How to Properly Wear Swimming Goggles: The Ultimate Guide for Clear Vision in Water

Do you know this feeling? You jump into the water with excitement, but after just a few strokes, your swimming goggles fog up or start to pinch uncomfortably? Wearing swimming goggles incorrectly can quickly lead to frustration and ruin your swim. But it’s actually quite easy – once you know the proper way!

In this guide, we will show you step-by-step how to properly wear swimming goggles so you can swim in comfort. We will also cover the best anti-fog remedies for swimming goggles and explain why some goggles never seem to fit correctly.

The Most Common Problems with Swimming Goggles

Before we get to the solution, let’s first take a look at the common issues swimmers face:

Foggy lenses are arguably the most annoying problem. You can’t see clearly, and you constantly have to stop to clean your goggles.

Leaks are another major issue. Water leaks into the goggles, your eyes burn, and your vision becomes cloudy.

Pressure points often occur when the strap is tightened too much. This can become painful, especially during long swimming sessions.

Poor visibility can be caused by various factors – from incorrect positioning to scratched lenses.

The good news is: All these problems can be avoided if you know how to properly wear and maintain your swimming goggles!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Properly Wear Swimming Goggles

Preparation - Wear Wet or Dry?

One of the most common questions is: "Should I wear my swimming goggles wet or dry?" The answer is simple: Always wear your swimming goggles with dry hands and on dry skin.

Why? Water or moisture can prevent the seals from properly sealing. Plus, a wet goggle is more likely to slip before you’ve positioned it properly.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Dry your face and hands thoroughly
  
• Dry the inside of the goggles     
• Loosen the strap evenly on both sides
  

Finding the Right Position

Now comes the most important step: Positioning the goggles correctly. This is where most people make the crucial mistake.

The perfect position:   

1. Hold the goggles firmly at the sides (not by the strap!)  
2. Gently place the goggles on the eye sockets – they should touch the bony areas around your eyes, not your eyelids
   
3. Press the goggles gently for 5-10 seconds without using the strap
   
4. If they stay in place and create a light suction, they’re positioned correctly
   

Important tip: The goggles should never rest on your eyeballs. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it’s also unhealthy for your eyes.

Adjusting the Strap Correctly

Only once the goggles are positioned properly do you adjust the strap. Here’s the rule: Less is more!

The correct adjustment:

• Only tighten the strap as much as necessary – it should hold the goggles in place, but not cut into your skin
  
• The strap should run across the widest part of the back of your head, not too high or too low
  
• Both sides should be equally tightened
  

A well-fitting pair of goggles should stay in place briefly even without the strap!

Performing a Seal Test

Before you head into the water, do the ultimate seal test:

1. Wear the goggles as described
   
2. Lean your head forward (as if looking into the water)
   
3. Wait for 10-15 seconds
   
4. The goggles should stay in place and not lose air
   

If they’re not sealed, repeat the steps – usually, it’s the positioning or a strap that’s too loose.

SOS Tips: What to Do if Your Swimming Goggles Fog Up

Why Do My Swimming Goggles Fog Up?

Foggy goggles are caused by the temperature difference between the warm air inside the goggles and the cooler water. Your body heat and breath moisture create the perfect conditions for condensation.

This happens especially when:

• New goggles (often have production residues)
  
• Goggles aren’t cleaned properly
  
• There are large temperature differences between your body and the water
  

Anti-Fog Remedies for Swimming Goggles

You don’t have to buy expensive anti-fog sprays. These home remedies work instantly:

The saliva trick (really works!):

1. Spit generously inside both lenses
   
2. Spread the saliva evenly with your finger
   
3. Rinse with clear water (don’t rub!)
   
4. Put the goggles on immediately
   

The dish soap method:

1. Place a tiny drop of mild dish soap on each lens
   
2. Gently rub with your fingers
   
3. Rinse thoroughly with clear water
   
4. This treatment lasts for several swim sessions
   

Baby shampoo (gentler option):

1. Dilute baby shampoo with water (1:10)
   
2. Gently rub the lenses inside
   
3. Rinse and let dry
   
4. Perfect for sensitive eyes
   

Professional Anti-Fog Sprays

If home remedies aren’t enough, there are professional anti-fog sprays available. They last longer and are especially useful during regular training.

Avoid Common Mistakes When Wearing Swimming Goggles

Mistake #1: Tightening Too Much
    Many think that swimming goggles need to be super tight. The opposite is true! A goggle that's too tight not only leaves pressure marks but also tends to leak more quickly.

Mistake #2: Incorrect Positioning
    The goggles should sit on the bones around the eyes, not on the soft areas or eyelids. Incorrectly positioned goggles can never form a proper seal.

Mistake #3: Dirty Lenses
    Oil and residues are the main causes of foggy goggles. Clean your goggles regularly – but properly!

Mistake #4: Rushing to Put Them On
    Take your time when putting on your goggles. A hurriedly placed goggle rarely fits right and will cause trouble throughout your swim.

Goggle Maintenance and Care

After Swimming:

• Rinse immediately with clear water (never use soap!)
  
• Pat dry gently, don’t rub
  
• Let dry in the air, not in the sun

Storage:

• Always store in a case
  
• Don’t store with other items
  
• Store in a dry, cool place
  

Cleaning:

• Clean once a week with lukewarm water
  
• Never use soap or cleaning agents on the inside
  
• The outside can be gently cleaned with mild dish soap
  

When Should You Replace Your Swimming Goggles?

• If there are cracks or holes in the seals
  
• If the anti-fog coating is permanently damaged
  
• If there are persistent leaks despite proper positioning
  
• Scratched lenses that affect visibility
  

Conclusion and Recommendations

Properly wearing swimming goggles can make the difference between frustration and enjoyment while swimming. Here’s a summary of the key points:

    ✓ Always wear them dry – wet hands and wet face are a no-go
    ✓ Positioning is key – the goggles should sit on the bones around your eyes
    ✓ Only tighten the strap as much as necessary – less pressure means a better seal
    ✓ Home remedies work – saliva is the best anti-fog solution
    ✓ Proper care extends lifespan – rinse after every swim

With the perfectly fitting swimming goggles, swimming becomes twice as enjoyable! By the way, the right swimwear is just as important for your swimming experience. If you're unsure about which swimming stroke suits you best, we have the best tips for that too.

Don’t forget: Swimming not only strengthens the body but also boosts self-esteem. With the right gear – from goggles to swim caps for women – there’s nothing stopping you from having the perfect swimming experience!

Ready for your next swimming adventure? Explore our complete swim gear now and find the perfect sporty swimwear for you!