Keep Swimming Goggles Clear with Anti-Fog Solutions

When it comes to swimming and participating in aquatic sports, it's essential to feel confident and to perform your best. Swimming goggles are a must-have for any swimmer, and it's important to ensure that they perform reliably and safely. After all, you need your vision to be unobstructed and crystal clear while swimming, whether you're an amateur swimmer or an Olympic champion. All too often, though, swimmers find their vision obscured by fogging, getting in the way of their swims. Read on to learn about why this happens, the most popular anti-fog solutions, and the best products and practices.

Understanding the Problem

Nobody likes foggy swimming goggles, whether you're a swimmer or a lifeguard. Foggy goggles can seriously jeopardize the safety of the swimmer and anyone around them, and even the best goggles won't protect you if you can't see through them. Foggy goggles are caused by condensation, as temperature and humidity levels create droplets that accumulate and obstruct the view. Other factors include using chlorine-based cleaners and failing to properly store your goggles between swims. Fortunately, many highly effective solutions exist to help you get back in the swim of things.

Commercial Anti-Fog Solutions

The easiest way to restore clear visibility in your swimming goggles is by using commercially available anti-fog solutions. Many brands offer sprays that are specifically made for swimming goggles. These sprays help to maintain clear visibility, and they can be used on new or older goggles as needed. The trick is to apply the spray properly. Too much can cause uncomfortable smearing, and too little will not be effective in keeping the goggles fog-free. Generally, it's best to thoroughly focus a single spray on the inside of the lens before each swim.

There are also anti-fog wipes that can be used to quickly wipe down goggles between swims and help to keep them free from moisture and fog. These wipes are easy to use and transport, and they can help your goggles to perform better and last longer.

DIY Anti-Fog Solutions

In a pinch, you can also take a more DIY approach to keeping your swimming goggles fog-free. One classic approach is to combine baby shampoo or dish soap with a little bit of hot (but not too hot) water in a container, and to swoosh the goggles around inside of the mixture. This will help to reduce fogging, though it may not be as effective as a specialist commercial product. Another tried and true approach is to use a smidge of spit on the inside of your goggles, to create a fog-resistant film. If you decide to go this route, be sure to rinse the lenses afterwards with fresh water to avoid any residue or bacteria.

Proper Maintenance and Care

No matter which anti-fog solution you use, it's important to take proper care of your goggles in between swim sessions. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly with fresh water, and if you can, store them in a hard case in a safe, dry place. Do-not leave them in direct sunlight or in an enclosed space for too long. Goggles that are not stored and maintained correctly run a greater risk of fogging or slipping.

Design Features and Anti-Fog Technologies

Luckily, swim goggle manufacturers are aware of the fogging problem, and many of them have produced goggles that are specifically developed with anti-fog lens coatings. Having a clear understanding of the features of the various models can help you to select the best anti-fog options for your needs. Some of the features may include FCS approved construction, everlasting anti-fogcoatings, a soft-touch silicone seal, wide peripheral vision, and ultra-light frames.

Reviews and Recommendations

Just like any other product, different people have different opinions about swimming goggles and anti-fog solutions, and it's important to be aware of the different perspectives. Doing a quick online search is a great way to learn more about the different brands and models, and reading reviews from real users is a reliable way to decide which product is best suited for you or your swimmers.

Safety Considerations

It's also important to remember safety considerations when using swimming goggles. Scout around for sites and come up with a list of approved safe practices that should always be adhered to when using goggles. Some of these things may include only using goggles approved by organizations, buying goggles that fit properly, consistently using the appropriate anti-fog solution, and taking regular breaks from swimming.

Summary Review

In summary, foggy swimming goggles can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. Fortunately, with the right information and products, swimming with clear vision can be possible and enjoyable. To keep your vision clear and your swimming experience safe and reliable, consider using a commercial anti-fog solution such as a spray or wipe. If needed, you can also take a DIY approach. It's also important to take proper care of your goggles between swim sessions, and to understand the features and safety considerations involved.