Pilots Sunglasses
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555nm or driver's gradient ? which one is better ? I m thinking about velocity titanium matte black (mod #6691 ) or lassen titanium (mod #6698) pretty expensive though (270 euros)
Moderatrix
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With Moderator Bad Medicine's permission a post from 2003.
"Sunglasses are a topic dear to the heart of aviators. There are a number of factors which determine the suitability or otherwise of sunglasses for use in the aviation role.
Narrow frames that carry large lenses are the most desirable from a field of view standpoint. The most critical problem with frames arises from the presence of wide sidearms which can significantly impair the peripheral visual field.
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. Much has been written about the perceived benefits of various coloured lenses, especially in regard to contrast and perceived brightness. Coloured lenses have been shown to reduce the colour information received, and to have a detrimental effect on both perception and reaction time.
Lenses of polycarbonate material are preferred because of their impact-resistance and ability to absorb ultra-violet and infra-red rays. However, these lenses can scratch easily. Harder materials may be suitable, however these may be more prone to shattering in an impact.
Different jurisdictions and countries have standards to which sunglasses are manufactured. Sunglasses should be chosen which conform to the appropriate standard. For example, the current Australian Standard ensures that sunglasses meet acceptable standards for lens quality, frame strength and lens retention and also ensures that sunglasses provide adequate protection from solar radiation.
Polarising sunglasses should not be used when flying. The polarising filter interacts with the cockpit transparency to produce a distorted and degraded visual image. This effect can also be seen with laminated car windscreens. Better keep the polarised lenses for fishing.
Pilots who wear prescription spectacles 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.
Back to the original issue of photochromatic lenses. Photochromatic lenses have several disadvantages that render them unsuitable for use by pilots.
Firstly, their transition times are relatively slow. Photochromatic lenses take about five minutes to increase their density to the level of sunglasses, but more importantly, the bleaching time from maximum to minimum density can be as long as 30 minutes. Although there is a rapid lightening of the lens in the first five minutes, this may be too long when there is a sudden variation in light during a descent into or under cloud, or because of a rapid change in cloud cover.
Their second disadvantage is that, even when fully bleached, photochromic lenses still absorb slightly more light than untinted lenses. Since vision is critically dependent on ambient light levels, even this small decrease of light reaching the eye through photochromatic lenses is undesirable, especially at night or in low light levels. The inherent degradation of these lenses with time causes them to progressively become darker, as they become unable to reach the fully bleached state. This effectively prohibits their use in flying or controlling air traffic.
I hope that "sheds some light" on the subject.
Cheers,
BM"
"Sunglasses are a topic dear to the heart of aviators. There are a number of factors which determine the suitability or otherwise of sunglasses for use in the aviation role.
Narrow frames that carry large lenses are the most desirable from a field of view standpoint. The most critical problem with frames arises from the presence of wide sidearms which can significantly impair the peripheral visual field.
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. Much has been written about the perceived benefits of various coloured lenses, especially in regard to contrast and perceived brightness. Coloured lenses have been shown to reduce the colour information received, and to have a detrimental effect on both perception and reaction time.
Lenses of polycarbonate material are preferred because of their impact-resistance and ability to absorb ultra-violet and infra-red rays. However, these lenses can scratch easily. Harder materials may be suitable, however these may be more prone to shattering in an impact.
Different jurisdictions and countries have standards to which sunglasses are manufactured. Sunglasses should be chosen which conform to the appropriate standard. For example, the current Australian Standard ensures that sunglasses meet acceptable standards for lens quality, frame strength and lens retention and also ensures that sunglasses provide adequate protection from solar radiation.
Polarising sunglasses should not be used when flying. The polarising filter interacts with the cockpit transparency to produce a distorted and degraded visual image. This effect can also be seen with laminated car windscreens. Better keep the polarised lenses for fishing.
Pilots who wear prescription spectacles 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.
