# SwimTested

> Swimming gear guides: goggles, swimwear and tech suits, caps, fins, paddles and training tools, open-water wetsuits and buoys, swim watches and headphones, and learn-to-swim gear.

SwimTested publishes swimming gear reviews, buying guides and reader discount codes. Every review states who the product suits, the current price from the brand's own store, and any active reader code.

## Key pages
- [Reviews](https://swimtested.com/reviews): every product we recommend
- [Buying guides](https://swimtested.com/guides): how to choose
- [Glossary](https://swimtested.com/glossary): swimming gear terms defined
- [How we test](https://swimtested.com/testing-methodology)

## Topics
- [Goggles & caps](https://swimtested.com/category/goggles-caps): Training and racing goggles, mirrored and tinted lenses, prescription goggles, masks, silicone and latex caps.
- [Swimwear](https://swimtested.com/category/swimwear): Training suits and jammers, chlorine-resistant fabrics, competition tech suits, and modest and plus-size options.
- [Training gear](https://swimtested.com/category/training-gear): Swim fins, hand paddles, kickboards, pull buoys, center-mount snorkels, parachutes and resistance tools.
- [Open water & triathlon](https://swimtested.com/category/open-water): Swim wetsuits, swimskins, tow floats, open-water goggles, neoprene caps and cold-water gear.
- [Swim tech](https://swimtested.com/category/swim-tech): Swim-tracking watches, bone-conduction and waterproof headphones, lap counters and pace clocks.
- [Learn to swim & family](https://swimtested.com/category/learn-family): Learn-to-swim aids, kids' goggles and suits, life jackets, swim diapers and adult beginner guides.
- [Deck & care](https://swimtested.com/category/deck-care): Mesh and backpack bags, deck parkas, microfiber towels, slides, anti-fog, ear care and chlorine-removal products.
- [Snorkel, polo & more](https://swimtested.com/category/snorkel-dive): Snorkel masks and fins, freediving basics, water polo caps and balls, aqua fitness and synchronized swimming gear.

