Men's swimming goggles: varieties, tips for choosing
It is very important for both professional swimmers and amateurs to choose the right equipment. Special glasses are a very important component. Women's models differ from men's primarily in size. It is often difficult for representatives of the stronger sex to dwell on a specific model, since there are many differences - from cost to the purpose of the accessory. Let's try to figure out the main characteristics of this product.
Why do we need it?
Amateurs and professionals alike point out that the presence of swimming goggles has primarily a protective function. It is they who help to exclude the ingress of water, in addition, the load on the eyes from changes in atmospheric pressure is minimized. The use of this accessory is advisable not only for swimming in the pool, but also for swimming in the sea.
The fact is that salt, like bleach, can have an adverse effect on the mucous membrane. Also, an air gap remains between the glasses and the eyes, which, by stabilizing the pressure, ensures clear vision.
Classification
As for the varieties, in this direction the most popular is the division according to the material of manufacture and functionality. Let's consider this moment in more detail. Glasses are usually made of silicone or neoprene. Silicone products have an affordable cost, while they are quite plastic, well fixed on the head. However, users note that as a result of a snug fit, prints remain on the face after removal.
As for the neoprene, it is lighter and softer, so securely fixed, practically "sticking" to the face. This avoids leaving marks on the skin. However, the cost of such glasses is higher, while they have less wear resistance. In terms of functionality, there are several areas to note. There are training and starting models, prescription glasses and goggles. Each variety has its own characteristics, which men should be aware of before making a choice.
Training
This type is intended for both open water and pool. Some models have a special anti-fog coating. Some may have an ultraviolet filter.
Experts recommend not to ignore the presence of an obturator. This is a special liner that will help prevent skin squeezing without affecting the fit.
Such glasses may have several types of nose bridge. Level adjustment is provided by stepped adjustable, non-adjustable ones are very soft and are a continuation of the strap. There is also a removable nose bridge. Usually there are two of them in the kit, which can be interchanged.
Starter
These glasses are rarely used by beginners, they are mainly intended for professional athletes. They are worn at competitions, however, this does not interfere with the use of the products for training. Besides, the landing is quite hard, you need to get used to it so as not to experience inconvenience at a crucial moment.
Usually the models do not have a soft lining. The lenses are small and prism-shaped. This allows for increased hydrodynamics. A double strap is used for fixation, which is very reliable. The sale takes place disassembled, the products are assembled before use.
With diopters
If the swimmer has vision problems, prescription glasses will be the best option for him. Usually they are training. Diopters on lenses can be the same or different values. Some models allow for lens replacement.
Goggles
Such glasses are very much appreciated by the representatives of the stronger sex for their original appearance. They are much larger than usual, about half the size of the face. Can be used for diving at shallow depths. Optimal for open water use.
The lenses are very large, which allows for a wider viewing angle. Most often, the frame and strap are silicone, but there is no strong compression of the head. Since the product is quite wide, it has less impact on the face. Lenses are usually coated to prevent fogging. Also provided UV protection.
The male models are quite large in comparison with the female ones.
Lens color
As for the color of lenses, its choice should also be approached responsibly. Certain factors depend on it. Clear lenses are responsible for normal eye protection without distorting vision. Smoky ones reduce glare on the water. Cyan has the same effect, and it also gives clarity in bright light. The lilac shade of the lenses allows for more contrasting color differentiation. Such glasses perfect for both swimming pools and open water... Yellow ones are recommended for indoor swimming pools.
Manufacturers
When choosing, you need to focus on a quality product, and one of the guarantees may be the manufacturer. Professional manufacturing firms value their reputation, therefore they closely monitor the ergonomics and safety of products. Among the serious companies, the Italian brand can be noted Arena and Speedo from the UK.
Australian firm ZOGGS offers products for both open water and pool workouts. A number of manufacturers produce separate lines designed specifically for the stronger sex. There are also models for both beginners and professional athletes. Inexpensive products can be purchased under the brand name Aqua Sphere (Italy) or Mad Wave (Russia).
Selection features
Since each person has individual anatomical features, it must be borne in mind that, according to some parameters, certain models may not suit him. The main selection criteria should be the appointment of glasses and their approximate price. These moments will help you decide on the material and shape.
The first thing to look for when buying is snug fit of the accessory to the skin. You can check this nuance even in the store. If you put the product to your eyes and remove your hands, it should not fall.
Ideally sized models will stick on their own and are able to provide maximum protection from water.
Worth paying attention for comfort and convenience. A tightened strap should not be uncomfortable. Design, as experts say, does not play a special role, the main thing is functionality and quality characteristics.
See below for what to look for when choosing swimming goggles.