Back to the original issue of photochromatic lenses. Photochromatic lenses have several disadvantages that render them unsuitable for use by pilots.
Firstly, their transition times are relatively slow. Photochromatic lenses take about five minutes to increase their density to the level of sunglasses, but more importantly, the bleaching time from maximum to minimum density can be as long as 30 minutes. Although there is a rapid lightening of the lens in the first five minutes, this may be too long when there is a sudden variation in light during a descent into or under cloud, or because of a rapid change in cloud cover.
Their second disadvantage is that, even when fully bleached, photochromic lenses still absorb slightly more light than untinted lenses. Since vision is critically dependent on ambient light levels, even this small decrease of light reaching the eye through photochromatic lenses is undesirable, especially at night or in low light levels. The inherent degradation of these lenses with time causes them to progressively become darker, as they become unable to reach the fully bleached state. This effectively prohibits their use in flying or controlling air traffic.
I hope that "sheds some light" on the subject.
Cheers,
BM"
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Originally Posted by Hawk
Back to the original issue of photochromatic lenses. Photochromatic lenses have several disadvantages that render them unsuitable for use by pilots.
Firstly, their transition times are relatively slow. Photochromatic lenses take about five minutes to increase their density to the level of sunglasses, but more importantly, the bleaching time from maximum to minimum density can be as long as 30 minutes. Although there is a rapid lightening of the lens in the first five minutes, this may be too long when there is a sudden variation in light during a descent into or under cloud, or because of a rapid change in cloud cover.
Firstly, their transition times are relatively slow. Photochromatic lenses take about five minutes to increase their density to the level of sunglasses, but more importantly, the bleaching time from maximum to minimum density can be as long as 30 minutes. Although there is a rapid lightening of the lens in the first five minutes, this may be too long when there is a sudden variation in light during a descent into or under cloud, or because of a rapid change in cloud cover.
Considerably Bemused Wannabe
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What's the best Serengeti frame for flying? I've decided on getting the Drivers Gradient lenses, but I'm undecided on the frames. Any thoughts?
eP
eP
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Most sunnies have a coated layer of UV ray absorbtion material which fades over time.
As far as I know only Oakley and Serengeti has this UV ray absorbtion material built into the lens, i.e. no degradation on UV ray absorbtion.
And only Oakley lenses claims to eliminate 100% of UVA, UVB and UVC rays, while Serengeti only claims to eliminate 98.5% UVA and 100% UVB and no mention of UVC.
So it is a no brainer for me, been Oakley or nothing for me for as long as I can remember
As far as I know only Oakley and Serengeti has this UV ray absorbtion material built into the lens, i.e. no degradation on UV ray absorbtion.
And only Oakley lenses claims to eliminate 100% of UVA, UVB and UVC rays, while Serengeti only claims to eliminate 98.5% UVA and 100% UVB and no mention of UVC.
So it is a no brainer for me, been Oakley or nothing for me for as long as I can remember
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I was a sunglass dealer way back in the day for a few years, so here's my $0.02.
You *may* want to stay away from polarized lenses if the instrument panels on whichever aircraft you fly are polarized... To see the results of two polarized materials, put on the glasses, take out your cell phone, and start to turn the cell phone sideways.. the screen completely dissappears. It doesn't happen on all aircraft however, but it is something that you should check out beforehand.
If you go the polarized route, I blindly recommend anything by Revo or Maui Jim.. two of the best possible lenses ever made. Ray Ban's are very nice as well, but I put them slightly behind Revo's and Maui's.
For the not polarized route, Serrengetti's (possibly not spelled correctly) would be a good bet. They have several lenses available that are photochromic, meaning when exposed to bright light, they darken automatically, when it gets dim (IE clouds, etc) they lighten.
Also, make sure there is an antireflective coating on the inside of the lense, which prevents light from behind you from hitting the glass and bouncing into your eyes.
Not all people enjoy this one, but some lenses are bi-gradient... darker tint at the top and the bottom of the lense. Helps while driving, keeps the sun out of your eyes a little better.
