Hitting a plateau in your training can be one of the most frustrating experiences for a swimmer. You’re putting in the hours, but your times just aren’t dropping. This is often where resistance training comes in. While there are many ways to add a challenge to your workout, drag suits are a classic for a reason. They are specifically designed to increase the difficulty of your swim, helping you build muscular strength and stamina that you can’t achieve by just adding more laps. When used correctly, they can be the key to breaking through that wall. In this article, we’ll explore how to strategically incorporate a drag suit into your routine to build power without sacrificing your technique.
Key Takeaways
- Use Resistance to Build Speed: A drag suit is a training tool that adds resistance to your workouts, forcing your muscles to work harder. This helps you build the power and endurance needed to feel faster and stronger when you race without it.
- Prioritize Technique Over Constant Drag: A drag suit is most effective when used strategically for specific power-building sets, not for entire practices. Overuse can harm your form, so always focus on maintaining a clean stroke and proper body position.
- Select Your Suit Based on Your Goals: Choose a suit that fits loosely to create drag but stays secure with a drawstring. Opt for a poly mesh suit for maximum resistance or a spandex suit for a more subtle challenge that's less likely to disrupt your feel for the water.
What is a Drag Suit?
If you’ve spent time on a pool deck, you’ve probably seen a swimmer wearing what looks like a baggy, loose-fitting swimsuit over their regular one. That’s a drag suit. It’s a specialized piece of training gear designed for one simple purpose: to create resistance in the water. Unlike sleek, form-fitting racing suits that are built for speed, drag suits are often made from materials like polyester mesh that intentionally catch water and make it harder for you to move.
Think of it as a form of resistance training, but for the pool. By increasing the effort required for every stroke and kick, a drag suit helps you build power and endurance. It’s a classic tool used by competitive swimmers to make training sessions more challenging. When you work harder during practice, you feel lighter, stronger, and faster on race day when you switch back to your regular suit. The core idea is to train against resistance so that when it’s removed, your performance improves.
The Science: How Drag Makes You Faster
The principle behind a drag suit is straightforward: overload. By wearing a suit that creates more hydrodynamic drag, you force your muscles to work harder to maintain your speed and technique. This added resistance can slow you down by as much as 10 to 15 seconds per 100 yards during a workout. While that might sound counterintuitive, it’s actually the key to its effectiveness. This process is similar to a runner training with a parachute or a weightlifter adding more plates to the bar. Your body adapts to the increased workload by building muscular strength and endurance. When you finally take the drag suit off for a meet, your body is conditioned to a higher level of resistance, making you feel significantly faster and more efficient.
Why Competitive Swimmers Use Them
For decades, drag suits have been a staple in the mesh bags of swimmers looking for an edge in their training. They are an effective tool for adding a layer of difficulty to workouts, specifically for building raw power and stamina. However, the way swimmers and coaches use them has evolved. The old-school mentality of wearing a drag suit for an entire three-hour practice has largely been replaced by a more strategic approach. Today, many coaches recommend using drag suits for specific sets rather than the whole workout. For example, you might wear one during a power-focused kick set or a pull set to maximize resistance. They are just one of many pieces of new swim gear designed to help you train smarter.
Common Drag Suit Myths, Busted
One of the biggest myths about drag suits is that wearing one all the time will automatically make you a faster swimmer. While they are great for building strength, overuse can actually harm your technique. The added resistance can cause your hips to drop, forcing you into a poor body position that is difficult to correct. It can also lead to swimmers developing a shorter, choppier stroke as they struggle against the drag. The truth is, a drag suit is a tool, not a magic bullet. It’s most effective when used with intention. The goal is to build power without sacrificing the clean, efficient technique you’ve worked so hard to develop. If you notice your form breaking down while wearing one, it’s a sign to take it off.
A Quick Guide to Drag Suit Types
When you start shopping for a drag suit, you’ll quickly notice they aren’t all the same. The main difference comes down to the material, which affects how much resistance you feel in the water and the overall fit. The two most common types are poly mesh and spandex. Understanding how each one works will help you pick the right suit for your training style and goals, ensuring you get the most out of every lap. Let's break down what makes each type unique.
Poly Mesh Suits
Poly mesh suits are the classic choice for creating maximum drag. Think of them as a second, looser layer made of a lightweight, net-like fabric that you wear over your regular practice suit. This mesh material is designed to catch and hold water, creating significant resistance as you pull through your stroke. While they feel light and breathable, they pack a punch when it comes to building power and endurance. If your main goal is to seriously challenge your muscles and improve your stamina, a poly mesh suit is an excellent tool to add to your swim gear collection.
Spandex Suits
If you’re looking for a more subtle form of resistance, a spandex drag suit might be a better fit. These suits are typically made from the same material as your regular swimwear but are cut to be less hydrodynamic. They fit snugly over your training suit but create a layer of friction that makes you work harder without the heavy, water-logged feeling of a mesh suit. Spandex suits are great for swimmers who want to build strength while still focusing on maintaining perfect technique. They provide just enough drag to make a difference in your training without disrupting your natural feel for the water and are a staple of any competitive swim kit.
