Black Bars On Strike King S11 Bristol Sunglasses

[Chris-W]

Hey everyone!  I just received a new pair of Strike King S11 Bristol polarized sunglasses from Amazon today after reading great reviews about them online.  When I look at the lenses from the mirrored side, there are fairly noticeable darker bars that run through the middle 2/3 of the lenses.  Is this expected or did I get a defective pair?  I assume it has to do with the polarizing but was surprised to be able to see it so noticeably.  Does anyone else own these that can confirm if this is a defect or if it's expected?  Thanks!

[papajoe222]

I don't own a pair, but if you understand polarization, your assumption is likely correct.  If you can not see the lines when viewing through the lenses while wearing, or from a distance when looking at the mirrored side I wouldn't be concerned. The mirror finish may have something to do with being able to see the lines.

Bottom line is, if being able to see them makes them unsatisfactory to you, return them.

[FSUMF333]

You should contact Strike King customer service. My experience with them was great.

[sbeetz]

They are made that way. They are darker on top and bottom so that it reflects more of the glare off the water. they leave the middle a little bit lighter so that it makes sight fishing easier. I found a video from icast a year or two ago (I think) where they explain this. by the way, best fishing sunglasses I have ever owned.

[Chris-W]

Thanks everyone, just sent an email to Strike King Customer service.  I assume it is due to the polarization, but this is my first pair of polarized so just want to make sure!  

[Preytorien]

I've been looking at getting those kind also. Keep us updated on this, it'll help make my decision.

[Chris-W]

I've been looking at getting those kind also. Keep us updated on this, it'll help make my decision.

Will do!  The Bristol model looks awesome and fits my head really well (most sunglasses are huge on me), so if this is merely a minor cosmetic thing because the front of the lenses aren't completely mirrored, I'm going to keep them.  Haven't tried them out on the water yet, but hoping to soon.  I'll keep you posted. 

[Chris-W]

We'll I've been in contact with Strike King customer service (who has been fabulous about responding quickly) and after sharing this image with them (notice the dark banding through the center of both lenses), they said they have not seen this before. Looks like I got a bum pair! But, they're offering to replace the glasses no questions asked, and send "something extra for the trouble." All I have to do is mail them in. Working in customer service myself, I applaud the way they've handled this and they've definitely won my business. Way to go SK.

[warpath58]

I knew the Guy who started strike king. I went to school with him, Charlie Spence great man he died not too long ago at a cutting horse competition. He won his event and then at the start of the second round he had a massive heart attack. Huge loss to the human race.