FORM Smart Swim 2 review

FORM’s Smart Swim 2 goggles feature an augmented reality display with real-time metrics, an integrated heart rate monitor, a sleeker design than their predecessor and extended strap mounts for added stability. We put them to the test.

We asked one of our readers Steven Newall – a regular user of the original FORM goggles and a keen pool and open water swimmer – to try the updated version, FORM Smart Swim 2.

Fit

Much like the original goggles, I find the new edition very comfortable. The seal around the goggles is reliable and doesn’t leak. The exception is when I dive into the pool which causes them to move and let in water – however, this is probably my poor diving technique as I get leakage with other goggles too. Still, once water is inside, the display is unreadable so I avoid diving in with them.

The inbuilt heart rate monitor also contributes to a better fit. You can track heart rate with the original FORM goggles, but you need to use a separate Polar HR monitor on the goggle strap, which sometimes moves out of place. You might imagine FORM goggles would feel heavy or lopsided, but I don’t find that to be the case.

Display

As a user, the display is the most prominent feature. When swimming, you forget about the clever electronics and the size of the goggles. But the display hovers in front of you, just out of reach, but clear and readable. I’m aware some people find the display distracting. However, now I’m used to it, I find it easy to look past if necessary. I can tune into or out of it as needed. The brightness is adjustable too, which is useful when swimming outside.

The are multiple ways to set up the display depending what data you want to see and when. On long distance pool sets, I set the goggles so the display only shows for a few seconds after each turn. I prefer this mode so I can track the number of lengths and pace, but not obsess about it. I use the continuous display options when I’m doing a coached swim session and need to keep a close eye on my times and effort level.

You can also set the goggles to show you different metrics after a turn or at end of an interval.
One notable improvement is the addition of a continuous display of heart rate now that FORM has the inbuilt heart rate monitor.

Premium features

I’m still exploring these as there’s a lot on offer. The “HeadCoach” features look impressive. Sensors in the goggles measure various movements of your head and provide you real-time data on head angle and how much you roll. I’m not yet convinced about the feedback from HeadCoach while swimming. I used it for long swims and it felt like it was just telling to try harder. However, I can see how it might be useful and I like the information you can view after the swim in the app. For example, looking at my data over time, I can see that my head position got worse during the summer when I was doing a lot of open water swimming. The HeadCoach feature should help me improve that quickly in the pool over winter.
I also like the FORM Score, which is a measure of your swimming efficiency. This is a nice addition and it’s the first thing I look at that when I sync my goggles.

SwimStraight

A new feature launched with FORM 2, but available on the original goggles with a software update, is the impressive SwimStraight in-goggle digital compass. I didn’t use FORM goggles in open water previously but this will encourage me to take them outside. It’s easy to use. You simply look where you want to go, note the bearing, put your head down and swim. It doesn’t eliminate the need for sighting (and nor should it, for safety reasons) but it reduces how often you need to lift your head, making swimming more comfortable and efficient.

Note that some advanced features with FORM are part of their Premium package. This includes 1,500 guided workouts, training plans, HeadCoach and SwimStraight.

FORM Smart Swim 2 is £229. The Smart Swim 2 is an updated version of the original FORM Swim Goggles – you can read our review here.

All products were chosen independently by our editorial team. This review contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made. Click here to subscribe to the magazine. Read more Outdoor Swimmer gear reviews.