As a swimmer and a swim coach goggles are a subject I often get asked about! What are my favorites? Which do I recommend for beginners? What is the best brand?
I know it can be confusing to figure out which equipment to choose when you are just getting started. There are so many fantastic brands and styles. Every year new and improved technology comes along and makes the choice all the more challenging.
Let's start off with my favorite competitive googles. These are googles for serious swimmers. I would recommend these choices for ages 12 years old and up. They range in price from $15 to $75. Not to say that there aren't other great goggles out there, but these are just a few of my favorites.
My criteria is simple. They must be reliable, comfortable and can be used for practice or meets.
My 3 Favorite Competitive Goggles
Speedo Vanquisher 2.0- Yes, there are many amazing brands and styles out there but the Vanquisher is hands down, year after year, the most consistently superior goggles I've used. These are the goggles that I recommend over and over.
And whether I am coaching or swimming, I always have a pair on hand. They have a great fit, anti-fog lenses, snug inner eye fit and easy to use adjustable straps. They come in an assortment of colors, mirrored lenses and non-mirrored lenses which make them excellent for both indoor and outdoor use. Vanquisher's are comfortable and built to last. I have a pair in my bag that I've been using for the past three years!
Arena Cobra Ultra- These are amazing goggles. They are my personal favorite for competition racing. They have a sleek design, curved anti-fog lenses, anti-leak soft seal that fits comfortably on your face, interchangeable nose bridge. These are not for everyone. A few my female swimmers complained of the edge cutting into their cheek. I've had no issue with that. Because of the price I would not recommend them for beginner or even most age group swimmers unless they are very responsible. Replacing pricey goggles can be very frustrating. That being said, they are worth every penny if you are a serious swimmer looking for a serious goggle.
Speedo FS Elite Mirror Goggle- These are not for beginner swimmers! These are a fantastic piece of equipment for a serious swimmer. Not only do they look amazing but they fantastic fit. They have contoured anti-fog lenses designed for anti-drag, easy adjustable strap. Again, pricey but totally worth it.
My 3 Favorite Beginner Goggles
Dolphin Bungee Racer Swim Goggles- These are great for beginner swimmers! They have a nice fit on the face. An easy and extremely manageable bungee strap. Comes in five colors. The price alone makes them an excellent beginner goggle choice! You can buy more than one pair for back up and it won't sting if your swimmer accidentally loses them! They cost $10- 20 on Amazon.
TYR Swimple Youth Metallized- Another great goggle for beginner swimmers. Very affordable- under $10 a pair on Amazon. They have a nice soft fit around the eyes with UVA protection. Quick release button for strap. Anti-fog, durable, mirrored lenses and come in seven colors.
Speedo Jr. Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored- Again, Vanquisher! My go-to goggle! This goggle has a great overall fit. It sits comfortably around the eye socket. It has panoramic anti-fog lenses, four interchangeable nose pieces and mirrored lens which make it a fantastic choice for indoor or outdoor swimming. Comes in an assortment of colors. Priced around $20 on Amazon.