9 Rookie Swim Gear Mistakes New Families Make and How to Avoid Them
- Pamela Flanigan
- Sep 26, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 7, 2025
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As the summer sun shines and the pool invites your family to dive in, many newcomers find themselves overwhelmed by swim gear choices. With everything from goggles to caps to think about, it can feel like a tough challenge. To help you navigate the waters and avoid common mistakes, we’ve compiled a list of nine rookie swim gear blunders and practical tips for what to buy instead. Let’s make this swim season enjoyable and easy for everyone!
Buying Only One Pair of Goggles
One of the most common rookie swim gear mistakes is purchasing just one pair of goggles. While that may seem enough at first, it often leads to frustration when kids lose or break them.
What to do instead:
Always carry a backup: Kids often misplace or break their goggles during swim practice. Having an extra pair ensures swim time isn’t interrupted. In fact, studies show that over 30% of kids lose or damage their swim gear each season.
Fit tips: Goggles should fit snugly without causing discomfort. They should create a seal around the eyes but not leave marks.
Anti-fog basics: Look for goggles with an anti-fog coating, or use an anti-fog spray regularly for clear vision.
Wrong-Size Suit
Another mistake is buying a swimsuit that doesn’t fit properly. A suit that’s too tight can cause discomfort, and one that’s too loose can slow swimmers down.
What to do instead:
Fit checklist: Ensure the suit hugs the body but allows for easy movement. For instance, a snug fit helps provide better streamlined performance, while a loose fit can create drag in the water, making swimming tougher.
Comfort vs. drag: For training, opt for a suit that prioritizes comfort. For races, a tighter fit can minimize water resistance.
Training vs. racing: Consider investing in separate suits for practice and competition. This practice can improve performance and provide durable options for each activity.
No Slides
Many families forget about the importance of wearing suitable footwear on the pool deck. Not having slides can lead to slips and falls, especially where surfaces are wet.
What to do instead:
Pool-deck safety: Invest in sturdy slides that provide grip and support. Look for options with rubber soles that reduce slipping.
Quick on/off: Slides are simple to wear and remove, making transitions smoother for children who frequently need to go from swimming to sitting or engaging in activities nearby.
Cotton Towels
While cotton towels feel soft and cozy, they can be bulky and slow to dry. This is especially problematic during swim meets or practice sessions, where time is of the essence.
What to do instead:
Quick-dry microfiber benefits: Opt for microfiber towels that are lightweight, highly absorbent, and dry rapidly. Microfiber can absorb up to seven times its weight in water, making it a more effective choice.
Space-saving: Microfiber towels take up less room in your swim bag, making them easier to carry and store.
No Mesh Bag
Using a regular bag for swim gear can lead to unpleasant odors and mildew. A simple mesh bag can solve this problem easily.
What to do instead:
Why ventilation matters: A mesh swim bag allows wet items to breathe, preventing mold and mildew. This is crucial in keeping swim gear fresh and functional.
Wet/dry separation: Look for mesh bags that feature compartments for keeping wet and dry items separated, which can also extend the life of your gear.
Not Labeling Gear
With multiple children in swim programs, gear can easily become mixed up or lost. Not labeling items can lead to confusion and misplaced belongings.
What to do instead:
Easy labeling ideas: Use waterproof labels or permanent markers to label swim gear. This allows children to quickly identify their belongings.
Survive chlorine: Choose labels resistant to chlorine and water to ensure they last throughout the swim season and remain intact.
Sunscreen Slip-Ups
Sunscreen is vital for protecting your child's skin during outdoor swim activities. However, many families make errors in how they apply it.
What to do instead:
Broad-spectrum: Choose sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, which shields against both UVA and UVB rays. Opting for SPF 30 or higher is recommended for best coverage.
Reapply timing: Remember to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming. Additionally, ensure that you reapply after towel drying kids off.
Towel tips: Gently pat your child's skin dry before reapplying sunscreen. This will help the sunscreen adhere better for maximum protection.
Overpacking Snacks
It’s easy to pack too many snacks for swim meets or practices, resulting in unnecessary waste and a cluttered bag.
What to do instead:
Simple, kid-friendly fuel: Bring easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, slices of fruit, or trail mix to keep energy levels up. A nutritious option could be a banana, which provides quick energy before swimming.
Hydration: Don't forget water or electrolyte drinks to keep your child hydrated. About 70% of children need encouragement to drink water regularly during summer activities.
Expecting Every Brand to Fit the Same
Swim gear sizing can differ widely between brands, which can lead to disappointment when items don't fit as expected.
What to do instead:
Try on: Always try on swim gear before making a purchase to guarantee the best fit. Different brands and styles can vary significantly.
Return-friendly options: Shop at stores that offer flexible return policies, allowing you to exchange items that do not fit correctly.
Quick Buyer’s Guide
| Item | What to Look For | Mom Tip |
|--------------------|----------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Goggles | Anti-fog, comfortable fit | Always have a backup pair |
| Swim Suit | Snug fit, appropriate for training or racing | Consider separate suits for each |
| Slides | Good grip, easy to wear | Look for lightweight options |
| Quick-Dry Towel | Microfiber, compact | Check absorbency before buying |
| Mesh Bag | Ventilation, wet/dry compartments | Choose a fun color for kids |
| Labels | Waterproof, chlorine-resistant | Involve kids in labeling |
| Sunscreen | Broad-spectrum, water-resistant | Set a timer for reapplication |
| Snacks | Healthy, easy to pack | Involve kids in snack prep |
| Swim Gear | Brand-specific sizing, return-friendly | Keep tags for easy exchanges |
As your family prepares for the swim season, remember that being ready is essential. By sidestepping these common rookie swim gear mistakes, you can help ensure a fun and successful experience in the water for everyone.
Embrace the Swim Experience
Swimming is a fantastic way for kids to stay active, develop confidence, and make new friends. By investing in the right gear and avoiding common pitfalls, your family can enjoy a successful swim season. Remember, it’s about cherishing the journey and making lasting memories together.
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