Skip to content
considered gifts
Browse guides

Gifts for swimmers that earn a spot in the swim bag

Gifts for swimmers that get used: training tools, a swim tracker, chlorine care, a deck parka and open-water safety gear, each labeled pool or open water.

  • 13 researched picks
  • $19 to $230
  • Updated September 2026
  • By Considered Gifts editorial desk

Before you shop

A swimmer’s week runs on routine: early or late lane time, the same gear bag, and hair and skin that smell of chlorine by the weekend. Pool swimmers train with fins, paddles and a snorkel, and competitive swimmers spend long meets on a cold deck between races. Open-water swimmers add cold water, boat traffic and distance from shore. Gifts that work fit that routine: they get used at most sessions, fix a small daily annoyance, or make cold water and long meets easier.

The common mistake is buying goggles or a swimsuit. Goggle fit depends on how the seal sits around each eye socket, and swimmers who have found a pair that doesn’t leak tend to stick with it; suits are just as personal. The better angle is gear around the swim: training tools for hard sets, chlorine-removal care, something warm for the deck, and visibility gear for open water.

Each pick says whether it suits pool or open-water swimmers, and competitive or fitness swimmers. Prices run from about $19 for a book to $230 for waterproof headphones with built-in music storage, and most picks cost under $100. Sized items, like fins and paddles, include a note on checking size first.

How we chose

  • No fit guesswork: regular goggles and suits are out, since fit depends on face and body shape. Sized picks, like fins and paddles, follow a size chart.
  • Used at most sessions: training tools, chlorine care and bags that go to the pool every time beat novelty items that stay home.
  • Open-water safety counts: U.S. Masters Swimming advises a bright cap and a tow float on every open-water training swim.
  • Labeled by swimmer: each pick says whether it suits pool or open water, and competitive or fitness swimmers.
  • Checked live: every product was confirmed on a brand or major retailer page in September 2026, and the details below come from those pages.

Quick comparison

All 13 picks at a glance

Jump to any pick for the reasoning, who should skip it, and where to find it.

01Blueseventy Perfect ParkaCompetitive swimmers at long meets and open-water swimmers changing on a cold beach$13002FORM Smart Swim 2 smart swim gogglesPool and open-water fitness and masters swimmers who count laps in their head$19903TRISWIM Shot Set in Travel BagFrequent pool swimmers fighting dry skin, dull hair or a lingering chlorine smell$2704FINIS Tempo Trainer Pro underwater metronomeCompetitive, masters and triathlete pool swimmers working on stroke rate or pacing$6605New Wave Swim Buoy, Medium 15-liter dry bag tow floatOpen-water swimmers in lakes, bays and the ocean, especially anyone who swims near boats$3506FINIS Agility Paddles FloatingPool swimmers and triathletes who want stroke feedback, from beginners to competitive$2607Shokz OpenSwim Pro bone conduction headphonesFitness swimmers and triathletes who swim long, steady laps or open-water sessions$23008FINIS Stability SnorkelPool swimmers of any level working on freestyle technique and body position$4809TYR Alliance 30L BackpackPool swimmers who carry fins, paddles, a towel and work clothes in one bag$8210Blueseventy Adjustable Thermal Skull CapOpen-water swimmers who keep going in spring, fall or cold lakes$5511Why We Swim by Bonnie Tsui (paperback)Any swimmer who reads, especially open-water and lifelong fitness swimmers$1912U.S. Masters Swimming membership through 2027Adult fitness swimmers who swim alone and would train harder with a coached group$12513TYR Stryker Silicone FinsCompetitive and masters pool swimmers who do kick sets several times a week$80

The picks

Each gift, and who it suits

  1. Swim parkaAbout $130

    Blueseventy Perfect Parka

    Best for Competitive swimmers at long meets and open-water swimmers changing on a cold beach

    It gives them a warm layer to throw on between races, after early practice or on a cold beach. Blueseventy pairs a weatherproof outer shell with an extra-thick fleece liner and a length meant to end just below the knee. A two-way YKK zipper opens from the bottom, a buttoned wind flap blocks drafts, and there are two deep zippered outer pockets plus two inside. With their arms pulled inside, it doubles as a changing robe, so it works for pool and open-water swimmers alike.

