I grew up wanting to be an aviator but it wasn’t until I met my flight instructor (Mrs Meisner) that it became a reality. Long before I had my pilots license in hand, I still wanted to look the part. I recall asking my mother to swing by the Base Exchange at McChord AFB so I could pick up a pair of those shiny aviator glasses that all the pilots were rocking in the 80’s. Picture Maverick getting out of the Tomcat with those classic aviators on. Anyhow, fast forward 30 years or so and those styles are back. Or maybe they never left, who knows. Costa Del Mar has dusted off these classic designs and introduced their Metals Collection. Complete with gold-rimmed aviator glasses as well as a few fresh new styles.
The new Metals Collection is more than a blast from the past. Costa has brought these styles back to life with updated modern trimmings and materials. Like uber strong yet lightweight titanium frames. Polarized Polycarbonate 580 lenses. Keeping these glasses so light you’ll forget they are on your face after a few minutes. I had the pleasure to test two examples from the Metals Collection this fall, the Skimmer and Pilothouse. And like my previous experience with Costa, there’s a lot to like about these as well.
Costa Skimmer
Named after a small lightweight seaplanes, the Skimmer features many of the same characteristics. The minimalist frame is constructed from lightweight titanium. Thin yet strong temples lead to a subtle curve with a rubber insert behind the ear. Keeping these glasses where they belong. Additionally, spring hinges accommodate all face sizes with minimal pressure. And full motion air-cushioned nose pads round out the contact points. In keeping with the lightweight theme, Costa used their polarized 580 polycarbonate lenses. Keeping the weight to a scant 22 grams insuring all day comfort. These shades are as nice “on water” as they are apres boating.
- Frame Color: MATTE BLACK
- Lens Color: Green Mirror
- Lens Material: Polarized Plastic (580)
- Prescription Ready: Yes
- MSRP: $239
Costa Pilothouse
The Pilothouse is a larger frame than the Skimmer. And affords a commanding view and total protection as the pilothouse of a ship would. Costa incorporates some of the same features as the Skimmer. Like a full titanium frame, ergonomic temples complete with Hydrolite rubber temple pads and full motion nose pads. The Pilothouse is best for larger heads or someone looking for a full coverage look. Like most glasses from Costa, the Pilothouse uses their polarized 580 polycarbonate lens to keep weight to a minimum. In fact, the Pilothouse weighs only 23 grams on my scale.
- Frame Color: MATTE BLACK
- Lens Color: Gray
- Lens Material: Polarized Plastic (580)
- Prescription Ready: Yes
- MSRP: $239
If you’re in the market for a pair of technologically advanced shades with a classic flair, look no further than the Metals Collection from Costa Del Mar. Costa does many things well. But their best feature, in my opinion, is the lens technology. As long as I can remember, my dive captains and charter fishing captains have always worn Costa. These guys earn their living at sea and can afford any pair of sunglasses to protect their eyes in the most demanding environments. And they choose Costa. Why shouldn’t you too?
