Goggles
How to Find the Best Swim Goggles for Competitions
Swimming is ranked the 4th most popular recreational activity in the United States of America.
However, it's also an extremely popular competitive sport. Whether it's triathlon, tournaments or swimming races, it appears that the U.S population has a deep fondness for competitive swimming.
Whether you're a competitive swimmer or are looking to take it up, you definitely understand the value of having quality goggles. But, with all the options out there, how does one choose the right kind for themselves?
Worry not, we've put together a few things for you to consider, that will equip you with the knowledge you need to choose the right pair.
How Are Competitive Styled Swimming Goggles Different?
You'll notice that you have a choice of recreational goggles, practice goggles, swim masks, and competition goggles. So why should you choose competitive styled swimming goggles over the rest?
How different can they even be?
Well, competition goggles are generally designed to be more technical and fit closer to your eye sockets. They come with a few extra features that enable competitive swimmers to be more hydrodynamic than you would be with regular goggles.
Once you know you need competition goggles, your next step is to narrow down your range of choices.
Color Preferences
This one's a no-brainer, but it's important to keep your choice of color in mind. The more you like the look of your goggles, the more likely you are to enjoy wearing them.
While competition goggles may not focus too much on aesthetic value, there are a few brands that do. Choose a color that looks good to you, and that you can see yourself wearing.
Style of the Lens
Ideally, you need a lens that is anti-fog and has UV protection as well. In addition to this, some lenses are also designed for different kinds of waters. Depending on where you are and what you're needs are going to be, you need to consider the following.
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A clear lens will allow you maximum visibility and is best used in an indoor pool
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A mirrored lens blocks out brightness, glares and focused rays of the sun
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A lilac lens allows for better contrast in blue or green spaces
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A smoke lens also reduces the level of brightness and can be used outdoors in bright sunshine
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An amber lens allows more light to enter your vision in low light settings
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A blue lens allows for light while restricting sun rays and glares
Use this information to determine what will work best in your circumstances.
Focus on Visibility
Make sure that the goggles you're buying allow you to see clearly. If you usually wear glasses, you can also request for goggles that incorporate a special lens that takes into account your number.
The whole point of using goggles is to allow you to keep your eyes open underwater, so make sure your vision is not obscured while wearing them. Also, keep an eye out for scratches on the surface. If you buy a pair online, but notice any damage on the surface, return them immediately.
Comfort & Fit
Another thing to look for is the fit of the goggles on your face. By this we mean, you need to examine the seal and make sure you feel a slight suction while wearing them. The right pair will have a slight amount of pressure without pressing too hard against your skin.
Competition goggles are generally not as easy to adjust, so it's imperative that you find a pair that fits right in the beginning itself. Also, pay attention to how they fit across your nose. If it rubs too much against your nose when you move, you should probably switch to another pair.
Adjustability of Straps
Now single strapped goggles have the potential to slip down while you're swimming. That's why you're better off buying a pair that either fits perfectly from the start or that allows you to adjust your strap as you please.
You should also look for adjustable nose pieces. Sometimes you may find interchangeable nose pieces as well, or Swedish goggle kits that allow you to design them yourself. If your goggles don't come with nose pieces, but you really like the pair, you can always buy the nose piece separately.
Again, competition goggles may not have these kinds of features, so it is even more important that you buy a pair that fits perfectly.
Narrow Down Your Purpose
Consider the type of competitive swimming you're going to be doing. Are they medleys, triathlons or quick races? Outdoor triathletes would require triathlon goggles.
Triathlon swim goggles are designed to give you maximum vision through the lens. Pool goggles tend to be more focused, through narrower vision. That being said, there are some indoor pool goggles that allow you better peripheral vision.
Consider your own requirements before you make your purchase. If you find that you swim better with certain features, mention them to the store, or if it's an online store, send them an e-mail requesting assistance.
How to Find the Best Swim Goggles for Competitions
Finding the best triathlon goggles or the best competition goggles is quite easy when you know what you want. And now that you've read our quick guide, we're confident that you do!
Check out our online store for high-quality goggles and other swimming accessories from top brands. Take your pick from our wide range of attire designed specifically for professionals just like you!