Price: €62.50/$65 to €72.50/$75
Website: themagic5.com
A few of the athletes I coach have TheMagic5 goggles and absolutely love them so when I got asked to try them, I jumped at the chance.
This article explains what TheMagic5 goggle are, my experience of the process to order and make my goggles and how they performed in the sea and my Endless pool®.
Contents
What are TheMagic5?
TheMagic5 are the world’s first custom-fit swimming goggles. Their goggles are crafted using high quality materials and they use their innovative Optimal Fitting Technology (OFT) which adapts to your unique facial structure. The use 3D printing technology to create a custom seal on your goggles to meet the contours of your eye sockets and face shape.
To ensure you get a custom fit you need to make a scan of your face using TheMagic5 App. It’s a fun process where you need to use the App to map your face using your phone or tablet camera. When you have finished a full scan, they take this data and make custom fit goggle for you. With goggles made to order for you this should mean less chance of water leakage when you swim, and they should also be more comfortable.
TheMagic5 Ordering Process
If you like technology, you will love this custom goggle ordering process. Here’s how it works:
Step 1 – Purchase
First browse their range of goggles, from mirrored options to pure magic. Once you have chosen your product and purchased it you will receive an email directing you to our face scanning app.
I live in Southern Spain and it’s really sunny here so I browsed the range to find which ones would be best for sea swimming in very sunny conditions. My search led me to the Black Magic Mirror Silver goggles. In the UK “Black Magic” are a box of chocolates so let’s hope they don’t melt in the sun like chocolate! The Black Magic Mirror Silver goggles are the darkest goggle and the preferred color of US Olympian Ben Kanute. They say they are made for outdoor swimming and will be my best friend on sunny days!
Step 2 – Scanning
Download the app and click “link scan to order”. Within 1-2 days your scan will be verified and sent off for production.
I received the email directing me to the scanning App. I decided to use the iOS version of the App on my iPad and it prompted me to enter the email to link the scan to my order I used to purchase the goggles and it found my order instantly.
It then asked me to start scan. The scan took longer than I expected but I put this down to user error! You will need a credit card sized card at the end of the scan to confirm scaling so I would recommend getting this ready and make sure you place it on your forehead.
The next step was for them to verify my scan and this they did within 24 hours and sent me an email to confirm this and saying my custom goggles were in production.
Step 3 – Delivery
Their production team in North Carolina will take your scan and create a custom fitting goggle. You will receive your goggles between 1-3 weeks depending on location. The goggles took about 3 weeks to get to Spain but whilst I was waiting for them to arrive, I got constant updates via email on the goggles progress through production, when they were dispatched, a tracking number and helpful tips like:
The goggles arrived in an enigmatic totally black box (rather like the Black Magic chocolates!) and inside was an impressive case, goggles, extra nose bridges, a sticker and fit guarantee card.
How TheMagic5 Performed
The fit felt very snug, and the straps did not need much tightening to keep them in place and waterproof.
The inner lenses are covered in an anti-fog layer which means you don’t need to use anti-fog sprag. But it also means you have to be extra careful not to touch the inner lens surface. They recommend using the provided case to protect the goggles from scratches and impacts that may damage the anti-fog treatment inside your goggles. You need to remember to always clean your goggles in clean (tap/drinking) water after use. Do not touch or dry the inside of the glass, instead let it air-dry.
If the anti-fog does wear away over time, they sell an anti-fog spray to top it up.
I took them in the sea in Southern Spain where I live and after a little adjusting, they fitted snuggly and did not leak. I swam in them for a while and my vision was extremely clear, no fogging and I even spotted a few fish!
The big difference between these goggles and my normal pair is that I forgot they were on! Also, when I speak to other swimmers during the session, I usually put my goggles up on my head but did not need to do this with these goggles. To be honest I forgot they were there!
It was a very sunny day, and the tinted lenses with mirror finish did their job well.
I asked one of my coached athletes what she thought about her Magic5 goggles “I really like them [TheMagic5], and I have the blue ones for pool and the mirror ones for outdoors. They don’t quite live up to their claim of ‘no goggle marks’ for me but they are the best I’ve had. They’ve also stayed fitting well far longer than any others I’ve tried. Previously I’ve had to change goggles every 6-9 months”. Says Sandra Buckton, Team GB Age Group European Triathlon Silver medallist.
The Future of TheMagic5
TheMagic5 recently announced a partnership with Canyon bikes saying they will be focussing on creating a better rider experience by improving fit and comfort for all athletes.
Canyon plans to develop and find new uses for the online customisation and mobile application scanning technology that TheMagic5 has pioneered. “Using the same model of “one size fits only one” TheMagic5 and Canyon will explore new possibilities and develop innovative products with unparalleled consumer access to more comfortable, better fitting, and more functional cycling equipment”, says Canyon.
It will be interesting to see how this develops and how they use the scanning software and 3D printing capability to produce custom bike parts.
Conclusion
TheMagic5 custom goggles have proven to be a game-changer for swimmers and triathletes seeking the perfect fit and unparalleled performance. Through 3D printing customization, these goggles offer a level of comfort and precision that is unmatched in the industry. While they may not completely eliminate goggle marks, their overall quality and functionality make them the top choice for discerning triathletes.
