The Complete Guide: How to Anti-Fog Your Goggles

How To Prevent Goggle Fogging

When you're swimming, skiing, or performing other physical activities, you can't risk foggy goggles getting in the way of your performance. Let's take a look at some of the methods you can use to prevent fogging goggles and keep your sight clear.

Fogging is caused by the warm air from your breath, and its humidity, which condenses on the cold inside surface of the goggles. To stop this happening, you need to either raise the temperature of the inside of the goggles, or lower the humidity of the air around them, or both.

Fogging of goggles can be caused by a number of factors, including:

  • Poorly fitting goggles
  • Poor venting of the goggles, which can trap air and humidity
  • Uncoated or untreated lenses

There are a variety of commercial antifogging products on the market that you can use to keep your goggles from fogging up. Most of these products work by creating a thin film on the inside of the lenses which repels water vapor and helps to keep the lenses clear.

  • Easy to apply and can last for several uses
  • Cost-effective compared to buying a new pair of goggles
  • Most are non-toxic and can be used on all types of lenses

ProsCons
Can be easily removed for cleaning with water and a clothSome products can be hazardous if inhaled or ingested
Will keep lenses free from water build-upCan cause smearing and streaking if used incorrectly

Case Study 1

One swimmer had been using the same pair of goggles for months without any issues. However, when he took them to the pool one day, his goggles began to fog up. After a quick google search, the swimmer came across a commercial anti-fog solution. After following the directions and applying the solution to the inside of the lenses, the swimmer's goggles were once again fog-free and he was able to get back to his swim workout without any issues.

Case Study 2

Another swimmer had been battling with foggy goggles for months and couldn't seem to find a solution. She eventually caved and purchased a commercial anti-fog solution. After using the product, the swimmer was pleasantly surprised to find that the product worked and her goggles were no longer fogging up mid-swim.

If you don't want to purchase a commercial anti-fog product, there are some easy DIY solutions you can try.

  • Dish soap and water: A simple solution of dish soap and water can help create a thin film on the goggles that repels water and helps to prevent fogging.
  • Baby shampoo and water: A similar solution to dish soap and water, a mixture of baby shampoo and water can also help create a thin film on the goggles that repels water and prevents fogging.
  • Anti-fog wipes/towelettes: Many sporting goods stores sell anti-fog wipes and towelettes that can be used on goggles. These usually contain a mild detergent that helps create a thin film on the goggles that repels water and helps them remain fog-free.

ProsCons
Cheap and easily availableCan be messy and time-consuming to apply
Non-toxic and safe to useMay not last as long as commercial solutions

Case Study 1

One swimmer had been dealing with foggy goggles for weeks and was getting frustrated. He decided to try out a simple DIY solution of dish soap and water. After a few applications, the swimmer was happy to find that his goggles were no longer fogging up mid-swim and he was able to focus on his performance.

Case Study 2

Another swimmer had been struggling with foggy goggles and decided to give a DIY solution a try. She opted for a mixture of baby shampoo and water and was surprised to find that it actually worked after just a few applications. She was able to finish out her swim workout free from foggy lenses and was able to focus on her performance.

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your goggles is the best way to prevent fogging. Here are some tips for proper maintenance:

  • Gently rinse your goggles with fresh water after each use.
  • Use a soft cloth to clean the lenses, being careful not to scratch them.
  • Make sure the goggles are completely dry before storing them away.
  • If the lenses begin to fog up, use an anti-fog solution to keep them fog-free.
  • Replace the goggles every year or two to keep them in peak condition.

When purchasing new goggles, look for features that will prevent fogging, such as a wide frame design with anti-fog coating on the lenses. Goggles with foam padding can also help reduce fogging as they can help provide a tight seal around the face.

  • A wide frame design can help provide a better fit and reduce fogging
  • Anti-fog coated lenses can help repel water and reduce fogging
  • Foam padding can help provide a tight seal around the face and reduce fogging

When shopping for new goggles, be sure to read reviews from other swimmers who have used them. Reviews can be a great source of information about the pros and cons of a particular pair of goggles.

When using anti-fog solutions, always follow the directions carefully and make sure to keep the product away from children. Also, if you are using any type of chemical solution, be sure to wear gloves and a face mask to avoid direct contact with the product.

Fogging of goggles can be an annoying issue which can ruin your performance. Fortunately, there are a variety of commercial and DIY anti-fog solutions available that can help to keep your goggles fog-free. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your goggles is also important and can help to reduce fogging. Lastly, when shopping for new goggles, look for features that will help to reduce fogging such as a wide frame design, anti-fog coating, and foam padding.