Cool Swimming Goggles: We Tried 6 Top Picks From Amazon
- David McGillivray
- 3 days ago
- 16 min read
I finally found goggles that don’t leak, don’t hurt, and work great as open water swim goggles too.

Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing.
1. FORM Smart Swim 2 - Triathlon-Designed App-Connected Goggles

Review by: Brandon Hayes
I started using Form smart goggles after picking up a used pair of the original V1 model on eBay. They ended up being one of the best things I ever added to my swim routine. I even bought a new pair of the same version for my son when he was twelve and swimming with a local club.
These goggles are packed with features, especially if you go for the subscription plan that unlocks customized workouts. But to be honest, all I’ve ever really used is the Pool Swim mode, which doesn’t require any extra payment. Just push off the wall and the goggles handle the rest, giving me all the stats in real time: lap count, distance, current time, split, and interval. The display is fully customizable so you can choose which metrics matter most. It’s surprising how motivating it is to see how a small tweak in your stroke affects your pace. The only thing still missing is a real-time speed display in meters per second, but maybe that’s coming in the V3.
Eventually my trusty V1 goggles stopped working properly. One day I tried to turn them on and they froze on the logo screen, then asked for an update, but wouldn’t connect to the app. After a full reset and a ton of trial and error, I managed to reconnect them, only for them to get stuck mid-update. They were out of warranty and no fix was in sight. Looking back, I probably shouldn’t have left them baking in the trunk of a black car in Houston for a full week with temps hitting the mid 90s. That might have done it.
So I bit the bullet and ordered the V2s. Here’s what stood out after nearly a month of swimming with them five days a week, two hours a day:
IMPROVED ANTIFOG COATING:
At first, the lenses stayed perfectly clear, even during long sets. I didn’t have to stop and wipe them like I did constantly with the V1s. Around the four-week mark, some fog started to creep in, but it’s manageable. I’ve avoided touching the inside of the lenses and have taken good care of them. In my experience, no goggles stay fog-free forever, but the V2s held up better than most.
FASTER STARTUP TIME:
The V2s power on and get to the swim screen noticeably quicker than the originals.
BUILT-IN HEART RATE MONITOR:
This is a big win. Instead of needing a separate accessory like I did with the first version, now I get my heart rate right in the display, no extra charging required.
BETTER FIT AND MORE COMFORTABLE SEAL:
I don’t have to crank these as tight as the V1s to keep water out. They’re more forgiving and still secure. A few small leaks started showing up after a while, but a quick strap adjustment took care of it. I may also switch to a smaller nose bridge for a better fit. Overall, they’re much more comfortable than the older model.
DISPLAY QUALITY:
Brightness seems about the same, though the V2 might be a bit easier to see on sunny days. That could also be because my V1s were worn out and had lost most of their reflective coating.
SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT TIMING SENSITIVITY:
When I first switched to the V2s, I noticed that the split timer kicked in just a bit later than expected. For example, I’d push off and already be at four seconds, even though it felt more like two and a half. But after a few weeks, I stopped noticing it. Whether it’s adaptive tracking or just me adjusting, it’s no longer an issue.
UPDATED STORAGE CASE:
The case is more compact and includes a divider to help protect the lenses. I was worried about scratches from the inside lining, but so far it’s held up fine.
BETTER NAVIGATION BUTTONS:
They’re larger and easier to press, which is especially useful when your hands are wet or cold.
SLIGHTLY IMPROVED FIELD OF VIEW:
The viewing angle feels just a little wider than the original, though not drastically. You’re not getting panoramic vision, but the clarity of the data makes up for it.
There is one drawback with the V2, and it has nothing to do with how they perform in the water. You can’t use them out of the box. To activate them, you have to sign up with Form, create an account, and enter billing information for a subscription that starts after a two-week trial. I wasn’t happy about it. I only use Pool Swim mode and don’t need any of the premium features, so it felt unnecessary. I had to sign up, then immediately cancel the plan just to avoid being charged. That process should be simpler. The goggles should be usable straight away without needing to connect to an app or submit payment info. I originally rated them low because of this, but after seeing signs that the company is listening to customer feedback and working on it, I feel more confident in the direction they’re headed.
