The best swimming accessories to have in your bag

Hey swimmers! 🌊

Whether you're a pro in the pool or just a casual swimmer, having the right gear in your swim bag is key to a successful session. So, what do you need to be at your best? Follow the guide!

1. The Ideal Swimming Bag 🎒

Before discussing the contents, let's talk about the container. A good swim bag should be:

• Waterproof : Because nobody likes finding their belongings soaked.
• Compartmentalized : To separate dry from wet, accessories from clothing.
• Comfortable : With adjustable shoulder straps for carrying.

Tip : Karkoa sports bags perfectly meet these needs and make excellent swimming bags. Choosing a good bag is essential, and we'll give you some tips on how to properly prepare your swimming bag .

2. Durable Swimsuit 🩱

The jersey is essential. Choose a model:

• Chlorine resistant : To prevent it from deforming or discoloring too quickly.
• Comfortable : Nothing is worse than a jersey that itches or is too tight.

Tip : Opt for materials designed to withstand pool chemicals.

3. Swimming Cap 🏊‍♂️

Although not always mandatory, wearing a hat has advantages:

• Hygiene : It limits hair loss in water.
• Performance : Reduces water resistance for better glide.
• Protection : Protects your hair from chlorine.

Tip : Having a spare cap in your bag can save a session in case of a mishap.

4. Swimming Goggles 👓

To protect your eyes from chlorine and see clearly underwater:

• Waterproofing : Test them before buying to avoid leaks.
• Comfort : Choose models that are adjustable to your body shape.

Tip : Having a spare pair is always a good idea.

5. Microfiber Towel 🧖‍♀️

Lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying, the microfiber towel is a must-have for all swimmers. Plus, it takes up very little space in your bag.

Great Deal : Discover quality microfiber towels at KIMA Rolls . We'll even give you all the reasons why you should choose a microfiber towel right here.

6. Sandals or Flip-flops

To avoid walking barefoot in the changing rooms and around the pool:

• Hygiene : Protects against infections such as plantar warts.
• Safety : Reduces the risk of slipping.

Tip : Opt for non-slip models.

7. Training Accessories 🛠️

Depending on your goals, certain accessories may be useful:

• Pull-Buoy : For working the upper body.
• Armbands : To strengthen the arms.
• Fins : To improve kicking technique and propulsion.
• Plank : Ideal for isolating leg work.

Tip : A mesh bag is handy for carrying this wet equipment.

8. Earplugs and Nose Clips 👃

For those who are prone to infections or irritations:

• Earplugs : Prevent ear infections by preventing water from entering.
• Nose clip : Prevents sinus irritation due to chlorinated water.

Tip : These small accessories can greatly improve your swimming comfort.

9. Hygiene and Care Products 🧴

After the effort, the reward. Remember to bring:

• Shower gel and shampoo : Preferably gentle products to remove chlorine.
• Moisturizing cream : To nourish the skin after the session.
• Comb or brush : To detangle hair.

Tip : Travel-size products are convenient and lightweight.

10. Hydration and Nutrition 🥤

Don't forget to stay hydrated before, during and after the session:

• Water bottle : Filled with water or an isotonic drink.
• Snack : Like an energy bar to recharge your batteries.

Tip : Proper hydration helps prevent cramps and promotes recovery.

11. Change of Clothes 👕

After a shower, nothing beats clean, dry clothes:

• Underwear : Because leaving with wet underwear isn't ideal.
• Comfortable clothing : Jogging pants, t-shirt, sweatshirt... according to your preferences.

Tip : Bring a plastic bag or waterproof pouch to isolate wet items.

12. Waterproof Watch or Chronograph ⏱️

For those who like to track their performance:

• Waterproof watch : To time your laps and monitor your progress.
• Stopwatch : Useful for specific training sessions.

Tip : Some smartwatches offer features specifically designed for swimming.

13. Waterproof Headphones 🎧

If you enjoy swimming to music or following audio sessions:

• Waterproof MP3 player : To listen to your playlists underwater.
• Waterproof headphones : Make sure they stay securely in place while swimming.

