Which goggle lens do I need for open water and pool swimming?

Swimming goggles come with a vast array of lens types, all suited to different light conditions. Gear Editor Jo Tinsley explores which lens suits your swim

Have you ever set out on a lake course only to be blinded by sunlight bouncing off the surface of the water on your return stretch, or taken your trusty pair of open water goggles to the pool only to feel like you’re swimming in the dark?

Swimming goggle lenses filter the light in different ways to enhance your experience in the water and each lens type is suited to different environments and conditions. But there’s also something to be said for personal preference, so you might want to try a few lenses to find out what works for you. 

As well as lens types, you also want to consider anti-fog coating, which prevents moisture build up to keep your vision clear, and UV protection to block harmful rays and protect your eyes from sun damage.

• Best open water goggles: Polarising lenses with UVA/UVB filters for open water, anti-fog protection or a soft cushioned fit: whatever your priority when choosing a new pair of goggles, we’ve got you covered.

Clear

Clear lenses let in the maximum amount of light, giving excellent clarity of vision even in low-light conditions. They’re a good all-rounder lens that works well for indoor training sessions. Although some do include UV protection, they won’t block the sun’s glare. 

Smoke

A smoke lens helps reduce brightness by providing a darker view. This lens gives medium protection against sunlight and is well suited to bright outdoor conditions. However, it may be too dark for indoor use or for swimming in murky open water. 

Mirrored

Mirrored lenses (sometimes referred to as titanium lenses) reduce the glare of sunlight reflecting from the water’s surface so you can have a clear view of the lane (or lake) ahead. They are ideal for high levels of light but may be too dark for some indoor pools. 

Coloured lens

Goggles with colour-tinted lenses provide a range of different benefits. Blue lenses are a good all-rounder, reducing surface glare. Amber, gold or orange lenses enhance contrast and depth perception and provide a warm, soothing effect on the eyes. Pink lenses enhances contrasts against blue and green objects. 

Polarised

Polarised lenses filter intense glare caused by sunlight reflecting off flat surfaces such as lakes and the seas. They’re ideal for swimming in bright outdoor conditions but are just as good on overcast days. 

Photochromatic

Much like reaction lenses on sunglasses, these goggles lenses adapts to the light conditions you’re swimming in – lightening when it’s darker and darkening when you’re swimming in bright conditions. They’re particularly well suited to swimming at sunrise or sunset.

Image: Swans