Aqua Sphere has come up with a goggle which it believes offers protection from water and good all-round vision all in a comfortable package. So for Optician editor Chris Bennett, training for an Ironman triathlon, the opportunity to test out the goggle was too good an opportunity to miss.
The Aqua Sphere Eagle prescription swimming goggle has a curved lens which offers a 180-degree view. This is double most traditional designs, claims Aqua Sphere. The lenses are easily interchangeable and replacements are available in powers between -1.5 and -6.0. Aqua Sphere says Eagle is the first swimming goggle with interchangeable curved lenses.
The silicone eyepieces are larger than most sports swimming goggles so providing more comfort. However, the firm says the design creates as little drag as possible in the water making them suitable for competitive sport. Goggles with a larger eye size are recommended for triathletes as it reduces the risk of eye injury in the case of a collision with another competitor. They also offer UVA and UVB protection.
From the wearers' point of view the goggles are noticeably more comfortable than traditional smaller goggles but are not as obtrusive as a face mask. The straps fit the goggle snugly to the head without having to be over tightened and the soft eye cups keep out water effectively. Strap adjustment uses a simple but effective mechanism.
The goggle already has a following in the sports world and has won awards from the sports industry. Oakley Transitions Ironman UK member Fiona Bosher is pictured in the goggles below.
? For more information call Aqua Sphere on 01254 278873. www.aquasphereswim.com
