How to Deal with Foggy Goggles: Solutions and Best Practices

Almost everyone who wears goggles has experienced that universally exasperating problem: foggy lenses. From outdoor activities like skiing to indoor ones like swimming, fogged lenses can be a major nuisance. To maximize your safety and performance, you'll need to find the right solution for you- and this article will help you do just that.

Understanding the Problem

Fogging occurs when there is a difference in humidity between the air inside the goggles and the air outside the goggles. When the air is higher in humidity inside the goggles, condensation appears on the lenses, rendering them opaque.

Why Do Goggles FOG?

• High humidity: Humidity increases the risk of fogging because it causes a difference in temperature between the lenses and the air, resulting in condensation.
• Breath venting: When you breathe out warm air while wearing the goggles, it can rush to the lenses and cause condensation. Moreover, your warm breath can also cause the lenses to fog by increasing internal temperature and humidity.

Preventing Fogging with Proper Maintenance and Care

Fogging can be prevented with proper cleaning, storage, and preprocess preparation. Additionally, some goggle designs inherently reduce fogging.

• Cleaning: Cleaning goggles (lenses and frames alike) with an antimicrobial cloth that's specifically designed for goggles is essential to preventing and reducing fogging.
• Storage: Goggles should be stored in a cool, dry place to avoid fogging. Additionally, using a goggle case is particularly important for thermal lenses that may be warped by excessive heat.
• Start-line preparation: Last-minute fog prevention tips include rubbing (with a clean) cloth or liquid lens cleaner on the lenses before putting them on, as well as using an air blower (like a small portable hairdryer) set to low heat to preheat the lenses. Keeping an absorbent cloth in your pocket is also helpful as it will absorb any condensation that may form on the lenses.

Commercial Anti-fog Solutions

Let's take a look at what commercial anti-fog solutions are available on the market. Below, you'll find several popular commercial solutions that are available to you, along with a pros/cons list and recommended usage instructions.

Fog-X Anti-Fog

Pros:
• This special anti-fog solution uses anti-fog technology that repels water droplets from settling on the lenses, making them less likely to fog up.
• It's designed to protect the lenses from fogging for up to several weeks.

Cons:
• Some users report needing to reapply the solution more frequently than intended to stay fog-free.

Usage:
• Simply apply the anti-fog solution with a clean cloth and allow to dry for 1-2 minutes.

Defog It Anti-Fog Spray

Pros:
• This anti-fog spray is designed to last up to three months without the need for reapplication.
• It's non-toxic and safe to use on all types of goggles (including those with thermal lenses).

Cons:
• It's reported to be slightly more expensive than other anti-fog solutions on the market.

Usage:
• Apply an even coat of the spray on both sides of the lenses. Allow the lenses to dry for up to two minutes before using.

DIY Anti-fog Solutions

If commercial anti-fog solutions aren't quite what you're looking for- or if you'd just prefer to save some money- there are also some DIY anti-fog solutions that you can try. Below, you'll find two popular DIY anti-fog formulas and recommended usage instructions.

Vinegar Solution

Pros:
• This DIY solution requires only two ingredients: vinegar and water.
• It's inexpensive and easy to make.

Cons:
• It needs to be applied before each use.

Usage:
• Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Before each use, spray the lenses with the solution and allow to dry.

Dish Soap Solution

Pros:
• This DIY solution requires only two ingredients: dish soap and water.
• It forms a protective coating on the lenses that helps prevent fogging.

Cons:
• It requires frequent reapplication to remain effective.

Usage:
• Mix 1 part dish soap with 4 parts water in a spray bottle and shake to combine. Before each use, spray the solution on both sides of the lenses and allow to dry.

Design Features and Anti-fog Technologies

Another important factor that can help reduce fogging is the type of goggle you choose. Some models are designed with anti-fog technology or feature permanent or removable anti-fog coating. Here are just a few of the more popular designs available:

FogX Cylindrical Lens

Features Benefits:
• This particular goggle design combines an anti-fog coating on the lenses with a spherical shape, which provides a wider field of vision than standard cylinder-shaped lenses.
• The lenses also feature a fog-resistant design that helps keep them free from water droplets and condensation.

FOG Stoppers Internal Ventilation

Features Benefits:
• This model features an internal ventilation system that helps keep the lenses clear by channeling moisture out of the frames and away from the lenses.
• The frames are also designed with an adjustable strap for optimum fit and comfort.

Reviews and Recommendations

To help you find the right solution for you, here are a few reviews and recommendations:

• I've been using FOG Stoppers Internal Ventilation goggles for years. The adjustable strap makes it easy to get a perfect fit, and I've never had a problem with fogging. Highly recommended! -Jack S., verified Amazon customer.
• I bought a can of FogX Anti-Fog solution last year, and I'm still on my first can. A little goes a long way, and it really helps keep my lenses fog-free for weeks at a time. Would definitely recommend. -Roz H., verified Amazon customer.
• The homemade dish soap solution works great- as long as I remember to reapply it before every wear. It's cheap and easy to make, and I haven't had any problems with fogging since I've started using it. -Brian K., verified Reddit user.

Safety considerations

Ultimately, the most important factor when it comes to choosing the right anti-fog product for you is safety. Always read the product label and applicable safety warnings before using any product. Additionally, if you're using homemade formulas or DIY solutions, do a test patch on a small area of the lens before applying the solution to the entire lens to ensure that it won't damage the lenses or cause adverse reactions like irritation.

Summary Review

Fogging can be an incredibly irritating problem, but it doesn't have to be. With the right combination of preventative measures and anti-fog products, you'll be able to keep your goggles fog-free and enjoy whatever activity you're taking part in. And of course, always remember to stay safe and follow any applicable safety warnings.