Zone3 Venator-X swimming goggles review

The Zone3 Venator-X hasn’t appeared in these pages for a while – though the brand’s other models figure heavily in our best swimming goggles list. That’s not to say there isn’t a lot to like here. 

Zone3 Venator-X frames and lenses

First up, there are 12 different frame colour and lens options including a photochromatic version ($49/£42.50) as well as various tints and clear options. 

The Venator-X sits in the middle of the range between the large Vapour (similar to the Huub Aphotics) and the smaller Volares which sit more closely to the eye socket. 

On test here are the orange with blue lenses. Now personally I’d usually choose a polarised/mirrored option which retails for the same price. But for a swim goggles nerd who’s tried just about every pair out there I was still pleasantly surprised by the look and feel of these. 

The bright orange frames did stand out from the rest on test here and anecdotally, made me easier to spot in the melée of a busy swim event. Also easier to find inside a kit bag! 

Zone3 Venator-X performance

These were comfortable too, with soft gaskets and a curved lens fitting my face well. They felt nicely finished and good quality and with no fiddly parts, like they could survive the chaos of my swim kit bag well. Again though, this is a reminder to put your goggles away carefully after each swim.

On that note, you don’t get a case with these but many brands are opting not to provide a case now for environmental reasons on the basis that you can buy one separately if you need one. 

Zone3 offers a quality zipped case with fleece lining for an extra £10 which seems reasonable added to the cost of these goggles. 

Adjustment is via two subtle clips on the side of the goggles which work well and the wide strap with split at the back kept them in place well as I swam. Little rubber dots on the straps aided them staying put, too. 

In the water and the pale blue tint of these was perfect to cut out the worst of the warm glare of the sun on bright days, improving visibility but without taking it down so much that visibility was compromised on dull days. 

Zone3 Venator-X bottom line

They would also work in the pool, if you want a pair that can multitask.

The chunkiness of the frames does mean they are quite visible as I swim and there isn’t the range of vision as you get with some of the others on test. But it’s a case of considering how much you need.

I found these worked well and I didn’t feel I had any blind spots, the slight curve working well to show around me in the water. 

The price point here is reasonable for a set of goggles that feel good quality. The choice of options also means you can undoubtedly find a pair to suit you and to match your race-day kit!

Zone3 Venator-X specs

Price:	$49/£35
Case:	Not included
Lenses:	12 lens and frame options
Adjustability:	Two side clips