Tip : Check the battery level before each session.

14. Training Log 📓

To record your sessions, your feelings and your progress:

• Logbook : Tracking your progress helps to stay motivated.
• Objectives : Writing down your goals allows you to visualize them and achieve them more easily.

Tip : A small notebook or a dedicated app works very well.

15. First Aid Kit 🚑

You can never be too careful. A small kit can be useful:

• Plasters : For small cuts or blisters.
• Disinfectant : For minor injuries.
• Bandage : For a sprain or minor strain.

Tip : A compact kit fits easily into a bag without taking up space.

16. Measuring and Analytical Device 📊

If you like to track your performance and progress, consider:

• A swimming sensor : Some sensors attach to your goggles or swimsuit and analyze your movements.
• A pulse oximeter : To monitor your heart rate after exercise.
• A bioimpedance scale : Useful for tracking changes in your muscle mass and hydration.

Tip : A smartwatch specifically designed for swimming can combine all these features! You can also find a complete selection of swimming equipment on the Decathlon or Adidas websites.

17. Neoprene Gloves and Shoes 🧤

Ideal for swimmers who also train in open water or in winter.

• Neoprene gloves : Keeps your hands warm and improves propulsion.
• Neoprene shoes : Protects your feet from rocks or cold temperatures.

Tip : Opt for models designed for swimming rather than surfing, for optimal comfort.

18. Anti-Chafing and Sunscreen Cream 🏖️

If you are swimming in open water or the sea, protection is essential:

• Anti-chafing cream : Prevents irritation caused by long swimming sessions.
• Waterproof sunscreen : Essential outdoors to protect skin from UV rays.

Tip : Apply the cream 30 minutes before entering the water for better effectiveness.

19. Weights or Flotation Belt ⚖️

Whether for building strength or improving technique, these accessories are useful:

• Weighted inserts : To increase the difficulty and strengthen the muscles.
• Flotation belt : Helps to improve posture and body alignment while swimming.

Tip : Use in moderation and under supervision if you are a beginner.

20. Open Water Safety Buoy 🚨

If you are swimming in open water, this accessory is essential for your safety:

• Buoyancy : Allows you to rest if needed.
• Visibility : Increases your visibility to boats and other swimmers.
• Storage : Some buoys offer a waterproof compartment for storing belongings.

Tip : Always choose a brightly coloured buoy (orange or yellow) to be easily visible.

21. Elastic Band or Resistance Parachute 🔄

A must-have for those who want to boost their strength and endurance:

• Swimming bands : Create resistance and improve muscle power.
• Resistance parachute : Attaches to the waist and increases the effort required to move forward.

Tip : These accessories are used by professional swimmers to improve their explosiveness.

22. Recovery Socks 🦵

After an intense workout, recovery is essential. Compression socks help to:

• Improve blood circulation .
• Reduce the feeling of heavy legs .
• Preventing cramps and muscle aches .

Tip : Wear for 30 minutes after exercise for optimal recovery.

23. Heating Gel or Ice Pack 🩹

If you're doing a lot of training, a few accessories can help relieve muscle tension:

• Warming gel : Relaxes muscles before or after swimming.
• Ice pack : Reduces inflammation after an injury or intense exertion.

Tip : Alternate between hot and cold for more effective recovery.

Conclusion

With all these accessories in your bag, you are 100% ready to tackle any swimming session, whether it's for leisure, competition or open water.

Remember that the quality of your equipment plays a key role in your comfort and performance. For an even more comprehensive list of accessories, check out this detailed article from MySwim.

💡 Quick recap :
✅ Basic equipment : Swimsuit, goggles, swim cap, microfiber towel (available on KIMA Rolls )
✅ Training accessories : Pull buoy, fins, parachute, resistance bands
✅ Well-being and recovery : Hydration, nutrition, compression socks, anti-chafing cream
✅ Open water safety : Buoy, gloves, shoes, sunscreen

🔥 You have everything you need to optimize your performance and comfort . All that's left is for you to dive in! 🏊‍♂️💦