The first time you flip turn and see your split pop up right in front of you, you’ll understand why these goggles matter. They give real-time feedback that actually pushes you to improve. And they’re not just for the pool, they work great as open water swim goggles too.
Buy it on Amazon today for: $279.00 with FREE returns
2. Aqua Sphere Kayenne - Italian-Made Anti-Fog Goggles

Review by: Zachary Bennett
After some trial and error getting the right fit, I’m very pleased with how these goggles perform for open water swimming. Before buying, I read a mix of reviews about the Kayenne goggles, with many users complaining about leaks, sometimes quite severe. Of course, everyone’s face shape is different. I’m 5'9" and weigh 167 pounds. For pool goggles, I usually opt for ones with the smallest nose bridge adjustment, so I was initially skeptical about the Kayenne.
That said, I’d previously used Aqua Sphere Kaiman goggles, which have smaller eye cups and only tinted lenses, and I never had any leaking problems with them. The only downside was the limited field of view when I tried to sight buoys in open water, regardless of weather. So I decided to give the polarized Kayenne a try.
My first swim in the pool with these goggles didn’t go smoothly. Right after jumping in, one eye leaked badly. Tightening the straps didn’t help, it only made the goggles feel too tight and uncomfortable. I tried shifting the leaking eyepiece closer to my nose, which stopped that leak, but caused the other eye to leak instead. Frustrated, I took them off, threw them in my bag, and switched back to my usual goggles.
The next time I tested the Kayenne was after a pool workout. This time I loosened the straps, and though there was still some leakage, it was much less. I realized the oils on my face had been washed away during the workout, helping the goggles seal better. The third try, also post-workout, I put the goggles on, positioned both eyepieces closer to my nose, and pressed them firmly to my eyes. This time there was no discomfort or leaking. Underwater, I did notice the polarized lenses caused some visual distortion, but it’s a minor annoyance that doesn’t affect open water swimming.
When I finally took these goggles for an open water swim, applying what I’d learned, the experience was fantastic. I wiped off oils and sunscreen from my face with a towel, wet my face in the lake, then put the goggles on. Pressing the eyepieces toward my nose and eyes created a solid seal. After dunking my head, I felt no leaks. Once swimming, I found it much easier to sight buoys thanks to the wider field of vision and polarized lenses. I swam straighter and didn’t have to lift my head as often to stay on course. My swim time improved by over two minutes on a 1500-meter route. My GPS watch confirmed a much straighter track compared to previous swims on the same course. Overall, I’m very happy with these goggles and hope you have a similarly positive experience.
Here’s what my good friend Rick Slider shared about them: every summer, he swims over 100 miles in Lake Washington. He bought a pair on the recommendation of another swimmer and immediately noticed the much wider field of vision compared to the “regular” goggles he’d been using for over 15 years. With his old goggles, he had to lift his head frequently to see ahead, which wasted energy. With the Kayenne goggles, he barely lifts his head, which improved his stroke efficiency. While he hasn’t owned them long enough to judge lens durability, the clarity has been impressive.
This summer, he even spotted salmon during his swims, something he hadn’t noticed before. The polarized lenses cut glare and reduce light significantly, which isn’t ideal for dusk swims but perfect for bright daylight. Rick also bought a second pair with lightly smoked lenses for when the polarized ones are too dark. He’s excited to try them in tropical waters for snorkeling and casual swimming. The goggles feel comfortable, and the strap adjustments are simple to use.
Buy it on Amazon today for: $63.08 with FREE returns
3. Zoggs Predator - Ultra-Fit Gasket Goggles

Review by: Connor Blake
I swim two miles every day, and having the right goggles is absolutely crucial. For around twenty years, I stuck with Barracuda Ultimate goggles. When they stopped making them, I panicked because goggles are so personal. They have to fit well, feel right, and they shouldn’t leak (obviously). They need to be soft and flexible, and create a secure seal.
