We are already one month into our school swim season! You never thought you would miss the hot pool decks and the sting of chlorine – but admit it, it feels like home after a few seasons. Going into the season prepared with gear, and having a few backups on hand for anything that gets lost or broken can ease some stress when the inevitable happens. Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Introduction to Swim Season Essentials
As the school swim season kicks off, it’s crucial for every swimmer to have the right gear! Whether you’re diving into competition or joining your friends for fun practices, this guide will ensure you’re fully equipped. Let’s dive into the must-have items every swimmer needs this season!
Swimwear: The Foundation of Your Gear
First and foremost, a good swimsuits are essential. Look for comfortable, durable materials that fit well and allow for easy movement. Your swimmer will likely need suits in the following categories:
- Team suit – typically chosen and ordered by the team. Expect a well known brand with a cost around $70.
- Practice suit – a one-piece athletic suit purchased on your own. It is helpful to have 2 or 3 practice suits and to try different brands. We’ve liked the following suits:
- 85% Polyester, 15% Spandex
- Imported
- Please reference Speedo’s New & Improved size chart for your optimal sizing. Keep in mind that our competitive suits are…
- Tech suit – a suit for swimmers competing at a higher level. For a school team these are not typically required, although a swimmer might feel out of place if they are the only athlete without one for certain meets. Ask other parents on your team to gauge whether or not to purchase one. We choose a lower cost option since we are not highly competitive:
Accessories That Make a Splash
Along with swimwear, accessories play a vital role in your performance. Invest in a quality pair of goggles that fit your face comfortably and won’t leak. A swim cap is another important item, as it reduces drag and keeps hair out of your face, allowing you to focus solely on improving your speed. Lastly, having a mesh bag to carry your gear is handy—keep everything organized and ready for every training session!
- Goggles – trial and error depending on your swimmers face shape. Here are the ones that have worked for us:
- Swim Caps – you will need at least one basic cap for practice or as a 2nd cap during meets. Why not pick a fun pattern? These can make a great gift for a swimmer!
Other Necessities
Will a goggle strap break? Yes! Instead of replacing the goggles, invest in a few backup straps to have. And keep those goggles scratch free by using a storage case. Backstroker’s may want a nose clip (or two!) You might have a team backpack, but during practices or off-season it is handy to have a dedicated swim bag.
Extras
Footwear, towels, bathroom, and snack staples are also necessary! These also make great gift ideas for swimmers!
In conclusion, being prepared with the right items will help you make the most of your school swim season. So, gear up and get ready to make waves!