Swim Equipment Basics
If you’re new to swimming, you may be wondering what equipment your child actually needs, what it’s for, and what to buy. Here are a few swim team basics to help get you started!
Swimsuits
A properly fitting swimsuit should fit snugly against the body without restricting movement.
Tips for Finding the Right Fit
- Swimsuits should fit closely without bunching or sagging
- Tight pulling at straps or openings usually means the suit is too small
- Swimmers should be able to move comfortably without the suit shifting
- If the suit feels uncomfortable or digs into the skin, try a different size or brand
- Competition-style suits are designed to fit tighter than recreational suits
When in doubt, have your swimmer move around in the suit — raise arms, bend, stretch, and make sure everything stays in place.
Improper Swimwear
Board Shorts
Board shorts create a lot of drag in the water and make swimming more difficult and tiring. While they’re great for recreational swimming, they should not be worn during swim team practices or meets.
For boys, we recommend:
- Jammers (most common)
- Brief-style competition suits
Rash Guards / Swim Shirts
Rash guards are less restrictive than board shorts and can help younger swimmers stay warm. However, they can still slow swimmers down and restrict movement slightly.
We recommend:
- Rash guards for recreational swimming and swim lessons
- Regular swimsuits for swim team practice whenever possible
Goggles
Good goggles make a huge difference!
Choosing Goggles
- Always try goggles on before buying if possible
- Goggles should create light suction around the eyes
- Adjustable nosepieces are helpful for getting a good fit
- Mirrored lenses can help reduce glare during outdoor swimming
Wearing Goggles Properly
- Straps should sit around the middle/back of the head in line with the eyes
- Avoid placing straps too low, too high, or over the ears
- Goggles should feel secure without needing to be painfully tight
If goggles constantly leak despite adjustments, it’s usually best to try a different pair.
Swim Caps
What Swim Caps Do
- Keep hair out of the swimmer’s face
- Reduce drag in the water
- Help swimmers stay warmer
Putting on a Swim Cap
- Start at the forehead and pull the cap backward
- Long hair should be tied in a low ponytail or bun first
Choosing a Cap
Silicone Caps
- More comfortable
- Last longer
- Better for long hair
Latex Caps
- Less expensive
- Thinner and cooler
- Require a little more care to avoid tearing
Sunscreen
For swim practices, sunscreen is usually a better option than swim shirts or rash guards, which can feel heavy and restrictive during lap swimming.
Sunscreen Tips
- Apply generously
- Put it on about 30 minutes before practice
- Reapply as needed during long meets or pool days
Swim shirts are great for before and after practice, or anytime kids are relaxing poolside.
