April is here, which means summer is just around the corner. And with summer comes swimming season, whether you’re heading to a lake, the ocean, or just reopening your swimming pool. No matter where you go, wearing a pair of swim goggles can help enhance your underwater experience.

But choosing the correct goggles or masks for your underwater adventures can be tricky, so here is a guide to help you assess your needs, requirements and fit.

What types of goggles are out there?

There are three basic varieties of protective eyewear for swimming:

1. Gasket goggles are the most commonly used type, and what most people think of when they think of swimming goggles. They get their name from the gasket seal around their frames, which form a snug fit around the swimmer’s eyes. They’re typically made of foam or silicon, and come in oval and round shapes.
2. Swedish goggles are similar to gasket goggles, only they fit right into the eye socket instead of suctioning around the eyes. They are popular with competitive swimmers due to their functionality and design, and need to be customized to get the best fit.
3. Swim masks are great for vacation. They’ll help your kids dive for toys in the pool or see all the sights while snorkeling.

Aren’t all goggles basically the same?

Not really. For most recreational swimming, it’s a smart idea to find a pair of well-fitting gasket goggles. Test the fit by placing them against your eyes. The fit should be snug without being painful. The strap on the goggles should fit comfortably around your head and wrap near the eyes. If you can, have someone adjust the goggles around your eyes for you.

Does it matter what type of goggle lens I use?

Goggle lenses come in a variety of types. Some are more useful than others depending on the setting:

• Clear lenses mean the most visibility. These are good for indoor pools or swimming in places with less light.
• Amber lenses work well in both bright and low light situations, whether it’s out on the beach on a sunny day or in an indoor pool.
• Mirror lenses reflect light away from a swimmer’s eyes and are often used in competitions or for outdoor swimming.
• Prescription swimming goggles are perfect for swimmers who wear glasses, and can be customized based on – as the name implies – your prescription.

How do I take care of my goggles?

Here are three tips for making sure your goggles last:

1. Rinse your goggles in cold water to keep them free of sand, salt or chlorine.
2. Avoid rubbing the inside of the lenses, which may cause scratching.
3. When drying the goggles, lay them flat, and away from the sun. Too much sun can cause the silicon to dry out.

If you’re interested in purchasing a pair of goggles for this summer, contact Liberty Sport. Our line of protective eye goggles includes:

• Frogeye -- See with clarity, both in the water and out. The Double Lens Technology featured in the Frogeye prescription swimming goggles collection includes a two-lens solution that allows you to see clearly not only above, but below the water as well.
• Shark Goggle -- With the Shark water sports goggles, swimming laps has never been so clear. Available in your prescription and with a yellow lens tint.
• Shark Goggle (Kids) -- With the Shark water for kids, your children will have an easier time swimming laps or just splashing around. These protective sports goggles are available in your prescription and with a yellow lens tint.

We hope you’re safe when you hit the water this summer. With the right pair of goggles, your journey under water will make your next vacation even more memorable.

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