As a swimmer, I’m always looking for ways to improve my performance in the pool. That’s why I fell in love with my FORM goggles. They are a complete game-changer. Having all my swim metrics displayed right in my line of sight is incredible. I can see my heart rate to know how hard I’m pushing, monitor my speed, and check my stroke rate in real-time. This instant feedback has genuinely helped me become a better, more efficient swimmer.
What Happens When the FORM Goggles Fog Up?
There’s nothing quite like being in the zone, gliding through the water with all your data right there with you. But one day, during an open water training, I noticed something frustrating: my lenses were getting foggy. The crisp, clear display I relied on was becoming blurry, and I couldn’t see anything else for that matter.
It was a major disruption to my workout. I knew I needed a solution, but I also knew these weren’t just any pair of goggles. You can’t just scrub them or use any old chemical.
Determined to get my clear view back, I reached out to FORM directly. They were incredibly helpful and explained that while the goggles have a premium anti-fog coating, it can wear down over time with regular use. The key is to restore that coating safely.
Here’s what I learned about properly cleaning and maintaining your FORM goggles.
Why Proper Goggle Care is Crucial
Your FORM goggles are a sophisticated piece of technology. The smart display is integrated directly into the goggle lens, which means you need to treat them with more care than a standard pair. The inner lens has a delicate anti-fog coating that can be easily damaged by rubbing, touching, or using harsh cleaning agents.
Scratches or damage to this coating can lead to permanent fogging and obstruct the heads-up display, defeating the purpose of these amazing training tools. Following the right cleaning protocol ensures the longevity of your goggles and keeps your underwater view crystal clear.
The Pre-Swim Rinse: A Simple First Step
Before you even think about anti-fog solutions, remember the most basic rule of goggle care: always rinse them. After every swim, rinse your FORM goggles with cool, fresh water. This simple action removes chlorine, salt, and other pool chemicals that can degrade the seals and lens coatings over time.
Once rinsed, gently shake off the excess water. The most important part is to let them air dry completely. Never wipe the inside of the lenses with a towel, your shirt, or your fingers. This will rub off the anti-fog coating and can cause microscopic scratches that lead to fogging. Find a safe spot for them to dry away from direct sunlight.
Restoring Your Anti-Fog Coating
Even with perfect care, you may eventually experience some fogging as the factory coating wears off. When this happens, it’s time to reapply an anti-fog solution. Based on my conversation with the FORM team, they have tested and approved a few specific options that are safe to use with their goggles.
It’s important to note that you should use these products at your own discretion and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Recommended Commercial Solutions
FORM’s testing found these products to be effective and safe for their goggles:
- Speedo Anti-Fog Goggle Solution: A well-known and trusted name in the swimming community, this solution is designed specifically for goggle lenses. It’s easy to apply and works well to restore a clear, fog-free surface.
- Quick Spit Anti-Fog by Jaws: This is another popular choice among swimmers and divers. It’s known for its long-lasting effects and ease of application. A small amount is all you need to keep your vision clear for your entire workout.
When using either of these products, apply a small, even layer to the inside of the dry goggle lenses. Let it sit for the time recommended by the manufacturer, then rinse it out gently with water before you swim.
The DIY Baby Shampoo Method
If you prefer a homemade solution or don’t have a commercial product on hand, FORM also recommends a simple and effective DIY method. This was a fantastic tip that works surprisingly well.
Here’s how to make it:
- Get a small spray bottle. This will make the application much easier and more even.
- Create the mixture. Combine 1 part baby shampoo with 3 parts water. For example, use 10ml of baby shampoo and 30ml of water. It’s important to use baby shampoo because it’s gentle and less likely to irritate your eyes.
- Mix gently. Swirl the bottle to combine the shampoo and water. Try not to shake it too vigorously, as this will create a lot of foam.
- To use the solution, spray a small amount into each lens. Swirl it around to coat the entire inner surface, then let it sit for a few minutes. Just before you get in the pool, give the goggles a quick, gentle rinse with water to remove the excess solution. You’ll be left with a thin, clear film that prevents fog from forming.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Your Goggles
Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. To protect your investment and keep your FORM goggles in top condition, avoid the following at all costs:
- Never touch or rub the inside of the lenses. This is the fastest way to destroy the anti-fog coating.
- Do not use household cleaners. Products like glass cleaner, alcohol-based solutions, or all-purpose sprays are too harsh and will damage the lenses.
- Avoid using spit. While it’s a classic swimmer’s trick, saliva can contain bacteria and oils that degrade the anti-fog coating over time.
- Don’t leave them in your hot car or in direct sunlight. Extreme heat can warp the silicone seals and damage the electronic components of the smart display.
Keep Your Focus on the Swim
My FORM goggles have become an essential part of my training regimen. The data they provide is invaluable, and keeping them in great shape is a top priority. A foggy lens is more than just an annoyance; it’s a barrier between you and your performance data.
By following these simple cleaning and maintenance steps, you can ensure your goggles stay fog-free, swim after swim. Whether you choose a commercial product like Speedo Anti-Fog or the simple baby shampoo solution, taking a few moments to care for your lenses will pay off in the pool. You can keep your focus where it belongs: on your stroke, your pace, and crushing your next goal.
