The first prototypes of modern swimming goggles were invented in the 14th century in Persia. People used polished tortoise shells as lenses. In the 30s of the twentieth century, aviator goggles were adapted for diving using ordinary putty. In this way they were made waterproof.
Goggles
Glasses intended for swimmers were first made in the 50s of the 20th century. They are two lenses that are connected on the bridge of the nose. The device was fixed using suction cups. On the head it was fixed with a rubber strap. Between the lenses is an air gap for better visibility in the water. The lenses were made of glass and easily broken. Athletes were forbidden to use unsafe glasses during competitions. Goggles for the pool crashed into the skin of the swimmer's eyes and flew off him during a dive. Swimmers could use them only in training.
In 1976, manufacturers managed to eliminate the shortcomings of glass models. Pool goggles were first allowed to be used by athletes at the Summer Olympics in Montreal, Canada. The most popular models among athletes are considered "Swedes". This model was released by the Swedish company Malmsten. The company was founded by the famous trainer Tommy Malmsten. He developed new glasses for future Olympic champion Ann Sophie-Roos. She suffered from skin allergies that occurred after wearing ordinary swimming goggles. Tommy solved the problem. He created a new model of swimming goggles without a seal around the lenses. He collected the first model of glasses in his own kitchen. These glasses are sold unassembled. A swimmer can collect points independently, adjusting to the individual characteristics of the face. This model is produced by most modern manufacturers.
Types of swimming goggles
Distinguish between training and starting models of glasses. Starting models have a rigid and streamlined shape. Training is softer. When worn for a long time, glasses with a hard case leave red marks around the eyes. Modern models use soft silicone, which does not cause skin irritation. Lenses are made of various polymers (polycarbonate).
For people with low vision there are models of swimming goggles with diopters. Some manufacturers offer convenient accessories with removable lenses. In the pool you can swim in contact lenses. And in this case, swimming goggles will be needed to protect the eyes.
Professional athletes use models with side inclined elements. It’s easier to keep track of opponents swimming on adjacent tracks. Chlorination is often used to disinfect pool water. Glasses prevent eye irritation.
Reason for fogging swimming goggles
Due to the temperature difference inside and outside the swimming goggles, condensation forms on them, so they fog up. The athlete's review is limited, and he is forced to move to the touch. Divers use saliva to fog glasses. But this tool is ineffective and causes distortion. Processing glasses with toothpaste, baby shampoo and other folk remedies often leads to damage to the surface of the lenses. It is better to use a special agent - antifog to protect them.
Antifog for goggles for swimming
An anti-fog agent changes the structure of the condensate and creates the thinnest film on the inner surface of the lenses. Antifog for glasses is also used as an antistatic agent. Its name translates from English as "fog".
Anti-fog products were first developed by NASA experts for transparent helmets of spacesuits. During spacewalk, astronauts discovered that their helmets were quickly fogging up. Since then, before heading into outer space, all helmets undergo anti-fogging treatment.
Anti-fog agents are also used for processing glass and plastics in industry. They cover the visors of motorcycle and hockey helmets. Antifog is used to combat fogging of swimming and ski goggles. It can be purchased at specialized stores. This tool changes the tension on the surface of the water and prevents the formation of drops on the lenses. A thin layer of antifog covers glasses from well-known manufacturers. To check, they are placed in the freezer for 1 minute. A protective coating is usually enough for several months, after which a new coat should be applied to the glasses.
Kinds
Antifog for glasses is available in the form of a solution, spray, gel and napkins. The most convenient fog in the form of a spray. They include: purified water, polyurethane, polyvinylpyrrolidone, decyl polyglucose, methylpyrrolidone, triethylamine. These substances create a protective film on the surface of the lenses. They are safe for the mucous membranes of the eyes.
Do not use antifogs for glasses that are designed for car glasses. Substances that make up their composition can cause chemical burns to the skin and eyes.
How to use antifog for glasses
First you need to read the manufacturer's instructions. Glasses need to be washed and degreased their surface. For degreasing, do not use alcohol and aggressive solvents. Procedure:
- Glasses are dried away from sources of heat and light.
- In a warm room, the amount of antifog recommended by the manufacturer is applied to the lenses.
- Evenly distribute the product on the surface of the lenses.
- The glasses are covered with a napkin and left to dry for several hours.
- After that, they are rinsed with a stream of cold water. One layer of antifog is enough for one training.
Goggles care for swimming
The glasses are washed in cold water with a soft cloth. Usually it is attached to the tool. In this case, do not touch the lenses with your fingers. Store glasses in a soft case. Do not dry them in the sun and near heating appliances. Do not buy cheap models of dubious production. They are often made from harmful materials. When choosing glasses and protective equipment, you must consult a specialist.