Are you starting to teach your child how to swim? Then it is time to stock up on a swimming costume, arm bands and, of course, goggles. But how do you pick the perfect fitting eyewear? Here is everything you need to know about goggles:

 

 

 

Choosing the Fit

When choosing a pair of goggles for your child it is important they fit correctly or they may let water in or hurt their face. The perfect swimming goggles will be comfortable yet snug – not too tight. The straps should be taught to hold them in place, but it is the seal which creates the suction. Tightening the straps will not make them fit better.

Choosing the Shape

There are 3 main shapes:

swed

Swedish Goggles – This style is popular with competitive swimmers. They sit tightly to the eye socket meaning they create less drag than a regular pair. There is no frame to the lens meaning bright colours are often unavailable.

 

gas

Gasket Goggles – These are the type of goggles used by most recreational swimmers and will come with either silicone or foam bonds. Silicone tends to be more popular, but foam may be better for a child as it is softer on the face, while they get used to wearing them.

 

snor

Swim Masks – These are similar to scuba and snorkelling masks and can come with or without a nose compartment. They are bigger than regular goggles and are generally more comfortable. Children love these as they can come in a variety of colours and styles, to match their personality.

Choosing the Lens Colour

Lenses come in a variety of colours which are created for different purposes.

Amber (orange) – Amber lenses are great in all light conditions, whether swimming in the sea, in an indoor pool or outdoors. They will also reduce glare and improve visibility. They are good all-rounders.

Clear – Clear lenses should be used where natural light is minimal. Through these goggles, your child will be able to see actual colours. These are the lenses of choice for indoor pools or wild swimming during winter months.

Blue – Blue lenses offer a happy medium. They let a good amount of light in while still blocking glare. These tend to be more readily available and are appropriate for all swimming conditions.

Smoked or Mirrored – These lenses should be used in very bright conditions and therefore are perfect for swimming on holidays abroad. Some competitive swimmers also wear these as other swimmers will not be able to see your eyes.
Or you could always just choose your favourite colour.

Choosing the Material

Finally, the last thing to consider is the material the goggles will be made of. There are 3 materials to choose between:

Polycarbonate – This polymer is strong and is unlikely to crack. They can be made in a variety of colours and UV protection can also be added.

Optical Grade –This is a high quality plastic, which is lightweight. It is scratch resistant and will create little distortion of vision.

Anti-Fog Coating – Okay, so technically, this is a treatment that is applied to a lens material. It will keep lenses clear and prevent them from steaming up with condensation.

Do you feel more in-the-know now? What type of goggles will you be buying for your child? You could even buy yourself some while you’re at it.

 

 

 

(images: Pixabay, Stay Work Play, Wikimedia and Scuba Toys)