If you’re joining a swim club, you’ll need some essential gear to be ready for practice. Each team will have a list of gear they require. Here’s a quick breakdown of the basics:
1. Swimsuit
You’ll need a comfortable, snug-fitting suit made for training. These are different from beachwear—they’re built to stay in place and hold up against lots of chlorine. Girls usually wear one-piece suits, and boys wear jammers or briefs.
2. Goggles
Goggles help protect your eyes from chlorine and let you see underwater. Make sure to get a pair with two straps that go around the back of your head—this keeps them more secure, especially during dives and flip turns. Make sure they fit your face without leaking. Everyone has a favorite brand or style, so it might take a little trial and error.
Here are a few of our kids favorites
TYR Swimple Tie Die Youth Goggles
These have been our go-to goggles for years. Both of my kids wore this brand and style when they first started swimming, and they’ve held up wonderfully. My youngest still says this is her favorite pair! They fit well, are comfortable, and come in a variety of fun colors that kids love. Highly recommend for little swimmers just starting out.
Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Junior
My oldest really likes this style of goggles, especially the comfortable fit. The removable nose piece is a nice feature for adjusting the fit, but we’ve had some issues with it staying in place. On a few pairs, we had to use superglue to keep it secure. Overall, still a favorite style, but the nose piece could use some improvement.
3. Swim Cap
Caps help reduce drag and keep hair out of your face.
- If you have thick or long hair, look for caps designed specifically for long hair—they offer more space and are easier to put on.
- Silicone caps are most popular: durable and comfortable.
TYR Lycra Swim Cap
Lycra swim caps are great if you’re looking for something gentle that won’t pull hair—especially for younger swimmers. However, they don’t stay on as securely as silicone or latex caps and tend to absorb more water. If you’re swimming outdoors, keep in mind they don’t retain heat well, so swimmers may feel colder. A good option for comfort, but not the best for warmth or long swim sessions.
Some clubs require team caps during practice, double check with your team.
4. Kickboard
Used for kicking drills. It helps swimmers focus on their kick without worrying about their arms.
5. Pull Buoy
This goes between your legs to help keep them floating during pull sets, so you can focus on arm technique. Normally used by advanced younger swimmers or swimmers 11+. Check with your team if this is required gear.
6. Fins
Short training fins are great for building kick strength and improving technique. Make sure they’re not too tight or too loose.
Kids Short Fins
The coach for our youngest swimmers prefers these.
Sporti Youth Swim Fins
Each size comes in a different color, so it’s easy to tell them apart—but that also means you’ll want to order the correct size the first time. Be sure to check the size guide carefully. It’s also helpful to ask teammates and try on different sizes if possible. If you’re between sizes, wearing regular socks or swim socks underneath can help until they fit better. Overall, sizing is key for getting the right fit!
7. Mesh Gear Bag
TYR Mesh Swim Gear Bag
Use a mesh bag to carry all your gear. It lets everything dry out faster and keeps your stuff organized on deck.
8. Parka or Warm Jacket
Swim parkas are long, fleece-lined jackets designed to keep you warm before and after practice—especially during cold mornings or outdoor seasons. They’re a great investment if your pool or deck area gets chilly.
Bonus Tip: Label all your gear! It’s easy to lose track of things when everyone’s equipment looks alike.
