A Guide to Anti-fog Solutions for Swim Goggles

Whether you are a competitive swimmer or someone who casually enjoys a pool as an alternative to laps at the gym, your visibility is key. No one wants to be underwater when they cannot see where they are going. Foggy swim goggles can be a hindrance to your workout, and they can be dangerous when you are in the middle of a pool. Luckily, there are ways to keep the goggles from fogging up and obscuring your view.

Understanding the Problem

Fogging occurs when the humidity from your breath meets the cool surface of the goggles, creating condensation. The increased moisture on the goggles' lenses can obstruct your view quickly, making swimming a little more of a challenge.

Commercial Anti-fog Solutions

For swimmers that want a quick and convenient solution, there are a variety of commercial anti-fog solutions available. Many of them are liquids or sprays that you can apply directly to your lenses before and after every swim. These solutions can create a thin protective layer on the lenses that will repel the moisture from your breath and keep your vision clear.

DIY Anti-fog Solutions

For the thrifty swimmer, there are also a few DIY solutions that you can try for a fraction of the cost. One popular solution is using a rubbing alcohol and water solution of a 1:1 ratio, applied directly to the lenses. Alternatively, you can rub the lenses with shampoo or toothpaste, both of which can create a protective layer against moisture.

Proper Maintenance and Care

No matter which anti-fog solution you choose, remember to clean and dry your goggles after each use. This will help to reduce the amount of moisture trapped in the lenses and keep fogging at bay. Additionally, some anti-fog solutions need to be reapplied after each swim, so be sure to read the instructions.

Design Features and Anti-fog Technologies

For swimmers that need a more long-term solution, many goggles are now designed with anti-fog technologies built in. Some of these include double-pane lenses, vents to reduce condensation, and specially designed edge seals. These features serve to reduce the amount of moisture buildup and keep the lenses from fogging up.

Reviews and Recommendations

When it comes to figuring out which anti-fog solution is best for you, reading reviews from other swimmers can be a tremendous help. Many reviews can be found online that can provide valuable insight into the effectiveness of anti-fog products. Additionally, make sure that you purchase goggles that are designed for swimming to ensure they will stand up to the water.

Safety Considerations

Whenever you are using anti-fog solutions, make sure that you practice the proper safety protocols. Always read and follow the instructions of the product. As with any substance, it is important to avoid contact with the eyes and skin. Additionally, make sure that you use and store the products away from children in a cool, dry place.

Summary Review

Swimming with foggy goggles can be both annoying and dangerous. Luckily, there are a variety of anti-fog solutions available for swimmers, from commercial products to DIY options. It is important to read and follow the instructions for any anti-fog product, and also to properly clean and care for your goggles after each use.