The top 7 best open water swimming goggles
Updated: 8 October 2026
Short answer: for most open water swimmers the BTTLNS Valryon 1.0 is the best choice: wide mirrored lens, leak-free fit over the eye socket and a sharp price. If you often swim in bright sunlight with reflections on the water, choose polarized goggles such as the BTTLNS Vermithrax 1.0, the Zoggs Predator Flex Polarized Ultra or the Zone3 Vapour, which also works well in the pool. If you swim at varying times of day, the photochromic Zone3 Attack PH is ideal. For races and triathlons, the Arena Cobra Tri Swipe and the Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite are the fastest choices. All seven are in the comparison table below.
No more leaks, glare, or foggy lenses – these are the goggles for top performance in open water. Do you enjoy swimming in open water? Then you know: the difference between a great session and a frustrating struggle often comes down to the smallest details. And one of the most important is your swimming goggles. In open water, you face sun reflections, waves, debris, changing light, and unpredictable conditions. A standard pool goggle simply won’t cut it.
Whether you are training for a triathlon, participating in open water races, or simply enjoying a long swim in the lake, a good pair of goggles makes the difference between squinting and swimming with focus. In this blog, we’ve gathered the 7 best open water swimming goggles for you. So… are you ready to find your perfect open water goggles? Dive into our top 7, open your eyes, and open water swimming will never be the same.
In this blog with the top 7 best goggles for open water swimming
- The 7 best open water swimming goggles at a glance
- Our top 7 swimming goggles for open water
1. BTTLNS Valryon 1.0 Sacred Gold
2. Zoggs Predator Flex Polarized Ultra
3. BTTLNS Vermithrax 1.0 Polarized
4. Arena Cobra Tri Swipe Mirror
5. Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite Mirror
6. Zone3 Vapour Polarized
7. Zone3 Attack PH Photochromic - Why good goggles are essential for open water swimming
- What to look for in open water swimming goggles
- Swim outdoors a lot? Then the right lens colour is extra important
- How to keep your goggles clear for longer: care and anti-fog
- Frequently asked questions about open water swimming goggles
Our Top 7 Goggles for Open Water
If you are serious about open water swimming, whether for a triathlon, competition, or training, you know that a good pair of goggles is essential. Not only for comfort and protection but also to maintain clear vision in all conditions. In open water, you deal with sunlight, glare, waves, debris, and changing light conditions, which requires goggles that are prepared for it all. The right goggles prevent leaks, foggy lenses, and tired eyes, making the difference between an enjoyable swim (or race) and pure frustration. To help you choose the perfect pair, we’ve selected the top 7 best open water swimming goggles currently available. We’ll go through them one by one.
1) BTTLNS Valryon 1.0 Sacred Gold – stylish, leak-proof, and built for performance
Are you looking for a comfortable and performance-oriented goggle for open water? The BTTLNS Valryon 1.0 combines the best of both worlds. This goggle with wide gold mirrored lenses not only looks impressive but is also built to perform in open water.
The mirrored lens with Sacred Gold tint effectively filters bright sunlight and glare, keeping your eyes optimally protected from UV rays and ensuring razor-sharp vision during sunny swims. Ideal for triathlons, open water races, and long training sessions in the sun.
What makes the Valryon truly special is the Face Fit Technology (FFT): a soft, flexible fit that effortlessly adapts to the shape of your face. This creates a vacuum seal, prevents leaks, and avoids annoying red marks around your eyes. The goggles sit over your eye sockets instead of inside them, distributing pressure and increasing comfort, even during longer sessions.
Thanks to the quick-adjusters on both sides, the goggles are easy and fast to adjust, even with wet hands. The durable construction of high-quality silicone and polycarbonate ensures that these goggles not only feel soft but also last a long time. Additionally, the lenses feature an anti-fog coating to maintain clear vision—if properly cared for.
