Ray-Ban
Wayfarer Sunglasses
The Ray-Ban Wayfarer (model RB 2140) is a rectangular-frame sunglasses model introduced in 1952, crafted from light acetate with green gradient lenses. It provides 100% UV protection and is manufactured in Italy. Key dimensions include an eye width of 54 mm, a bridge of 18 mm, and a temple length of 150 mm.
- Material
- Acetate
- Gender
- unisex
- Style
- classic
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing Accessories > Sunglasses
Color
Size
Specifications
Iconic Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses with rectangular acetate frame and 100% UV protection.
100% UV protection, acetate frame, made in Italy, lightweight
- Material
- Acetate
- Style
- classic
- Gender
- unisex
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing Accessories > Sunglasses
Additional Attributes
- Iconic rectangular shape since 1952
- 100% UV protection
- Light and comfortable acetate frame
- Made in Italy
- Model number RB 2140
- Eye width 54 mm
- Bridge 18 mm
- Temple 150 mm
Product Insights
The Ray-Ban Wayfarer is an iconic sunglass that fits most face shapes, but its popularity has led to heavy counterfeiting, and buyers must choose between the more durable acetate Original and the less robust plastic New Wayfarer, with vintage B&L versions considered superior to modern Luxottica ones; the smooth temples slip when sweaty, non-adjustable nose pads slide, and while G-15 glass lenses provide UV protection and scratch resistance, they can crack on impact and polarized coatings may peel.
Verified claims
- Iconic status
- The Wayfarer is heavily counterfeited and used as a quality benchmark, confirming its iconic status.
- Build quality
- The acetate Original Wayfarer is more durable than the plastic New Wayfarer, and modern Luxottica versions are considered inferior to vintage B&L.
- Fit
- The Wayfarer's proportions fit most face shapes and offer square-face styling flexibility, but the smooth temples can slip when sweaty.
- Counterfeit risk
- Counterfeit Wayfarers often lack proper UV protection.
- Polarization
- Polarized lenses reduce glare but film may peel; G-15 green is favored for everyday
- Authenticity
- Buyers note authentic polarized lenses are superior to replicas
- Nose grip
- Non-adjustable nose pads cause sliding during sweat.
- Face shape
- Fits round, square, heart, oval, and oblong face shapes.
- Alternatives
- Buyers often prefer Maui Jim, Persol, Randolph, or Ray-Ban Clubmasters; counterfeits are a concern.
- Lenses
- G-15 glass lenses offer UV protection, scratch resistance, and optional polarization for glare reduction.
- Frame
- Acetate plastic frame outlasts injected plastic; modern quality is mixed.
- Lens
- Glass lenses resist scratches but crack on impact; polarized coating may peel.
- Care
- Clean acetate with mild soap, water, and soft cloth; avoid harsh chemicals.
Product record
- Title
- Wayfarer Sunglasses
- Brand
- Ray-Ban
- Price
- 217 CAD
- Availability
- In stock
Deep Research
Face shape compatibility and styling tips
- The RB2140's 54mm lens width and balanced trapezoidal proportions sit naturally on an oval face without distorting its inherent symmetry, making it one of the few frames that reads as tailored rather than trendy — which is why styling guides consistently call the Wayfarer a 'safe' pick for oval shapes that still commands presence.
- The Wayfarer's pronounced top line and flat brow bar introduce sharp horizontal geometry that interrupts a round face's smooth perimeter, optically lifting the cheekbones and elongating the face — a structural effect that makes the frame a classic recommendation for adding definition without relying on narrow or overly angular designs.
- With a wider forehead and tapered chin, a heart shape benefits from the RB2140's wide top eye corners and slightly dropped lower rim, which pull visual weight upward to balance the brow and add breadth lower down, avoiding the top-heavy look that small or shallow frames often create on this face type.
