About Swim Goggles Ratings
There is no rating system for goggles, beyond their ability to deflect the sun's rays. Some rating systems exist on popular shopping sites, but these ratings are driven entirely by other shoppers and have no formal standing within the swimming or optical community.
Other People Are Reading
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Function
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The rating of a swim goggle aids you in making a purchase decision. Most typically it's on a five star scale, such as the rating system devised by most Internet vendors. The only precise rating for goggles are the rating they receive for either indoor or outdoor swimming.
Types
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Outdoor goggles are rated for their UVA and UVB blocking ability; typically high-end goggles block 100 percent of these rays. Indoor goggles are most often clear, as there is no need to add tinting to deflect the sun.
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Effects
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As a result of a lack of formal rating, goggles can be of varying quality. While technologically advanced materials do exist, unless there is a third-party rating system to control the standard of quality, it's difficult to know which brand is best for which type of swimming. Much of the information about goggles is based on word-of-mouth and personal experience.
Potential
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Due to recent research about damage to swimmer's eyes from poorly fitted or manufactured goggles (see Resources below), swimming authorities may consider swim goggle ratings. Until then, expert reviews, personal opinions and shopper insights online are the only rating information available beyond sun protection ratings.
Expert Insight
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Be wary of online reviews and ratings. Some manufacturers write favorable reviews about their products and unfavorable reviews about competitor's products to skew the information. Stick with reputable manufacturers, such as TYR, Nike and Speedo as their goggles are extremely popular in the swimming community. They have a strong reputation for manufacturing quality, reliable products.
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