Swimming Equipment List: What You Need, and What You Don't
You need very little to start swimming. Here is what is essential, what is useful once you start training, and what you can safely skip.
The essentials
Swimsuit
Choose something that fits snugly and stays in place when you push off the wall. Chlorine-resistant fabrics last longer if you swim often. Many public pools require proper swimwear rather than cotton shorts or T-shirts. Rash guards are useful for sun protection at outdoor pools. Read more in why proper swimming attire matters.
Goggles
The single most useful item. Good goggles let you keep your face in the water comfortably. Test the fit by pressing them gently onto your eyes without the strap; they should stay on briefly. Anti-fog lenses help, and tinted or mirrored lenses are useful at outdoor pools. Children's goggles should be sized for children.
Swim cap
Keeps long hair out of your face and goggles, and reduces the chlorine reaching your hair. Silicone caps are durable and comfortable; latex caps are cheaper but thinner.
Towel, slippers and toiletries
A quick-dry towel, slippers for wet floors, shampoo and body wash for showering after, and a bag for wet kit. A padlock for lockers can be useful.
Water bottle
You sweat when you swim, especially at outdoor pools in Singapore's heat.
Useful training aids
- Kickboard: for practising kicking and isolating the legs. See how to kick in swimming.
- Pull buoy: held between the thighs to float the legs while you practise arms.
- Fins: short training fins add propulsion and help with body position and ankle flexibility. Use them for parts of a session, not all of it. See benefits of swimming with fins.
- Front snorkel: lets you focus on your stroke without turning to breathe. Useful for technique work once you are comfortable.
- Waterproof watch: handy for counting lengths and timing sets.
For specific needs
- Earplugs: for people prone to ear problems; see swimmer's ear.
- Nose clip: helps some beginners who dislike water up the nose, though learning to breathe out through the nose is better long term.
- Swim nappies: required for babies and toddlers who are not toilet-trained. See what to bring for baby swimming lessons.
What not to rely on
Armbands, inflatable rings and pool toys are not safety devices. They can slip off or deflate, and they give children and parents a false sense of security. Children in or near water always need an adult within arm's reach. For open water, use a properly fitted life jacket where needed. See our water safety tips.
What to bring to lessons
For most lessons you need only a swimsuit, goggles, a cap if you have long hair, a towel and a water bottle. Coaches usually provide kickboards and other teaching aids. Read what to expect in your first swimming lesson.
More in kit and pool life
- Why proper swimming attire mattersSwimwear for comfort, safety and hygiene
- 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
Further reading
- American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org), Drowning prevention for curious toddlers. Close supervision, barriers and why floatation toys are not safety devices.
- CDC, Swim diapers and swim pants. Healthy swimming habits for families with young children.
Ready for your first lesson?
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.