Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses Review

First Impressions of Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses

The Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses immediately caught my eye. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear enthusiast with over a decade of experience, I’m always on the lookout for reliable eyewear that can withstand harsh conditions and provide optimal vision. With Strike King’s reputation in the fishing and outdoor community, I was eager to see if the S11 Cumberlands lived up to the hype, especially at their attractive price point.

For years I’ve struggled with glare while fishing, often squinting and missing subtle movements on the water’s surface. I needed a pair of polarized sunglasses that were not only effective at cutting glare but also comfortable enough to wear for extended periods. These sunglasses promised eleven layers of polarized lens technology, bi-gradient mirror treatment, and hydrophobic coating, all features aimed at enhancing vision and protecting against the elements.

Upon unboxing, the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses felt surprisingly lightweight. The matte translucent blue frame had a subtle, stylish look, and the multi-layer white lens appeared to be well-constructed. Compared to my older pair of Costas, which are heavier and significantly more expensive, the S11 Cumberlands felt almost delicate, yet the hinges seemed sturdy enough. Initial excitement was high, tempered by a slight concern about long-term durability given the weight.

My previous experiences with cheaper sunglasses often involved flimsy frames and poor polarization, so I approached the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses with cautious optimism. The Costa Del Mar Fantails had been my go-to for years but the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses are nearly 1/5 the price. I picked these because of the price to feature ratio, to see if you could get a decent product for the money.

I was definitely intrigued, and hoped the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses could offer a viable alternative to more expensive brands without sacrificing performance. The initial impressions were positive, setting the stage for some serious real-world testing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses was a weekend fishing trip to Lake Fork, Texas. The weather was partly cloudy with intermittent sunshine, presenting a good mix of lighting conditions. Right away, I noticed a significant reduction in glare reflecting off the water.

I spent the better part of the day on the water, battling wind and occasional splashes. The glasses stayed comfortably in place, and the hydrophobic coating worked as advertised, repelling water and preventing annoying spots from forming on the lenses. I had no issues with visibility, and the polarization allowed me to spot submerged structures and fish movements that would have otherwise been invisible.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses in various settings, including hiking, driving, and target shooting, they have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of scratching or delamination on the lenses, and the frame is still as sturdy as when I first unboxed them. Cleaning is easy – a quick rinse with water and a microfiber cloth keeps them spotless.

I used these glasses nearly daily for about two months, mostly while driving. The glasses were stored either in the included soft case, or in a hard case in my vehicle. Compared to my old Oakleys that scratched easily, the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses have held up better than expected.

Breaking Down the Features of Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses

Specifications

• The Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses feature eleven layers of superior polarized lens technology. This enhances vision and reduces glare.
• The lens color is Multi Layer White with an amber base lens. This is designed for optimal clarity in various light conditions.
• Strike King utilizes scientifically engineered lens colors in the S11 Cumberland Sunglasses. This provides enhanced vision for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.
• The frame color is Matte Translucent Blue. This offers a stylish and modern look.
• The S11 Cumberlands boast a super hydrophobic coating. This repels oils, dust, and water, preventing water spots.
• An anti-reflective coating is applied to the lenses. This prevents light from bouncing off the rear of the lens, resulting in a clearer, non-distorted image.

Performance & Functionality

The Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses performed exceptionally well in reducing glare and enhancing visibility in bright conditions. The polarization is top-notch, allowing me to see through the water’s surface with ease. While not ideal for extremely low-light situations, the amber base lens provides good clarity in varying light conditions.

One area that could be improved is the overall tint darkness. In very bright sunlight, I still found myself squinting slightly. However, for everyday use and most outdoor activities, they perform admirably.

Design & Ergonomics

The matte translucent blue frame is lightweight and comfortable. They fit snugly without feeling tight or causing pressure points. The design is sleek and modern, suitable for both casual wear and more demanding outdoor activities.

The lack of adjustable nose pads might be an issue for some users. However, I found the fit to be perfect for my face shape.

Durability & Maintenance

Despite their lightweight construction, the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses have proven to be surprisingly durable. After weeks of use, there are no signs of significant wear and tear. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a quick rinse and a wipe with a microfiber cloth.

While I haven’t subjected them to extreme abuse, they seem capable of withstanding daily wear and tear. Proper storage in the provided case will likely extend their lifespan significantly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses come with a soft carrying case. There are no other included accessories. The glasses are not designed for extensive customization, lacking interchangeable lenses or adjustable components.

The compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited due to the proprietary frame design. However, standard sunglass cords and cleaning kits will work perfectly fine.

Pros and Cons of Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses

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Who Should Buy Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses?

The Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses are perfect for anglers, hikers, drivers, and anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. These sunglasses provide excellent glare reduction and comfortable wear.

Anyone requiring highly specialized eyewear for extreme conditions (e.g., high-altitude mountaineering) or those with very specific fit requirements might want to explore other options.

Conclusion on Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses

The Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses have exceeded my expectations. For a relatively low price, they offer exceptional polarization, comfortable wear, and a stylish design. The value proposition is outstanding, making these a fantastic option for anyone looking for reliable and affordable eyewear.

I would absolutely recommend the Strike King S11 Cumberland Sunglasses to anyone seeking high-performance sunglasses without breaking the bank. Give them a try – you won’t be disappointed.