5 TRICKS TO STOP SWIMMING GOGGLES FOGGING UP
Updated: Jun 22, 2022
"Keep calm and PUT YOUR GOGGLES ON"
As swimmers, we know how frustrating it is when you're mid swim and your goggles begin clouding over, whether it's during a leisurely swim or on race day there is no good time for foggy goggles. There are many methods to stop or reduce the goggle fog, from saliva to homemade anti-fog solutions.
Swimming goggles fog up because of condensation forming on the inside of the lenses. This is either perspiration or water vapour from your skin. Therefore, it is likely to be worse if you are exerting yourself.
Saliva
Though this has instant cringe factor, saliva is truly an effective method. Not only is it a natural and free option, it's great for anyone with sensitive eyes. Its works by adding a barrier to the lens which breaks the condensation into droplets that roll off of the lenses instead of creating fog. It's a chosen method of anti-fog treatment for many swimmers due to how well it works, simply spread the saliva around the lenses and off you go!
POOL WATER
Naturally, the temperature of your body rises as you swim, but the water temperature remains cool. The changes in the temperature combined with the sweat produced can also create goggle fog. Simply wetting your face and goggles in the pool water before putting your goggles on will help combat the fogging, allowing time for the surface of your face and goggles to come down closer to the water temperature and gradually rise with your body temperature.
BABY SHAMPOO
Though you can use any kind of shampoo, baby shampoo would be nicer on the eyes. Once again, you will be creating that barrier using the shampoo. Gently rub the shampoo into the lenses, leave to try for 10 minutes and then rinse them out without touching the lenses.
ANTI-FOG SPRAY
Anti-fog solutions are extremely effective in countering the fog. Whether you have chosen to purchase Anti-fog sprays or drops, once you have applied your anti-fog coating to the lenses you will quickly notice the difference. We have discovered a great selection of anti-fog sprays and solutions from brands such as HUUB and Aquasphere, manufactured by the biggest and best brands with the sole purpose of combating condensation and stopping goggle fog. However, we recognise that this can quickly become expensive for regular swimmers so but there are other options!
GOGGLES
Many goggles come with anti-fog built into the lenses. This is a great feature but much like anything else, it needs to be cared for correctly in order to preserve the anti-fog coating. This includes rinsing with fresh water and allowing them to dry after your swim. It's also good practice to avoid placing your goggles onto your head between sets, this is due to trapping the water and sweat on your head into the goggle.
Buying goggles that have a secure seal and fit correctly will ultimately prevent any moisture from entering the goggles. Buying anti-fog goggles and topping them up with an anti-fog solution is a great option to promote the longevity of the goggles.
Condensation regularly forms on swimming goggles for a couple of reasons:
No anti-fog feature - It is made up of components that help absorb water and spread it across the surface of the lens, or it may even repel it entirely.
Wear and Tear - The protective layer on the glasses can be worn down by contact with towels and other gear.
Try a dollop of shaving cream
This trick has long been used to keep bathroom mirrors from fogging up and works just as well on glasses. Add a bit to either side of your lenses, cover the entire lens, then wash off with water. Allow to air dry.
So the best way to know is to try and test what's best for you and your goggles.
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