Getting the right swimming equipment in Ireland doesn't have to be overwhelming or expensive. Whether you're buying your first pair of goggles or kitting out a competitive swimmer, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about swimming gear in Ireland - from essential basics to advanced equipment, plus exactly where to buy it.
We'll help you avoid the common mistakes that waste money and frustrate swimmers, while ensuring you get gear that actually works for Irish pool conditions and our unique swimming environment.
Quick Start: Essential Gear by Swimming Level
First Time Swimmers
- Well-fitting goggles (€15-€30)
- Basic swimsuit/trunks (€20-€40)
- Towel (€15-€25)
- Pool bag (€10-€20)
Total Budget: €60-€115
Frequent Pool Users
- Quality goggles + spare pair
- Chlorine-resistant swimwear
- Swim cap (optional)
- Kickboard for training
- Water bottle
Total Budget: €100-€200
Serious Swimmers
- Racing goggles + training pair
- Performance swimwear
- Training equipment set
- Timing device/watch
- Competition gear bag
Total Budget: €250-€500+
Complete Equipment Breakdown
Swimming Goggles: The Most Important Purchase
Why goggles matter in Ireland: Irish pools often have higher chlorine levels than international standards, making proper eye protection essential. Plus, our variable water temperatures mean anti-fog features are crucial.
Read our detailed goggles buying guide for specific brand recommendations and fitting tips.
Budget Options (€15-€25)
- • Speedo Mariner Supreme: Reliable for recreational swimming
- • Zoggs Predator: Good anti-fog, comfortable fit
- • TYR Big Swimple: Large lenses, easy to adjust
Perfect for: Beginner swimmers, occasional pool users
Premium Options (€30-€60)
- • Speedo Fastskin: Racing performance, minimal drag
- • Arena Cobra Ultra: Competition standard
- • TYR Tracer Racing: Low profile, secure fit
Perfect for: Competitive swimmers, frequent training
Swimwear: Durability vs Performance
For Women & Girls
Training Suits (€35-€80)
- • Speedo Endurance+ fabric
- • Arena MaxLife material
- • TYR Durafast Elite
- • Chlorine resistance guaranteed
- • 6+ month lifespan with regular use
Competition Suits (€80-€300)
- • Arena Carbon series
- • Speedo Fastskin LZR
- • TYR Venzo series
- • Performance-focused design
- • Racing events only
Recreational (€20-€50)
- • Basic polyester blends
- • Fashion swimwear brands
- • Occasional swimming
- • Style over performance
- • 3-6 month pool lifespan
For Men & Boys
Training Jammers/Briefs (€25-€60)
- • Jammers: Knee-length, comfortable for training
- • Briefs: Traditional, less drag, competitive feel
- • Chlorine-resistant fabrics essential
- • Flatlock seams prevent chafing
Racing Suits (€80-€400)
- • Technical racing jammers
- • Compression technology
- • Hydrodynamic panels
- • Competition use only
Training Equipment: Build Your Swimming Skills
Essential Training Aids
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Kickboard (€15-€35): Isolates leg work, builds kick strength. Look for comfortable grip handles and durable foam.
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Pull Buoy (€12-€25): Focuses on upper body technique. Essential for stroke development.
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Hand Paddles (€10-€30): Increases stroke power and feel for the water. Start with smaller sizes.
Advanced Training Gear
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Training Fins (€20-€50): Build leg strength and improve body position. Shorter fins better for technique work.
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Snorkel (€25-€45): Focus on stroke technique without breathing interruption. Game-changer for technique development.
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Tempo Trainer (€35-€60): Electronic metronome for stroke rate training. Used by competitive swimmers.
Swimming Accessories: The Extras That Matter
Pool Deck Essentials
- • Microfiber towel (€15-€35): Quick-dry, compact, highly absorbent
- • Flip-flops (€10-€25): Pool deck protection, choose non-slip soles
- • Water bottle (€8-€20): Stay hydrated during training sessions
- • Swim cap (€5-€15): Hair protection, reduced drag
Care & Maintenance
- • Suit spray (€8-€15): Chlorine neutralizer extends swimwear life
- • Goggle defogger (€5-€12): Better than spit, lasts longer
- • Mesh equipment bag (€10-€20): Air-dry wet training equipment
- • Shammy cloth (€15-€30): Super-absorbent for deck drying
Tech & Timing
- • Waterproof watch (€30-€200): Lap counting, interval timing
- • Poolmate devices (€80-€150): Stroke counting, distance tracking
- • Waterproof MP3 (€60-€120): Music for long training sessions
- • Action camera (€100+): Technique analysis
Where to Buy Swimming Equipment in Ireland
Physical Stores
Lifestyle Sports
Nationwide chain with swimming sections
- • Good selection of basic to mid-range equipment
- • Regular sales and student discounts
- • Try-before-you-buy goggles policy
- • Locations: Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick +
Intersport
European sports retailer with Irish locations
- • Premium swimming brands available
- • Knowledgeable staff in larger stores
- • Locations: Mainly Dublin area
Local Swim Shops
Independent retailers near major pools
- • Expert advice from swimming specialists
- • Often stock competitive/professional gear
- • Personal fitting services
- • Check near National Aquatic Centre, UCD, etc.
