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“As long as you take all the necessary precautions and follow your optician's advice, swimming for contact lens wearers can be safe. The first rule of wearing contact lenses is to never, under any circumstances, get them wet. Therefore, to avoid infection, you’ll need to invest in swimming goggles for contact lens wearers.”
Read below to find out more about the best swim goggles for contact lens wearers.
Why special goggles are needed for contact lens wearers
Contact lens wearers must use special goggles when swimming to avoid water coming into contact with their eyes. Water contains harmful microorganisms that pose a serious risk to your eyes if they contaminate your lenses.
A common infection associated with water coming into contact with lenses is acanthamoeba keratitis. This painful eye condition affects the cornea and can be difficult to detect and treat, as early symptoms are similar to those of common eye conditions such as conjunctivitis. If left untreated, it can result in vision loss.
Key features to look for in swimming goggles
If you’re a contact lens wearer, you should be very particular about your swimming goggles. Here are some factors to consider when looking for the best swim goggles for contact lenses:
- Water-tight seal
If water can access your eyes through your swimming goggles, you should not wear them while swimming, as this will compromise your lenses. Your goggles should be water-tight to stop water from getting into your eyes. - Anti-fog coating
The best swimming goggles for contact lenses will include an anti-fog coating, so you can enjoy your swim without worrying about losing some of your vision due to the changes in temperature. - UV protection
Planning to swim somewhere bright and sunny? Add this to your checklist as the swimming goggles with UV protection will ensure your eyes are protected from harmful UVA/UVB rays emitted by the sun.
- Comfort and fit
Goggles are usually available in a range of different sizes. Ensure your swimming goggles should be comfortable and should fit you well. If not, you risk discomfort, headaches while swimming, and water seeping into the goggles.
Top recommendations for swim goggles for contact lens wearers
If you’re looking for the best swim goggles for contact lenses, check out the options below:
Can you put prescription lenses in swimming goggles?
Some manufacturers, such as Speedo, offer prescription swimming goggles with a prescription built into the lenses of the swimming goggles. This is an alternative option for those who do not want to risk wearing your lenses underwater.
Before purchasing prescription swimming goggles, consult your optician to discuss the best option.
Advice from the British Contact Lens Association
Advice from the BCLA states that contact lens wearers should not wear lenses while swimming, in hot tubs, showering, or participating in water sports unless they are wearing tight-fitting goggles over the top.
Additionally, reusable lenses should be cleaned and disinfected with the appropriate solution right after swimming, and daily disposables should be discarded immediately after swimming.
If you wear lenses and are considering swimming, you should always seek advice from an eye practitioner beforehand. For contact lenses, prescription glasses, sunglasses, and other eye care products at competitive prices, shop with Feel Good Contacts.
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Disclaimer: The advice and suggestions in this blog are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for medical care. Before trying any products or remedies, consult with an eye care professional. See our Editorial Policy for details on how we review our blog.