Whether you’re training, competing, or simply enjoying an outdoor swim, the Valryon 1.0 is ready for any open water adventure. The Valryon is also available in black/gold and black/silver.
The BTTLNS Valryon 1.0 at a glance:
- Wide gold mirrored lens with UV filtering for clear vision in sunlight
- Face Fit Technology (FFT) for a perfect leak-proof fit
- Prevents pressure on eye sockets and red marks
- Soft, durable silicone frame
- Anti-fog coating on lenses
- 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Adjustable fit with quick-adjusters on both sides
- Includes mesh goggle pouch
Materials:
- Frame: Silicone
- Lens: Polycarbonate
Specifications of the BTTLNS Valryon 1.0 Sacred Gold
General
- Brand: BTTLNS
- Model Name: Valryon 1.0
- Usage Type: Open water, triathlons, training, recreational
- Target Audience: Adults (unisex)
- Color: Divine black / Sacred gold
- Lens Type: Mirrored (gold-colored)
- UV Protection: 100% UVA (Ultraviolet A) & UVB (Ultraviolet B)
Materials
- Frame: Soft and durable silicone
- Lenses: Impact-resistant polycarbonate
- Packaging: Includes mesh goggle pouch
Comfort & Fit
- Fit: Over the eye sockets (reduces eye pressure)
- Technology: FFT - Face Fit Technology
- Adjustability: Ratchet mechanism on both sides
- Anti-fog: Yes (anti-fog coating)
Dimensions & Weight
- Product Length: 16 cm
- Product Width: 5 cm
Order before 17:00, delivered tomorrow
Order before 17:00, delivered tomorrow
Order before 17:00, delivered tomorrow
2) Zoggs Predator Flex Polarized Ultra, ultimate fit, sharp vision in all conditions
Whether you’re swimming in bright sunlight or diving into open water on a cloudy day, the Zoggs Predator Flex Polarized Ultra is your reliable partner. These goggles combine maximum comfort with technical innovations that make a difference during long training sessions, competitions, or triathlons.
The copper-colored Polarized Ultra lenses filter harmful blue light, reduce glare, and enhance contrast, ideal for preventing eye fatigue in both bright sunlight and diffuse light. Thanks to Curved Lens Technology (CLT™), you also enjoy an impressive 180° peripheral view without distortion.
What makes these goggles unique is the Advanced Ultra-Fit™ gasket: 10% softer silicone provides a lighter feel and less pressure on your eye sockets. Combined with 3D Flexpoint Technology™, the goggles flexibly adapt to your face shape, ensuring the nose bridge always moves comfortably.
The split strap and Quick Adjust system allow you to adjust the goggles quickly, even on the go or with wet hands. Add the anti-fog coating, 100% UV protection, and FINA approval, and you have a goggle that every serious swimmer should consider.
The Zoggs Predator Flex at a glance:
- Polarized Ultra copper-colored lenses filter blue light and reduce glare
- Advanced Ultra-Fit™: 10% softer silicone for extreme comfort
- 3D Flexpoint™ technology for a flexible fit on any face
- CLT™: 180° distortion-free peripheral vision
- Anti-fog coating for clear vision
- Maximum UV protection (99–100%)
- Quick Adjust system + split strap
- Includes storage pouch
- FINA approved
Materials:
- Frame: silicone
- Lenses: polycarbonate
Specifications of the Zoggs Predator Flex Polarized Ultra
General
- Brand: Zoggs
- Model Name: Predator Flex Polarized Ultra
- Usage Type: Open water, training, triathlons, recreational
- Target Audience: Adults (unisex)
- Color: Black/Green
- Lens Type: Polarized copper-colored
- UV Protection: 99–100% UVA & UVB
- FINA Approved: Yes
Materials
- Frame: 10% softer silicone (Advanced Ultra-Fit™)
- Lenses: Polycarbonate
- Packaging: Includes goggle pouch
Comfort
- Technology: 3D Flexpoint™ & Ultra-Fit™
- Adjustability: Quick Adjust ratchet mechanism + split strap
- Anti-fog: Yes
Weight
- Weight: approx. 95 grams
Delivery within 2 – 4 business days
Order today, delivered on Tuesday
3) BTTLNS Vermithrax 1.0 Polarized, ultimate comfort for open water swimmers
If you prefer swimming in open water and are looking for goggles that effectively reduce glare without compromising on comfort, the BTTLNS Vermithrax 1.0 Polarized is specially designed for triathletes and open water swimmers who demand maximum protection and stability in bright sunlight, low sun angles, or water reflections.
