Equipment for Swimming

Swimming is a sport that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a technical sport, requiring some time and effort to learn to do properly. While the only equipment truly needed is a body of water and your body, some equipment will add to the comfort and enjoyment of this lifetime activity.

  1. Basic Equipment

    • Goggles for swimming

      For people with access to a swimming pool, a pair of goggles is a must. The chemicals in a pool can be harsh on the eyes and wearing goggles will make visibility in the water much clearer. You may buy simple goggles at sporting goods and other retail outlets. Specialized goggles for triathlons, or prescription goggles can also be purchased. Goggles are a good investment if you plan to swim often.

    Fins, Kickboards, Pull Buoys and Paddles

    • Fins and a kickboard

      If swimming is one of the things that you do for a good workout, adding fins, a kickboard pull buoys or hand paddles is a good idea. Kickboards and pull buoys are used when you work on the different parts of your swim stroke. A kickboard will support your upper body while you are working on the kicking portion of your stroke. Pull buoys go between your legs to keep the hips at the surface when you work on your arms. There is even a combo kickboard/pullbuoy so you only have the one piece of equipment.

      Swim fins can be used for people who do not have strong legs or want to swim longer. The fin gives you a longer lever in the water by lengthening your whole leg, thus allowing for a longer and stronger kick. Paddles slide over your hands and allow you to focus on your arm pull. Fins and paddles should be used sparingly unless you have very good swimming form. The paddles can be hard on your shoulders and emphasize bad form which can cause an overuse injury.

    Other Equipment

    • Swimming with a snorkel

      Other equipment for swimming is often more personal. Some people feel more comfortable swimming while wearing ear plugs to keep water out of the ears. Others like to wear a nose clip if they have difficulty with water up the nose.

      For people who like to swim but have limited range of motion in their head and shoulders, wearing a snorkel while swimming is popular. This is a specialized snorkel that comes straight up out of the water while the head is down. When wearing this type of snorkel, you do not have to turn your head to breathe.