Ok, done boring everyone
Cheers,
Mandenbar
You *may* want to stay away from polarized lenses if the instrument panels on whichever aircraft you fly are polarized... To see the results of two polarized materials, put on the glasses, take out your cell phone, and start to turn the cell phone sideways.. the screen completely dissappears. It doesn't happen on all aircraft however, but it is something that you should check out beforehand.
If you go the polarized route, I blindly recommend anything by Revo or Maui Jim.. two of the best possible lenses ever made. Ray Ban's are very nice as well, but I put them slightly behind Revo's and Maui's.
For the not polarized route, Serrengetti's (possibly not spelled correctly) would be a good bet. They have several lenses available that are photochromic, meaning when exposed to bright light, they darken automatically, when it gets dim (IE clouds, etc) they lighten.
Also, make sure there is an antireflective coating on the inside of the lense, which prevents light from behind you from hitting the glass and bouncing into your eyes.
Not all people enjoy this one, but some lenses are bi-gradient... darker tint at the top and the bottom of the lense. Helps while driving, keeps the sun out of your eyes a little better.
Ok, done boring everyone
Cheers,
Mandenbar
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Decisions Decisions
I'm currently trying to decide between the following
1) Oakley CROSSHAIR™ ACTIVATED BY TRANSITIONS.
2) Serengeti Velocity Titanium with drivers gradient lenses
Any advice would be great the new transition lenses from oakley are relatively new to the market does anyone have an opinion on response time to light changes etc.
1) Oakley CROSSHAIR™ ACTIVATED BY TRANSITIONS.
2) Serengeti Velocity Titanium with drivers gradient lenses
Any advice would be great the new transition lenses from oakley are relatively new to the market does anyone have an opinion on response time to light changes etc.
Considerably Bemused Wannabe
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I was dead set on the exact pair of Serengeti's as you've stated RHCP. I didnt know about those Oakley CROSSHAIR™ ACTIVATED BY TRANSITIONS you've listed - I've just checked them out and they look great! Choices Choices!
For looks, its the OAKLEY's, but I'll hold off on a purchase to see what peoples opinions are of the OAKLEY transition lenses.
For looks, its the OAKLEY's, but I'll hold off on a purchase to see what peoples opinions are of the OAKLEY transition lenses.
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These are the ones I went with:
http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-RAY-BAN-AVIA...QQcmdZViewItem
Feel great and no EFIS problems even though they are polarized.
http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-RAY-BAN-AVIA...QQcmdZViewItem
Feel great and no EFIS problems even though they are polarized.
Join Date: Feb 2001
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Try optics-online.com.au,got my Serengeti's about $100 bucks cheaper than sunglasshut,delivered within 2 days.(latest look had them at $231AUD for the Velocity) .Heaps of other brands,or they will get it!
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This is all very well and aside from looking cool, can anyone recommend a pair of durable, comfortable, light, non polarizing grey-tint glasses that don't cost a fortune and don't end up on your forehead during aeros ? and will survive at least a 30 second window with a 2 year old ?
Pinkhyppo is correct , my raybans are currently in the process of peeling, which is rather satisfying considering I've had them slightly over a year.
Pinkhyppo is correct , my raybans are currently in the process of peeling, which is rather satisfying considering I've had them slightly over a year.
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If you can get them to fit your head (they're a bit small) try a pair of Oakley Fives. About £50 in the UK and should meet all your criteria. I was very impressed when I accidentaly dropped them off an 8 storey building, breaking them into the 5 component parts, then found I could put them right back together again as good as new!
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Hi all...
in a previous life i used to sell oakley in the outdoor activity industry in the UK's largest oakley retailer.
I've used serrengetti's ray ban etc, but without a doubt Oakley's did the job for me and i haven't looked back!
