Review: Form Swimming Goggles

I must confess, Form swimming goggles have been on my radar for quite some time. These goggles are an innovative twist on traditional swimming goggles, featuring a heads-up display within your line of sight. This provides you with data like distance, pace, and current and upcoming workout sets. It seems like a no-brainer for triathletes, right?

However, I had my doubts about these goggles for a while. First, using their advanced features requires a $379 AUD subscription, which includes "free" goggles. The subscription offers access to numerous workouts and plans, but it can't be separated from the goggles. This can be a problem for many triathletes who already have a coach, rendering the coaching aspect of the subscription mostly redundant.

Second, I was skeptical about the goggles' durability. Most goggles need replacing every few months, even with proper care. But after reviewing these goggles for a few months, I'm delighted to have been proven wrong. I can't imagine life without them now.

Regarding core functionality, the goggles come with a small LED screen that can be adjusted for either eye. They can track distance, pace, and intervals, and can even be used for open water pacing when connected to a Garmin watch—a significant advantage, if you ask me. The screen is always easy to see, even when foggy, and it helps me stay focused during long swim sets.

The well-designed app offers various workouts based on distance and training type (power, endurance, speed, etc.). You can upload up to six workouts to the goggles at once, with new options being continuously added. The app also allows you to set up goal-based plans, which can be invaluable for those training solo.

The goggles and subscription cost $379 per year, but you can cancel the subscription after three months. This means you can get the basic Form goggles (without programs and workouts) for $100—a reasonable price given their quality. Surprisingly, these goggles are still going strong after three months, showing no signs of losing their anti-fog or reflective properties. The Form team says some swimmers have used them for over two years, and I'm starting to believe them.

So, is a $379 pair of goggles worth it for triathletes who are already investing heavily in their sport? Initially, I would have said no, but now I'm convinced they are. The ability to see your pace keeps you more consistent in the pool and focused during open water races. The workouts add variety to your coach's training sets, and if you're looking for something different, you can always find a similar set.

In conclusion, these goggles have completely won me over. They're a solid, well-constructed pair of goggles with fantastic in-pool and race-day features, making swimming laps enjoyable once more. Triathletes, you'll want to give these a try!