Everything you need to know to find the best swim goggles for triathlon
A good pair of goggles is a tri-gear essential that can make or break your swim during your big race. That’s why it’s critical to find a pair that meet your standards and needs. Durability, strength, comfortability, and adjustability are qualities you should look for before purchasing a new pair of tri goggles. Different kinds of goggles provide better protection, benefits, and effectiveness, depending on the type of swimming you’re doing. Get ready to race you best at your upcoming tri with our recommendations of the best triathlon swim goggles.
Here’s a couple of things to keep in mind before buying your pair:
Size Matters
The most notable difference between pool goggles and tri or open water goggles is tri goggles are bigger for a broader range of vision. This feature is critical to maximize your field of vision to properly sight while swimming for other athletes, buoys, and the almighty swim finish line. Tri goggles often come in various sizes, so make sure you get the pair that best fits your face without compromising your sight.
Pay Attention to Tint
Style may be important, but you don’t want to compromise style for function and vice versa. Tinted goggles may appeal to you more, but if you’re doing an open water race with muggy water, heavily tinted goggles would not be in your best interest. Plus, if you’re new to open water swimming, limiting your already hindered vision may be intimidating for most swimmers.
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 prevent your goggles from filling up with water or even falling off mid-race. Pro Tip: Always have a second pair of goggles once you find a pair you like. It is always good to have on race morning in case something happens to your googles on site.
UV Protection
You protect your eyes during every other portion of the tri, and the swim is no exception. Most goggles typically have this feature, but double-check and make sure you get a pair with UV protection. The sun’s rays reflect off the water and make it hard to see, that’s why goggles with UV protection will shield your eyes from any damage and keep your vision manageable on sunny training or race days.
Check Out Our Top 5 Triathlon Goggles
- Long-lasting silicone straps
- Great anti-fog and
- Stylish
Speedo Covert Mirrored Swim Goggles
- Adjustable & comfortable
- Lightweight
- Wide-angle optical lens
- Maximum comfort with leak-resistant seal
- Low price, customizable and precise vision
- leak-resistant seal
Aqua Sphere Kayenne Swim Goggles
- Curved lens technology for 180 Vision
- Smoke lens
- Soft seals for extra comfort
AqtivAqua Wide View Swim Goggles
- 100% UV Protection
- No-slip double strap
- Great for indoor and outdoor swimming
You’re All Set!
Now you have all the tools you need to find the perfect pair of goggles to take you to the finish line at your upcoming tri! Didn’t see your fave goggles on this list? Want us to give them a try and add them to this list? Reach out on Facebook or Twitter and let us hear your thoughts!