The classic aviator has served me for decades, combining sun protection for my light-colored eyes, and injury prevention against projectiles. The only deviation to the aviators has been in the high-arctic and Antarctica, where glacier googles were superior for the conditions. The aviators are timeless, as are other styles like wayfarers in tortoise and black frames. While sunglasses may not seem like a critical overland travel accessory, it is one of the most common items that we all use. So for this overland news, we are reviewing the new Aether Apparel optics lineup, made just for adventure travelers like us.
Aether’s new line is comprised of four styles, the Arches, Bryce, Sequoia, and Yosemite, all classic in shape and tone, and inspired by our stunning National Parks. These premium models are all made in Japan, and designed by David Rose (founder of the SALT motorcycle eyewear line). As with Aether’s clothing and motorcycle lines, their new sunglasses were built from the start to offer understated and timeless style, combined with modern and high-performance features.
The lenses are polarized, anti-reflective, and liquid shedding, which allows the optic coating to quickly displace water, oil, and other fluids. The two aviator models (Arches and Bryce) are hypoallergenic and made from aviation-grade Japanese titanium. The Yosemite models are in the Wayfarer style, made from acetate frames (cotton and wood pulp), along with premium lens optics and coatings. Rounding out the line-up is the Sequoia, which is also a classic profile, but featuring a higher bridge and a thick, rounded frame. All are minimalist and understated, hiding their premium and advanced features (and price).
Personally, I like the Arches frame style, which is a more modern interpretation of the aviator, employing harder angles, like facets. This was the model I ordered, and have worn for the past few days. The immediate impression is the light weight and overtly minimalist construction. The top bar is prominent and spans over half the width of the frame, providing additional rigidity and triangulation, along with complimenting the angular corners. The bridge retains the classic aviator curve, intersecting at the inside angles of the frame. Also of note is the adjustable nose pads, which include compression screws to relocate the pad higher or lower on the sides of the nasal bone. These nose pads do rattle ever so slightly (they are silent when worn). Attention to detail abounds, yet never tries to overwhelm the balance of the design, like the one piece temple arms that seamlessly transition into the temple tips, helping to retain the glasses during more dynamic movements.
In use, my pair has been supremely comfortable and lightweight, also proving easy to don and doff, even inside a motorcycle helmet. I like the lighter tint to the lens, which has a notable optical clarity; along with enough polarization to limit glare, but not inhibit daylight readability of electronic screens. The test period has been too short to reveal any criticisms, but it is important to note that these are investment-grade (i.e. expensive) sunglasses, so keep them on a short leash while out in the wilds.
This new line of glasses is a thoughtful addition to the long-respected Aether brand, a company that has supported overland travelers (like at their Pioneertown rally) for decades. The brand was founded and is operated by adventurers and motorcyclists that understand the needs of overlanders. It is clear that this sunglass line is an important expansion of the Aether brand, and is meant to serve the traveler for decades of adventures.
aetherapparel.com | Pricing Varies by Model ($465 as tested)
