by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: April 07, 2007   Last Updated: September 30, 2008

Dollar-Store goggles are not worth a buck! Cheap leaky goggles are worse than no goggles at all.

Competitive and recreational swimmers wear goggles to protect and shield their eyes, as well as for comfort. Choosing the right pair is important.

FASHION

Unless you swim on a team, and you are required to wear matching goggles, the fashionability factor simply does not count. What you want is a pair of goggles that suits your purpose, protecting your eyes. Comfort and fit are important, but appearances are not. After all, you face will be in the water!

Matching colors to swimwear (or team uniforms) is a bonus, but not essential.

FUNCTION

If you swim outdoors, the UV protection will be essential.

Pool swimmers need goggles that will shield them from chlorine and other chemicals. Also, temperatures may vary greatly in a swimming pool, and water currents may fluctuate near jets and filters.

Ocean, lake, and pond swimmers will require protection from bacteria, pollutants, and particles that may be present in the water. Visibility will be particularly important for natural environments, where buoys and walls may not be present.

FIT

Although swim goggles are readily available online, a smart shopper will opt to try on several pairs before purchasing. (Certainly, you could find a style that fits, write it down, and then get online and do some comparison-shopping.)

Well-fitting goggles will hug your face, even when the strap is not fastened on your head. Snug and secure without causing discomfort is the happy balance.

Different styles and shapes may fit different folks accordingly. You simply have to try them on.

Goggles are available in children's, juniors, women's and men's sizes.

OPTIONS

Swim goggles may have round or oval sockets. Tinted or clear lenses may be available. Mirrored and anti-fog lenses may be found. Eyeglass or contact lens wearers can even obtain goggles with prescription lenses.

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