What is FINA approved?
FINA approved (now officially known as World Aquatics Approved) swim goggles are eyewear that has been rigorously tested and certified to meet the international standards set by the world governing body for aquatic sports.
In 2023, FINA rebranded to World Aquatics, so you will see both labels on the market. Both are valid for competition as long as the specific model remains on the official approved list.
When Do You Need Them?
- National & International Meets: Required for Olympic Games, World Championships, and National trials.
- Record Breaking: If you break a world or national record, officials will check your gear. If it isn't approved, the record may not stand.
- Local Meets: Generally not required for local club galas or lower-level regional events, though many competitive swimmers use them anyway for the performance benefits.
How World Aquatics Inspects and Approves Swim Goggles
The approval process is governed by the World Aquatics Competition Regulations. It ensures that swim goggles meet strict standards for safety, fairness, and commercial branding before they can be used in elite competitions (Olympics, World Championships, etc.).
1. The Application and Submission Process
Manufacturers must go through a formal administrative procedure to get their goggles certified:
- Sample Submission: Manufacturers must submit physical samples and detailed technical blueprints of the goggles to the World Aquatics office.
- Approval Fees: Each new model requires a testing and certification fee, typically around €750.
- Timeline: Applications are usually reviewed annually, and models must be approved and added to the official list before the start of the competitive season.
2. Core Technical Inspection Criteria
The inspection team evaluates the samples based on three primary pillars:
A. Design and Structural Integrity
- Standard Components: Goggles must consist of two lenses, a frame/nose bridge, and a head strap.
- Independence: They must be a standalone accessory. They cannot be integrated into the swim cap or form a "mask-like" structure that covers the nose.
- Safety Standards: The goggles must meet international safety requirements (such as ISO 18527-3:2020) to ensure they are shatter-resistant and safe under impact.
B. Fairness and "No Tech" Policy
This is the most critical part of the inspection to prevent "technological doping":
- No Real-Time Feedback: While modern goggles may contain sensors (like heart rate monitors or lap counters), they are strictly forbidden from providing real-time data or signals to the swimmer during a race.
- No External Communication: Any device that can receive external signals (from a coach or a pacing device) during the race is automatically disqualified.
- No Propulsion/Buoyancy: The design must not provide any mechanical advantage, such as extra buoyancy or hydrodynamics that exceed the natural profile of the head.
C. Commercial Identification (Branding Rules)
World Aquatics has very specific rules regarding the size of the manufacturer's logo:
- Size Limit: A logo can appear a maximum of two times on the goggles (usually on the strap or frame). Each logo cannot exceed 6 cm².
- Placement: The branding must not interfere with the overall functionality or create an unfair visual distraction.
How to Identify Them
The Logo: Look for a small "FINA Approved" or "World Aquatics Approved" white-and-black logo on the packaging.
- The List: You can verify any piece of equipment on the official https://approved.swimwear.fina.org/
- The Code: Newer approved gear often features a QR code or an alphanumeric ID that officials can scan to confirm its status.