- The RB2140's rounded bottom edge and softening of the outer corners contrast with a strong jawline, introducing curve to an angular face — yet the frame's iconic sharp silhouette can also be leaned into by choosing a high-contrast colorway, giving square-faced wearers a dual styling tool: soften or sharpen, depending on the finish.
- The deep 54mm lens and heavy acetate top bar create a strong horizontal break that shortens the face visually, while the substantial 18mm bridge and wide temple add proportion, making the Wayfarer a standout choice for oblong faces that often struggle with frames that are too narrow or vertically elongated.
Image Analysis
2 images- 01
Product
Front-facing pair of full-rim wayfarer-style sunglasses with glossy black acetate frame, green gradient lenses, and small silver rivet details at the outer upper corners; Ray-Ban script logo printed on the left lens and small RB initials etched on the right lens.
- Overall geometrySymmetrical front view showing full-rim wayfarer silhouette with a slightly angled browline, rounded-rect lenses, and a center keyhole-like bridge curvature.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.25 · w 0.84 · h 0.42 (high) - Frame material and finishGlossy black rigid frame material with reflective highlights along the top edge and outer rims.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.25 · w 0.84 · h 0.18 (high) - LensesGreen-tinted lenses with a vertical gradient from darker at the top to lighter toward the bottom and subtle internal reflections.
2 regions
x 0.15 · y 0.32 · w 0.31 · h 0.30 (high); x 0.54 · y 0.32 · w 0.31 · h 0.30 (high) - Metal rivet detailsSmall horizontal oval silver rivet inserts at the upper outer corners of both rims.
2 regions
x 0.06 · y 0.30 · w 0.05 · h 0.06 (high); x 0.89 · y 0.30 · w 0.05 · h 0.06 (high) - Temple arms visible insideInner portions of both temple arms are visible through the lenses angled back toward the image edges; they appear matte dark, matching the frame color.
2 regions
x 0.20 · y 0.40 · w 0.18 · h 0.20 (high); x 0.62 · y 0.40 · w 0.18 · h 0.20 (high) - Left-lens logo text“Ray-Ban”
1 region
x 0.17 · y 0.31 · w 0.14 · h 0.10 (high) - Right-lens etching“RB”
1 region
x 0.71 · y 0.40 · w 0.06 · h 0.08 (medium)
Other
Studio product shot on a white background with a soft shadow beneath the sunglasses and even frontal lighting.
- Background and stagingClean white background with no props; sunglasses centered horizontally and slightly above vertical center.
- ShadowSoft grey drop shadow visible directly under the frame following the lens curve, indicating frontal overhead lighting.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.60 · w 0.64 · h 0.10 (high) - Shot compositionCentered frontal crop showing entire front face of the sunglasses with some white space above and below.
Colors
gloss black· frame#0B0A0Bgradient green· lensesmetallic silver· rivet accents- Overall geometrySymmetrical front view showing full-rim wayfarer silhouette with a slightly angled browline, rounded-rect lenses, and a center keyhole-like bridge curvature.
- 02
Product
Glossy black Wayfarer-style sunglasses shown at a three-quarter front-right angle with green-tinted lenses, metal corner rivets, and a scripted brand logo on the right temple exterior.
- Frame shapeThick glossy black acetate frame in classic Wayfarer trapezoidal silhouette with slightly rounded lower lens rims and angled browline.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.36 · w 0.66 · h 0.40 (high) - Lens tintGreen-tinted lenses with a uniform translucent finish and faint reflections; both lenses share the same tint color.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.44 · w 0.46 · h 0.30 (high) - Corner rivetsSmall oval/square silver metal rivet details visible on the front upper corners of each lens frame.
2 regions
x 0.08 · y 0.44 · w 0.05 · h 0.04 (high); x 0.50 · y 0.48 · w 0.04 · h 0.03 (high) - Right temple exterior logo“Scripted brand logo printed in light color on the outer side of the right temple near the hinge.”