Popular Brands and What They Offer
You’ll find drag suits from all the top names in competitive swimming, including TYR, Speedo, and Arena. Each brand brings its own take on design, fit, and materials. For example, some focus on extremely durable mesh for intense, daily training, while others offer colorful spandex options that add a bit of personality to your workout. The best brand for you really comes down to personal preference. I recommend checking out the new products to see the latest styles and find a suit that feels comfortable and matches your training intensity.
How to Choose the Right Drag Suit
Picking the right drag suit is about more than just grabbing one off the rack. Since it’s a specialized piece of training equipment, you’ll want to find one that fits correctly, is made from the right material, and aligns with what you’re trying to achieve in the pool. A great drag suit can be a game-changer for building power and endurance, but the wrong one can just get in the way. Think of it as choosing the right weights at the gym—you need the proper resistance to get stronger without compromising your form. Let’s walk through the three key things to consider so you can find the perfect drag suit for your training.
Find Your Perfect Fit
This might sound a little backward, but when it comes to drag suits, a "perfect fit" is actually a loose one. These suits are designed to run large on purpose. That extra room is what catches water and creates the resistance, or "drag," that makes your muscles work harder. When you’re shopping, don’t be surprised if the suit feels much bigger than your typical competitive swimwear. The goal is to find a suit that’s baggy enough to create significant drag but secure enough that it won’t slide off when you push off the wall or do a flip turn. Most swimmers wear them over their regular practice suit for a secure base layer.
Pick the Right Material
The material of your drag suit is what does all the heavy lifting. Most are made from a polyester mesh fabric. This material is lightweight and full of small holes, which allows some water to pass through while trapping enough to create that all-important resistance. Unlike the sleek, compressive fabrics of tech suits, drag suit material is built to be inefficient in the water. Modern designs focus on durability and comfort, so you won’t feel like you’re swimming in a burlap sack. Many are also quick-drying and chlorine-resistant, ensuring they last through many tough practices. You can find some great options in our new arrivals for swim gear.
Match the Suit to Your Training Goals
A drag suit is a tool for specific jobs, not an everyday uniform. Its main purpose is to help you build power and improve your feel for the water. Most coaches and experienced swimmers recommend using a drag suit strategically. For example, you might wear it during your warm-up or for specific resistance sets focused on strength-building. Then, you’ll take it off for your main set or speed work. This contrast is powerful—after training with the extra resistance, you’ll feel incredibly light and fast in the water. Overusing a drag suit can sometimes lead to sloppy technique, so it’s best to incorporate it into your routine thoughtfully.
Key Features of a Great Drag Suit
When you’re shopping for a drag suit, it’s easy to think they’re all the same. After all, they’re just designed to slow you down, right? But the best drag suits do more than just create resistance—they’re built to last through tough practices, feel comfortable, and provide the right amount of drag without compromising your form. Think of it as a key piece of your training equipment, just like your favorite pair of swim goggles. A great drag suit is an investment in your speed. Let’s look at the three key features that separate the best from the rest.
Durability and Construction
Your drag suit is going to see a lot of pool time, which means tons of exposure to chlorine and constant stretching. That’s why durability is non-negotiable. Look for suits made from high-quality, chlorine-resistant polyester or poly-mesh blends. These fabrics are designed to hold their shape and color far longer than the materials used in standard swimwear. A well-made drag suit will have reinforced stitching, especially around the seams and waistband, to handle the stress of intense training. This kind of quality construction ensures your suit won’t wear out or fall apart mid-season, making it a reliable part of your competitive swim toolkit.
Comfort and Flexibility
While the point of a drag suit is to create resistance, it should never feel restrictive or uncomfortable. You need to maintain your full range of motion to keep your technique sharp. Modern drag suits are designed with swimmer comfort in mind; they’re easy to pull on over a regular suit and often feature a soft inner lining to prevent chafing. A secure drawstring waist is also essential to keep the suit in place during flip turns and fast sprints. The best suits feel like a natural extension of your training, allowing you to focus on your workout instead of fidgeting with your gear.
Effective Water Resistance
This is the main event. A great drag suit provides a consistent and effective level of resistance to help you build power and endurance. The drag is typically created by the suit's material—usually a porous mesh—and its intentionally loose fit, which catches water as you move. This added resistance forces your muscles to work harder, which can make you feel 10 to 15 seconds slower per 100 yards during practice. When you switch back to your sleek racing suit, you’ll feel incredibly light and fast in the water. The key is finding a suit that offers enough drag to challenge you without being so bulky that it disrupts your natural stroke.
