Costumes and other Equipment

The most obvious piece of equipment that you will require is, of course, a swimming costume (for girls) or trunks (for boys). In the case of boys’ swimming trunks, these should be of the normal, brief design, not the baggier “beach shorts” type, which impede serious swimming! Girls’ costumes should also be well fitting, not loose or baggy as this causes increased “drag” in the water.

Goggles are also fairly essential, as they protect the eyes from chlorine and enable the swimmer to see more clearly! There are many different styles of goggles available; on the whole, it is a matter of personal preference which design to choose. The main things to consider are that they should feel comfortable, be watertight, and be easy to take on and off. If you need any advice on goggles or costumes/trunks, please see our resident “bag-lady”, Karen Kingston, who will be pleased to assist you.  Karen is also able to take orders for any items that you may wish to purchase from the Swim Shop. She will be able to supply you with a Swim Shop catalogue if you require one.

It is a good idea for girls to wear swimming hats whenever they are swimming. The hat will keep hair off the face, and will improve the swimmer’s overall streamlining. Boys are encouraged to wear swimming hats as well. Any type of swimming hat may be worn during training sessions, but if you are selected to represent the club at a gala, you should wear a Houghton Regis Swimming Club hat.

When swimming at galas, you will need a T-shirt or tracksuit top to wear between races, to keep yourself warm. Houghton Regis Swimming Club “T-bag T-shirts” are available to purchase for this purpose. They are reasonably priced, (exact price varies according to size required), and give our swimmers a uniform club identity. We also have club tracksuit tops available.

For details of what's available please click here.

Various other pieces of swimming equipment are available, which you may or may not wish to purchase as you spend more time swimming. If at any time you would like to order any of the items mentioned here, or if you would like general advice on swimming paraphernalia, speak to Karen Kingston.