Is the New Wayfarer smaller than the original Wayfarer?

Yes. The New Wayfarer has a softer, less angular shape and a narrower fit than the classic Wayfarer, which is why many people who found the original too wide choose this one.

What is the difference between G-15 and polarized lenses?

G-15 lenses darken the view and keep colors fairly natural. Polarized lenses also block reflected glare from water, snow and car hoods, and cost more.

What comes in the box?

A Ray-Ban case and a cleaning cloth are included. Lens size and model details are printed on the inside of the temple arm.

Will these fit a wide face?

The 52 mm lens width suits medium faces. If you have a broad face, the larger original Wayfarer or the 55 mm New Wayfarer is usually the better fit.

Are they worth it over cheaper Wayfarer-style sunglasses?

The frame and lens quality are a step above budget copies, and replacement lenses are easy to source. If you only need occasional sunglasses, a cheaper pair may be enough.

Ray-Ban New Wayfarer Classic

Last price we saw

$107.00at Rue de Can, last seen Nov 2

Prices change often: ask the agent below to check today's price at every store.

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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Our take on the Ray-Ban New Wayfarer Classic

The New Wayfarer Classic is Ray-Ban's softened take on the original Wayfarer: a slightly smaller, less angular plastic frame with a full rim and 52 mm lenses. It is one of the most widely worn sunglasses shapes, sold with either G-15 green or polarized lenses depending on the version. It suits people who want the Wayfarer look without the heavy, boxy fit of the 1950s original.

Best forEveryday sunglasses for medium facesBuyers who find the original Wayfarer too largeUnisex casual and smart-casual wearFirst pair of branded sunglasses

Pros

Smaller, more forgiving fit than the classic Wayfarer
Acetate frame holds up to daily use
G-15 lenses cut glare while keeping colors natural
Polarized versions are available
Timeless shape that stays in style
Widely stocked, so replacement lenses and parts are easy to find

Cons

Ray-Ban New Wayfarer Classic prices at every store

Rue de CanCheck price at Rue de Can

Ray-Ban New Wayfarer Classic price history

Lowest price we've seen: $107.00 on Nov 2 at Rue de Can. Tracked across 1 store since Nov 2.

What reviewers say

Owners consistently rate the New Wayfarer as comfortable and well built, with the smaller frame singled out as the reason it fits more faces than the original. Complaints center on lens scratching and on fakes sold outside authorized stores.

Pros

Comfortable fit for medium-width faces
Sturdy hinges and frame
Classic look that works with most outfits
Clear, low-distortion lenses

Cons

Lenses scratch without a hard case
Some buyers find the arms tight behind the ears
Counterfeits are common in the resale market

Specifications

Silhouette: Wayfarer

Questions and answers

Is the New Wayfarer smaller than the original Wayfarer?: Yes. The New Wayfarer has a softer, less angular shape and a narrower fit than the classic Wayfarer, which is why many people who found the original too wide choose this one.
What is the difference between G-15 and polarized lenses?: G-15 lenses darken the view and keep colors fairly natural. Polarized lenses also block reflected glare from water, snow and car hoods, and cost more.
What comes in the box?: A Ray-Ban case and a cleaning cloth are included. Lens size and model details are printed on the inside of the temple arm.
Will these fit a wide face?: The 52 mm lens width suits medium faces. If you have a broad face, the larger original Wayfarer or the 55 mm New Wayfarer is usually the better fit.
Are they worth it over cheaper Wayfarer-style sunglasses?: The frame and lens quality are a step above budget copies, and replacement lenses are easy to source. If you only need occasional sunglasses, a cheaper pair may be enough.