Our Story

History of Barracuda:

The Barracuda Swim Goggle was invented by Dr. John L. Runckel. Dr. Runckel swam for fitness and, at the time, was unhappy with all goggle products on the market. Having experience in plastic molding, Dr. Runckel combined this knowledge with his dental expertise to create a new and innovative swim goggle mold.

Dr. Runckel noticed that all swim goggles were shaped like a cup. Suction was used to pull the skin away from the facial structure and match it to the form of the goggle. This could cause pain, and in severe cases, tissue and lymphatic damage. Dr. Runckel reasoned that if a goggle could be created that would match the bone structure of the face it would not only fit better, but be more comfortable. With this idea in mind, he took an impression of the eye socket. From this impression he designed the first Barracuda goggle, The Standard. The Barracuda design was patented, and production was started.

Why Barracudas Fit:

The Barracuda Goggle matches the facial bone structure. The frame causes a “positive pressure” to be created between the swimmer’s face and the goggle. Positive pressure comfortably seals out water without suction. Obviously, faces and bone structure are different. Because of this, Barracuda uses a conforming closed cell foam to compensate for any deviations between the facial structure and the frame. A fully adjustable nose piece is also designed to help fit the goggle. Double and split strapping also contribute to the Barracuda system. This strapping allows pressure to be created from both the upper and lower regions of the head. The user can create the exact pressure needed for their unique conditions.

All Barracuda Comfort Foam Series Goggles are created by hand. After the frame parts are injection molded, they are delivered to the production line for examination and assembly. Painstaking care is taken to assure that each Barracuda goggle shipped is the best possible quality. Our goal is basic. Simple to produce quality eye protection for swimmers.