How to Choose Prescription Swim Goggles for High Myopia

Swimming with high myopia can be frustrating—and even dangerous—if you can’t see clearly underwater. Blurred vision makes it harder to judge distances, spot obstacles, or stay oriented in the pool. For those with strong prescriptions, a good pair of prescription swim goggles can make all the difference.But not just any goggles will do. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right lenses for your vision and swimming needs.

Why You Need Prescription Swim Goggles

Without the right vision correction, swimming can feel disorienting and uncomfortable. Whether you're doing laps or just enjoying the water, clarity matters—especially when your prescription is above -6.00 diopters.
Prescription swim goggles help restore your underwater vision, making swimming safer, more enjoyable, and far more practical for those with high myopia.

How to Choose the Right Lens Power

❌ Don't use your regular glasses prescription as-is

Swim goggles sit much closer to your eyes than regular glasses, and the way light bends in water can also affect how lenses perform. This means that using your exact glasses prescription in swim goggles can feel too strong or uncomfortable.

✅ Use this general adjustment formula:

Goggle power ≈ eyeglass prescription × 0.85

Example:If your glasses prescription is -8.00, you’ll likely feel more comfortable with swim lenses around -6.50 or -7.00.
If the difference between your eyes is small (less than 1.00 diopter), you can typically use the same power in both lenses. If there's a larger difference, choose a model that allows for customized lenses per eye.

Key Features to Look For

1. A Wide Range of Prescription Options

Choose goggles that offer powers up to at least -10.00 to accommodate high prescriptions.

👉 One excellent option is the Hydrex Custom Prescription Swim Goggles.
They support a wide range of powers and let you mix and match lenses for each eye. The fit is snug, the vision is clear, and the anti-fog coating helps you stay focused on your swim—not your foggy lenses.

2. Anti-Fog and UV Protection

A reliable anti-fog coating keeps your view clear, while UV protection is a must for outdoor swimming.

3. Lens Tint Based on Swimming Environment

• Clear or light-colored lenses for indoor pools

• Dark or mirrored lenses for bright, outdoor conditions

4. Adjustable Nose Bridge and Soft Seal

Comfort is key, especially for longer swims. Look for goggles with a flexible nose bridge and a soft, watertight seal around the eyes.

Do You Need Custom-Made Prescription Lenses?

In some cases, standard swim goggle prescriptions may not be enough. You may benefit from custom lenses if:

• Your prescription is stronger than -10.00

• You have significant astigmatism

• There’s a big difference between your two eyes

In those situations, it’s worth looking into models that support custom lens pairing.

A clear view makes all the difference in the water.
If you’re ready to upgrade your swim experience, check out the Hydrex Custom Prescription Swim Goggles here ›. Designed with clarity, comfort, and convenience in mind—especially for those of us who don’t swim with perfect vision.