Are these $259 smart swimming goggles worth buying? I tried them to find out
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Smart devices have made our lives so much easier. Whether it's our smartphone, laptops, or even smart home appliances, there's always a new technology keeping us occupied.
If you're a competitive or recreational swimmer, you may just want to add the FORM Smart Swim Goggles to your roster of fitness tracking devices, as they're the world’s first augmented reality swim goggles.
The smart goggles are a top-selling Amazon's choice item that also happen to be shopper-approved, so I decided to test them out to see how they truly hold up.
FORM Smart Swim Goggles
SHOP IT: Amazon, $259
What are they?
The smart swim goggles are designed with an augmented reality display on the right lens that provides workout instructions and real-time metrics while you are swimming.
The goggles let you track a plethora of metrics such as time, distance, pace, heart rate, split times, stroke rate, stroke count, distance per stroke, and calories burned. If you're tired of counting laps, these goggles are made for you.
Just recently, FORM also launched a workout feature in their accompanying app that includes video tutorials to help swimmers learn proper techniques and form.
My impressions
After giving these goggles a shot in my local pool, I loved how easy they were to use. With one click of a button, they are on and you can sync them to your phone.
The fit is also really comfortable. Even if you need to make adjustments, there are options to adjust the head strap and nose bridge to find the perfect fit as shown in the picture below.
Counting laps was just the beginning. After using the goggles, I was amazed at how the goggles collect data to give you a breakdown of your metrics — an aspect that is definitely something competitive swimmers will enjoy to help them improve performance over time.
When you think of swim goggles, you don't expect to pay almost $300 for a pair. Yes, they are pricey but super fun to use for occasional swims too.
One drawback is if you want to take full advantage of the goggles and use the workouts feature, you will have to pay $20 monthly or $180 annually for a membership after the one-year free trial ends. You can still access the metrics, but the workouts won't be free anymore.
What shoppers are saying
In addition to being an Amazon's Choice item, the FORM Smart Swim Goggles have so far earned a 4.5-star rating from more than 550 customer reviews.
One shopper wrote these are the "best goggles" they have ever used, and the "metrics are spot on" and "easy to track."
ALSO SEE: 12 best breathable masks to wear during a workout
A triathlete also shared their impressions on the goggles, writing that they are a "game-changing training tool" for swimmers and triathletes alike. Similar to me, this reviewer stated the goggles are "very comfortable" and "suitable for any length of practice."
Although a few users mentioned that the "anti-fog" feature does fog a little sometimes, you'll likely find that the biggest downside to these high-tech goggles is their steep price tag.
The verdict
If you're a competitive swimmer, this is a superb product to use while training. If you're someone like me who enjoys swimming recreationally, I'm not sure if it's worth investing in the long run especially since you have to pay for the workout membership after a one-year trial.
Either way, I really enjoyed playing around with the goggles and testing them out. They are a unique product that you won't find elsewhere, and also makes for a great gift to keep in mind for the holidays.
If you're interested in other high quality fitness products for when you're working out and on the go, check out our top picks for the pool, track, or gym.
TYR Sport Women's Solid Diamondback Swimsuit
A classic one piece swimsuit for your everyday swim workouts.
SHOP IT: Amazon, $65 (Originally $80)
Epauto Microfiber Fast Drying Towels
The perfect microfiber towel set with a convenient barrel bag when you're on the go.
SHOP IT: Amazon, $15 (Originally $20)
GoZone Hydration Waist Pack
A a simple way to carry your belongings and stay hydrated during your long runs.
SHOP IT: Walmart, $20
Vallier Dutton Weekender Bag
A waterproof roll top bag that will fit all your belongings for the gym or expeditions.
SHOP IT: Altitude Sports, $190
Norden Collapsible Silicone Bottle
An eco-friendly water bottle that is collapsible and foldable making it easy to carry during any workout.
SHOP IT: Norden, $20
VolPrivé Medical Grade Compression Socks
These medical grade socks are ideal for long walks, standing or workout activities.
SHOP IT: Volprive, $69
WENDY Black Active Sneakers
Laceless sneakers with three layers of cushioning to give extra arch support for your feet while you're working out.
SHOP IT: Frankie4, $230
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