Learn How to Find Swim Goggles That Fit You Best

Everything you need to know about finding swim goggles that fit you best

A good pair of goggles is an essential item for swimming. They can make or break your swim at your big race or during your training. That’s why it’s important to find a pair of swim goggles that fit you and your needs. Durability, fit, comfort, clarity, and adjustability are qualities you should look for before purchasing a new pair of swim goggles. Different kinds of goggles provide better protection, benefits, and effectiveness depending on the type of swimming you’re doing. Find the swim goggles that fit you best with our recommendations and links below! Pro tip: if you’re just starting out keep these beginner swimming tips in mind.

Here are a few things to keep in mind

Size matters

The most notable difference between pool goggles and tri or open water goggles is that tri goggles are bigger. They provide a wider range of vision. This feature is critical to maximize your field of vision and properly sight while looking for other athletes, buoys, and the almighty swim finish line. The same pair of goggles often come in different sizes. Make sure you get the pair that best fits you without compromising your sight. Correct fit is critical to how well the goggles will seal around your eyes and keep the water out.

Pay attention to tint

Style may be important, but you don’t want to compromise style for function. Tinted goggles may appeal to you more, but if you’re doing an open water race on an overcast day or if the water is muddy, heavily tinted goggles would hinder your vision during the swim. Plus, if you’re new to open water swimming, limiting your already hindered vision may be intimidating for most swimmers. Once you find the swim goggles that fit you best, it is a great idea to get a few pairs with different tint levels. Have it all in your swim bag so that you are ready for any situation.  

Polarized lens

These are a must for a sunny, open water swim. A polarized lens will reduce glare off the water from the sun and allow you to see more clearly. Many goggles come in both regular and polarized lenses. You should consider getting both. Use the regular lens for training and the polarized lens for races. 

UV protection

You protect your eyes during every other portion of triathlon. The swim is no exception. Typically most goggles have this feature, but make sure you look for a pair with UV protection to prevent any damage to your eyes. The sun’s rays reflect off the water and make it hard to see. Goggles with UV protection will shield your eyes from any damage. They will keep your vision manageable on sunny training or race days.

Train in the goggles you will race in

This is the best way to avoid any race-morning mishaps from keeping you from performing your best on race day. Adjust your goggles to the exact tightness you’re comfortable with to avoid your goggles from filling up with water or even falling off mid-race.

Top 5 triathlon goggle recommendations

Roka R1 Goggles

• Patented design for greater field of view
• UV, anti-scratch, and anti-fog coating
• Flat silicone head strap with locking adjustment clip

Speedo Socket 2.0 Mirrored Goggles

• Adjustable & comfortable
• Sleek, low-profile design
• Wide panoramic vision

New Wave Fusion 2.0 Swim Goggles

• Low-profile design with streamlined shape
• Soft, durable silicone double head straps
• Four nosepiece options to fit all swimmers

Aqua Sphere Kayenne Polarized Lens Swim Goggles

• Polarized lens reduces glare and increases contrast
• Oversized lens for great visibility
• Anti-fog and UV lens treatment for long-lasting clarity

AqtivAqua DX Wide View Swim Goggles

• 100% UV Protection
• No-slip double strap with One-Click system
• Great for indoor and outdoor swimming

Now you have all the information you need to find the swim goggles that fit you best! Is a wetsuit next on your list? Make sure you know what to look for when choosing a wetsuit.