    Skip it if
    They already own a swim parka or changing robe, or they swim only in warm indoor pools and head straight home.
    Before you buy
    It’s unisex and cut loose and oversized, in sizes XXS to XXL. Check Blueseventy’s size chart against their height, since length matters on a parka.
    See it at BlueseventyOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  2. Swim trackerAbout $199

    FORM Smart Swim 2 smart swim goggles

    Best for Pool and open-water fitness and masters swimmers who count laps in their head

    It shows their pace, distance, stroke count and heart rate inside the lens as they swim, so they can stop counting laps and checking the pace clock. FORM lists nine real-time metrics, a 14-hour battery and a built-in heart rate sensor that reads at the temple. In open water, a digital compass helps them hold a straight line, and the goggles pair with Apple or Garmin watches for GPS. Core tracking needs no subscription; FORM Premium adds guided workouts and technique coaching for $99 a year.

    Skip it if
    They’re loyal to one goggle model that seals perfectly, or they swim a few easy laps and don’t care about data.
    Before you buy
    Goggle fit is personal, so this one hedges: five nose bridges come in the box, and FORM offers 30-day returns in the U.S. The $149 LT version drops the heart rate sensor.
    See it at FORMOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  3. Chlorine-removal careAbout $27

    TRISWIM Shot Set in Travel Bag

    Best for Frequent pool swimmers fighting dry skin, dull hair or a lingering chlorine smell

    It deals with the chlorine that clings to their skin and hair after every pool session. The set holds 2-ounce bottles of TRISWIM shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion in a travel bag that fits in a swim bag. TRISWIM says its formulas use up to five sequestering agents to grab chlorine and wash it down the drain, with aloe vera and vitamins A and E for moisture. A dermatologist quoted by Cleveland Clinic advises frequent swimmers to rinse right after swimming and condition, which this set covers.

    Skip it if
    They already have a post-swim routine they like, or they have sensitive skin and stick to products a dermatologist chose.
    Before you buy
    If they like it, TRISWIM’s full-size shampoo and conditioner gift set is $38 and comes in a reusable mesh bag.
    See it at sbrsportsinc.comOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  4. Training toolAbout $66

    FINIS Tempo Trainer Pro underwater metronome

    Best for Competitive, masters and triathlete pool swimmers working on stroke rate or pacing

    It beeps a steady tempo under their swim cap, so they can hold a stroke rate or hit interval times without watching the clock. The small waterproof unit has three modes: stroke rate, lap and interval pace, and strokes per minute. Tempo adjusts in hundredths of a second, and FINIS says it’s tested to 10 meters. The battery is now replaceable, and a clip lets it pace runs or rides on dry land. It suits swimmers who follow structured workouts more than casual lap swimmers.

    Skip it if
    They swim easy, unstructured laps and have no interest in stroke rate or pace targets.
    Before you buy
    FINIS sells a replacement dryland clip for $8 if the original goes missing.
    See it at FINISOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  5. Tow floatAbout $35

    New Wave Swim Buoy, Medium 15-liter dry bag tow float

    Best for Open-water swimmers in lakes, bays and the ocean, especially anyone who swims near boats

    It makes them easy to see for boaters, paddlers and other water users, which is why U.S. Masters Swimming recommends a tow float on every open-water training swim. The inflatable buoy attaches with a waist belt and tether line. The medium size measures 24 by 10 inches, weighs 10 ounces and has a dry-bag compartment, separate from the air chamber, for keys, snacks or shoes. If a cramp hits, they can hold on and rest, though New Wave is clear it does not replace a life jacket.

    Skip it if
    They swim only in pools, or they already tow a float on every open-water swim.
    Before you buy
    The dry bag is not waterproof, so a phone needs its own waterproof case. New Wave suggests the medium size for swimmers under 190 pounds; a 20-liter version is larger.
    See it at New WaveOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  6. Hand paddlesAbout $26

    FINIS Agility Paddles Floating

    Best for Pool swimmers and triathletes who want stroke feedback, from beginners to competitive

    They tell them right away when their stroke is off. The strapless paddles rely on a thumb hole and steady pressure: if the pull is wrong, the paddle shifts or falls off. That makes them a technique tool as much as a strength tool, and FINIS says they work for all four strokes. The newer version is made of floating material, which FINIS says keeps them from being lost in open water. At $26, they are an easy add-on to a bigger gift.

    Skip it if
    They already use strapless technique paddles, or a coach has told them to avoid paddles because of a shoulder problem.
    Before you buy
    Sizes run XS to L, and FINIS has a size chart on the product page. If unsure, ask what size paddle they use now.
    See it at FINISOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  7. Swim headphonesAbout $230

    Shokz OpenSwim Pro bone conduction headphones

    Best for Fitness swimmers and triathletes who swim long, steady laps or open-water sessions

    It gives them music or podcasts during long, steady swims. These are open-ear bone conduction headphones, so their ears stay uncovered. They’re rated IP68 and sealed for fresh water down to 2 meters. Bluetooth doesn’t travel well through water, so underwater they play from 32GB of built-in storage, which Shokz says holds more than 8,000 songs. Battery life is up to 9 hours on Bluetooth and 6 on MP3, a 10-minute charge adds 3 hours, and Shokz covers them for two years.

