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Three Benefits of Wearing Swimming Goggles

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No doubt you’ve tried opening your eyes underwater, whether it be in the local pool or at the beach; your vision was probably a blur and your eyes were probably left stinging. While some people’s eyes cope with a dose of chlorine or salt better than others, the truth is humans are generally far more comfortable when their eyes are not exposed to pool or ocean water. It’s probably something to do with the fact we evolved as land mammals.

If you’re spending time in the water – whether it’s swimming lessons at the pool or open water swim training at the beach – it pays to invest in a good pair of goggles. The benefits are three-fold…

1. Protect your eyes from irritants

Whether it’s salt water at the beach or chlorine it the pool, exposing your eyes to the water while swimming can be uncomfortable and leave them feeling less than fresh afterwards. Salt water can sting your eyes, while chemicals such chlorine can make them red and itchy. Goggles provide a protective physical barrier, and when correctly fitted they stop water getting into your eyes – not only eliminating irritation, but also reducing the chance of developing an eye infection or ‘dry eyes’.

If you are often swimming outdoors, it’s also a good idea to consider goggles that offer sun protection – much like sunglasses. Water is highly reflective to the sun’s rays, and when you’re surrounded by it is really when your eyes need protecting most. Look for goggles with a UV rating.

2. A confidence booster

For children in particular, goggles are a great confidence booster. The discomfort of opening their eyes underwater without goggles can be a deterrent and negatively impact their progress in the pool; make the experience comfortable and positive, and they are more likely to enjoy it and develop a love of the water.

3. Enjoy clearer vision

If you have ever tried opening your eyes underwater, you’ll know that it can be quite hard to see. Even in the clear waters of a swimming pool, your vision is unlikely to be great; humans simply aren’t designed to see well underwater.
Wearing goggles keeps the water out of your eyes and means it’s much easier to see. In a pool, this means you’ll spot the wall much earlier, as well as other people in the pool. In open water like the ocean, you’ll be able to more easily spot any obstacles or hazards, which is important from a safety perspective.

If you’re someone who normally wears glasses, it is possible to purchase prescription goggles – allowing you to enjoy better vision in the water. It’s not advisable to wear contact lenses in the water due to the risk of eye infection and irritation, but if well-fitting goggles are worn over the top to prevent water entering the eye, this is also another option for those with less than 20-20 vision.

Goggles are the go!

If your child is about to start swimming lessons – or if you’re planning to take the plunge yourself – it’s a good idea to come equipped with a well-fitting pair of goggles. Not only do they protect your eyes and allow you to see more clearly underwater, but they actually make the whole experience far more enjoyable!

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