Over the past three months, I tried at least twenty different pairs. Every single one either leaked or felt uncomfortable to wear. Finally, I came across a pair that actually worked. Despite every brand claiming their goggles don’t leak, Zoggs really didn’t. I was so relieved. These goggles are enjoyable to use. They seal properly, and they do not give me headaches halfway through my swim. Now I can swim peacefully again without constantly worrying about water sneaking in or having to adjust them. They are a fantastic find.
COMFORT AND FIT:
They are incredibly comfortable to wear. The adjustable strap allows for a secure fit that does not pinch or cause any pain during long swims. The silicone seal fits snugly around my eyes and truly keeps water out.
VISIBILITY:
The polarised lenses are outstanding. They look sharp and effectively reduce glare from the water, making it easier to see on sunny days. The clarity is excellent, which lets me focus completely on my swimming without distractions. BTW, polarized lenses in goggles work in the same way they do in sunglasses. They reduce glare, thanks in part to the tint, and make details in the water easier to see. I was impressed by how much more detail I could pick out while swimming.
DURABILITY:
I have used them in both chlorinated pools and saltwater, and they still look and perform like new. The lenses resist scratches, and the build quality feels solid, so I can tell they will last a long time.
VERSATILITY:
These goggles work well in all kinds of swimming environments, whether you are training, competing, or just enjoying a relaxed swim. They adapt well to different conditions, making them a reliable choice for anyone.
BOTTOM LINE:
I would absolutely recommend the Zoggs Predator to anyone searching for high-quality, comfortable, and stylish goggles. They deliver excellent visibility, fit, and long-term performance, making every swim much more enjoyable. I am very happy with my purchase and plan to stick with Zoggs from now on.
Buy it on Amazon today for: $52.60 with FREE returns
4. Speedo Biofuse 2.0 - Adult Swim Goggles

Review by: Dylan Parker
You have no idea how many goggle models and reviews I went through before settling on these. I have very thin, sensitive skin around my eyes, and most goggles leave those awful dark bruises that last for hours. Finding goggles with relevant reviews for people like me was tough. I was even thinking about splurging on expensive models just to swim comfortably. But trying these out turned out to be the right move. They are easy to adjust, provide a great seal, offer clear vision, didn’t cause any tension headaches, and most importantly, left only minimal marks. Yes, some marks appeared, but they weren’t deep or bluish, and overall, barely noticeable. That is a win for me. I’m happy to be back to swim-exercising again. My only gripe is that unlike my previous Speedos, these didn’t come with a case, which is a bit disappointing since I like to protect my goggles from scratches. Looks like I’ll have to find one separately.
My friend Jerry Zelder from my book club said he is beyond impressed with both the quality and comfort. He noticed the lenses offer excellent clarity underwater with no distortion. The anti-fog coating worked really well, with no fogging during long swims. He found the silicone seals create a perfect snug fit without irritation or pressure, even when worn for a long time. The adjustable straps helped him get a personalized fit, and the goggles stayed secure without feeling too tight. Jerry highly recommends these goggles for anyone serious about swimming.
Another friend from the same book club, Lauren Levine, needed goggles that don’t leak because she plans to wear contacts while swimming. She mentioned that the Speedo Vanquishers 2.0 are the gold standard among competitive swimmers, but recent manufacturing changes have made them less effective at keeping water out, according to reviews. She thinks these Biofuse goggles will be different. She noticed you can actually feel the suction on your skin, and there are instructions on how to remove them safely so the eyecups don’t snap back and cause injury. Lauren is rating them four stars for now until she gets more use and can confirm the suction holds up over time.
My cousin Patrick in California had a great experience with these goggles. He used to have cheaper Speedos that he disliked because the eye cups were smaller and sometimes leaked. Plus, the clear ones yellowed over time from chlorine or sun exposure. Compared to those, the Biofuse goggles are much better. They have larger eye cups, more comfort, great suction, and no leaks. The tinting works well for his usual noon swims in the California sun. Since they are black, they show no signs of wear even though he rarely rinses them with fresh water after swimming. He calls them great value and would definitely buy another pair.
