As a swim mom, my standard response is that your kids will lose their swim goggles before they fall apart. The combination of sun, chlorine, kids, and water can wear away at just about anything. Like most things in life, higher quality materials have a better chance of outlasting the harsh pool environment. If you can hold onto them, most swimming goggles will last about six months of indoor swimming or one summer outside.
Higher quality swim goggles last longer
Although goggles look similar on websites, better swim goggles cost more and will last longer. Definitely avoid plastic goggles from a discount store which are really just toys. The plastic lenses can’t provide a clear underwater view, and foam gaskets deteriorate quickly.
It’s worth investing a few extra dollars for a good pair of swim goggles. Kids can spend all day in the pool, so comfort and a good seal are your top shopping priorities. After all, it’s hard to have fun at the pool if you have to constantly adjust ill-fitting goggles!
How often do I have to replace my kid’s swimming goggles?
Swim goggles don’t go from perfect to trashed in one day. They deteriorate a little bit each day. It will be up to you and your swimmer to determine when the lenses are too scratched or they’re not watertight anymore. Frequent swimmers will need to replace their swimming goggles at least every 6 months. Chlorine and sunshine break down the materials no matter how carefully you care for them.
Do some swim goggles last longer than others?
Better materials will last longer, so look for polycarbonate lenses that are less likely to get scratched while tumbling around in a swim bag. Make sure your goggles have silicone gaskets because they stand up to heat and chlorine better than other substances. Most premium goggles have anti-fog coating but don't expect it to last forever - the coating is notoriously delicate and can be damaged with a simple touch on the inside of the lens.
By far the most fragile part of a pair of traditional swim goggles is the straps. The thin silicone cord can only take so much abuse before it gives out. That's why we use a sturdy neoprene strap for Frogglez Goggles. The fabric-covered comfort strap can last for years and will fit almost any goggle eyepieces.
What is the best goggle shape for young swimmers?
The most important factor is to find goggles that fit your child’s face. Children come in all sizes and shapes and might need different goggles to fit their unique facial structure. That said, many children prefer mask-style goggles because the big profile delivers a wide field of vision. The panoramic view helps the youngest of swimmers feel comfortable underwater and makes them ideal for open water swimming and watersports.
How to take care of swim goggles
Get the most out of new goggles by rinsing them in clear water after each use to get rid of chlorine, salt, or sand. Always let them air dry before storing them in a pouch or bag. Definitely keep them out of the sun and heat when they’re not in use. Don’t touch the inside of a lens with anti-fog coating because it will cause it to deteriorate quicker. If your kiddo is particularly hard on goggles, consider buying a small protective pouch to keep them from getting scratched between uses.
