by Michelle Gardner

Created on: April 06, 2007   Last Updated: September 30, 2008

Fit is the most important aspect of swimming goggles. They will leak, give you a headache and leave cuts and/or seemingly permanent indentations if they do not fit properly.

A quick test of goggle fit is to press them over your eyes without using the strap. If the swimming goggles stay on your face for more than a split second after you let go, they will probably work well for you once you get the strap adjusted.

Swimming goggles are sized for children and adults. If you are an adult with a small face or head, do not hesitate to try child- or youth-sized goggles. Depending on the brand, they are comparable in quality to adult-sized swimming goggles.

Fogged lenses can be a nuisance, but there are at least three ways to prevent them from obstructing your view:

- Smear your saliva on the inside of each lens. You may want to dunk your goggles in the water before you put them on if you are remotely grossed-out by this idea.
- Purchase anti-fog goggles. If they still get foggy, try the previous idea, or return the goggles and try another pair.
- Use anti-fog drops. Keep in mind, though, you may be buying someone else's saliva.

If you swim outdoors for recreation or competition, tinted swimming goggles are ideal to protect your eyes from the sun's glare and ultraviolet rays. Most styles of swimming goggles are available with tinted lenses.

When choosing swimming goggles for children, determine their primary use: for recreation or competitive swimming. Children are notorious for losing goggles, so know your child's reputation for such things and purchase accordingly. If the goggles leak, your child won't want to wear them. If your child is on a swim team, he or she probably understands the importance of keeping track of their gear.

As you try various styles and brands of swimming goggles, you will learn what you like and don't like about the lens shape, how the strap adjusts, and overall quality. Unless they are cracked or broken, many pools will accept used swimming goggles, providing you with a way to recycle and avoid a stockpile of used goggles.

Learn more about this author, Michelle Gardner.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.