His wife Melissa is a regular swimmer and has been through countless goggles. Her usual complaints are poor fit, discomfort around the eyes, leaks, and fogging. She says most goggles claiming to be fog-free simply aren’t. But so far, she is extremely pleased with these. The fit is great with no leaks and they stay fog free. She may update the review after more use, but right now they are the best goggles she has worn, and she especially recommends them for women. Melissa also found the solution to the in-socket wear many complain about. They require some tuning and finding the right spot on your head for the straps, but once you do, they apply much less pressure than racer-style goggles. She’s not sure she would dive off the blocks with them, but they work great for laps and flip turns. She finds the lenses clear and generally fog free. She also notes that once you get them positioned correctly, it’s best not to fiddle with them too much because they don’t snap back perfectly like socket-style goggles and too much adjustment causes leaks.
Buy it on Amazon today for: $40.00 with FREE returns
5. FORM Smart Swim 1 - Real-Time Metrics Goggles

Review by: Ethan Scott
Before buying these, I didn’t even know smart goggles were a thing, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. But right away, I can say I absolutely love them.
Initially, I ran into a glitch with the app. Luckily, I hadn’t returned the goggles yet. By Monday, the company reached out and resolved the issue, going well beyond what I expected. At first use, I was worried the display right in front of my eye might cause motion sickness. I’m blind in my left eye, and after reading reviews, I feared the display might block my good eye’s view, making it hard to see where I was swimming. Despite all these concerns, I decided to give them a shot.
I have zero trouble seeing ahead, the blue line below me, or even the swimmer beside me in the next lane. I can observe as much or as little of the other swimmer as I want, but not detailed form or kicks, which works perfectly for me. Even with one eye blind, my vision with the goggles is just as clear as without them. The display sits dead center on the lens, but after a swim or two, it feels completely normal. When I want to check the stats, I look right at it, and when I don’t, I just swim through it, it’s not distracting at all.
I swim with a waterproof MP3 clipped to the goggle strap and tuck the headphone wires under it. Throughout a full hour of freestyle, the goggles stay put and leak-free. Once I got the strap tension right the first time, I haven’t needed to adjust them since. I simply put them on, pull the straps a couple times, and they snap right into place, no leaks ever.
When they arrived, I picked the medium curved nose piece, which fits perfectly. Though the instructions say to bring all the nose pieces to the pool for trial, I never needed to switch. It’s worked flawlessly from day one. It’s incredible to swim without constantly glancing at the clock. Sometimes it’s the small things, and having distance and other chosen metrics right there in front of me, accessible via the app, makes all the difference.
To start swimming, I turn on the goggles, wait a few seconds for them to sync with the app, select the swim type, and hit start. I only have to touch the goggles again when I finish. There are just two buttons, and after a few uses, you get comfortable with them quickly. The learning curve is minimal, so you spend more time swimming and less time fiddling with settings poolside.
Mostly I swim freestyle, but I tried some drills too. When I checked my stats afterward, I was surprised how well the system distinguished between freestyle and drills without me having to do anything special. The accuracy wasn’t perfect, but it was great to have it track automatically without extra effort. After the swim, you save and quit, then turn the goggles off. Later, when dry, just turn them back on, sync with the app, and dive into your data. There’s a lot to explore.
One feature I’d love to see added is the ability to compare data over time so I can quickly track my progress. That would be a fantastic upgrade.
PROS:
- Accurately detects laps, turns, distance, swim time, and rest time, you just swim, no extra input needed.
- Wearing them makes you feel like a total badass, perfect for data lovers like me who get motivated by stats.
- Extremely comfortable fit.
- Heart rate monitor clips onto the strap as an optional accessory, showing your bpm too.
CONS:
- Not perfectly accurate, I usually miss one turn per swim, making my tracked distance about 25 yards short. It’s minor but a bit annoying given the rest of the accuracy.