Thanks to the wide polarized lens, you experience a soft, filtered view that eliminates annoying glare and sun reflections. This provides calmer vision and prevents eye fatigue, even during long swimming sessions. The polarized lenses also provide extra depth and contrast, ideal for accurately gauging direction and surroundings in open water.
Like its sibling, the Valryon, the Vermithrax is equipped with Face Fit Technology (FFT). This technique ensures the goggles perfectly conform to your face and provide a leak-free fit without uncomfortable pressure points or red marks. The goggles sit over the eye socket, distributing pressure evenly, providing ultimate comfort even during extended swims.
The ratchet adjustment system on the sides allows you to quickly and easily customize the fit in seconds—no hassle, just get straight into the water. Additionally, the anti-fog coating prevents the lenses from fogging when properly maintained. The durable silicone frame feels soft and lasts a long time.
Whether you are doing a relaxed training session in a lake or aiming for peak performance in a triathlon, the Vermithrax 1.0 offers everything you need.
The BTTLNS Vermithrax 1.0 Polarized at a glance:
- Wide polarized lens that filters glare and reflections
- Face Fit Technology (FFT) for a soft, leak-free fit
- Soft, pressure-free fit prevents red marks
- Durable silicone frame
- Anti-fog coating for clear vision
- 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Quick-adjust fit with side ratchets
- Ideal for open water and triathlon
- Includes mesh goggle pouch
Materials:
- Frame: silicone
- Lens: polycarbonate
Specifications of the BTTLNS Vermithrax 1.0 Polarized
General
- Brand: BTTLNS
- Model Name: Vermithrax 1.0
- Usage Type: Open water, triathlons, training, recreational
- Target Audience: Adults (unisex)
- Color: Black
- Lens Type: Polarized
- UV Protection: 100% UVA (Ultraviolet A) & UVB (Ultraviolet B)
Materials
- Frame: Durable silicone
- Lenses: Polycarbonate
- Packaging: Includes mesh goggle pouch
Comfort & Fit
- Fit: Over the eye socket (for comfort and pressure distribution)
- Technology: FFT – Face Fit Technology
- Adjustability: Ratchet mechanism on both sides
- Anti-fog: Yes
Dimensions & Weight
- Product Length: 16 cm
- Product Width: 5 cm
Order before 17:00, delivered tomorrow
4) Arena Cobra Tri Swipe Mirror – the race goggle with unparalleled clarity
For serious triathletes and competitive swimmers who want to push to the limit, the Arena Cobra Tri Swipe Mirror is an absolute must-have. These goggles combine a streamlined design with groundbreaking technology that supports your performance in open water and in the pool.
The unique Swipe Anti-Fog technology is a gamechanger: a simple swipe on the inside of the lenses activates or reactivates the anti-fog coating. This technology lasts up to 10 times longer than traditional coatings, ideal for long races or training sessions where clear vision is crucial.
The mirrored lenses protect your eyes from bright sunlight, reflections, and intense (artificial) light. Thanks to the narrow profile and hard lenses, the goggles cut hydrodynamically through the water with minimal resistance. With three included interchangeable nose bridges and a double adjustable strap, you always achieve a perfect fit, even at starts and during intense races.
