When swimmers move from learn-to-swim lessons into a competitive squad, they quickly discover they need more than just swimmers and goggles. Competitive swimmers use specialised training equipment to improve technique, strength, body position and efficiency in the water.
For many parents and new swimmers, the list of gear can be confusing at first. In this guide, we'll explain the essential equipment most squad swimmers use, why coaches recommend it, and how each piece of gear helps swimmers train more effectively.
At Swimwear Shack, we work with swimmers at every level — from beginners joining their first squad through to elite athletes competing at national and international levels.
Essential Swim Gear for Squad Swimmers
1. Swimming Goggles
Goggles are one of the most important pieces of equipment for any swimmer. A good pair allows swimmers to see clearly underwater and protects their eyes from chlorine.
Most squad swimmers use two types of goggles:
Training goggles
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Durable straps and soft seals
- Good visibility
Racing goggles
- Low profile and hydrodynamic
- Designed for competition
- Often mirrored to reduce glare
Many swimmers keep two pairs in their bag in case one breaks during training.
2. Silicone Swim Caps
Swim caps reduce drag in the water and keep hair out of a swimmer's face. Most competitive swimmers prefer silicone caps because they are durable, comfortable and easy to put on.
Benefits of silicone swim caps:
- Longer lasting than latex caps
- Comfortable fit
- Helps reduce drag in the water
Swimmers often keep multiple caps in their bag as they can occasionally tear or get lost.
3. Training Fins
Swimming fins are one of the most common training tools used in squads.
Fins help swimmers:
- Develop stronger kicks
- Improve ankle flexibility
- Maintain better body position in the water
- Swim faster during kick sets
Coaches often use fins during drills and technique work, making them an essential part of most swimmers' equipment bags.
4. Kickboard
Kickboards are used to isolate the legs so swimmers can focus purely on their kick technique.
Benefits of kickboard training:
- Improves leg strength
- Builds endurance in kick sets
- Helps swimmers maintain correct body position
Kickboards are frequently used during structured training sessions, especially for developing younger swimmers.
5. Pull Buoy
A pull buoy is placed between the swimmer's thighs to keep the legs afloat while focusing on the upper body.
Pull buoy training helps swimmers:
- Improve arm strength
- Develop better stroke technique
- Maintain correct body alignment
Pull buoys are commonly used during pull sets and endurance work.
6. Swimming Paddles
Paddles increase the surface area of the hand, helping swimmers build strength and improve their catch in the water.
Benefits of paddles:
- Strengthens the upper body
- Improves stroke mechanics
- Helps swimmers feel the water better
Paddles should always be used under the guidance of a coach to ensure correct technique.
7. Swim Snorkel
A swim snorkel allows swimmers to keep their face in the water while breathing, removing the need to turn their head during each stroke.
This helps swimmers focus on:
- Stroke technique
- Body position
- Alignment in the water
Snorkels are commonly used for freestyle drills and technique sets.
Bonus Gear Many Competitive Swimmers Use
As swimmers progress through squad levels, many add extra equipment to their training bag.
- Mesh gear bag — keeps all equipment together and allows it to dry quickly.
- Resistance bands — used for dryland training and shoulder strength.
- Drag shorts or resistance equipment — used to build power and improve strength in the water.
Tips From Experienced Competitive Swimmers
One of the most common mistakes new squad swimmers make is overcomplicating their gear. Start with the basics and build your equipment gradually.
A simple gear setup for most swimmers includes:
- Goggles
- Swim cap
- Fins
- Kickboard
- Pull buoy
- Paddles
- Snorkel
At Swimwear Shack, many of our team members have competed at elite levels of swimming, including the Olympics. One tip we always give swimmers is to keep all training equipment in a mesh bag so it stays organised and dries properly between sessions.
Final Thoughts
Competitive swimming uses a range of specialised equipment designed to help swimmers improve technique, strength and efficiency in the water. While it may seem like a lot of gear at first, most swimmers gradually build their equipment collection as they progress through their training.
Whether you're new to squad swimming or preparing for your next competition, having the right gear can make training more effective — and more enjoyable.
If you're unsure what equipment is right for your level, the team at Swimwear Shack is always happy to help swimmers and parents choose the right gear for training and racing.
Competitive Swim Gear FAQ
What gear does a new competitive swimmer need?
Most squad swimmers start with goggles, a silicone swim cap, training fins, a kickboard, a pull buoy, hand paddles and a swim snorkel, all kept in a mesh gear bag. Start with the basics and add equipment gradually as you progress.
Why do competitive swimmers carry two pairs of goggles?
Many keep both training goggles (comfortable, durable, good visibility for long sessions) and racing goggles (low-profile, hydrodynamic, often mirrored), plus a spare in case one breaks mid-session.
What's the difference between a kickboard and a pull buoy?
A kickboard isolates the legs so you can focus on kick technique and leg strength, while a pull buoy floats the legs so you can focus on upper-body strength and stroke technique.