Top Gun: The Sunglasses That Made a Lasting Impression
When the 1986 film Top Gun starring Tom Cruise as Maverick flew onto the big screen, it not only showcased Cruise’s impressive aerial stunts but also introduced a timeless fashion icon: the pilot’s sunglasses. In the world of aviation, Aviators are considered the gold standard for pilot sunglasses, and in Top Gun, Tom Cruise made them a staple of the movie’s style.
What sunglasses did Tom Cruise wear in Top Gun?
The answer is quite simple: Ray-Ban Aviators with a G-15 lens. Yes, the same iconic shades worn by Tom Cruise in Top Gun are still widely coveted today. The Ray-Ban Aviators have undergone numerous design changes since then, but the G-15 lens remains a core part of the style. The G-15 lens, in particular, stands out for its unique "copper" tone and exceptional optical clarity.
A Brief History of the Aviator
Before Top Gun, Aviator sunglasses were already popularized by pilots in the United States Army Air Forces and Navy during World War II. The original design aimed to reduce glare while taking off and landing, helping pilots to maintain visual focus on the runway. When Ray-Ban, in partnership with the U.S. military, began manufacturing Aviators in the late 1930s, the design became an essential accessory for pilots. Aviators quickly gained popularity with civilians, and the stylish frame became synonymous with elegance and sophistication.
Impact of Top Gun on the Sunglasses Industry
By incorporating Aviators into Maverick’s character, Tom Cruise brought the sunglasses into mainstream culture. Top Gun‘s commercial success (the film grossed over $356 million) further solidified the trend, making Aviators the most sought-after sunglasses brand worldwide. The impact extended beyond the film, transforming Aviators into an industry benchmark for pilot sunglasses, much like the iconic Nike Dunk shoe or the Apple MacBook Pro laptop.
Features That Made the Sunglasses a Hit
Here’s what made the Ray-Ban Aviators G-15 sunglasses Tom Cruise’s most iconic accessory:
- Classic Design: The classic shape, with the unmistakable teardrop contours and double bridge, contributes to the sunglasses’ distinctive style.
- Vintage Feel: The 60mm lens size gives the Aviators a nostalgic retro touch, reminiscent of old-school pilot sunglasses.
- G-15 Lens: The copper-tinted G-15 lens adds a unique aesthetic charm and provides excellent optical performance, reducing glare and offering great contrast.
- Metal Frame: The sturdy stainless steel frame ensures durability, allowing the sunglasses to withstand harsh environments and the stresses of high-speed flight.
- Iconic Pairing: The Aviators complemented Maverick’s persona, adding a dashing touch to the characters’ overall style and aura.
Other Iconic Sunglasses Moments
- James Dean and Ray-Ban’s Shooting Star: James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause (1955) wore Ray-Ban 3368 sunglasses, influencing the sunglasses’ popularity, much like Tom Cruise would do with the Aviators in Top Gun.
- The Terminator (1984) sees Arnold Schwarzenegger wear Oakley Thighmaster sunglasses with mirrored lenses, popularizing the futuristic, high-tech design.
- John Travolta and Carrera Sunglasses: The Saturday Night Fever (1977) dancing phenomenon, John Travolta, wore Carrera Sunglasses, becoming closely associated with the iconic designer shades.
Today: How the Sunglasses Look Like
Over the years, the Ray-Ban Aviators have undergone minor updates and design tweaks, adapting to changing fashion trends while maintaining their core identity:
| Model | Lens | Frame | Available Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ray-Ban Aviator G-15 | G-15 | Stainless Steel | – Silver – Gold – Brown – Tortoise |
| Ray-Ban Aviator B-01 | Crystal Vision or Silver | Stainless Steel | – Black – Tortoise – Brown – Silver |
In 2019, Ray-Ban released the Pilot collection, further honoring the original design of the Aviators, emphasizing classic style and authenticity. These modern Aviators sport sleeker lines, making them more versatile and universally appealing.
Conclusion: Top Gun’s Timeless Impact
The iconic Aviators worn by Tom Cruise in Top Gun left an indelible mark on the world of sunglasses. The classic style, combined with the movie’s success, transformed these shades into a staple fashion item. Today, you can still find vintage originals, modern reinterpretations, and even high-tech modifications. The Ray-Ban Aviators G-15 have become synonymous with a particular era, symbolizing freedom, adventure, and timeless style.
