Serengeti sunglasses pioneered photochromatic lenses that use energy in sunlight to darken as the light brightens, and the glasses have been popular with pilots and drivers. I have flown with a pair of Serengeti glasses for at least 15 years and like the variable darkness of the lens, and the sharp contrast the lenses provide in high glare conditions, particularly on bright hazy days or when flying in or near the tops of clouds. But, until recently, Serengeti styles have taken a backseat to optical performance. Now the company has a new line that offers the latest in eyewear fashion with even better optics.
My favorite in the current line is called the Navigator. The lenses are not as large as the traditional aviator style-which is also available-but still provide full coverage. The earpiece is quite thin so it doesn't harm the seal between my head and electronic noise canceling headset, which is important for pilots. Any type of glasses compromise the headset seal at least a little, but the Serengeti navigators were as good as any I have tried in my airplane.
The Serengeti photochromatic technology uses glass, not plastic, so the lenses are a little heavier than some other sunglasses. However, the glass lenses are far more durable than plastic and can last for many years of normal use without scratching or crazing. The new glasses in the "Driver" series have gradient lenses that are darker at the top. The view is good both out the windshield in the bright light and down at instruments or charts in the cockpit.
Younger pilots will probably be attracted to "wrap around" styles of which Serengeti now offers a big variety. No matter what style you choose the lens performance is the same so you can be in fashion with optimum optics. Serengeti sunglasses are available from a wide range of retailers, and street prices start around $100 for types pilots are likely to prefer.
