Gear Guide: What to Bring

Having the right gear makes practice and meets go smoothly. Here's what every Breakers swimmer needs.

Required for every practice:

• Competitive swimsuit (one-piece for girls, briefs or jammers for boys)
• Two pairs of goggles — always bring a backup
• Swim cap (silicone caps last longer than latex)
• Towel
• Water bottle

Useful training gear (coaches will advise):

• Kickboard — provided at some facilities but good to own one
• Pull buoy — an hour-glass foam float for arm-only drills
• Fins — short training fins, NOT snorkeling fins
• Paddles — flat plastic paddles for the hands, builds strength

For meets, also bring:

• Team swim cap if your group has one
• Deck shoes or flip flops for walking around wet pool decks
• Warm-up clothes — it can get cold in large natatoriums
• Snacks and a full water bottle

A note on goggles: fit is everything. Goggles should suction gently to the eyes without needing tight straps. Try them on at a sporting goods store if possible. Popular brands include Speedo, TYR, and Arena.