Swim Accessories Tips

Read these 10 Swim Accessories Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Swim tips and hundreds of other topics.

Swim Accessories Tips has been rated 3.1 out of 5 based on 467 ratings and 1 user reviews.
Can I listen to MP3's in the pool?

Listen To Your MP3 Player Underwater!

With the invention of the waterproof MP3 player, you won't have to stop listening to your iPod in the shower or the pool. If you don't have a waterproof one, there are different accessories available, including an “Otterbox”. The Otterbox is a hard case that seals in the MP3 player. New to the scene is the SWIMP3 player by FINIS. This new model is dubbed revolutionary as sound makes it way through the bone rather than ears and is much better for underwater use. Also, you can purchase a waterproof pouch that fits around the waist or bicep to keep your player in. There are headphones that plug into the ears that can go underwater as well.

   
What kind of goggles will assist my nearsightedness?

Prescription Dive Masks/Goggles

Both dive masks and swim goggles are available with corrective lenses. Major brands like TYR and Speedo sell them at a relatively low rate. Also, major stores like Lenscrafters will carry specialty lenses. Any specification can be made, including bifocal lenses. Both nearsighted and farsighted swimmers will be able to see where they are going. In addition to waterproof eyewear with corrective lenses, goggles for high impact sports like basketball are available.

   
What are swim fins used for?

The Benefits Of Swim Fins

Swim fins, also known as flippers, are worn to propel a swimmer faster, such as when a scuba diver or bodysurfer wears them. Also, they can be used for strength training when preparing for competitive swimming. The swim fins require the use of strong muscles in the back, thus building strength for rapid propulsion when the feet are paddled. Human feet are not shaped in a way that allows for rapid swimming, so a little help from the swim fins go a long way.

   
What kind of swim fin should I buy?

Variations Of Swim Fins

There are many different types of swim fins available. Depending on what water sport you are participating in, you will want to consider what kind to buy. If you are scuba diving, you will need to propel yourself underwater with a lot of heavy equipment on your back. In that case, it is good to have durable, wide fins on your feet. For sports such as surfing and body boarding, a thin, lightweight fin helps to propel the body faster through turf. A type of fin called a “monofin” is used for free diving. A monofin is one large fin that both feet fit into. They require a much more complicated motion to propel the body, called the dolphin kick.

   
What brand of swim fin should I buy?

Zoomers For The Fast Swimmer

Zoomers are a brand of swim fin that are considered to be the top of the line. Invented by a scientist named Dr. Marty Hull, they optimize the physics that allow the fins to propel the swimmer faster. Many cheaper versions of Zoomers are available on the market, but the original brand seems to work the best. Many competitive swimmers use Zoomers to train in. They are a lightweight fin, making them more suitable for training and water sports, rather than scuba diving. New to the scene is Zoomers Z2. The Z2s have a slightly angled fin and their smaller size and shape offer greater ease of movement, comfort and safety. This new shape allows swimmers of any level to transition the full power of their legs into the water and generate more speed and mobility.

   
How can I protect my color-treated hair from chlorine?

Swim Caps Are Still Chic!

In the 1930's and 40's, many women wore decorative, chic swim caps to protect their hair from getting wet and being damaged by chemicals. Today, competitive swimmers wear a more functional cap made of latex or silicone to aid hydrodynamics. Don't assume that they are only for professional swimmers, though. Chlorine can do a lot of damage to your hair, especially if it is color treated. Go for a retro look when lounging in the pool with a floral decorated swim cap.

   
What kind of toys are available for the pool?

Toys In The Pool

Many swim accessories allow for fun in the pool. Water guns, beach balls, and diving coins can keep the kids from getting bored with their swim. Water toys aren't just for kids, though. Many adults enjoy a game of water volleyball and water basketball. The kits for both are fairly inexpensive and available at swim supply stores year round. During the summer, a large variety of pool toys are available from major retailers, such as Target, Wal-Mart, and Albertson's.

   
Do I need to rinse off my underwater camera when I come out of the pool?

Caring For Your Underwater Camera

Although your underwater camera is designed to be submerged, it doesn't mean that the equipment is indestructible. If anything, an underwater camera requires extra care. The casing that surrounds the camera must remain watertight at all times. Otherwise, you may need to replace the entire thing. A drop to the floor can jar something loose, making it unable to function underwater. Also, you must make sure that the camera is cleaned of any residue or debris. Mud and dirt can get into tiny cracks and crevices. In just a few minutes, salt water can crystallize in the cameras and cause damage.

Whenever you use your underwater camera, be sure to rinse it off thoroughly within twenty minutes of coming out of the water. Never use an abrasive spray on the camera, rather try dipping it in some fresh, clean water. Cleaning kits are available for purchase from the same company that sold the underwater camera to you. With careful attention paid to your equipment, you should be able to get years of use from it.

Although your underwater camera is designed to be submerged, it doesn't mean that the equipment is indestructible. If anything, an underwater camera requires extra care. The casing that surrounds the camera must remain watertight at all times. Otherwise, you may need to replace the entire thing. A drop to the floor can jar something loose, making it unable to function underwater. Also, you must make sure that the camera is cleaned of any residue or debris. Mud and dirt can get into tiny cracks and crevices. In just a few minutes, salt water can crystallize in the cameras and cause damage.

Whenever you use your underwater camera, be sure to rinse it off thoroughly within twenty minutes of coming out of the water. Never use an abrasive spray on the camera, rather try dipping it in some fresh, clean water. Cleaning kits are available for purchase from the same company that sold the underwater camera to you. With careful attention paid to your equipment, you should be able to get years of use from it.

   
Do I need to wear something underneath my swim fins?

Swim Fin Accessories

Wearing swim fins on bare feet is a bad idea, even for a leisurely swim in the pool. The fins are strapped tightly on the feet, which can easily rub them raw when paddling through water. Buy a good pair of neoprene socks to go under the fins. Ideally, you should wear the socks when trying on the swim fins so that you know if they are a good fit together. Also, tethers should be bought to connect your feet with the fins. That way, if you accidentally kick off your fins underwater, you won't lose them.

   
What kind of equipment do I need for snorkeling?

Snorkeling Gear

There are a few things to know when purchasing swim gear for your snorkeling adventure. Generally, you will need a mask, a snorkel, and a pair of swim fins.

When trying on masks to see if they fit, you should hold it lightly on your face. Does the mask touch your skin all around or are there gaps? Take a deep breath in through your nose. If the mask is the right size, that will form a vaccuum and seal the mask onto your face.

There are different kinds of snorkels on the market. If you are just a beginner, then you will want to ask the store clerk for a snorkel with a "plunge valve". It will be multi-purpose and hassle-free.

Swim fins come in variations, as well. If you are going to be snorkeling in cold water with a wetsuit on, then get a lightweight swim fin with straps. Otherwise, wear a strapless, shorter swim fin (always try them on with neoprene socks underneath).

   
Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Swim Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Sherril Steele-Carlin