As others have said, Oakley do claim (and i've seen it proven) that UVA, UVB and UVC are blocked 100%. So you all know; UVC is the "blue light" reflected of snowy surfaces. so ideal for skiing etc.
They use a molecule called iridium which is imcorporated into the polycarbonate, to remove the glare. All UV and IR is removed by the lens material not the "iridium" so if the lenses get scratched, you will still be covered.
They also offer a wide array of lens hues to choose from. my tips for the cockpit would be gold iridium, black iridium (for particularly bright cockpits) and my personal fovourites emerald or Ice....
I haven't read thro all this thread but Oakley have done many comparisons between many manufacturers and surveys have been done in the states i believe for pilots. last time i looked details we're on their website...
in a previous life i used to sell oakley in the outdoor activity industry in the UK's largest oakley retailer.
I've used serrengetti's ray ban etc, but without a doubt Oakley's did the job for me and i haven't looked back!
As others have said, Oakley do claim (and i've seen it proven) that UVA, UVB and UVC are blocked 100%. So you all know; UVC is the "blue light" reflected of snowy surfaces. so ideal for skiing etc.
They use a molecule called iridium which is imcorporated into the polycarbonate, to remove the glare. All UV and IR is removed by the lens material not the "iridium" so if the lenses get scratched, you will still be covered.
They also offer a wide array of lens hues to choose from. my tips for the cockpit would be gold iridium, black iridium (for particularly bright cockpits) and my personal fovourites emerald or Ice....
I haven't read thro all this thread but Oakley have done many comparisons between many manufacturers and surveys have been done in the states i believe for pilots. last time i looked details we're on their website...
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Originally Posted by Inverted81
As others have said, Oakley do claim (and i've seen it proven) that UVA, UVB and UVC are blocked 100%. So you all know; UVC is the "blue light" reflected of snowy surfaces. so ideal for skiing etc.
I recommend Skylet lenses from Carl Zeiss.
You can get them framed from Zeiss or you can buy only the lenses to be mounted in any frame you like. I have mine in a Silhouette Minimal Art. Excellent comfort while wearing a headset.
Regards,
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rayban's
Hi,
does anyboday have and info on rayban lens, I like rayban glasses and i want buy a pair, with G-15xlt lens, i have a job sailing in greece for the summer so what a pair that are good for that but with a view to using the for flying aswell. thats the dilemma, i dont want to spend a fortune on a pair of polerized for sailing that i cant use for flying! so are G15 good? i hear they are a good alrounder but waondered if any had any experience on the water and in the air?
thanks
does anyboday have and info on rayban lens, I like rayban glasses and i want buy a pair, with G-15xlt lens, i have a job sailing in greece for the summer so what a pair that are good for that but with a view to using the for flying aswell. thats the dilemma, i dont want to spend a fortune on a pair of polerized for sailing that i cant use for flying! so are G15 good? i hear they are a good alrounder but waondered if any had any experience on the water and in the air?
thanks
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Oakleys - wouldn't touch them again. The lenses kept breaking in the only pair I tried to keep. After 4 pairs of lenses and 400 excuses I threw them away. Used raybans for over 30 years with no problems and currently the best I have ever had are Serengetti drivers glasses with the gradient lenses and titanium frames. I have no interest in their looks; only that they're comfortable for up to 8 hours a day, tough and do the job.
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Which Lens tint?
Oakley offer a million and one different lens tints and colours which would people recommend for up in the skies? bearing in mind i'm based in the Uk...sun cloud sun cloud sun cloud you just never know!
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I finally bought some new sunglasses ! How much you ask ? FA ! I bought a new pair of perscription glasses from Boots, and got a free pair of Boots brand perscription aviator sunglasses absolutely free ! I am 100% pleased with them as they do not have those obtrusive nose pads, and instead have continuous,thick plastic plastic V, to mount pressure free on your nose. No need to spend a fortune on sunglasses, as My Lappos advised. My Sarangettis have now been thrown to the back of the drawer.
TFS
TFS