2012 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide: Goggles
Get a peek into the 2012 Triathlete Buyer's Guide with these featured goggles.
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Check out the complete goggle section from the 2012 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide. The complete guide is available on newsstands now!
1. Finis Energy $15
The Energy consists of a single, super flexible piece that will mold to most face shapes. Billed as the brand’s most comfortable goggle, the style is intended for everyday training. Two thick silicone straps evenly distribute pressure on the back of the head, and the adjustment buckle is easier to use than a lot of other buckles positioned similarly. The curved carbon polymer lenses minimize visual distortion. Finisinc.com
2. Aqua Sphere Kayenne $28
The sleek, low-profile design of these goggles creates a light, minimalist feel but with the functionality of a bulkier goggle style. Made in Italy, these goggles are extremely flexible and moldable. Side buckles make for quick and easy strap adjustment on the fly. Aquasphereswim.com
3. Speedo Vanquisher $17
The Vanquisher is a solid all-around competition goggle, with a low-profile design that affords a good peripheral view. They felt slightly more rigid than other styles tested but created a consistently tight seal around the eyes. The latex-free goggles come with three nose bridges so you can adjust the width for optimal comfort. Speedousa.com
4. BlueSeventy Vision $25
The Blueseventy brand has earned the respect of serious open-water swimmers and triathletes, and these goggles meet the demanding standards of the competitive swimmer. The curved wide-angle lenses promote excellent peripheral vision, and the tint protects from UV rays and glare while injecting some bold color into your field of vision. The anti-fog claim stood up after multiple swims, and the strap adjustment buttons at the sides of the head allow for a quick, convenient fix. Blueseventy.com
5. Tyr Nest Pro $20
This goggle style was inspired by the bird’s nest-like architecture of the Beijing Olympics’ main stadium and features a crisscross design element ringing the lenses. The Nest Pro reliably creates a watertight seal without the commonly resultant raccoon-eyes effect. A highly durable silicone strap keeps the goggles firmly in place, and the wider lenses allow for expanded peripheral vision. The tinted lenses minimize the sun’s glare and protect the eyes against UV rays. Tyr.com
6. Sable WaterOptics 101 MT $50
If you need to take your vision prescription into the pool, Sables are the way to go. Or if you just want a top-quality racing goggle that offers exceptional clarity, the WaterOptics 101 MT doesn’t disappoint. The lenses eliminate visual distortion, block harmful UVA/UVB rays and four nose bridge options let you dial in on the best fit. However, if you’re hard on your gear, Sable’s might not be the wisest choice—these pricier goggles need to be stored in their hard plastic case between uses. Sableoptics.com