The History of Swimming Goggles

Eyewear for swimmers has evolved significantly since people began swimming centuries ago. Their inception has been traced as far back as the 14th century, when Persians used tortoise shells to cover their eyes while diving for pearls. Since then, goggles have evolved from bamboo and wood to high-tech anti-fog, prescription, low-drag models. As swimming equipment companies continue to search for ways to meet their customers' needs, new creative concepts are sure to surface for years.

  1. Early History

    • After the Persians' makeshift goggles, not much is recorded in history regarding goggle use. Sixteenth-century commercial divers were often African and American Indian slaves, according to the International Swimming Hall of Fame. Therefore, there was little incentive to create inventions to aid in their comfort.

    Goggles with Lenses

    • Polynesians skin divers were the first to incorporate glass lenses in goggles. However, they were far from the air-tight, anti-fog varieties available today. Their goggles began using air as lenses--that is, those goggles trapped air bubbles against the eyes when the swimmer was face down, the International Swimming Hall of Fame writes. Therefore, divers could see the commodities they were diving for while underwater. Later, Polynesians crafted glass into lenses for their goggles, making underwater vision easier.

    Competitive Goggles

    • Goggles were first used in competitive swimming, not to swim laps in a pool, but to cross the English Channel. Thomas Burgess used goggles similar to those used with motorcycles to cross the English Channel in 1911, according to the International Swimming Hall of Fame. His goggles weren't waterproof, but by swimming in the breaststroke form, Burgess didn't submerge his eyes. He kept blown water and splashing waves out of his eyes with the motorcycle mask. Gertrude Ederle, the first woman to cross the English Channel, also used motorcycle goggles. However, she made hers watertight with a paraffin seal.

    Improved Technology

    • Eye irritation was common before swimming goggles.

      For many years, goggles were still bulky and uncomfortable. Either swimmers suffered through the discomfort of the goggles or the discomfort of pool chemicals in their eyes. "A two-hour practice without eye protection induced tears at even the slightest glare," wrote Tom Slear in an article for USA Swimming's website. "Rainbows surrounded all lights. Reading or studying was impossible."

      In the late 1960s, individual swimmers created rudimentary goggles of plastic cups held to the face with elastic, Slear wrote. Later, companies began to manufacture goggles that were smaller, more comfortable and less cumbersome. By 1972, goggles were standard equipment.

    Modern Goggles

    • Today's goggles are hydrodynamic, comfortable and stylish.

      Goggles have evolved to be sleeker, more comfortable and more hydrodynamic. Foam and rubber material give athletes' eyes comfort. Their rubberized straps fit the head better and are durable. Nose bridges allow for a snug fit for all facial features. Goggle lenses can be tinted and provide UV protection for swimmers who swim outdoors. They are available in many styles and colors, allowing swimmers to find the goggle that fits their personality and needs best.