Choosing the Right Swimming Goggles for Kids
Choosing the right swimming goggles for kids is essential to ensure their comfort, safety and enjoyment in the water.
However, with so many different types of goggles available, it can be difficult to know what to look for.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the benefits of swimming goggles for kids, key factors to consider when choosing a pair, the different types available, how to ensure they fit properly, how to maintain them over the long term.
The Benefits of Swimming Goggles for Kids
Protecting Your Eyes
Swimming pools contain chemicals, such as chlorine, which help keep the water clean. However, prolonged exposure to chlorine can irritate the eyes, which can lead to redness, itching and discomfort.
One of the benefits of swimming goggles for kids is that they create a barrier between their eyes and the water. This massively reduces the risk of any eye irritation occurring, meaning children can enjoy their swimming without the fear of discomfort.
Improving Comfort and Confidence
Many people feel uneasy about putting their heads underwater, and this is especially the case for children when they’re learning to swim.
Goggles can provide a sense of security by keeping water out of their eyes. This not only enhances comfort but can help to develop confidence in the water because children are likelier to progress and enjoy their swimming sessions without fear.
Things To Think About When Choosing Swimming Goggles
How They Fit
One of the most important considerations when choosing swimming goggles for kids is their fit.
Goggles that are too tight can cause discomfort and even leave red marks around the eyes. On the other hand, loose-fitting goggles are likely to let water in, which defeats the point of wearing them.
Look for goggles that have adjustable straps and a soft silicone seal to ensure an effective but comfortable fit.
Straps and Adjustability
Although choosing swimming goggles with adjustable straps is preferable, it’s important to understand that there are different types available. For example, some pairs include double straps, which can provide increased stability, while others have quick-adjust buckles for easy fitting.
When it comes to choosing goggles for kids, you might prefer split straps. These help to distribute pressure evenly around the head, which not only helps to prevent discomfort but also reduces the chances of them slipping off when swimming.
Types of Lenses
There are several types of lenses available for swimming goggles and the optimal choice will depend on where your child is going to be swimming.
For example, lenses with UV protection are essential for outdoor swimming because they shield the eyes from harmful sun rays.
Alternatively, anti-fog coatings can be massively beneficial for children because they help maintain clear vision, which can reduce frustration for young swimmers.
Material and Durability
Choosing high-quality materials can help to ensure longevity and safety. For example, silicone gaskets tend to provide a better seal than plastic alternatives and are more comfortable for kids.
Impact-resistant lenses can also be a great choice for children who may drop their goggles alot.
Different Types of Swimming Goggles for Kids
Beginner Goggles
If your child is a new swimmer, they might benefit from beginner goggles with wider seals and softer silicone frames. These models tend to have a single strap and are perfect for quick adjustments, making them a fantastic option for young swimmers still getting used to wearing them.
Performance Goggles
If your child is a keen swimmer or takes part in lessons and competitions, they are likely to benefit from performance goggles.
Ultimately, these models tend to fit more snugly to reduce drag in the water, which can help children swim more efficiently. Furthermore, performance goggles will often come with interchangeable nose bridges, which can help to ensure a better fit.
Mask-Style Goggles
Some children prefer to wear mask-style goggles, which cover a much larger portion of the face and distribute pressure more evenly.
Although these models aren’t necessarily going to provide performance benefits, they are a brilliant option for kids who dislike the feel of smaller goggles or prefer a larger field of vision under the water.
How to Get the Right Fit
Suction Test
A great way to check if goggles will fit correctly is by pressing them onto the eyes without using the straps. If they stay in place momentarily due to suction, they are likely to provide a great seal when worn fully, so won’t let water in.
Strap Adjustment
Strap adjustment is a balancing act, with the aim being to be tight enough to hold the goggles in place properly, but not so tight that they cause discomfort when worn. If the goggles leave red marks or deep indentations on your child, they are probably too tight.
Common Fit Issues and How to Fix Them
One of the most common fit issues when children first wear swimming goggles is water leaking in. The best way to quickly resolve this is to adjust the straps.
However, if that doesn’t work, you might consider trying a different nose bridge size or choosing a model with a split strap, which provides additional stability.
Caring for Your Child’s Swimming Goggles
Rinsing and Drying
If you want your child’s goggles to stand the test of time, it’s important to rinse them with fresh water after use to remove chlorine and any other debris. Letting them air dry completely before storage will also help to prevent bacterial growth.
Storing Swimming Goggles
The best place to store swimming goggles is in a protective case because this will help to prevent scratches on the lenses.
You should also avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or a hot car because excessive heat can warp the frame and degrade the seal, leading to reduced effectiveness.
From protecting children eyes to helping develop their swimming skills, the right pair of swimming googles makes all the difference. Making sure their comfortable, safe and confident in the water is a crucial part of kids swimming.
At Swim Now we understand the importance of children’s swimming and we not only offer advice on swimming gear but we also provide private swimming lessons that are tailored to each individual child’s skill levels.
If you want to find out more – get in touch with us here. We offer private 1-to-1 swimming lessons in locations throughout the UK.