Why Proper Swimming Attire Matters
What you wear in the pool affects how comfortable you feel, how freely you move and even how quickly you learn. Here is what to look for.
Why it matters
Comfort and confidence
Swimwear that slips, rides up or needs constant adjusting is distracting, especially for beginners who are already concentrating hard. A secure, comfortable fit lets you focus on the lesson.
Free movement and less drag
Loose clothing fills with water, drags you back and makes floating and kicking harder. Fitted swimwear moves with you.
Hygiene
Many public pools require proper swimwear. Street clothes, such as cotton T-shirts and shorts, can carry dirt and lint into the water and absorb a lot of water. Check your pool's rules.
Safety
Heavy, waterlogged clothing makes swimming more tiring. Brightly coloured swimwear and caps also make swimmers, especially children, easier to spot in the water.
What to look for
- Fit: snug but not tight. Test it by raising your arms overhead and bending; it should stay in place.
- Fabric: chlorine-resistant swimwear keeps its shape and colour much longer if you swim regularly.
- Coverage: choose what you are comfortable in. Rash guards, swim leggings and full-coverage swimwear are widely available.
- Sun protection: at Singapore's outdoor pools, a long-sleeved rash guard reduces sunburn. Use sunscreen on exposed skin.
For different swimmers
- Children: one-piece swimsuits or swim shorts with a rash guard work well. Bright colours help adults keep an eye on them.
- Babies and toddlers: a fitted swim nappy, plus a swimsuit or sun suit. See what to bring for baby swimming lessons.
- Adults learning to swim: whatever helps you feel comfortable and confident; fitted swimwear helps you move freely.
- Lap swimmers: a durable, fitted suit that stays put for push-offs and turns.
- Modest swimwear: full-coverage swimwear designed for swimming lets you move freely while covering arms, legs and hair. Our ladies swimming course welcomes learners who prefer modest swimwear.
Accessories
- Goggles that fit well make putting your face in the water much easier.
- A swim cap keeps long hair out of the way and reduces chlorine reaching the hair.
- Slippers help on wet pool decks and in changing rooms.
See our full swimming equipment list.
Caring for swimwear
Rinse your swimwear in cool fresh water after every swim to remove chlorine, and dry it in the shade rather than in direct sun. Avoid wringing it hard or putting it in a dryer. Read why you should shower before and after swimming.
Ready for lessons?
For lessons, bring a swimsuit, goggles, a cap if you have long hair and a towel. Read what to expect in your first swimming lesson.
More in kit and pool life
- 14 benefits of swimming with finsHow training fins help, and how to use them well
- Why shower before and after swimmingCleaner pools, healthier skin and hair
- Swimming equipment listWhat you need, and what you don't
Further reading
- CDC, Swim diapers and swim pants. Healthy swimming habits for families with young children.
- American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org), Drowning prevention for curious toddlers. Close supervision, barriers and why floatation toys are not safety devices.
Ready to start lessons?
Tell us the learner's age, their swimming experience and anything the instructor should know. We will suggest a suitable course, format and pool. Lessons run at public swimming complexes, private venues and condominium pools across Singapore.