What Makes Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses Stand Out?
The Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses offer a classic aviator style with polarized lenses at an accessible price point. Flying Fisherman aims to provide anglers and outdoor enthusiasts with affordable eye protection without sacrificing essential features. These sunglasses boast a lightweight nickel silver frame and scratch-resistant triacetate polarized lenses, promising comfort and clarity for extended wear.
I was searching for a reliable pair of sunglasses that wouldn’t break the bank for my frequent fishing trips. Glare reflecting off the water often leaves me with a headache, so polarization was a must-have feature. I chose the Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses because they appeared to offer the classic aviator style I like, coupled with the necessary polarization, at a price that fit my budget.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the lightweight feel. The nickel silver frame felt surprisingly sturdy for the price, and the lenses had a noticeable tint that suggested good glare reduction. The overall build quality seemed adequate for everyday use, although I wasn’t expecting the same level of robustness as high-end brands.
Compared to my Ray-Ban aviators (significantly more expensive) and a pair of generic polarized sunglasses I already own, the Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses strike a balance between price and perceived quality. I chose these over other budget options because of the Flying Fisherman brand’s reputation for fishing-specific eyewear. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to test their performance on the water, but also aware of the limitations expected at this price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses on a bright, sunny day during a fishing trip on a local lake. The conditions were ideal for assessing their glare reduction capabilities, with sunlight reflecting intensely off the water’s surface.
The sunglasses performed admirably in these conditions. The polarized lenses noticeably cut down on the glare, allowing me to see beneath the surface of the water with greater clarity. I experienced immediate relief from the eye strain that I usually get in similar conditions.
The aviator design also offered good coverage, shielding my eyes from sunlight entering from the sides. The fit was comfortable initially, and I didn’t experience any immediate discomfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, primarily during fishing trips and outdoor activities, the Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses have held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the lenses, despite my best efforts to keep them protected.
The nickel silver frame has retained its shape, though the finish has started to show slight signs of wear in areas where it rubs against my hat. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth.
Compared to more expensive sunglasses I’ve owned, the Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses don’t offer the same level of optical clarity or scratch resistance. However, for the price, they provide a good balance of performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses
Specifications
- Frame Material: Lightweight Nickel Silver. This material provides a decent level of durability while keeping the overall weight of the sunglasses down.
- Lens Material: Scratch Resistant Triacetate Polarized AcuTint Lenses. The triacetate lenses offer polarization for glare reduction and are treated with a scratch-resistant coating.
- Polarized AcuTint Lenses: Eliminate Reflected Glare. This feature significantly reduces glare from water and other flat surfaces, enhancing visibility and reducing eye strain.
- 100% UVA and UVB Protection. The lenses block all harmful UVA and UVB rays, protecting your eyes from sun damage.
- Classic Aviator Frame with Large Tear Drop Lenses. This timeless design offers a stylish look and provides ample coverage for the eyes.
These specifications are essential for outdoor activities, especially fishing. The polarization reduces glare, the UV protection safeguards eye health, and the lightweight frame ensures comfortable wear during long days outdoors.
Performance & Functionality
The Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses perform their primary function of reducing glare effectively. The polarized lenses make a noticeable difference in visibility, especially on sunny days near water.
One minor weakness is the scratch resistance of the lenses. While they are coated, they are still prone to scratching with regular use. Overall, the sunglasses meet expectations for their price point, offering good performance for casual outdoor use.
Design & Ergonomics
The aviator design is classic and stylish, suitable for both men and women. The lightweight frame makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods.
There isn’t a learning curve involved, they are easy to wear right away. The sunglasses are a standard design, easy to adjust to.
Durability & Maintenance
The Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses offer reasonable durability for the price. The frame is sturdy enough to withstand everyday wear, but the lenses require careful handling to avoid scratches.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and lens cleaner. For the price, they are acceptably durable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses do not come with any additional accessories beyond a simple protective sleeve. There are no readily available customization options for the frame or lenses.
Because it’s a standard aviator style, aftermarket nose pads could potentially be swapped, but no direct support is offered. Similarly, while aftermarket lens replacements exist generally for aviator styles, the Flying Fisherman lenses are not specifically designed to be easily replaced.
Pros and Cons of Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: Excellent value for polarized sunglasses.
- Effective Glare Reduction: Polarized lenses significantly reduce glare from water and other surfaces.
- 100% UVA and UVB Protection: Protects your eyes from harmful sun rays.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Nickel silver frame is comfortable for extended wear.
- Classic Aviator Style: Timeless design that looks good on most people.
Cons
- Limited Scratch Resistance: Lenses are prone to scratching with regular use.
- Basic Construction: Materials are not as high-end as more expensive brands.
Who Should Buy Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses?
The Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses are perfect for casual anglers, boaters, and anyone who spends time outdoors and needs affordable glare protection. They’re also ideal for individuals who appreciate the classic aviator style.
These sunglasses may not be suitable for those who require exceptional scratch resistance or the highest level of optical clarity. Professional guides needing ultra-durable, easily-repairable eyewear will likely need to spend more on high-end options.
A must-have accessory would be a hard case or a more robust soft case to protect the lenses from scratches when not in use.
Conclusion on Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses
The Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses offer a compelling combination of style, functionality, and affordability. They are a great option for anyone seeking reliable glare protection without breaking the bank.
The price is definitely justified for the features and performance they offer. While they may not be the most durable or high-end sunglasses on the market, they provide excellent value for the money.
I would definitely recommend the Flying Fisherman Crew Sunglasses to anyone looking for affordable polarized sunglasses for fishing or general outdoor use. If you’re seeking a stylish and functional pair of sunglasses without spending a fortune, these are a solid choice.