Tried and tested: Zoggs Spectra goggles
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The most popular open water goggles have to be Zoggs’ Predator range. So how do the new Spectra goggles stack up? Simon and Rowan put them to the test.
Billed as Zoggs’ most technical budget swimming goggles, the new Spectra goggles look to offer a higher spec for less money. Zoggs has designed a special double-layer nose bridge to stop the watertight seal from breaking when you adjust the goggles. Zoggs also promises a comfortable, customisable fit thanks to the super soft and bendy thermoplastic rubber from which they’re made and the durable straps, which are easy to adjust.
Designed primarily for pool swimming, the most promising feature of these new goggles for outdoor swimmers is that they fit around your cheekbones rather than on them, so they sit closer to your eyes for a better field of vision. They also come in a range of colours and lens tints.
We asked Simon, a fast Masters swimmer, and Rowan, a slower endurance swimmer, to test Zoggs new goggles in the pool. Here’s how they got on.
Goggles for swim training
We’re pleased to report that the Spectra goggles did not disappoint – especially for their lower price point. Both Simon and Rowan choose tinted lenses to wear in outdoor pools and open water as well as in indoor pools.
Head shapes vary but we found these stuck to our testers’ faces easily without the need for the strap, indicating a good seal. This was backed up by in-water testing, where they stayed in place and didn’t leak. They felt soft and comfortable and didn’t leave a goggle mark. We liked the ratchet mechanism to adjust the strap tension while you’re wearing them.
The profile is low and streamlined, although one of Simon’s testers reported the lens was so close to their eye that their eyelashes brushed against it – but other testers didn’t experience this. The black frames are visually heavy, and you may notice it in your peripheral vision. We didn’t find it a bother, but it’s worth being aware of.
Every swim goggles
While nose bridge is super bendy, it feels robust. The goggles felt durable and well-made and we’d expect them to last. The only slight grumble is that they didn’t come with a case of soft pouch for storage.
A big fan of the Predator Flex, Simon didn’t feel that the Spectra was quite on the same level. On the other hand, Rowan doesn’t get on with the Predator and prefers the Spectra for a comfortable and leak-free fit. Both swimmers agreed that they’re an excellent option if you’re trying to control your swimming spend.
We’d reserve a pair of Zoggs Predator Flex with photochromic lenses for outdoor swimming racing and challenges and add the Spectra to our kit bag for pool-based training.
Buy your Zoggs Spectra Goggles for £20 here.
