Editor: John Wickman
27.08.2026

Born To Rip, Built To Last: History of the 70s Aviator

In the 70s, these sunglasses were the go-to style.

Think Steve McQueen peeling down desert highways, Bruce Lee’s immense on-screen presence, or Jimi Hendrix riffing at Woodstock - all rocking these shades.

Aviators weren’t just used for sun protection: they were tools of the trade. From sun-blasted Venice Beach boardwalks to Alpine switchbacks in Europe, this classic shape was made for the ones who knew how to rock and ride.

The Comeback Kid

A style so iconic they gave the biggest names a run for their money, and then they totally disappeared. Fast forward to the present day and time may have moved on, but the legend still smolders.. VALLON, a performance eyewear brand known for bringing back styles from generations past, but making them better than the originals. They didn't just reboot the aviator - they resurrected it. Classic design. Updated materials. Modern optics. Everything you need, nothing you don’t.

Built for Riders

These shades are more than a look. Whether you’re tearing up a canyon road or cruising down the coastline, with their top-tier ANSI Z87.1-rated lenses, anti-reflective coating, and durable hinges, Moto Aviators protect your eyes from glare, dust and even debris - whilst offering timeless style.

This year, VALLON teamed up with the iconic motorcycle company, Royal Enfield to create a limited edition series of the Moto Aviators inspired by Royal Enfield’s Classic Motorcycles that were ‘Made Like a Gun’ - known for their high performance, durability and lifelong style. If you’re looking for sunglasses shades that match your pure torque energy, these are the ones.

VALLON Surf Aviators sunglasses in Tortoise

Iconic 70s Shades

Secondly, let’s talk about the Surf Aviators. Dark Tortoise. Sage. Black. Tortoise. Pick your color. Bold acetate aviator frames provide classic toughness with modern swagger. Polarized V52® lenses bring sports-ready resistance, 100% UV protection, and perfectly crisp vision. Built to ride, surf and skate - wherever there’s light these shades have got you covered. 70s aviators are back. Grab yours here.

Image credits: Jerry Schatzberg & Getty/Airows & Persol.