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.
- Iconic status
The Wayfarer is heavily counterfeited and used as a quality benchmark, confirming its iconic status.
Why this is supported
Reddit discussions illustrate the Wayfarer's iconic status through widespread counterfeiting, for example:
Wayfarers, unfortunately, have been infested with endless neon knock-offs.
u/I_promised_the_world in r/malefashionadviceIts benchmark status is shown when users compare other brands to the Wayfarer, as in:
Buy maui jim. I'll never buy ray ban again after making the swap
u/moooched in r/sunglasses. Buyers also describe the frame as a timeless classic, suitable for any setting.
- 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.
Why this is supported
Reddit users differentiate between the acetate Original Wayfarer and the injected-plastic New Wayfarer, stating the former lasts longer while the latter becomes sticky and cracks.
One user places this in a broader quality context:
Quality of modern Luxottica-produced Wayfarers is often considered inferior to vintage Bausch & Lomb models, with cheaper materials prone to degradation.
gotchaThis reflects a perceived drop in build quality from the vintage B&L era to modern Luxottica production.
- Fit
The Wayfarer's proportions fit most face shapes and offer square-face styling flexibility, but the smooth temples can slip when sweaty.
Why this is supported
Deep research indicates the RB2140's 54mm lens and rounded edges balance round, square, heart, and oblong faces.
For square faces,
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.
Face shape compatibility and styling tips — square_face_shapeHowever, the smooth temples lack nonskid rubber, which can cause the frame to slide during sweat.
- Counterfeit risk
Counterfeit Wayfarers often lack proper UV protection.
Why this is supported
Counterfeit Wayfarers are common, with deficient UV protection and build quality. Experts advise purchasing only from authorized retailers and inspecting carefully
.
- Polarization
Polarized lenses reduce glare but film may peel; G-15 green is favored for everyday
Why this is supported
Buyers recommend polarized lenses for driving and beach to cut glare, but note that the polarized film can crack or peel with sun exposure. On the other hand, the non-polarized G-15 green lenses are often preferred for everyday wear due to their natural color balance and sufficient darkness.
I personally prefer non-polarized RB lenses (especially the G-15 green) as I find them plenty dark enough.
u/Tjinsu in r/sunglassesYes, especially for driving and beach use, though the non-polarized G-15 lenses are also highly regarded for everyday wear.
Are polarized Ray-Ban Wayfarers worth the extra cost?The polarized film on some lenses may crack or peel after limited exposure to harsh sun.
gotcha- Authenticity
Buyers note authentic polarized lenses are superior to replicas
Why this is supported
Buyers who have compared authentic Ray-Ban polarized lenses with replicas report a significant difference in build quality and UV protection, emphasizing the importance of purchasing from authorized retailers.
I have the retail polarised version of these and honestly there is a huge difference here.
u/Acceptable-Stop-5736 in r/DHgateVault- Nose grip
Non-adjustable nose pads cause sliding during sweat.
Why this is supported
not adjustable
Do the classic Wayfarer frames have molded or adjustable nose pads? How does the fit accommodate different nose bridge heights?they can slide down your nose
u/aja_ramirez in r/sunglasses, especially during sweat. Non-skid tape is a user-suggested workaround.
- Face shape
Fits round, square, heart, oval, and oblong face shapes.
Why this is supported
. Similar optical effects apply to other shapes.
- Alternatives
Buyers often prefer Maui Jim, Persol, Randolph, or Ray-Ban Clubmasters; counterfeits are a concern.
Why this is supported
Reddit discussions consistently direct buyers toward competitor brands. One user states,
Buy maui jim. I'll never buy ray ban again after making the swap
u/moooched in r/sunglassesAnother buyer mentions several alternatives, including Persol and Randolph:
The replica market is also a concern, as one user noted:
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-5736 in r/DHgateVaultThese real-user experiences, corroborated across multiple threads, show that informed buyers often see stronger options or warn about authenticity.
- Lenses
G-15 glass lenses offer UV protection, scratch resistance, and optional polarization for glare reduction.
Why this is supported
The G-15 green lenses are confirmed by user reports to provide effective UV protection and a classic aesthetic. Many prefer the non-polarized version for everyday wear, while the polarized upgrade is noted as beneficial for driving and beach use. Glass lenses offer superior clarity and scratch resistance compared to polycarbonate, though they are heavier and less impact-resistant. These trade-offs are consistently discussed across review and Q&A threads.
- Frame
Acetate plastic frame outlasts injected plastic; modern quality is mixed.
Why this is supported
The Classic Wayfarer RB2140 uses hand‑crafted acetate, which is more durable than the injected plastic used in other models. According to a trusted source,
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/MBCyrus in r/raybanHowever, modern production quality is considered lower than vintage. As noted,
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.
Are modern Ray-Ban Wayfarers still worth buying?Also, the nose pads are integrated into the frame and are not replaceable.
The nose pads on the classic Wayfarer are integrated into the frame and are not replaceable
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?Additionally, the frame lacks rubberized temple tips, causing it to slide down in sweat and potentially stress the hinges.
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_ramirez in r/sunglassesThe RB2140 Original Wayfarer is constructed from hand-made acetate, a material that can be polished and maintained. In contrast, the injected plastic of other models is prone to becoming sticky and brittle. As one Redditor put it,
The injected material does not last as long as acetate and will eventually get sticky (from sweat) and break.
u/MBCyrus in r/raybanHowever, a common usability caveat is the lack of rubber temple grips, which can cause sliding. One user reported,
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_ramirez in r/sunglassesThis suggests that while the acetate itself is durable, the design may require aftermarket adjustments for optimal fit.
- Lens
Glass lenses resist scratches but crack on impact; polarized coating may peel.
Why this is supported
The polarized coating can peel or crack after prolonged sun exposure. Also, the glass G‑15 lenses, while scratch‑resistant, are less impact‑resistant than polycarbonate:
Glass is durable but not as impact‑resistant as polycarbonate
What type of lens material is used in the Wayfarer (CR-39, polycarbonate, or glass)? Are the lenses impact-resistant?- Care
Clean acetate with mild soap, water, and soft cloth; avoid harsh chemicals.
Why this is supported
Acetate frames should be cleaned with mild soap and lukewarm water, dried with a soft microfiber cloth, and kept away from alcohol, paper towels, and harsh chemicals to avoid damaging the finish.
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!
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 →