A person wearing Method Seven Pilot Patriot FLT18 sunglasses for pilots.

PATRIOT FLT18

Pilot Sunglasses

$255.00

Description plus minus

Non-polarized sunglasses for pilots, utilizing notch filtering technology. FLT lenses weigh in at 30% less than our SKY lenses. Medium tint and a VLT of 18% makes them a great choice for general and mixed conditions.

Lens Technology

Method Seven develops advanced, non-polarized optical technology specifically for the visual demands of aviation. Our proprietary notch filtering selectively reduces harsh wavelengths of light while preserving useful visual information, enhancing contrast, clarity, and natural color perception. Engineered to provide full UV protection without the electronic display visibility issues associated with polarized lenses, Method Seven optics help pilots maintain a clear view of instruments, aircraft windows, and the surrounding environment.

FLT Lens Technology plus minus

FLT lenses deliver Method Seven's aviation-specific notch filtering in a lightweight, impact-resistant polymer. Engineered as an alternative to traditional mineral glass, these non-polarized lenses combine a neutral gray base with a blue flash mirror coating to manage intense sunlight while preserving natural color perception. Anti-reflective interior coatings reduce distracting reflections, while protective surface treatments support durability and clear vision. Their lightweight construction makes FLT lenses particularly well suited for aerobatic flying, open-air aircraft, and extended wear.

18% Visible Light Transmission plus minus

At 18% Visible Light Transmission (VLT), Method Seven lenses provide a versatile tint for a broad range of daytime flying conditions, from overcast skies to bright sunshine. Advanced notch filtering selectively reduces harsh light while preserving useful visual information, natural color perception, and contrast. This balanced light transmission makes 18% VLT a practical choice for pilots flying in varied weather, lighting conditions, and aircraft.

Frame Technology

Method Seven Pilot frames are engineered for the specific demands of aviation, combining lightweight materials, flexibility, durability, and a secure fit. Our headset-compatible designs feature ultra-thin temples that minimize pressure, help maintain headset seals, and reduce interference with flight helmets and oxygen equipment. Developed and tested with professional and general aviation pilots, each frame is purpose-built for comfort, stability, and clear communication during flight.

The Patriot plus minus

Developed with direct input from the Patriots Jet Team, the Patriot was engineered to meet the demands of high-performance formation flying. Its lightweight titanium construction combines ultra-thin flexible temples with a secure wraparound fit, providing expansive peripheral coverage and protection from unwanted light. Designed to remain stable during high-G maneuvers, the Patriot accommodates aviation headsets, flight helmets, and oxygen equipment without compromising comfort or visibility.

Frame size: 64–17–135 mm | Lens height: 39 mm | Base curve: 8 | Weight: 21.3 g FLT/MACH / 31.3 g SKY

Titanium Frame Technology plus minus

Method Seven titanium frames are hand-tooled for strength, flexibility, and lasting durability. Lightweight and naturally corrosion-resistant, titanium provides a comfortable fit while standing up to the demands of frequent flying. Its hypoallergenic properties make it suitable for extended wear, while precisely engineered temples flex to accommodate aviation headsets and flight helmets without unnecessary pressure.

Method Seven Pilot

Method Seven scientifically develops eyewear engineered for the unique visual demands of aviation. Through in-house optical research, precision engineering, and extensive field testing with professional and general aviation pilots, we create purpose-built lenses and frames that enhance clarity, contrast, comfort, and protection. Our mission is to unlock the full potential of the most important flight instrument of all: the human eye.

Scott "Intake" Kartvedt

The helmet fits, you don't feel them, there's no hotspots. They're not polarized, so you can look inside and outside, even when we're flying into the sun they block out that glare. I have flown with all other brands of glasses in my 27 years as a Navy pilot, as a civilian aerobatic pilot, and as a commercial airline pilot, these are the best pair of glasses I have ever worn.

Scott Kartvedt is a professional pilot and President of the Blue Angel Foundation. He instructs and evaluates for United Airlines in Denver, Colorado, and is the number 5 pilot for the Patriot Jet Team. He also served as a stunt pilot in "Top Gun: Maverick" and was the aviation safety supervisor for "Mission Impossible 8."

Scott's career includes five combat tours, flying with the Blue Angels, and serving as the Navy’s first commanding officer of the only F-35C Stealth Strike Fighter Squadron. Inspired by "Top Gun," Scott pursued aviation after graduating from Pepperdine University, joining the naval aviator program and flying FA/18 Hornets.

Selected for the Blue Angels in 1999, he performed air shows for three seasons. He led VFA-83, earning multiple awards and flew 91 combat missions during five deployments, amassing over 6,300 flight hours and 658 carrier arrested landings.

Scott became an FA-18 instructor, participated in Iraq's "shock and awe" campaign in 2003, and served as Aide de Camp to the U.S. Northern and Pacific Commands. He commanded an FA-18 squadron with two tours in Afghanistan and later ran the Navy’s F-35 program, leading the first stealth fighter squadron. Though he retired in 2013, he joined the Patriots Jet Team, and continues his airshow and aviation career flying in major films.

Overall rating: 4.894737 / 5 from 19 reviews.

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Reviews

Amazing light weight glasses that work really well!

"These are an amazing pair of glasses! So far I have only used them on a 4 day trip on the 737. I used them every leg of flight at some point. The frames are thin enough that they fit under my Bose A20's. The lens provides just enough reduction in light to keep my eyes comfortable but enough light so I can see all of the gauges/instruments. I really like how light weight these glasses are too. Almost dangerously light in the palm of your hand. I even wore them on the walk-around which really was great on a sunny day. No more squinting while on super bright days! The glasses come in a rectangle case that has a magnetic cover to it. So not your traditional rounded glasses case with a zipper. I wasn't feeling optimistic about it, but it does fit nicely on the top pouch of my kitbag. So far so good."

— Brandon C. (5/5)

Great glasses.

"Great glasses."

— Richard K. (5/5)

Great sunglasses!

"These are perfect for all around use. Hugh quality lenses and this model is not polarized, which is better for use on our boat, where the helm glass is already polarized!"

— Paul (5/5)

Clarity and reduction of light

"Clarity and reduction of light brightness is perfect. Light weight and fit is perfect. Fit nicely under my aviation headset."

— Greg W. (5/5)

Great glasses

"Really like these glasses. Thankfully they are wrap around that are big enough to fit my fat head. :)"

— Jonathon D. (5/5)

Replacement pair

"Lost my first pair and ordered the next one immediately. Won’t go without them."

— Paul C. (5/5)

Great

"A great combination of light weight and good performance. The notch filtering really works, for real !"

— Adam P. (5/5)

Pricey quality

"Pricey sunglasses, but they seem to be of good quality. Have worn them for two weeks thus far and I am satisfied. So far, they're as advertised."

— Zachary R. (4/5)

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