Prescription Swim Goggles

Prescription swim goggles are a great compromise for those who don't wear contacts but like to swim. Though you sometimes won't get the perfect prescription in a goggle, it will be close enough to allow you to see well. Keep reading to find out more about the types of goggles, where to buy them, and whether you should get your goggles custom made or opt for step-diopter lenses.

According to Sport Eyes, if you have a severe astigmatism (over -1.00) or your prescription is higher than -8.00, you will probably want to get a pair of custom prescription swim goggles instead of purchasing step-diopters. The same goes for those who have drastically different prescriptions for each eye.

If you're not going for a custom lens on your swim goggles, you can opt for step-diopter glasses, which are set up similarly to reading glasses. Choose the number that matches the first number of your prescription most closely (for example, -2.00), and if necessary, round down rather than up. So if your prescription is a -3.25, choose -3.00 goggles—not -3.50.

Not sure how to decipher your prescription for the best goggles possible? No problem. Look at the first number on the left for each eye. If that number exceeds 8.00, you should opt for customized lenses. If the number in the second column is greater than 1.00, again, you should opt for customized lenses. If you still aren't sure which type of goggle will suit you best, consult with your eye doctor or the company from which you'll be purchasing your swim goggles.

You can find prescription goggles online:

Sport Eyes lists a few brands that offer prescription goggles of various styles:

• Vju has interchangeable lenses so you can use your prescription lenses sometimes (when you don't want to wear contacts, for example) and clear, prescription-free lenses at other times.
• Barracuda has goggles that allow you to insert your prescription (custom) or just purchase step-diopter lenses. The biggest selling point with these is the technology that keeps them from sticking to your face, even while offering a great seal.
• Rec-Specs can make goggles with your prescription.
• Hilco can do a partially customizable lens option. You can choose a different step-diopter lens for each eye.

Swim Outlet also has swim goggles with corrective lenses. They are available in various diopters and some even have tints available. If you're swimming in the brightly lit outdoors, you may find the tint especially nice.

Aqua Goggles are available for prices as low as $13.95. Here, you get a selection of colors, ninety-nine percent UVA and UVB protection for your eyes, and shatter-resistant polycarbonate lenses.

Sport Optix has prescription goggles for adults and children available in half-diopters and various frame and lens combinations. They also come with clear cases for protection.

You may be pleasantly surprised to find that swim goggles with step-diopter lenses are not terribly expensive. For example, Swim Outlet's TYR Corrective Optical Goggles are just $17.95. You can also get the Shark Rec-Specs customized goggles from Sport Eyes for around $85.00. The customized lenses are more expensive, of course, but it may be worth it if you really need your vision to be as close to perfect as possible or you have special prescription needs.

Goggles are valuable in general not only because of their ability to keep the water out of your eyes while you swim, but they also can serve to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays while correcting your vision.

Whether you choose to go with customized lenses, step-diopter lenses, or even interchangeable lenses that allow you to wear your contacts when you wish without having to purchase an additional set of non-prescription goggles, you'll instantly enjoy the benefits. Prescription swim goggles are a must among those who don't have perfect vision but who love to swim.

Be sure to ask your doctor for a copy of your eyeglass prescription to ensure that you get the correct type and strength. If in doubt, always contact the goggle company to discuss your prescription and your eyewear needs before ordering.

• Circle Contact Lenses
• Halloween Contact Lenses
• Special FX Theatrical Contact Lenses

• Chanel Sunglasses
• Replica Oakley Sunglasses
• Ray-Ban Sunglasses
• Men's Sunglasses
• Aviator Sunglasses

• Main Page
• Ski Goggles
• Category:Sports Glasses and Goggles
• Corrective Goggles for Sports
• Riddick Goggles