Which goggles are the best for swimming?

There are many different types of goggles, and it can be difficult to know which ones are best for you. If you choose the wrong pair of goggles, it could lead to irritation, swelling, and leave marks around the eyes.

In this article, we will teach you everything you need to know about choosing the right pair of goggles.

How to choose a pair of goggles

The first thing that you should do is figure out which type of swimming you are going to do. If you’re a competitive swimmer, you will need goggles that allow you to perform at your best. On the other hand, if you're just a recreational swimmer, you do not necessarily need something as expensive.

The second thing to consider is nose bridges. If your eyes are small or close together or your nose is small or on the bigger side, then it might be difficult to find goggles that fit well without leaking around the edges because of their shape.

The third thing you will want to consider is the material. Goggles made from silicone or rubber will be more comfortable than those made from plastic.

The fourth thing you need to think about is whether or not you have any eyesight problems. If so, then a pair of goggles with corrective lenses may be best for you.

Once you have decided on a type of goggles, a few things will affect your decision about which one to buy: price, performance, and features. We’ll go over them in the next section.

Which goggles are the best for swimming?

Swimmers have to choose between comfortable goggles and those that are good for the eyes.

The goggles you choose will depend on what you want to prioritize. If you care for comfort, go with silicone or latex. If you care about eye protection, then polycarbonate or trivex lenses. A great pair of swim goggles generally costs more but lasts longer.

Here are some of the best goggles available.

1. TheMagic5

TheMagic5 are a great pair of goggles that aren’t meant to be worn tightly. Despite this, they fit well to the shape of your head so they don’t fall off and they don’t leak.

TheMagic5 have great clarity, never fog, and the scanning process when you get them is smooth. They’re without a doubt one of the best goggles we’ve tried.

2. Swedish goggles

Swedish goggles are often used because they're highly customizable, provide a great field of view, and are pretty cheap.

The downside is that they can be a bit uncomfortable, but once you get used to them, they're alright, you have to assemble them (unlike other types), and the silicone straps degrade pretty quickly. 

3. Speedo Vanquisher 2.0

Speedo makes a lot of equipment for swimmers. Michael Phelps, Florent Manaudou, and many others have used them in competitions because they're comfortable and reliable.

The Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 has a rubberized gasket that makes it very comfortable and prevents leaks, plus durable silicone straps and an adjustable nose bridge to fit different face shapes.

The downside is that the field of view isn't as big as with Swedish goggles.

4. TYR Socket Rocket Goggles

The TYR Socket Rocket Goggles combine the best features of the Swedish goggles and the Vanquisher 2.0. They have an adjustable nose for a perfect fit, a rubberized gasket that prevents leaks, and a durable silicone strap.

5. Speedo Speed Socket 2.0 Swim Goggles

Many professionals wear Speedo Speed Sockets. These goggles have a better field of view than Vanquishers, durable silicone straps, multiple nose bridges, a leak-proof gasket, and aren't as expensive as other speed goggles. They're a good alternative if you don't like any other goggles.

6. FINIS Smart Goggles

FINIS Smart Goggles are undoubtedly the best smart goggles in the market for training. With FINIS Smart Goggles, you can monitor time, intervals, how much rest you have taken, the number of laps, splits (per lap and repetition), etc.

Like all the goggles on this list, they have a great field of view, durable silicone straps, and a leak-proof gasket.

The main benefit of these goggles is that FINIS sells them separately from the HUD unit for about $35. Buying the entire set will cost you around $200.

How often should you replace swimming goggles?

Swim goggles deteriorate gradually, so replacement does not happen often. However, it depends on how much use you give them since chlorine and sunshine will break down the materials. It is recommended to replace them every six months to a year.

If you don’t use them very often, they may last longer. It's up to you to decide when the lenses are too scratched or don't work anymore.