- The app can feel busy with extra features like suggested workouts and swim patterns; if all you want is lap data, it feels overwhelming. I might use those extras eventually, but lap metrics should be more front and center.
- Compared to normal goggles, these can feel like tunnel vision or horse blinders. I adjusted quickly and found it helps me focus, but some might find it restrictive.
- They are pricey.
VERDICT:
If you can afford them and care about tracking your swim data for training or motivation, you’ll absolutely love these goggles. Constantly knowing where I am, how fast I’m going, and how much swim remains keeps me fired up when it counts most.
Buy it on Amazon today for: $179.00 with FREE returns
6. Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 - Unisex Adult Mirrored Goggles

Review by: Chase Morgan
If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with style and grace, these goggles might just make you feel like the coolest fish in the pool. They transformed my swimming experience from ordinary to something I actually look forward to, and I can’t stop praising them.
First, the look is a game changer. With a sleek design and a variety of fun colors, I can channel my inner fashionista even underwater. Who says you can’t make a style statement beneath the surface? I’m here to prove otherwise. Functionally, these goggles are like armor for my eyes. They protect against chlorine’s sting and the dreaded red-eye effect. The fit is snug but comfortable, creating a watertight seal that keeps water out. I swim confidently knowing my eyes are well shielded.
The clarity they provide is remarkable, almost like wearing HD goggles underwater. I can see every tile on the pool floor and sometimes even spot colorful fish swimming alongside me (I like to think we have a secret friendship). It feels like I have a front-row seat to an amazing underwater show.
They’re also really practical. Adjusting them is easy, finding the perfect fit feels effortless, and I don’t have to worry about straps leaving marks or the goggles slipping off at the worst times. They stay put, letting me focus on my stroke instead of constantly fixing my goggles.
One unexpected perk is that I can make funny faces underwater without anyone noticing. It’s like my own secret comedy show. I make goofy expressions, pretend I’m exploring deep seas, or even sing underwater karaoke (yes, guilty as charged). These goggles keep my underwater antics completely hidden.
Comfort and fit are excellent. The adjustable strap lets me customize the fit so it doesn’t pinch or cause discomfort during long swims. The silicone seals snugly around my eyes and prevent leaks, which is a huge plus.
The mirrored lenses really help by reducing glare on bright days while looking stylish too. Visibility stays crystal clear so I can focus on my swim without distractions.
I’ve used them in both chlorinated and saltwater pools multiple times and they hold up well. The scratch-resistant lenses and sturdy build show they’re made to last.
These goggles work well for many activities, whether you’re racing, training, or swimming just for fun. They perform consistently across different conditions, making them a versatile choice.
My uncle in Minnesota had a unique experience with these goggles. After cataract surgery, he needed to keep water out when showering or bathing but still wanted to wash his hair and face. For him, these goggles did a great job of keeping water away. His only minor complaint was that the strap could be a bit longer, but it was still adequate. Though he hasn’t tested them for swimming or meets, he highly recommends them for anyone with similar needs, especially at such a good price.
PROS:
They keep water out really well; I’ve never had to stop mid-lap to clear any water from inside. Fogging hasn’t been an issue during swims either. They come with extra nose clips for different bridge sizes and are easy to adjust.
CONS:
Because these goggles have mirrored lenses instead of clear ones, your vision changes somewhat. In poorly lit pools, the view can become “smoky.” For triathletes and open water swimmers, I wouldn’t recommend them at all since the mirrored lenses reflect too much sunlight and impair vision. The nose bridge can be uncomfortable for some. Even after trying different sizes, I feel a bit of stinging there by the end of workouts. It’s not unbearable, but noticeable.
CONCLUSION:
Overall, these goggles are definitely good. Speedo rarely disappoints, but if you’re an open water swimmer, there are better options. The mirrored lenses look great but compromise a bit on practicality. For competitive indoor swimmers or anyone who swims for exercise in a well-lit pool, these will work just fine. Definitely keep them in mind when you make your choice because they are solid goggles.
Buy it on Amazon today for: $29.50 with FREE returns