How to Buy Backstroke Flag Markers

Backstroke flags are used by swimmers performing the backstroke. The swimmer cannot see the wall, and therefore counts how many strokes it takes to get to the wall after passing under the flags. This prevents a collision with the wall, and permits the swimmer to make the appropriate turn if required.

  1. Fabric and Size

    • Backstroke flags can be made of canvas, vinyl, nylon or woven polyester. The size of the triangular flag itself is relatively standardized at 12-inches wide and 18-inches long. Most retailers sell varying lengths of flag-strings to suit the varying widths of swimming pools. For example, a swimming pool with eight, 6-foot-wide lanes would require two, 98-foot strings of 136 flags each, to be mounted near each end of the pool.

    Color

    • Backstroke flags are available in a wide range of colors. Some swimming pool managers will decide to purchase flags of all one color, while others will purchase a string of flags that alternate between two or even three different colors.

    Where to Buy

    • Backstroke flags of varying quality and price are available from some sporting goods stores, pool supply houses and online.