Introduction

Swimming is one of the best activities to stay healthy and fit. It's a great form of exercise that helps promote good cardiovascular health and strengthens the muscles. However, while swimming is enjoyable, it can become annoying if your vision is constantly blurry due to foggy swimming goggles. As annoying as it is, fogging up of diving goggles can be a very serious safety concern if you're underwater.

Understanding the Problem

Fogging up and clouding of swimmers' lenses is due to condensation. When your goggles are submerged in water, the temperature of the water is lower than that surrounding the goggles. This creates condensation on the inside of the lenses, reducing visibility. Commonly used commercial anti-fog solutions use paraffin or oils in some form, creating a thin barrier between the lenses and the air, which prevents fogging.

Commercial Anti-fog Solutions

In the market, there are many commercially available anti-fog solutions for swimming goggles. They come in either spray form or liquid form, and provide a barrier between the air and the lenses that prevents fogging. These solutions are recommended for swimmers and divers, as it is proven to reduce the fogging of swimming goggles significantly.

• Pros: Most products are easy to apply, offer good value for money, are safe non-toxic, and last for a long time. They also contribute to better visibility underwater.
• Cons: Commercial anti-fog sprays can have a slightly slippery effect on the lenses, making it harder to get a good seal on the skin.

DIY Anti-fog Solutions

If you don't have access to a commercial anti-fog spray, you don't have to give up on the idea of swimming with clear vision. There are numerous do-it-yourself solutions to reduce the fogging on your lenses. Some of the popular DIY anti-fog solutions are explained below.

Toothpaste

Rubbing a thin layer of toothpaste on the inside of your lenses will create a thin barrier between the air and the lenses, reducing fogging. However, this is a temporary solution and will need to be reapplied every few laps.

Shampoo or Conditioner

A few drops of shampoo or conditioner rubbed on the surface of the lenses can also act as an anti-fog spray. Simply rub the solution onto the lenses, rinse thoroughly and scrub dry. This solution will provide a thin barrier between the lenses and the air to reduce fogging. It should last several laps, depending on the type of shampoo/conditioner used.

No Fog Spray

No-Fog spray is a commercial solution specifically designed for swimming goggles, and is available in almost every dive shop. It is easy to apply and lasts for multiple laps. The good thing about this spray is that it does not damage the lenses or leave a residue, and is safe to use with all types of goggles.

Proper Maintenance and Care

Aside from using anti-fog solutions, to prevent your lenses from fogging up, it is important to maintain your goggles properly and take proper care of them. Below are some tips to keep your goggles in good condition.

• Always rinse your goggles with fresh water after each swim. This will help prevent the lenses from fogging up as well as minimize bacteria growth.
• Make sure to store your goggles in a clean and dry place, away from heat or sunlight.
• Do not expose your goggles to harsh chemicals as this can damage the lenses.
• Inspect the lenses of your goggles regularly for cracks or chips.
• If possible, use a lens cleaner to keep your lenses clear.

Design Features and Anti-fog Technologies

Modern goggles come with special anti-fog coating to help reduce lens fogging. This is usually done by using a hydrophobic or hydrophilic coating on the lenses. The hydrophobic coating helps to repel water away from the lenses, while the hydrophilic coating helps to draw the water away from the lenses. Many high-end goggles also have dual-venetian blind construction, which helps to further reduce fogging.

Reviews Recommendations

When it comes to fogging prevention, the Speedo Hydrospex Classic Goggles are among the best. It is anti-fog coated with PC lenses that promote better visibility even in low-light conditions. It also has a wide angle lens and enhanced peripheral vision, allowing for a wider viewing angle. It is also designed with a split strap that allows for a secure fit.

Safety Considerations

It's important to remember that fogging up of lenses can be a serious safety hazard when swimming. If your vision is compromised due to fogging up, it can be dangerous to navigate underwater. Therefore, all swimmers should take the necessary steps to reduce fogging, such as using the right anti-fog solutions or using the proper care and maintenance of the goggles.

Summary Review

Swimming goggles can become annoying if your vision is constantly blurry due to foggy lenses. The fogging up of lenses is due to condensation, and can be a serious safety hazard if it reduces visibility underwater. The best way to reduce fogging is to use anti-fog solutions, either commercially available ones or DIY solutions. It is also important to take proper care of your goggles and inspect them regularly for cracks or chips. Remember, foggy lenses can be dangerous, so take the necessary steps to keep your lenses clear.