Swimsuits & Swim Goggles

Swimming Accessories and Equipment Buying Guide

A swimsuit, a pair of goggles, and a swim cap. That, my friends, is what separates us from the animals.

Or, it is the attire of a swimmer. Since there are so few items that a swimmer wears while competing, each article of the swimmer's get-up is that much more important. Which means if you are a swimmer, your cap, swimsuit, and swim goggles better be high quality, or you will be diminishing your potential to succeed. At Sports Unlimited, we understand this, which is why we have select mens swimsuits, womens swimsuits, swim goggles, and swim caps, so you can find what you want for when you swim.

We also understand that practice is a major component for competitive swimmers, which is why we have a wide collection of swimming training aids so you can hone your skills and shave that quarter of a second off your time. And because swimming is not all about competition, we have plenty of fun outdoor water games for the whole family to enjoy their summer in style! Make sure to check out our snorkeling section to find snorkels and swim fins, and see our water sports section for the rest of our water gear such as water tubes and kayaks! 

Swim Suits

Finding the right swimsuit shouldn't be difficult. That's why at Sports Unlimited we have a collection of Mens swimsuits, youth swimsuits, and womens swimsuits, so no matter who you are, you should be able to find the swimsuit that matches your needs.

We offer some of the best brands in swim wear, such as TYR and Speedo, so you know that whichever suit you choose, you'll get a high-quality swimsuit that will stand the test of time and fit comfortably. Keep an eye out for "Grab Bags," which allow you to purchase a type of swimsuit at a discounted price. You'll receive a random swimsuit print and color, but the fabric technology will remain the same.

Things to consider when buying swim goggles:

1. Expert, competitive swimmers will have different concerns when buying swim goggles than recreational swimmers. It is important to recognize your swimming ability in order to purchase a correct pair of goggles. A common misconception is that the more expensive the goggle, the better they are. This is not necessarily true. Here are some things to consider when buying swim goggles.

All swimmers should consider type of swimming activity, eye socket fit, gaskets and comfort level, lens color, and facial fit.

• Eye Socket Fit

1. A goggle that fits close to the eye socket with a low profile and hydrodynamic lenses will not cause drag while swimming. This is important for competitive swimmers. Reducing drag during a race is thought to improve performance.
2. A wider facemask allows for more peripheral vision, letting you see what is going on around you. Often important in open water swimming, triathlons, and water fitness.

• Gaskets

1. Gaskets are the part of the goggle around the eye socket that comes in contact with your face. If you are swimming for long amounts of time, you will want a comfortable gasket, often made of silicone and rubber, or foam. Silicone or rubber gaskets are more durable than foam, and often more expensive. If you train multiple times a week, opt for a more durable gasket.

• Lenses Color

1. Metallized goggles have a mirrored coating which reduces brightness and glare. Important for outdoor swimming. A smoke-colored lens is a great all-purpose option. It lowers overall brightness without much color distortion. This is a good option for those who swim outdoors and indoors. Blue lenses are designed to reduce surface glare from water and provide visibility in bright light. Opt for lighter blues if you are an indoor swimmer, and darker blues for outdoors. Clear lenses are good for indoor or low-light swimming, not altering appearance of colors, offering clear vision.

2. What size goggles do I need?

• A good fitting leak-proof goggle will provide enough suction to sit on your face without the use of a goggle strap. If they fall off immediately, chances are they don't fit.
• Women-specific swim goggles are designed to fit a smaller face and narrower eye widths. Youth-specific swim goggles are also designed to fit smaller facial features.
• Most goggles are easy to adjust to fit the size of your head and face. If you are not sure what size you need, look for a goggle with an adjusting nose piece and adjustable straps.

Things to remember when buying a swim cap:

1. What type of swimming will you be doing while wearing a swim cap?

• If you are a competitive swimmer, you will want a swim cap that will help improve your performance during training and racing. A swim cap made of silicone will resist wrinkles, reducing drag to improve performance during a race.
• Recreational swimmers who are more concerned with keeping their hair dry and protected from chlorine damage should choose from either a less-expensive latex swim cap, or a more durable (and more expensive) silicone swim cap.
• Recreational swimmers who are more concerned with comfortably keeping their hair out of their face while swimming, and not with keeping their hair dry, should opt for a durable lycra swim cap. Please note that lycra is porous, and will not keep hair dry.

2. How much do you want to spend on a swim cap?

• Latex Swim caps are inexpensive and generally run from $2 to $4. These are a popular choice for those who are buying large quantities, because they are more affordable than their lycra and silicone counterparts.
• Lycra and Silicone Swim caps are often $6 to $12 a piece. These, however, are more durable than latex swim caps, and should last longer.