    Skip it if
    They swim in a coached lane where they need to hear sets, or they won’t bother loading music files onto a device.
    Before you buy
    The MP3-only OpenSwim costs $149.95 if they don’t need Bluetooth. After open water, Shokz says to soak the headphones in fresh water for about 30 minutes to remove salt.
    See it at ShokzOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  8. Center-mount snorkelAbout $48

    FINIS Stability Snorkel

    Best for Pool swimmers of any level working on freestyle technique and body position

    It lets them swim without turning their head to breathe, so they can focus on body position and stroke technique. FINIS dropped the usual head bracket and added a cushioned resting spot, which it says makes longer sets comfortable. The strap adjusts like a goggle strap, the silicone mouthpiece has five positions and rotates away when not in use, and the tube is shaped to clear water easily. It works for drill sets in a masters workout as well as solo technique swims.

    Skip it if
    They already train with a center-mount snorkel, or they swim only in open water.
    Before you buy
    It comes in black, glacier, orchid and sage. FINIS sells a replacement strap and mouthpiece if parts wear out.
    See it at FINISOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  9. Swim backpackAbout $82

    TYR Alliance 30L Backpack

    Best for Pool swimmers who carry fins, paddles, a towel and work clothes in one bag

    It keeps wet gear away from dry clothes, which is the main job of a swim bag. The 30-liter pack has expandable mesh compartments for wet items and organized storage for training gear, clothing and electronics. Contoured padding and adjustable straps make it comfortable on the way to the pool and on travel days. Lane Line Threads gives the same advice for swim bags: look for separate wet and dry compartments. It comes in black and white, navy and white, or red and black.

    Skip it if
    They already carry a team backpack they like, or they need a bigger bag for multi-day meets.
    See it at tyr.comOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  10. Neoprene swim capAbout $55

    Blueseventy Adjustable Thermal Skull Cap

    Best for Open-water swimmers who keep going in spring, fall or cold lakes

    It keeps their head warmer in cold open water. The cap is 3mm Yamamoto neoprene with an SCS-coated outside and a Zirconium lining that Blueseventy says cuts water absorption to help hold in heat. The chin strap closes with adjustable Velcro, redesigned to fix tightness in earlier versions, and can be trimmed to length. Pair it with a bright cap on top for visibility, as U.S. Masters Swimming advises. It suits swimmers who dread the first cold minutes more than the distance.

    Skip it if
    They swim only in pools or warm water, or they already own a neoprene cap that fits.
    Before you buy
    It comes in S, M and L; check Blueseventy’s size guide against a measurement of their head.
    See it at BlueseventyOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  11. BookAbout $19

    Why We Swim by Bonnie Tsui (paperback)

    Best for Any swimmer who reads, especially open-water and lifelong fitness swimmers

    It’s a book about why people swim, written by a swimmer, and it gives them something to read between sessions. Bonnie Tsui, a longtime New York Times contributor who swims and surfs in the Bay Area, covers survival, well-being, community swim clubs and competitive racing. The stories include Olympic champions, a Baghdad swim club that meets in Saddam Hussein’s former palace pool, and an Icelandic fisherman who survived a wintry six-hour swim after a shipwreck. NPR’s Book Concierge named it a best book of the year.

    Skip it if
    They don’t read nonfiction, or they already own it; the hardcover came out in 2020.
    See it at bookshop.orgOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  12. MembershipAbout $125

    U.S. Masters Swimming membership through 2027

    Best for Adult fitness swimmers who swim alone and would train harder with a coached group

    It gives them a way into coached group workouts. USMS says members can swim with its 1,200 clubs and more than 2,600 USMS-certified coaches, enter pool, open-water and virtual events, and use a workout library with thousands of workouts. Membership also includes SWIMMER magazine and insurance coverage. For someone who swims alone at a lap pool, a masters group adds structure, company and a coach on deck.

