Swim Team Gear Guide
Back to SupportersSwim team participation requires specific gear to ensure safety, comfort, and performance. The following items are essential for all swimmers.
Essential Gear
Swimsuit
Girls should wear a one-piece, while boys need jammers (above the knee, form-fitting) or briefs. Training suits, costing $20-50 on sale or $60-80 regularly, are chlorine-resistant and durable, unlike cheaper options from Walmart, Costco, or Sportchek.
Goggles
Critical for clear underwater vision, protecting eyes from chlorine. Consider brands like Speedo or TYR for quality.
Swim Cap
Reduces drag and protects hair from chlorine damage. Check if the Digby Dolphins have a team cap; otherwise, latex or silicone caps are suitable, with personal preference based on comfort.
Towels
Bring at least two—one for drying off after warm-ups and one to sit on during meets, as pools can be wet.
Water Bottle
Essential for hydration, especially during long practices and meets.
Additional Equipment
Items like kickboards, fins, hand paddles, and pull buoys may be needed later. Initially, check with the coach; some teams provide these, but having personal ones (distinctly labeled) can be helpful for bag organization.
Purchasing Tips
For purchasing, consider Team Aquatic Supplies, which offers discounts with a 'Shark Card' coupon (email for details) and has stores in Burlington and Toronto. Label all gear to prevent loss, and use a mesh bag for drying between practices, which can be dunked in the pool for cleaning.
Gear Maintenance
Extending the Life of Your Gear
- Rinse swimsuits and caps in cold water after each use to remove chlorine
- Avoid wringing out swimsuits; instead, roll them in a towel to remove excess water
- Air dry gear away from direct sunlight
- Use a mesh bag for storage to allow air circulation
- Clean goggles with fresh water only; avoid touching the inside of the lenses
When to Replace
- Swimsuits: When the fabric becomes thin, stretched out, or loses elasticity
- Goggles: When seals no longer prevent leaking or lenses are scratched
- Caps: When they become thin, tear easily, or lose elasticity
Gear Checklist
- Swimsuit
- Goggles
- Swim Cap
- Towels
- Water Bottle