1 region
x 0.56 · y 0.52 · w 0.18 · h 0.12 (high) - Inner temple textBlock of small white text is visible on the inner surface of the left temple near the hinge but is partially obscured and not fully legible.Partial
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.30 · w 0.28 · h 0.12 (medium) - Left lens corner markSmall light-colored script mark near the upper-left corner of the left lens visible against the lens tint.
1 region
x 0.13 · y 0.40 · w 0.06 · h 0.06 (high)
Other
Product photographed on a white background with soft shadow; three-quarter front-right composition and even studio lighting producing soft reflections on the lenses and frame.
- Shot compositionThree-quarter front-right view of the sunglasses filling the lower two-thirds of the image, centered slightly left of center.
- Background and surfaceClean white background with a diffuse gray shadow cast beneath and slightly to the right of the frame indicating a single soft light source from above-left.
- Lighting reflectionsSoft specular highlights along the top edge of the frame and faint reflections on lens surfaces consistent with studio lighting.
Colors
gloss black· frame#0E0D0Bgreen tint· lensessilver· metal rivets#BBBCBCwhite· right temple logo#D3D3D3- Frame shapeThick glossy black acetate frame in classic Wayfarer trapezoidal silhouette with slightly rounded lower lens rims and angled browline.
Documents & Data
Customer Reviews
2 total2 reviews · out of 5
Excellent Old School Sunglasses
Love the retro style look. Never gets old.
Superbes
Excellent service!
Q&A
8 answered- What type of lens material is used in the Wayfarer (CR-39, polycarbonate, or glass)? Are the lenses impact-resistant?
- The standard Wayfarer RB2140 uses G‑15 or B‑15 glass lenses for superior clarity and scratch resistance [1]. Glass is durable but not as impact‑resistant as polycarbonate; if you need maximum impact protection, look for versions labeled “P3” or those with polycarbonate lenses, which are lighter and 10× stronger than glass [1][4].
- Do the classic Wayfarer frames have molded or adjustable nose pads? How does the fit accommodate different nose bridge heights?
- The classic Wayfarer RB2140 has integrated (molded) plastic nose pads that are not adjustable [7]. For a better fit with lower nose bridges or higher cheekbones, Ray‑Ban offers a Low Bridge Fit version (RB2140F) with more prominent nose pads and a shorter lens height [3].
- Where are the lenses for Ray-Ban Wayfarers manufactured? Are they made in Italy or elsewhere?
- Ray‑Ban lenses for the Wayfarer are made in Italy, the same as the frames. According to the brand director, “all the lenses are made in Italy,” as are all the Wayfarer components [1]. The product listing also indicates the frames are made in Italy.
- What is the recommended cleaning method for acetate frames to avoid damage to the finish? Can the nose pads be replaced if they wear out?
- To clean acetate frames, use a mild soap and lukewarm water with your fingers, then dry with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid alcohol, paper towels, or harsh chemicals that can damage the finish [4]. The nose pads on the classic Wayfarer are integrated into the frame and are not replaceable, but a Low Bridge Fit version offers different pad geometry for a better fit [3][7].
- Are polarized Ray-Ban Wayfarers worth the extra cost?
- Yes, especially for driving and beach use, though the non-polarized G-15 lenses are also highly regarded for everyday wear.
- Are modern Ray-Ban Wayfarers still worth buying?
- Opinions are mixed; while the design remains iconic, many users feel the quality has declined and recommend seeking vintage Bausch & Lomb pairs or alternative brands.
- What is the difference between the Classic and New Wayfarer?
- The Classic has a larger lens, a distinctive tilt, and is made of acetate; the New is smaller, has less tilt, and is made of injected plastic, which some find more comfortable but less durable.
- How can I avoid buying replica Ray-Ban Wayfarers?
- Purchase from authorized retailers, be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, and inspect build quality and UV protection carefully.
Reddit Insights
6 threads · r/malefashionadvice, r/sunglasses, r/DHgateVault, r/raybanReddit users generally appreciate the iconic, timeless style of Ray-Ban Wayfarers but express mixed feelings about modern quality and value, often recommending alternative brands like Maui Jim for better lenses and durability.