## Buying guides
- [Chlorine-Resistant Swimsuits: Polyester vs Nylon-Spandex](https://swimtested.com/guides/chlorine-resistant-swimsuit-fabrics): Spandex (also sold as Lycra or elastane) is broken down by chlorine, so nylon-spandex suits stretch and go see-through faster in pools. Suits made of 100 percent polyester, or polyester with very little spandex, keep their shape far longer and are the standard choice for regular lap swimming and training. Rinse every suit in cool fresh water, do not wring it, and dry it flat out of the sun.
- [Full-Face vs Traditional Snorkel Masks: Fit and Use](https://swimtested.com/guides/full-face-vs-traditional-snorkel-masks): A traditional snorkel setup uses a separate face mask and mouthpiece snorkel; a full-face snorkeling mask combines the viewing area and snorkel assembly, with some makers describing nose-and-mouth breathing. Choose by face seal, model-specific instructions, cleaning and storage, and the activity the maker permits. DAN and Duke's public study page describes research questions rather than a consumer model ranking, so it does not establish that one format is safer.
- [How to Choose Swim Goggles: Fit, Gaskets and Lens Tints](https://swimtested.com/guides/how-to-choose-swim-goggles): Goggles that fit will seal for a second or two when you press them to your eyes without the strap. Silicone gaskets are the comfortable all-rounder, low-profile and gasketless racing goggles trade comfort for a lower profile, and masks suit wide faces and open water. Choose clear or light lenses for indoor pools, smoke or mirrored lenses for sun, and never rub the inside of the lens, where the anti-fog coating sits.
- [Jammers vs Briefs vs Square-Leg Swimsuits](https://swimtested.com/guides/jammers-briefs-vs-square-leg): A jammer gives the most leg coverage of these three common men's training cuts; a brief leaves the legs mostly open, while a square-leg suit adds a short leg. TYR lists all three in its men's training range, and Speedo describes a square-leg aquashort as combining brief-like freedom with short coverage. Pick by the coverage you prefer, then use the exact model's size chart and liner details rather than assuming every brand uses identical cuts.
- [Life Jackets vs Swim Aids for Kids: What Keeps Them Safe](https://swimtested.com/guides/life-jackets-vs-swim-aids-for-kids): A US Coast Guard-approved life jacket is a lifesaving device; arm floats, swim rings and most swim vests are swim aids that help a child practice but can slip off or tip them face-down. Children who cannot swim should wear an approved life jacket in open water and on boats, and every child near water needs an adult within arm's reach. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports swim lessons for most children from age 1.
- [Pool vs Open-Water Swim Watches: What Tracking Changes](https://swimtested.com/guides/pool-vs-open-water-swim-watches): For lap swimming, choose a watch with a compatible pool mode that counts turns and lets you set the pool length; for open water, look for a model with a GPS swim profile. Garmin says its pool distance calculation multiplies counted lengths by the pool size you enter, while GPS can be less accurate when the watch is repeatedly underwater. Check the exact model's activity list, pool-size options and metrics before buying.
- [How to Choose Prescription Swim Goggles](https://swimtested.com/guides/prescription-swim-goggles-diopters): Prescription swim goggles use discrete lens powers, listed in diopters, and each model offers its own range. Speedo's current guide lists standard options from -1.5 to -8.0 diopters and a build-your-own kit that allows different powers for each eye. Compare the exact lens range with your prescription and ask an optician when you are unsure which power to choose.
- [Pull Buoys vs Hand Paddles: What Each Swim Tool Does](https://swimtested.com/guides/pull-buoys-vs-hand-paddles): A pull buoy is held between the legs to support the lower body while you focus on the arm stroke; hand paddles enlarge the hand's surface against the water and add resistance and feedback. They solve different training problems, so choose by the set's goal rather than buying both by default. U.S. Masters Swimming advises new paddle users to start small because larger paddles increase shoulder strain.
- [Short vs Long Blade Swim Fins: Which to Train With](https://swimtested.com/guides/short-vs-long-blade-swim-fins): Short-blade fins keep your kick tempo close to swimming without fins, so they are the standard for competitive training and speed sets. Long-blade fins add more propulsion and stretch the ankles, which helps beginners, drills and ankle flexibility, but they slow your kick tempo. Fins should fit snugly with no gap at the heel; a fin that rubs will cause blisters within a few sessions.
- [Silicone vs Latex vs Lycra Swim Caps](https://swimtested.com/guides/silicone-latex-lycra-swim-caps): Silicone caps are reusable and come in standard and long-hair shapes; latex caps are lightweight; fabric Lycra caps prioritize a soft, easy fit and allow water to flow through. TYR describes all three materials in its current cap range, with different comfort and fit goals. Choose by hair volume, how the cap feels to put on, and whether your priority is a snug training or racing fit.
- [Swim Bags, Backpacks and Deck Parkas: How to Choose](https://swimtested.com/guides/swim-bags-backpacks-and-deck-parkas): A mesh bag is for carrying damp swim gear with airflow; a backpack adds compartments and a more comfortable commute; a deck parka is an insulated outer layer for between swims. TYR lists a mesh team backpack with 40 L capacity and dimensions of 24 by 17 inches, while parka specifications vary by model. Choose storage and weather features from the exact product page, and keep a wet-item pouch separate if you also carry dry clothes or electronics.
- [Swim Earplugs and Nose Clips: Types and Fit](https://swimtested.com/guides/swim-earplugs-nose-clips-fit): Moldable silicone earplugs can be shaped to fit different ears; pre-shaped flanged plugs use a formed design, while nose clips vary in shape, pressure and retention features. Choose by comfort and whether the accessory stays put through your normal surface-swimming session. Divers Alert Network advises against using earplugs for scuba diving, so keep ordinary swim accessories out of dive use.
- [Swim Wetsuit Sizing and Triathlon Temperature Rules](https://swimtested.com/guides/swim-wetsuit-sizing-and-temperature-rules): A swim wetsuit should feel tight on land, with no water pockets at the lower back, and free enough at the shoulders to reach overhead. Size by the brand's height and weight chart rather than clothing size. Swim wetsuits use thinner, more flexible shoulders than surf wetsuits. Under USA Triathlon rules, age-group athletes may wear a wetsuit in water up to 78°F; between 78.1 and 83.9°F they may wear one but are not eligible for awards; at 84°F and above wetsuits are not allowed.
- [Swimskins vs Wetsuits for Triathlon: How to Choose](https://swimtested.com/guides/swimskins-vs-wetsuits): At World Triathlon age-group World Championships, the official FAQ says swimskins are allowed at all distances and water temperatures and must be removed after the swim; event guidance defines a swimskin as 100% textile without rubberized material such as neoprene. Wetsuit use follows water temperature and swim distance: for age groups through 55–59, wetsuits are forbidden at 22°C or above for swims up to 1,500 m and at 24.6°C or above for 1,501 m or longer, and mandatory at 15.9°C or below. Choose from the event's current rules, the layer's material and the exact suit fit.
- [Swimsuit Size Charts Across Brands: How to Find Your Fit](https://swimtested.com/guides/swimsuit-sizing-across-brands): Use the chart for the exact swimsuit model and market; an alpha or numeric label alone is not a reliable conversion across brands. TYR's adult swim charts map sizes against body measurements, while a Speedo Ocean Flex chart lists Speedo and U.S. sizes with bust, waist and hip ranges. Speedo also distinguishes recreational, training, open-water and racing fit, so start with the activity and cut as well as your measurements.
- [Tech Suits Explained: Approval Rules, Fit and Who Needs One](https://swimtested.com/guides/tech-suit-buying-guide): A tech suit is a compressive, water-repellent race suit worn only for competition. Suits used in sanctioned meets must be on the World Aquatics approved list and carry its approval mark; men's suits may not extend above the navel or below the knee, and women's suits may not cover the neck, extend past the shoulders or go below the knee. USA Swimming bars tech suits for swimmers 12 and under at most age-group meets. Expect a tight fit and a life of a few dozen races.
- [Tow Floats Compared: Size, Visibility and Dry Bags](https://swimtested.com/guides/tow-floats-and-dry-bag-buoys-compared): A simple tow float adds an inflatable marker behind a swimmer; a dry-bag model adds a gear compartment and is larger to pack. Zone3 lists its basic float at 49 × 30 cm deflated with a waist leash, handle and reflective strips; its dry-bag model has 28 L of storage, dual air bladders and a 72 × 37 cm deflated size. Visibility details do not guarantee detection or replace a wearable PFD when rules require one.
- [Women's Training Swimsuit Backs: Racerback, Muscleback and More](https://swimtested.com/guides/womens-training-swimsuit-back-styles): Four common back layouts give you different strap positions and coverage: Speedo describes muscleback suits for longer training sessions, racerbacks for more back coverage and support, powerbacks for shoulder movement with slightly less coverage, and thinstraps for fewer tan lines outdoors. TYR also sells wide-strap open-back training suits, showing that names differ across brands. Choose by the coverage and strap feel you want, then check the exact product's movement and size guidance.

Contact: info@swimtested.com