The Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses range needs little introduction. The design is easily one of the most recognizable, copied and knocked off in the world of sunglasses.
It is also arguably one of the best-selling sunglasses of all time. However, some might say that another model from Ray-Ban, the Aviator, holds that title. That is certainly a tough call.
The Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses have been around for ages. Since 1956, if I am not mistaken. And they are still going strong thanks to its iconic design. Very few sunglasses can claim to have outlived so many styles and fads and still remain popular more than 50 years later.
The Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses did suffer a slight dip in popularity in the 1970’s but made a dramatic comeback in the 1980’s. It took another dip in the 1990’s but a simple redesign and use of different materials helped it to yet another comeback.
Everyone from presidents and movie stars could be seen donning a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses. It was just that cool.
I own a few pairs of Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses. The RB2132 model has been a favorite of mine for a long time. But although the RB2132 model and the rest of the Ray-Ban sunglasses in my collection all have that distinctive Wayfarer look, they each has is unique quality.
The Original Wayfarer
The RB2140 is also known is the original Ray-Ban Wayfarer design. It was re-introduced to the market in 2007 to meet the huge demand for that model. This design is for those who want nothing less than the original trapezoidal design.
Although it was designed to have an edgy masculine look, it had no trouble looking good on women too. An unlike many other frame designs, the Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses seemed to fit practically any face shape without much of a fuss.
I usually use this model when I go out for a drive in my convertible or bike rides with the family. The lens size is great for keeping harmful UV rays and debris out but please do not try perching it on your head while driving or cycling as the tilt angle makes it almost impossible to do so.
The New Wayfarer
The RB2132 model is also known as the New Wayfarer. The New Wayfarer model came about to address the popularity decline of the Wayfarers in the 1990’s.
What the Ray-Ban designers did was redesign the original Wayfarer. They made the frames smaller and less angular They used a different material for the frames in order to make them lighter. They also altered the tilt angle of the frames.
All of these changes were done to make the RB2132 easier to wear and to perch on one’s head. Even thought the lens is smaller than the original Wayfarers, they still do a good job of protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. Plus, you can perch these babies on your head easily.
The RB4105
These sunglasses are perfect for people like me who have the tendency of losing their Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses. This is because you can fold these sunglasses. Once you are indoors, you may simply slip these folding Wayfarers in your shirt pocket.
I must admit that when I first got a pair, I still was not used to the habit of keeping them in my pocket and ended up leaving them at the park. Fortunately, Christmas was just around the corner and my loving husband got me another pair.