Have you ever felt like your swimming goggles just don’t fit quite right? Maybe the straps are too loose or tight, the nose piece pinches, or you have a hard time keeping them from fogging up. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The good news is there are some easy solutions out there in the form of goggle accessories that can help customize your eyewear and make your swimming experience that much more enjoyable. Whether you need replacement straps, a protective case, nose guards and cushions, or strap adjusters, you’ve got options. Read on to find some of the top goggles accessories that can help you achieve the perfect, customized fit for your eyes. With these additions to your swim gear, you’ll be slicing through the water comfortably and able to see clearly where you’re going.
Swimming Goggles Straps for a Custom Fit
Swimming goggles straps allow you to customize the fit and comfort of your goggles. The straps that come standard with most goggles may not suit every swimmer. Some common options for straps include:
Adjustable straps – Elastic straps with sliders that let you tighten and loosen as needed. These are a great all-purpose option if the standard strap doesn’t fit quite right.
Longer straps – For larger heads or to wear over caps, longer straps give you more room for adjustment. Wider straps – Thicker, wider straps tend to be more comfortable for long swimming sessions since they distribute pressure better. They’re a good choice if standard straps irritate your skin or cause headaches.
Quick-release buckles – For convenience, some straps have quick-release buckles that make the goggles easy to take on and off between laps or at the end of your swim. The buckles simply snap into place to the perfect fit and release just as easily.
Protective Cases to Keep Your Goggles Safe When Not in Use
Protective cases are a must-have accessory for any swimmer. When you’re not slicing through the water, you’ll want to keep your goggles safe from scratches, dents or cracks.
A hard case is your best option for protecting expensive prescription goggles or competition goggles. Look for a case with a solid, durable exterior and soft lining, like neoprene or microfiber, to prevent lens scratches. Some cases also have extra padding to protect the nose bridge and strap. You really can’t be too careful, especially if you’re traveling a lot for swim meets or beach vacations!
For recreational goggles, a soft pouch or drawstring bag works great and takes up little space in your swim bag. These lightweight yet protective options shield lenses from dirt and debris when tossed in a bag. Some pouches have extra padding around the lenses, which is ideal.
No matter what level of swimmer you are, keeping your goggles safe during transport and storage will help extend their lifespan. Scratched, cracked or ill-fitting goggles not only hinder your performance but can irritate your eyes. Investing in a proper storage case, pouch or bag is an easy, affordable way to keep your vision clear and goggles working their best for many swim sessions to come.
Goggle Cushions and Pads for Comfort and Leak Prevention
Goggle cushions and pads add comfort to your swimming experience while also helping to prevent leaks. The cushions sit between the goggle frame and your face, providing padding and helping the goggles seal properly. Without cushions, the hard plastic frame can irritate your skin and the goggles are more prone to leaking.
You have a few options for goggle cushions:
・Silicone cushions are very flexible and durable, molding to the shape of your face. They are a popular, low-maintenance choice.
・Foam cushions are lightweight, absorbent and help prevent fogging. However, they are less durable and may need frequent replacement.
For the most comfortable fit, look for cushions that match the shape of your goggles – oval, round or anatomical. Anatomical cushions in particular are designed to match the contours of the eye socket. You can also find cushions in different thicknesses for more or less padding.
Nose Strap for the Perfect Seal
Choosing the right nose piece for your goggles is key to getting the perfect, leak-proof fit. The nose piece sits on the bridge of your nose to keep water out. Most goggles come with multiple nose pieces in different sizes so you can find one suited for your nose shape.
To determine your nose piece size, first, try on the goggles without any nosepiece attached. See if the goggle rims sit flat and securely on the sides of your nose. If there are gaps, you’ll need a nose piece to fill them in. Next, try the different nose pieces starting from the smallest size. Place the nose piece in the groove or channel where the rims meet at the top of the goggles. Press the nose piece into place to secure it.
With the nose piece attached, do a quick fit test – gently tug on the goggles in all directions to ensure they feel snug but still comfortable. There should be no slipping or water entering the nose. You want the nosepiece to rest comfortably on your nose without pinching or irritation. If the nose piece feels too tight, try a size up. If it’s too loose, try a smaller size.
Once you find the right nose piece, you’ll have a custom fit and your goggles will seal properly to your face. This helps prevent leaks so you can swim without worrying about water seeping in. Having options means you can find a nose piece suited for different goggles styles or for multiple swimmers sharing the same pair of goggles.
Strap Adjusters to Quickly Tighten or Loosen Your Swimming Goggles
Swimming goggles can be customized to your perfect fit and comfort level with strap adjusters and other accessories. Strap adjusters allow you to quickly tighten or loosen the strap on your goggles for the ideal snugness.
Types of Strap Adjusters
There are a few common styles of strap adjusters:
・Slide adjusters – Slide the adjuster up or down the strap to tighten or loosen. Simple and effective but can be hard to adjust precisely.
・Ratchet adjusters – Use a ratcheting mechanism to lock the strap at your desired length. More precise than slide adjusters but the ratcheting can be annoying.
・Buckle adjusters – Have a buckle closure that you feed the strap through to adjust. Easy to use but the buckle can irritate your head or get caught in hair.
For the most versatility, look for goggles that have adjustable straps on both sides so you can modify the top and bottom straps independently. This allows you to adjust for different head shapes and ensure an airtight, leak-proof seal.
After considering the options for customizing your swimming goggles, you’re now equipped to take your swimming sessions to the next level. Whether you prefer an adjustable strap for the perfect fit, nose bridge cushioning for all-day comfort, or a protective case to keep your lenses scratch-free between workouts, there are accessories for every need and preference. Your goggles are your window into a whole new underwater world, so take the time to make them uniquely yours. Dive into Swans selection of quality swimming goggles and accessories. Personalize your perfect pair with the right additions to suit your needs. Now get out there, dive in, and enjoy the view!