These goggles are designed for speed, comfort, and clarity—exactly what you need when it really counts. The Cobra Tri Swipe Mirror is also available in silver/black.
The Arena Cobra Tri Swipe Mirror at a glance:
- Swipe Anti-Fog technology: clear vision that lasts 10x longer
- Mirrored lenses: protection against sun and reflections
- 3D sealing: perfect watertight fit without pressure points
- Interchangeable nose bridge for optimal fit
- Double silicone strap with buckle for maximum grip
- Suitable for triathlon and competitive swimming
- FINA approved
- Delivered without case
Specifications of the Arena Cobra Tri Swipe Mirror
General
- Brand: Arena
- Model Name: Cobra Tri Swipe Mirror
- Usage Type: Triathlons, competitions, and training
- Target Audience: Adults (unisex)
- Color: Yellow/Black
- Lens Type: Mirrored
- UV Protection: 100% UVA & UVB
- FINA Approved: Yes
Materials
- Lens: 100% Polycarbonate
- Gasket: 100% Japanese thermopolymer elastomer (TPE)
- Strap: 100% Silicone
- Case: Not included
Comfort & Fit
- Fit: Narrow profile, suitable for small to medium faces
- Nose Bridge: Interchangeable (3 sizes included)
- Adjustability: Double silicone strap with buckle
- Anti-fog: Swipe Anti-Fog technology (reactivatable)
Lens Technology
- Tinted & mirrored
- Anti-fog, UV-A and UV-B protection
- Non-polarized
- 180° field of vision (very wide view)
Dimensions & Weight
- Product Weight: approx. 106 g
- Packaging: without case
5) Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite Mirror – maximum speed, minimal resistance
The Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite Mirror is the top model for dedicated competitive swimmers and triathletes looking to take their performance to the next level. These goggles are the result of over ten years of innovation and collaboration with the world’s fastest swimmers. Everything about this model is designed for speed, visibility, and fit without compromise.
The hydroscopic mirrored lenses provide a wide, clear field of vision with minimal head movement. Ideal for focus and efficiency during races or swim training. The lenses filter bright light and glare, making these goggles perfect for outdoor swimming or brightly lit indoor pools.
The patented IQfit™ 3D-seal ensures a leak-free fit, prevents marks around the eyes, and offers long-lasting comfort, even during extended sessions. Thanks to the IQfit™ adjustment system, double silicone strap, and hydrodynamic nose bridges, you can perfectly adapt the goggles to your head shape without compromising stability.
The Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite Mirror is FINA-approved and designed for swimmers who only accept the best.
The Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite Mirror at a glance:
- Hydroscopic mirrored lenses for maximum visibility with minimal head movement
- Anti-fog coating and UV protection
- IQfit™ 3D-seal for a leak-free and comfortable fit
- Interchangeable nose bridges for optimal adjustment
- Double silicone strap for secure grip
- Hydrodynamic frame for reduced resistance
- FINA-approved for official competitions
- Perfect for both indoor and outdoor use
Material:
- Lenses: 100% Polycarbonate
- Frame: 100% Polycarbonate
- Seal: 100% Thermopolymer elastomer
- Strap: 100% Silicone
Specifications of the Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite Mirror
General
- Brand: Speedo
- Model Name: Fastskin Hyper Elite Mirror
- Usage Type: Competitions, triathlons, training
- Target Audience: Adults (unisex)
- Color: Black / Grey (Oxid)
- Lens Type: Mirrored, tinted
- UV Protection: 100% UVA & UVB
- FINA Approved: Yes
Materials
- Lens: Polycarbonate
- Frame: Polycarbonate
- Seal: Thermopolymer elastomer
- Strap: Silicone
- Case: Not included
Comfort & Fit
- Fit: Suitable for small to large faces
- Nose Bridge: Interchangeable (hydrodynamic design)
- Adjustability: IQfit™ tension system + double strap
- Anti-fog: Yes (anti-fog coating)
Design Advantages
- Profiled lenses for a wide field of view
- Low profile and aerodynamic shape
- Perfect alignment with Fastskin swim caps
- Ergonomic and durable
Dimensions & Weight
- Product Dimensions: 25 x 20 x 4 cm
- Weight: 80 g
Order today, delivered on Tuesday
Order today, delivered on Tuesday
6) Zone3 Vapour Polarized, the comfortable all-rounder for open water and pool
Looking for one pair of goggles you can use both in the lake and in the pool, without compromising on comfort or vision? The Zone3 Vapour has been one of our best-selling goggles for years, and for good reason. Zone3 designed the Vapour with one goal: comfort, vision and functionality in one pair, so you no longer have to choose between training goggles for indoors and a separate pair for open water.
The polarized Revo Gold lens of the black/gold version filters out the glare of the sun on the water surface and keeps the contrast high. That way you see buoys, fellow swimmers and the shore sharply, even with a low sun. Thanks to the anti-fog treatment and 100% UVA/UVB protection, your vision stays clear and your eyes are protected, even during long sessions outdoors.
What makes the Vapour so popular above all is the fit. The wide, extra soft silicone seal sits around the eye socket and spreads the pressure, so you hardly have any marks around your eyes, even after an hour of swimming. The large, curved lenses give a wide peripheral view: handy when navigating in open water and at a crowded start. With the interchangeable nose bridge you adjust the goggles to your face, and with the split strap and the easy side adjustment they sit right within seconds, even with wet hands.
Prefer a different colour? The Vapour is also available in white/blue, also with a polarized lens. And if you swim at very different times of day, also take a look at the Zone3 Attack PH below, with photochromic lenses.
The Zone3 Vapour in brief:
- Polarized Revo Gold lens against glare and reflections
- Extra soft silicone seal with minimal pressure on the eye sockets
- Large, curved lenses for a wide peripheral view
- Anti-fog treatment and 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Interchangeable nose bridge and split strap with easy adjustment
- Suitable for open water and pool
- Also available in white/blue
Material:
- Frame and seal: soft silicone
- Lens: impact-resistant plastic with anti-fog coating
Specifications of the Zone3 Vapour Polarized
General
- Brand: Zone3
- Model name: Vapour
- Type of use: Open water, triathlon, pool, training
- Target group: Adults (unisex)
- Colour: Black/gold (also in white/blue)
- Lens type: Polarized (Revo Gold)
- UV protection: 100% UVA (Ultraviolet A) & UVB (Ultraviolet B)
- Warranty: 2 years
Materials
- Frame and seal: Soft silicone
- Lenses: Impact-resistant plastic with anti-fog coating
- Packaging: Box, without case
Comfort & Fit
- Fit: Wide, soft seal around the eye socket
- Nose bridge: Interchangeable
- Adjustability: Split strap with side adjustment
- Anti-fog: Yes
- Field of vision: Large curved lenses for extra peripheral vision
Use & Care
- Rinse with tap water after use, especially after swimming in salt water
- Do not rub the inside dry (because of the anti-fog coating)
- Test the fit on dry land before you get into the water
7) Zone3 Attack PH, flexible fit and automatic lens adjustment
Are you looking for a comfortable pair of goggles suitable for both open water and pool swimming? The Zone3 Attack PH is one of the most versatile goggles on the market. Thanks to the flexible silicone frame and ultra-soft silicone seal, these goggles effortlessly adapt to different face shapes without leaving uncomfortable pressure points or red marks around the eyes.
The main advantage of these goggles is the photochromic lens. It automatically adjusts to lighting conditions: clear in low light and darker in bright sunlight. This means you never have to switch goggles under changing conditions. Ideal for early morning training sessions or long triathlons with varying sunlight.
The curved lenses provide a wide and clear field of vision so you can easily keep track of other swimmers or buoys. And thanks to the anti-fog coating, you maintain crystal-clear vision without interruptions. The goggles are also easy to adjust with a double silicone strap and quick-adjust buckle, even with wet hands.
The Zone3 Attack PH at a glance:
- Photochromic lenses that automatically adapt to light
- Ultra-soft silicone seal for optimal comfort
- Curved lenses for extra wide peripheral vision
- 100% UVA/UVB protection and anti-fog coating
- Flexible silicone frame, suitable for almost any face type
- Double adjustable silicone head strap
- Suitable for both open water and pool swimming
Specifications of the Zone3 Attack PH black goggles
General
- Brand: Zone3
- Model Name: Attack PH
- Usage Type: Open water, triathlon, pool, training
- Target Audience: Adults (unisex)
- Color: Black
- Lens Type: Photochromic (light-adaptive)
- UV Protection: 100% UVA & UVB
- Anti-fog: Yes (with coating)
Materials
- Frame: Flexible silicone
- Lenses: Photochromic polycarbonate
- Seal: Ultra-soft silicone
- Head Strap: Double silicone strap
Comfort & Fit
- Fit: Suitable for narrow to wide faces
- Adjustability: Easy strap adjustment
- Field of View: Curved lenses for extra peripheral vision
Special Features
- Lens automatically adjusts to light intensity
- Wide field of vision due to curved lens shape
- Very comfortable seal, minimal pressure on eye sockets
Usage:
- Suitable for open water, triathlons, training, and pool use
- Unisex design for men and women
Order today, delivered on Tuesday
Why a good pair of goggles is essential for open water swimming
Open water is beautiful but far from predictable. While a pool offers clear water and controlled conditions, open water exposes you to bright sunlight, choppy waves, murky water, and sudden reflections on the surface. And it is precisely this that makes a good pair of goggles essential.
Imagine this: as a triathlete, you stand at the start of your first serious open water race. The sun hangs low over the lake, reflecting brightly on the water. At the start, you dive in confidently, but within seconds that confidence disappears. You squint against the light, lose your orientation, and feel frustration creeping in. Sound familiar?
Now imagine the same scenario, but with high-quality goggles with polarized or mirrored lenses. No more annoying reflections, sharp vision above and below the water, and full focus on your course and technique. The difference? Calm, control, and speed – exactly what you need during a triathlon or long swim session.
Whether you swim in a lake, canal, or sea: murky water, changing light conditions, and UV exposure are no exception. A good open water goggle protects your eyes, provides clear vision in all directions, and stays securely in place, even during a wild start or when a wave crashes over you.
It may seem like a small detail, but anyone who swims often in open water knows: a good pair of goggles makes the difference between swimming and truly swimming.
What to look for in an open water goggle?
It may seem like a simple accessory, but if you want to swim seriously in open water (or already do), whether for training or a triathlon, you know: a goggle that doesn’t fit properly guarantees frustration. Think of leaking lenses, fogged vision, or painful pressure points around your eyes. Fortunately, with a few smart checks, you can find the right goggles that let you focus on your technique and course.
Do the fit test (the vacuum trick)
Place the goggles on your face without the strap and press them gently. Then release the goggles. Do they stay in place for about 2 to 3 seconds without holding them? If so, you have a good fit and the goggles will not leak once in the water. Do they fall off immediately? Then they don’t fit properly or don’t seal well enough. Want to know what else you need for swimming outdoors? Read our blog what do you need for open water swimming.
Pay attention to the nose bridge and frame shape
Do you have a narrow face or always feel pressure on your nose or eye sockets? Then the nose bridge is important for you. Many open water models have an adjustable or interchangeable nose bridge, allowing you to tailor the fit to your face. The frame shape also matters: goggles that sit over the eye sockets are more comfortable and prevent the common red marks around your eyes.
Wide or narrow face? Choose wisely
With goggles that are too wide, they may leak at the sides. A too-narrow goggle, on the other hand, presses on your eye sockets. Brands like Zoggs and Arena offer models in multiple sizes (like Regular and Small Profile Fit), so you can choose goggles that really match your face shape.
Triathletes: pay extra attention to hydrodynamics
Do you participate in triathlons or timed open water races? Then choose goggles with a low profile and streamlined design. These reduce water resistance and stay securely in place during the chaos of a swim start. Examples include models like the Arena Cobra Tri or Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite.
Different lighting requires different lenses
Outdoors, you deal with bright sunlight, reflections on the water, and changing light conditions. Goggles with mirrored or polarized lenses help reduce glare and protect your eyes from UV rays. Swimming at varying times? Consider a model with photochromic lenses that automatically adjust to light conditions.
Want even more information about choosing the right goggles? Check out the blog on how to choose the best goggles.
Swimming outdoors a lot? Then the right lens color is extra important
The sun reflects off the water surface, the light is constantly changing, and conditions are rarely ideal. That’s why choosing the right pair of goggles is so important. The wrong lenses can cause eye fatigue and annoying glare from sunlight. The right lenses, on the other hand, provide calm, clear vision, and focus – exactly what you need during a triathlon or a long open water training session.
Want to know exactly which lens colour suits your conditions, from bright sunlight to dusk and the pool? Read our detailed blog which swimming goggle colour do I need.
Below is an overview of the most suitable lenses for outdoor swimming:
How to keep your goggles clear for longer: care and anti-fog
The anti-fog coating of new goggles is great for the first few weeks, but wears a little with every swim. With three habits you keep your goggles clear for seasons. Rinse the goggles with cold tap water after every session and let them air dry; never rub the inside of the lenses dry with a towel or your fingers, because that removes the coating. Store the goggles in a goggle case instead of loose in your swim bag between your keys and sunscreen. And is the coating worn out after a season? A few pumps of anti-fog spray before swimming give any pair, even an older one, a clear lens again. Right before a race, that is the difference between seeing the buoy and swimming by feel.
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Frequently asked questions about open water swimming goggles
Mirrored or polarized: which is better for open water?
Both dim bright light, but a polarized lens also filters out the horizontal reflections of the water surface, giving you calmer vision and more contrast with a low sun and glare. A mirrored lens is slightly more versatile in changing light and usually cheaper. If you mainly swim in summer in the middle of the day, mirrored is fine; if you often swim early or late with a low sun, choose polarized.
Can I swim with dark or mirrored goggles in a triathlon?
Yes, there are no rules for lens colour in triathlons and open water races. Only in official pool competitions under federation rules may FINA approval be required; the Arena Cobra Tri Swipe, Speedo Fastskin Hyper Elite and Zoggs Predator Flex Polarized Ultra from this top 7 have it.
How do I stop my goggles from fogging up?
Do not touch the inside of the lenses, rinse the goggles with cold water after use and let them air dry. If goggles fog up despite the coating, use an anti-fog spray before swimming. The old trick of spit works briefly, but damages the coating.
How do I know whether goggles fit without swimming?
Do the vacuum test: gently press the goggles onto your face without the strap and let go. If they stay in place for two to three seconds, they seal well. Then check the nose bridge (adjustable or interchangeable for a narrow face) and choose goggles that sit over the eye socket if you quickly get red rings.
Do I need separate goggles for the pool?
Not necessarily. A mirrored or polarized lens is often too dark indoors, but photochromic goggles such as the Zone3 Attack PH or goggles with a light lens can be used indoors and outdoors. Many triathletes have one dark pair for outdoors and one light pair for the winter in the pool.
Are you looking for new open water swimming goggles and some advice?
Our swimming specialists will be happy to answer any questions you have about choosing your new goggles. That way you can make a well-informed choice and enjoy your swimming even more. You can contact our swimming specialists on +31 85 773 00 58, send an e-mail or visit our triathlon store in Volkel, the Netherlands.