Online Retailers
ProSwimwear.co.uk
Specialist swimming retailer delivering to Ireland
- • Huge selection, competitive prices
- • €50+ free delivery to Ireland
- • Swimming-specific expertise
- • Excellent return policy
Simply Swim
UK-based, Ireland delivery available
- • Premium brands and competitive gear
- • Regular sales and clearance sections
- • Size guides and fit advice
Amazon.co.uk
Wide selection, fast delivery to Ireland
- • Convenient for basic equipment
- • Read reviews before purchasing
- • Prime delivery available
- • Easy returns policy
Sports Direct Ireland
Budget-friendly options with Irish website
- • Good for basic swimming equipment
- • Regular promotions and discounts
- • Click & collect from Irish stores
Smart Shopping Tips for Ireland
- • Seasonal Sales: Best deals in January and September
- • Student Discounts: Many retailers offer 10-15% off
- • Club Discounts: Swimming clubs often have supplier deals
- • Bulk Buying: Team up with other swimmers for group orders
- • Fit First: Always try goggles and swimwear if possible
- • Check Sizing: European vs UK/US sizes can differ
- • Delivery Costs: Factor in shipping from UK retailers
- • Returns Policy: Essential for online swimwear purchases
Swimming Equipment Budget Planning
Annual Equipment Costs
Money-Saving Strategies
- Buy Quality Once: Invest in good goggles and training suit - they last 3x longer
- Time Your Purchases: End-of-season sales offer 30-50% savings
- Club Group Orders: Many clubs arrange bulk purchases for discounts
- Care for Equipment: Proper maintenance doubles equipment lifespan
Making Your Equipment Last
Goggle Care
- • Rinse with clean water after every use
- • Never touch the inside lens with fingers
- • Store in protective case when not in use
- • Replace anti-fog coating every 6 months
- • Don't leave in direct sunlight
Swimwear Care
- • Rinse immediately after pool use
- • Wash in cold water with mild detergent
- • Never wring or twist - squeeze gently
- • Air dry away from direct heat
- • Use chlorine-removing products weekly
Equipment Care
- • Clean training equipment after each use
- • Check straps and connections regularly
- • Store in mesh bag for air circulation
- • Replace worn equipment before it fails
- • Keep spares of essential items
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most important piece of swimming equipment?
Well-fitting goggles are absolutely essential. Everything else is secondary. Bad goggles will ruin your swimming experience and potentially put you off the sport entirely. Spend time getting the right fit and don't compromise on quality.
How much should I budget for starting swimming?
For complete beginners, €60-€115 covers all essentials (goggles, swimwear, towel, bag). If you're planning to swim regularly, budget €100-€200 for higher-quality gear that will last longer and perform better.
Should I buy equipment online or in-store?
For goggles and swimwear, try in-store first if possible - fit is crucial. For training equipment and accessories, online is often cheaper with better selection. Many swimmers do both: fit in-store, then buy online for better prices.
How often do I need to replace swimming equipment?
Quality goggles last 6-12 months with regular use. Training swimwear: 6-8 months. Competition suits: 10-20 races. Training equipment can last years with proper care. Replace items when they no longer perform effectively, not just when they look worn.
Do I need different equipment for sea swimming vs pool swimming?
Yes. Sea swimming requires different goggles (polarized lenses help), possibly a wetsuit depending on temperature, and definitely bright swim caps for visibility. Pool equipment focuses on chlorine resistance and performance optimization.
Ready to Get Equipped?
The right swimming equipment makes all the difference between enjoying your time in the water and struggling through sessions. Start with quality basics - good goggles and proper swimwear - then build your collection as your swimming develops.
Remember, the most expensive equipment isn't always the best for your needs. Focus on fit, functionality, and durability over flashy features. Your local swimming instructor can often provide specific recommendations based on your current level and goals.