    Skip it if
    They already belong to USMS, or no masters club meets at a time or pool they can get to.
    Before you buy
    USMS lists no gift option, so they register themselves. It sells a $75 membership ending Dec. 31, 2026, and a $125 one that runs through 2027.
    See it at usms.orgOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

  13. Short-blade finsAbout $80

    TYR Stryker Silicone Fins

    Best for Competitive and masters pool swimmers who do kick sets several times a week

    Short-blade fins let them do faster kick sets without changing the rhythm of their flutter kick. TYR designed the Stryker to promote short, quick movement through the legs and feet and says it suits swimmers at every level. It’s made entirely of silicone with what TYR calls a comfort fit, so it doesn’t feel restrictive. Fins go to practice week after week, so a good pair gets more use than most swim gifts.

    Skip it if
    They already own training fins they like, or a knee or ankle problem keeps them from using fins.
    Before you buy
    Sizes run S to XXL. Check TYR’s size guide against their shoe size before ordering.
    See it at tyr.comOr compare prices on
    Google Shopping

Before you buy

Where this gift can go wrong

  • Goggles as a surprise. Fit depends on how the goggle seals around each eye socket, and many swimmers stick with one model. If they have a favorite, buy that exact model; otherwise skip goggles.
  • Swimsuits without their exact size, brand and cut. Lane Line Threads calls sizing personal, and a suit that doesn’t fit won’t get worn.
  • Swim-themed decor and slogan gear. Swimmers tend to value gear that solves a problem at the pool over things that sit on a shelf.
  • Treating a tow float like a life jacket. It improves visibility and gives them something to hold, but New Wave says it doesn’t replace one, and USMS says never to swim alone in open water.
  • Gadgets that need a manual poolside. Lane Line Threads suggests simple gadgets, and complicated ones tend to stay in the bag.

Useful answers

Questions people ask

What is a good gift for a swimmer?

Start with gear they use at most sessions: training tools such as a tempo trainer, snorkel or strapless paddles, chlorine-removal shampoo and body wash, or a swim backpack that separates wet gear. For competitive swimmers, a warm parka helps at meets. For open-water swimmers, a bright tow float and a neoprene cap add safety and warmth. Avoid goggles and suits unless you know their exact model and size.

Should I buy goggles for a swimmer?

Only if you know the exact model they use. SwimOutlet’s goggle guide says the most important part of fit is how the goggles shape to the eye socket, and comfort varies by person. A goggle that leaks on one swimmer can fit another well. If you want to give goggles anyway, buy a second pair of their current model, or choose one with a generous return window.

Do open-water swimmers need a tow float?

U.S. Masters Swimming calls a tow float a safety tool open-water swimmers should use on all training swims, because it makes them visible to boaters and other water users. Many floats double as a dry bag for keys. A tow float is not a life jacket, though. USMS also advises never swimming alone and wearing a brightly colored cap that isn’t white.

How do swimmers protect their hair from chlorine?

Cleveland Clinic’s advice, from dermatologist Dr. Taylor Bullock, is to wet hair with fresh water before swimming, wear a swim cap and rinse right after. Frequent swimmers can use a clarifying shampoo now and then, but not daily, because it can dry hair out, and they should condition regularly. The green tint some swimmers get comes from minerals in pool water, not chlorine itself.

Research record

What we read

The sources that shaped this list, beyond the product pages linked with each pick. Last reviewed September 2026.

01U.S. Masters Swimming: Open Water Swimming Guideusms.org02SwimOutlet: Choosing Swimming Gogglesswimoutlet.com03Cleveland Clinic: How To Protect Your Hair From Chlorinehealth.clevelandclinic.org04Lane Line Threads: Best Gifts for Recreational and Fitness Swimmerslanelinethreads.com05Swimming World: Holiday Gift Guide 2025swimmingworldmagazine.com06U.S. Masters Swimming: Holiday Gift Guide (SWIMMER, Nov.–Dec. 2024)usms.org

Keep reading

Related guides

01Gifts for runners they’ll use on every run and every raceGifts for runners, with women’s options noted: a lighted vest for dark runs, open-ear headphones, a GPS watch, running socks and anti-chafe balm.02Gifts for gym rats that earn a spot in the gym bagGifts for gym rats who lift most days: liquid chalk, a leather belt, wrist wraps, a gym bag with a belt sleeve and more gear they’ll use every session.03Gifts for sailors that earn a place aboardGifts for sailors that get used aboard: a floating VHF radio, sailing gloves, a rigging knife, foul-weather gear and a safety course, dinghy to offshore.04Great gifts under $50Thoughtful gift ideas under $50 — specific, genuinely useful picks that feel considered without the splurge.

Gift Notes

New guides and seasonal deadlines, occasionally.

Occasional buying notes when a guide or a pick changes. Unsubscribe anytime. By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy.