Things You Need To Know Before Buying Swim Goggles

Swimming goggles are important attributes for both professional and non-professional swimmers.

There are several types of goggles; they vary by their shape, material, lens, etc. When choosing the swim goggles you need to know how to differentiate them.

First thing you need to choose is the shape of the goggles – you can get Swedish goggles, classic or gasket goggles, and/or swim masks.

Goggles Types

The Swedish goggles became very popular among competitive swimmers as they have less drag, and fit the eye socket perfectly.

The second type – classic goggles (or calling it in a different way – gasket goggles) are the most common swimming goggles used. There are two types of classic goggles – those made of silicone and those made of foam.

There is no right or wrong choice between these two options; it is solely based on the taste and preference of the swimmer. Even though the majority of swimmers prefer silicone goggles, the number of swimmers that go for foam goggles is still pretty high.

There are limited producers of foam goggles, but you can definitely find one that will meet your requirements, as for silicone goggles – there are plenty options available on the market.

Swimming masks are typically used by children as they do not need a lot of adjusting and give wider visibility range, compared to Swedish goggles or classic goggles.

There are many different shapes and sizes of swimming masks and everyone can find one that corresponds to his or her preferences.

When purchasing swimming goggles, make sure you feel comfortable wearing them. You can get swimming goggles for relatively low price (a few dollars) if you do not look for very high quality.

In case you are into professional goggles that have better quality and are long-lasting you might spend additional dollars.

There are some goggles that are adjustable based on the shape of your nose and face. They come up with separate parts that can be installed on the goggles to get the best fit.

All of goggles types mentioned above come in different colors, different shapes and additional features, such as anti-scratch lenses or anti-fog technology, etc.

The more features you want the higher will be the price.

Lens Type

Another important thing you need to pay attention to is the lens type.

Some goggles come with clear lenses that provide natural light which is ideal for indoor pools.

The blue or violet lenses are a great choice for everyday training (they allow moderate level of light reach the human eye).

If you swim in rather dark waters you might consider purchasing goggles with amber lenses, as they provide excellent vision in different environments.

Mirror lenses, are ideal if you swim in a place where there is very bright light (they reflect the light away and protect your eyes). Smoked lenses, like mirror lenses, are designed for places with very bright light.

And finally there are prescription goggles for those people who need contact lenses or optical glasses to see their surrounding better. To calculate what prescription lenses you need, use the following formula:

Diopter strength = Sphere + (1/2 x cylinder).

You can purchase special goggles which will allow you changing your prescription lens if needed.

In order to keep the price low, the producers are mainly unable to provide the perfectly fitting lenses, for this reason consult with your doctor before ordering goggles with prescription lenses.

Benefits of Swim Goggles

Swimming goggles provide many benefits to swimmers.

First of all you see everything clear under the water. If you swim in a pool (where for protection purposes chlorine is used) swimming goggles will protect your eyes from chlorine.

If you swim in open door pool the goggles offer you protection from the sun. They prevent the eyes from irritation and redness.

If you swim in rather dirty water, it will protect your eyes from any potential harm. If chemicals are used in the water where you swim, swimming goggles will take proper care of your eyes.

The only thing you need to do is to make sure that your goggles do not leak.

When purchasing your goggles you need to make a choice whether to look for affordable goggles, professional goggles, or goggles with special features.

Based on your choice you will have several options out of which you can choose one that you like the most.

Some goggles offer anti-fog technology, some others have special fitting features (helping you to get goggles with perfect fit), some others are easily adjustable – making them a very useful tool for kids.

Have a look at the top 10 best swimming goggles to buy in 2016.

Goggles Price

You can also choose among different cosmetic features – color of the strap, or color of the lenses, etc. Hundreds of specialized goggles are available on the market. The prices start from $ and go up depending on the brand, features, style, shape, etc.

The price of prescription lenses is relatively higher. Some people think that they are hardly affordable for a person with low/middle income, but in reality you can purchase prescription goggles for $$ (the simple one).

If you need prescription goggles with extra features, of course, you will have to pay more. Some goggles come with their cases which make it easier to keep the in the best conditions for prolonging their life.

Taking Care of your Swim Goggles

Swimming goggles need a lot of care, like your swimsuit, or your swimming cap.

When you get out of the water, make sure to rinse your goggles in water (preferably cold) to remove any chemicals (e.g. chlorine), salt, sand or anything else.

Let the goggles dry naturally (in a room temperature). Put them in a case (if available) and store with your swimming suit, cap, etc.

Do not leave your goggles under direct sun light, or in a very cold room. Do not store them in the same case with sharp items as they may damage the lens or the strap.

In case there in an anti fog layer, storing it with other items (without a case) can become a reason for scratches and can even remove the anti-fog cover.

Still not sure which one to buy? worry not head over to this post top 10 best swimming goggles and you will sure to get the one of your likening.