US-crafted sunglasses at the intersection of vision and velocity
The Racer breathes new life into American Optical’s Original Pilot shape—a style trusted by US military pilots and NASA astronauts since 1958. Handcrafted acetate frames replace the metal, but AOLite™ polarized lenses remain. Chromatically tuned to reduce eye fatigue in bright light, these durable lenses also protect against impact, glare, UV rays, and the occasional moonbeam.
Features
Made in the USA
100% UVA/UVB protection
Durable, lightweight construction
Polarized AOLite™ lenses reduce glare and enhance contrast
ANSI Z80.3 certification for protection against impact, UV rays, and optical distortion
Anti-reflective backside coating
Scratch-resistant hardcoat
Oleophobic smudge-resistant coating
Materials
Acetate frames
AOLite™ nylon lenses
Size
48 x 22 x 145 mm
Care
Wipe day to day smudges with a lens cloth
Limit exposure to saltwater and chlorine
Use mild dish soap and lukewarm water (wet frames first) to clean your glasses—give the nose pads and temple tips some extra attention to remove oils
Dry with a lint-free microfiber cloth
Use two hands to put them on and take them off. Using one hand, over time, can affect the alignment and fit of your sunglasses
Handle them gently so as not to alter the frame alignment
Always store them in a case when not in use
About American Optical
American Optical has been supplying this country with quality eyewear since before Edison invented the light bulb. Nearly two centuries later, AO is going strong—still designing exceptional sunglasses, and still making them in the USA. Along the way they made fans of the Apollo 11 crew, JFK, and, well…us. We're of the opinion that a brand with that kind of staying power and this amazing lineup is worthy of words like iconic and timeless, but no need to take our word for it. Grab a pair for yourself. You'll see.