Notably, TheMagic5 goggles have exceeded expectations in terms of durability. Unlike other goggles that require frequent replacements, these goggles have proven to be a long-lasting companion, outlasting their competitors.
The exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in TheMagic5 goggles are evident in their flawless fit. Each pair is meticulously tailored to your unique facial contours using their unique scanning software, resulting in a snug and secure fit that enhances both performance and comfort. By eliminating discomfort and distractions caused by ill-fitting goggles, TheMagic5 allows you to fully immerse yourself in your training or race.
The purchase, scanning process, production and communication throughout the process was exceptional. They have a very high level of customer support and service.
TheMagic5 goggles offer various lens options, including clear, tinted, and mirrored lenses, to accommodate different lighting conditions (pool or open water) and your personal preferences.
Dive into the world of TheMagic5 and experience the future of swimming goggles for yourself.
TheMagic5 Goggle FAQ
What are TheMagic5 goggles?
TheMagic5 goggles are custom-fit swimming goggles that are designed to provide a personalized and comfortable fit for swimmers.
How do TheMagic5 goggles achieve a custom fit?
TheMagic5 goggles use a scanning app and 3D printing technology to create goggles that perfectly match the unique contours of an individual’s face.
How do I get a custom fit with TheMagic5 goggles?
To get a custom fit, you need to download the Magic5 scanning app on your smartphone or tablet, follow the instructions to scan your face, and submit the scan through the app. The company will then use this scan to 3D print goggles that fit your face precisely.
Can I adjust the fit of TheMagic5 goggles?
Yes, TheMagic5 goggles have adjustable straps that allow you to fine-tune the fit according to your preferences.
What are the benefits of a custom fit with TheMagic5 goggles?
The custom fit of TheMagic5 goggles offers several benefits, including improved comfort, reduced pressure on the eye sockets, minimized leakage, and enhanced peripheral vision.
Are TheMagic5 goggles suitable for all swimmers?
TheMagic5 goggles are designed to cater to a wide range of swimmers, including recreational swimmers, competitive swimmers, and triathletes. They are suitable for both adults and children.
What lens options are available for TheMagic5 goggles?
TheMagic5 goggles offer various lens options, including clear, tinted, and mirrored lenses, to accommodate different lighting conditions and personal preferences.
Are TheMagic5 goggles fog-resistant?
Yes, TheMagic5 goggles come with an anti-fog coating on the lenses to minimize fogging and maintain clear vision during swimming.
How do I care for and maintain TheMagic5 goggles?
To care for TheMagic5 goggles, rinse them with clean water after each use, avoid touching the inside of the lenses, and store them in a protective case when not in use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care and maintenance.
What is the price range for TheMagic5 goggles?
The price of TheMagic5 goggles varies depending on the specific model and customization options chosen. It is best to check the TheMagic5 website or authorized retailers for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Can I return or exchange TheMagic5 goggles?
TheMagic5 offers a fit guarantee, allowing you to return or exchange the goggles within a specified timeframe if the fit is not satisfactory. Be sure to review their return/exchange policy for detailed information.
Remember to refer to the official TheMagic5 website or reach out to their customer support for any specific questions or updates regarding their products.
FAQ for Buying Triathlon Goggles
Triathlon goggles are essential for clear vision, eye protection, and comfort during open water swimming events in triathlons.
Some important factors to consider include fit, lens type, tint/color, anti-fog properties, UV protection, lens coating, gasket material, strap design, and budget.
The goggles should fit snugly but not too tight, creating a watertight seal around your eyes. They should not cause discomfort or leave marks on your skin. Test the fit by pressing the goggles onto your eye sockets without using the strap. If they stay in place, it’s a good sign of a proper fit.
Triathlon goggles typically come with clear, tinted, or mirrored lenses. Clear lenses are suitable for low-light conditions, while tinted or mirrored lenses help reduce glare and are ideal for bright, sunny conditions.
Lens color or tint should be chosen based on the prevailing lighting conditions. Lighter tints like yellow or amber enhance visibility in low-light situations, while darker tints like gray or smoke reduce brightness in sunny environments.
Anti-fog properties prevent the lens from fogging up, ensuring clear vision during the swim. Look for goggles with anti-fog coatings or lenses that offer long-lasting fog resistance. You can purchase anti-fog spray to extend the life of the anti-fog properties.
Yes, many triathlon goggles offer UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Check for goggles that provide 100% UV protection.
Lens coating can enhance durability, scratch resistance, and water repellence. Some goggles have hydrophobic coatings that help water slide off the lens, maintaining clear vision.
Gaskets are the soft, pliable material that creates a seal around your eyes. Look for goggles with gaskets made from comfortable and hypoallergenic materials that provide a watertight seal without causing discomfort.
The strap should be adjustable and secure to keep the goggles in place during the swim. Look for goggles with easy-to-adjust straps that don’t slip or loosen during activity.
Some goggles offer features like interchangeable lenses for versatility, polarized lenses for enhanced visibility, or prescription lens compatibility for those who require corrective lenses.
Triathlon goggles can range in price from around $15 to $100, depending on the brand, features, and lens technology. Determine your budget and consider your needs to find the best value for your investment.
