Oakley Flight Deck M Review

The Oakley Flight Deck is inspired by helmet visors of fighter pilots and other high-speed sports that aim to increase the overall field of view while minimizing the bulk of the frame. The Flight Deck offers an above-average field of view in a medium-size or large-size goggle, depending on your preference. The spherical lens uses PRIZM; Oakleys optical enhancement technology to enhance contrast, color, and detail. This enhancement was comparable to other premium optical enhancements within the review.

Performance Comparison

Lens Quality

A few things come to mind when one hears the name "Oakley". Optical quality is commonly associated with the brand, and the Flight Deck did not disappoint. It uses a spherical lens to minimize distortion out of the very corners of the goggle. A small detail that some will notice more than others. The Prizm Lens Technology uses specifically tuned lens hues that are tailored to highlight the spectral ranges of specific environments to improve contrast, definition, and sharpness. We tested the Prizm Snow Jade Iridium. In our testing, the Prizm lens improved the user's ability to distinguish inconsistencies in the snow surface and changes within the terrain under most lighting conditions. This lens offered impressive versatility amongst different lighting conditions, from full California sun to mostly cloudy days. The versatile lens did fall short of models that provide two lenses; one for low light and one for sunny days. In snow, overcast, flat light, and whiteout conditions, the disruptions in the snow and slope angles were less obvious when compared with low light lenses that employ optical enhancement technology.

The rose base color of this lens model does have a gentle red color shift which is to be expected of a rose or red base. However, the colors remain accurate, and the human eye naturally adopts and integrates the red color base faster than some other models.

The Flight Deck and its aviation-based design provide one of the largest fields of view found in the review while minimalizing bulk. Other product reviews mention this lens scratches easily and lacks durability. Our testing cannot support this statement, but our team wants you to be aware of this. Ultimately, the optical accuracy and large field of view make this product stand out for its lense quality.

Comfort

The Oakley Flight Deck is a very comfortable goggle that provides a larger field of view without a massive and cumbersome footprint. The goggle is offered in a medium-sized frame for most facial structures and a large-sized frame for those looking for a larger frame. We tested the medium size frame, which fits all of our generally average-sized testers securely and with a manageable footprint.

The foam and overall fit provide a comfortable next-to-skin feel that also resists migration throughout bumpy riding. It uses a three-layer foam construction. The first layer is a very soft and textured microfleece followed by a medium density foam to help contour the goggle to your facial structure. Lastly is a high-density foam to ensure a durable connection between the foam.

This model is marketed to be over-the-glass friendly and has notches to fit prescription eyewear under the goggle. Our testers did notice more pressure on the temples than on other models found in the review.

Venatilation and Breathablitiy

This model takes a rather traditional approach to ventilation with open-cell foam, and this foam encompasses the majority of the goggles frame. Ultimately, the Flight Deck had average ventilation that is appropriate for resort riding. When boot packing or engaging in higher output activities, it didn't provide adequate ventilation resulting in some sweating and fogging.

Ease of Changing Lenses

One of our biggest qualms with the Flight Deck is that it only comes with one lens — it is one of the few premium-priced goggles that doesn't come with a spare lens. While they may work for favorable condition skiers, those who like to get out in all conditions will find themselves dropping some cash for an additional lens.

If you do purchase another lens, the soft rubber frame makes it quite easy to change the lens — it is easy to manipulate without fear of damaging it. The process is more difficult and nuanced than most magnetic systems but substantially easier than other non magnetized lenses. We did find it difficult to accomplish without getting lots of fingerprints on the lens.

Durability

The Flight Deck uses a soft and flexible rubber frame and has an overall high-quality build feel. Our testers believe this product should last for years if the user takes care of it, and our testing period didn't reveal any durability deficiencies. However, as stated above, online reviews have mentioned the lens can scratch easily.

Style

The sleek and frameless look of the Flight Deck has made it a popular choice amongst skiers and riders. We asked our friends to rate the style of each model, and the Flight Deck was one of the highest-ranked goggles.

Value

The Flight Deck M is a decent value for those who have some extra money to put forth toward a pair of goggles or those who resonate with the Oakley brand. Its overall value is reduced by the high price and lack of a second lens.

Conclusion

The Oakley Flight Deck M is a high-performance goggle that stands out for its lens quality and large field of view while maintaining a comfortable and versatile fit. The model provides plenty of ventilation for resort skiing. That said, its value is undercut by the lack of an included second lens to increase performance in overcast or flat light and to support its higher price tag. The Flight Deck is an optically impressive goggle that is best suited for committed resort riders that don't mind purchasing an additional low-light lense.