While the classic design is widely admired, the perceived decline in quality since Luxottica's acquisition and the availability of better alternatives at similar price points temper the enthusiasm, resulting in a mixed sentiment.
Themes
Use Cases
- Everyday Fashion and Casual Wear
- Driving (polarized lenses preferred)
- Beach and Outdoor Activities
Watch Out For
Compared To
vs Maui Jim
Many users recommend Maui Jim as a superior alternative with better lenses and overall quality, often stating they would never go back to Ray-Ban.
vs Ray-Ban Clubmasters and Persol
Within the Ray-Ban brand, Clubmasters are seen as a cooler alternative to Wayfarers, while Persol is often cited as a higher-quality brand worth the extra cost.
vs Ray-Ban New Wayfarer vs Original Wayfarer
The Original Wayfarer (RB2140) is made of acetate and considered more durable and classic, whereas the New Wayfarer (RB2132) uses injected plastic and is seen as lower quality but more comfortable for some.
Source Threads
Alternatives to Wayfarers: Clubmasters, Persol, Randolph Engineering
Wayfarers, unfortunately, have been infested with endless neon knock-offs. Though timeless, I fear for a misunderstanding of congruence in accordance with my confidence when considering the Wayfarers. For the price, I'd go with [Ray Ban ClubMasters](http://www.ray-ban.com/usa/sunglasses/rb3016/w0366), [Persol PO0714](http://www.persol.com/International/collections/icons-and-representative-styles/PO0714/24-31#b), [Randolph Engineering's Aviators in gunmetal/AGX](http://shop.randolphusa.com/aviator-p5044.aspx), or [vintage frames](http://allynscura.com/legend.htm)
u/I_promised_the_worldr/malefashionadviceView thread →
Polarized Wayfarers are worth it for driving and beach; G-15 green lenses preferred for everyday
No change in quality on Wayfarer's, I've owned multiple pairs over the past 20 years. You pay the big price for a reason. Anyway, IMO polarized are very dark and best for driving or if you're on a beach all day. Otherwise, I personally prefer non-polarized RB lenses (especially the G-15 green) as I find them plenty dark enough.
u/Tjinsur/sunglassesView thread →
Suggestion to buy Maui Jim instead of Ray-Ban
Buy maui jim. I'll never buy ray ban again after making the swap
u/mooochedr/sunglassesView thread →
New Wayfarers are classic, versatile, and durable but may slide down nose
But these are a classic look that are super versatile. As far as how to choose, to me it’s 75% comfort/fit, 24% style, and 1% everything else. These are good enough quality to last you a lifetime if you take care of them. That’s all the quality you really need. These have glass polarized lenses that get the job done. In terms of comfort, pretty low frills. Unlike other sunglasses I own, there is no non skid rubber anywhere. I don’t believe they have spring hinges so they are somewhat rigid. But if they fit well you should be okay. I do wear them quite a bit. Edit: they can slide down your nose. I put a little nonskid tape on the temples right above the ears and it helped quite a bit.
u/aja_ramirezr/sunglassesView thread →
Genuine retail Wayfarers have a noticeable quality difference from replicas
I have the retail polarised version of these and honestly there is a huge difference here. Mine cost about 100 quid more 🤣
u/Acceptable-Stop-5736r/DHgateVaultView thread →
Original Wayfarer (RB2140) uses durable acetate; New Wayfarer (RB2132) uses less durable injected plastic
The 0RB2140 Wayfayer Original sunglasses are hand made in Italy with a good quality acetate. This is a good choice for someone who buys a sunglass they want to use for a good few years and will last and not break easily. This model will always be in style and never get outdated; a real classic. Even after all these years. The 0RB2132 New Wayfayer is made out of an injected plastic/nylon, made by machines. The injected material does not last as long as acetate and will eventually get sticky (from sweat) and break.
u/MBCyrusr/raybanView thread →