Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer Review

First Impressions of Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer

The Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer promises to be a simple yet crucial piece of gear for anyone who spends time on or near the water. Flying Fisherman has long been a trusted name in affordable fishing eyewear, and their accessories are typically designed with the same practical mindset. This retainer, described as black neoprene, aims to prevent the dreaded “plunk” – that sickening sound of your favorite sunglasses disappearing into the depths. I was interested to see if this relatively inexpensive item could live up to its promise and save me from replacing yet another pair of shades.

For years, I’ve relied on various sunglass straps, some elaborate and others basic. However, none have truly solved the issue of floating eyewear, especially with heavier frames. This led me to seek out a dedicated floating retainer, hoping for a more reliable solution.

Upon unboxing, the Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer felt surprisingly lightweight. The neoprene was soft to the touch, and the construction seemed robust enough for regular use. Compared to some bulkier floating retainers I’ve seen, this one appeared sleek and unobtrusive.

I briefly considered a retainer from Chums, a popular brand, and another from Croakies, known for their durable designs. I ultimately chose the Flying Fisherman option due to its advertised slim profile and the brand’s focus on fishing applications, suggesting it would be well-suited for my needs. My initial reaction was optimistic, hopeful that this would be the end of my sunglass graveyard in various lakes and rivers.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer during a week-long kayak fishing trip in the Everglades. The conditions were challenging, with intense sun, humidity, and frequent splashes from paddling and landing fish. I paired the retainer with my Costa Del Mar Fantail sunglasses, a fairly hefty pair that have met their fair share of near-drowning experiences.

The retainer was easy to attach to the frames, slipping snugly over the earpieces. It stayed in place well even with vigorous head movements while scanning for tarpon rolling on the surface. It proved helpful during the frequent need to wipe sweat from my brow; the retainer provided an extra measure of confidence to prevent any accidental launches into the murky water. However, I did notice some slight irritation on my neck after several hours of continuous wear due to the neoprene rubbing against my skin.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer has proven reasonably durable, although not without some signs of wear. The neoprene has retained its buoyancy and hasn’t shown any significant degradation despite exposure to saltwater and UV rays. The stitching around the attachment points remains intact, but I’ve observed slight fraying on the edges of the neoprene itself.

Cleaning is simple – a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient. I did notice that sunscreen and bug spray can stain the neoprene if not cleaned off promptly. Compared to my previous experiences with rubber straps that cracked and disintegrated over time, this retainer has held up much better. It has exceeded my initial expectations for a relatively inexpensive product, although I would still like to see improved stitching and more robust neoprene for even greater longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer

Specifications

The Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer features a simple yet functional design.

• Weight: A mere 0.08 lb, making it virtually unnoticeable when worn. This minimal weight is crucial for comfort during extended use.
• Dimensions: The retainer measures 11 inches in length, 1.7 inches in width, and 0.5 inches in height. These dimensions provide ample length for comfortable wear around the neck without being excessively bulky.
• Material: Constructed from black neoprene, a closed-cell synthetic rubber known for its buoyancy and resistance to water and sunlight. Neoprene offers a good balance of flexibility and durability.
• Additional Features: Its simple design means no additional features. Its function is simple and clear: keep your glasses from sinking.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the retainer’s performance and user experience. The lightweight design ensures comfort, while the neoprene construction provides buoyancy and weather resistance. The overall dimensions strike a balance between functionality and unobtrusiveness.

Performance & Functionality

The Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer performs its primary function – keeping sunglasses afloat – admirably. Even with heavier frames, it provides enough buoyancy to prevent them from sinking quickly, giving you time to retrieve them. The retainer is easy to attach and remove, and it stays securely in place during various activities.

However, the neoprene can become slightly slippery when wet, which can be a minor annoyance. Also, it’s worth noting that extremely heavy sunglasses may still submerge slightly, although the retainer will prevent them from sinking entirely. Overall, the retainer meets expectations and provides a reliable solution for preventing lost eyewear.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics. The black neoprene is unobtrusive and blends well with most sunglass styles.

The retainer is comfortable to wear for extended periods, although, as previously mentioned, the neoprene can cause slight irritation on the neck after several hours. The lightweight design prevents it from feeling bulky or cumbersome. The simple design means there’s very little learning curve, if any.

Durability & Maintenance

The Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer is reasonably durable, but not indestructible. The neoprene is resistant to water and sunlight, but it can be damaged by sharp objects or harsh chemicals.

Maintenance is simple – a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient. With proper care, the retainer should last for several seasons, making it a worthwhile investment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer is a standalone product with no included accessories. There are no customization options available.

However, its universal design makes it compatible with a wide range of sunglass styles and sizes. The simple, non-proprietary attachment method also means it works with most sunglasses, regardless of brand.

Pros and Cons of Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer

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Who Should Buy Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer?

The Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer is perfect for anglers, kayakers, boaters, and anyone who spends time on or near the water. It’s also a great option for travelers, hikers, and anyone who wants to protect their sunglasses from accidental loss. Pro anglers will find it very useful, as eyewear is expensive and critical for performance.

This product might not be ideal for those who prioritize style over function or who have extremely sensitive skin. People with extremely heavy sunglasses should consider a bulkier, more buoyant option.

A must-have accessory for this product is a small microfiber cloth for cleaning both the sunglasses and the retainer after each use.

Conclusion on Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer

The Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer is a simple, affordable, and effective solution for preventing lost sunglasses. While it’s not perfect, its benefits far outweigh its drawbacks, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends time on or near the water.

The price of $24.26 is justified by the peace of mind it provides, knowing that your valuable eyewear is protected from a watery grave. I would personally recommend this product to anyone who wants to avoid the heartbreak of losing their favorite sunglasses.

Don’t let another pair of shades meet their untimely demise. Grab a Flying Fisherman Floating Sunglass Retainer and enjoy your time on the water with confidence!