - but only you can decide in the long run whether forking out a bit of money for eye wear is worth it or not. Maybe I'll "swear by the S" when it comes to my 3rd pair of sunnies... or maybe I'll go back to a $20 pair...
Either way, all the previous posts swear by their serengeti's and for that price I couldnt refuse... so far it's early days and I'm impressed mostly with the clarity. (yes they are glass, Leadsled).
In the end you can take peoples advice on what glasses suit them and try applying it to yourself - but only you can decide in the long run whether forking out a bit of money for eye wear is worth it or not. Maybe I'll "swear by the S" when it comes to my 3rd pair of sunnies... or maybe I'll go back to a $20 pair...
1013
If you want to play chicken with your eyesight, and you really are a pilot, all that does is say something about your basic intelligence.
Pilot or not, it's a pity that you have never attended a lecture on eyesight safety by the likes of the late Dr. John Colvin or his successors, whose slides of the eyes of pilots who had lost an eye (and a career) in entirely avoidable circumstances are really gruesome.
I can guarantee you haven't, otherwise you wouldn't take such a flippant attitude to your eyesight. The nasty thing about cumulative damage is that it can be years before you realize the extent of the damage, and CASA medicals, including CASA opthalmic checks, will not necessarily uncover it.
In the days before the beancounters took over, QF even used to fly Dr.Colvin to Sydney to address new pilots on eyesight preservation.
The human eye has evolved at ground level, with the sun shining down, it is not well adapted to above ground level use. And it's far more than just "UV", even a perspex windscreen and windows will attenuate a large % of UVa and UVb, that is but a small part of the problem.
But Hey!!, you go right ahead, stupid isn't illegal, but is sure is dumb, but at least it is only your eyes.
Tootle pip!!
PS: The Serengeti we trialled were polycarbonate, otherwise we would not have participated, I have no idea whether they ever made it to market.
If you want to play chicken with your eyesight, and you really are a pilot, all that does is say something about your basic intelligence.
Pilot or not, it's a pity that you have never attended a lecture on eyesight safety by the likes of the late Dr. John Colvin or his successors, whose slides of the eyes of pilots who had lost an eye (and a career) in entirely avoidable circumstances are really gruesome.
I can guarantee you haven't, otherwise you wouldn't take such a flippant attitude to your eyesight. The nasty thing about cumulative damage is that it can be years before you realize the extent of the damage, and CASA medicals, including CASA opthalmic checks, will not necessarily uncover it.
In the days before the beancounters took over, QF even used to fly Dr.Colvin to Sydney to address new pilots on eyesight preservation.
The human eye has evolved at ground level, with the sun shining down, it is not well adapted to above ground level use. And it's far more than just "UV", even a perspex windscreen and windows will attenuate a large % of UVa and UVb, that is but a small part of the problem.
But Hey!!, you go right ahead, stupid isn't illegal, but is sure is dumb, but at least it is only your eyes.
Tootle pip!!
PS: The Serengeti we trialled were polycarbonate, otherwise we would not have participated, I have no idea whether they ever made it to market.
Leadsled,
thanks for the info on Martin X Hogan.
I have never been comfortable using plastic lenses; I feel that my vision becomes slightly distorted.
I am on to my second pair of Serengetti velocity, with a Ray Ban photochromatic in-between, and the Velocity are the best that I have worn.
They are clear and work well with change of lighting, especially low light.
thanks for the info on Martin X Hogan.
I have never been comfortable using plastic lenses; I feel that my vision becomes slightly distorted.
I am on to my second pair of Serengetti velocity, with a Ray Ban photochromatic in-between, and the Velocity are the best that I have worn.
They are clear and work well with change of lighting, especially low light.
Nosign
Contrary to the CASA comment about polycarbonate lenses and scratching, the surface hardening of polycarbonate lens makes them more scratch resistant than the optical glass used in RayBan and similar. This is not true of the many crap "plastic" lens around.
The greater proportion of all glasses sold are now CR-8 or similar, "glass" glasses are becoming a smaller and smaller part of sales.
Whatever your choice, look very carefully at the way lens are retained, are they positively retained, or just sitting in grooves in the frame?
To see an eyeball that has been bisected by the edge of a displaced lens, after a relatively minor frontal impact (victim remained conscious, no concussion, only major injury loss of one eye) was not a pretty sight ---- quite apart from immediate loss of career.
Most commercial sunglasses transmit far too much light for flying, because the standard is based on some megatrendoid being able to see when driving in a road tunnel, the ASNZ standard assume sunglasses remaining on face, so not mussing up his/her/its coiffure by removing said sunnies.
The CASA 15% recommendation is about the maximum, as well as the minimum.
Tootle pip!!
I have never been comfortable using plastic lenses;
The greater proportion of all glasses sold are now CR-8 or similar, "glass" glasses are becoming a smaller and smaller part of sales.
Whatever your choice, look very carefully at the way lens are retained, are they positively retained, or just sitting in grooves in the frame?
To see an eyeball that has been bisected by the edge of a displaced lens, after a relatively minor frontal impact (victim remained conscious, no concussion, only major injury loss of one eye) was not a pretty sight ---- quite apart from immediate loss of career.
Most commercial sunglasses transmit far too much light for flying, because the standard is based on some megatrendoid being able to see when driving in a road tunnel, the ASNZ standard assume sunglasses remaining on face, so not mussing up his/her/its coiffure by removing said sunnies.
The CASA 15% recommendation is about the maximum, as well as the minimum.
Tootle pip!!
If you want to play chicken with your eyesight, and you really are a pilot, all that does is say something about your basic intelligence.
But Hey!!, you go right ahead, stupid isn't illegal, but is sure is dumb, but at least it is only your eyes.
I'm pretty sure the vast majority of pilots out there either wear glasses similar to mine that I wear now - or a cheap $20 pair that I used to wear from a servo... fair points you raised and I understand your points and believe me I don't want to take risks on my eyes but just because I have not attended these seminars you speak of or wear these exact sunnies you preach of which have been designed and tested by NASA specifically for flying doesn't make me "stupid"
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have a look at www.opticsplanet.net/serengeti-sunglasses.html , may help with the prices .