How to Train with a Drag Suit
A drag suit can be a powerful tool in your training arsenal, but like any piece of specialized equipment, using it correctly is the key to seeing real results. It’s not about just throwing it on for every practice; it’s about being strategic. By adding resistance, a drag suit forces your muscles to work harder, which can lead to significant gains in power and speed when you switch back to your regular race suit. The trick is to integrate it into your workouts thoughtfully so you build strength without sacrificing your technique. Let’s break down how to do just that.
Integrating Drag Suits into Your Workouts
Think of your drag suit as a tool for specific jobs, not an everyday uniform. The best way to use it is during sets focused on building power and endurance. For example, you could wear it during a pull set with paddles to maximize upper-body resistance or during a kick set to really challenge your legs. Many swimmers find them most effective during the main set of a workout, particularly for shorter, high-intensity repeats. The goal is to create a noticeable challenge. When you take the suit off for a speed set or a meet, you’ll feel lighter and faster in the water, giving you a great physical and mental edge for competitive swimming.
How Often to Use Your Drag Suit
More is not always better, especially when it comes to resistance training. While some old-school training philosophies might have encouraged wearing a drag suit for entire practices, most coaches now advise against it. Using a drag suit too frequently can lead to fatigue and a breakdown in form. A good rule of thumb is to incorporate it into your training two to three times per week. On the days you do use it, consider wearing it only for the warm-up or for specific parts of your main set. This approach ensures you get the strength-building benefits without overtaxing your body or letting bad habits creep into your stroke.
Common Training Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake you can make with a drag suit is letting it compromise your technique. The added resistance naturally wants to pull your hips down, which can disrupt your body line and lead to an inefficient stroke. If you’re not careful, you could end up practicing with poor form, which defeats the whole purpose of training. To avoid this, stay hyper-aware of your body position in the water. Focus on keeping your core engaged and your hips high. It can be helpful to have a coach watch you or even to take the suit off for a few laps in the middle of a set to reset your technique. Remember, the suit is just one of many pieces of swim gear designed to make you better, not a crutch.
What Real Swimmers Are Saying
It’s one thing to talk about the science of drag suits, but what’s the real-world verdict from swimmers who are in the pool day in and day out? When you talk to competitive athletes, a few key themes come up again and again: performance, durability, and fit. These are the factors that determine whether a drag suit becomes a trusted piece of training equipment or gets left in the bottom of a swim bag.
Ultimately, swimmers want gear that works as hard as they do. A drag suit is a tool designed to build strength and speed, and the consensus is that the right one can be a game-changer for your training regimen. Let’s break down what swimmers are saying about how these suits perform where it matters most: in the water.
On Performance and Effectiveness
The number one reason swimmers use drag suits is to get faster, and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. The core idea is simple: training with resistance helps you build power and endurance. Swimmers report feeling a significant difference in their speed and strength once the drag suit comes off, especially during sprints. While wearing the suit, you might notice you aren't gliding as far with each pull, but that’s the suit doing its job. You’re fighting that extra resistance, which forces your muscles to work harder. This kind of training is a key part of many competitive swim programs for a reason—it delivers results.
On Durability and Longevity
Let's be honest, swimmers are tough on their gear. Between endless hours in chlorinated water and the general wear and tear of intense workouts, a flimsy suit just won't cut it. While there aren't formal studies on drag suit lifespan, the locker room talk is clear: quality matters. Swimmers consistently say that well-constructed drag suits from reputable brands hold up to the abuse. They maintain their shape and resistance level over time, making them a worthwhile investment for your training. A good suit is built to last through countless practices, so you can focus on your workout, not on replacing your gear.
On Comfort and Fit
A drag suit shouldn't be a distraction. While it’s designed to create resistance, it shouldn’t be uncomfortable or hinder your technique. Unlike a skin-tight tech suit designed for race day, a drag suit should fit comfortably over your regular practice suit without chafing or riding up. Swimmers emphasize the importance of finding a suit that allows for a full range of motion in your shoulders and hips. The goal is to add resistance, not to create an obstacle. The best drag suits provide that extra challenge while feeling like a natural part of your swim gear, letting you focus on your form.
Where to Find Your Next Drag Suit
Ready to add a drag suit to your training toolkit? Finding the right one is easier than you think, especially when you know where to look. Whether you’re searching for the latest model from a top brand or a budget-friendly option that gets the job done, there are plenty of places to find high-quality training gear. The key is to shop smart, keep an eye out for deals, and focus on finding a suit that fits your specific training needs. From dedicated swim shops to online clearance racks, your perfect drag suit is out there waiting for you.
Explore the Swim2000 Collection
Your first stop should be a trusted swim shop that specializes in gear for serious athletes. We have a wide selection of competitive swim gear, including drag suits designed to help you build strength and speed. These aren’t your average swim trunks; they are specialized training tools crafted to create resistance in the water, making your muscles work harder with every stroke. By exploring a curated collection, you can compare different styles, materials, and brands all in one place. This makes it simple to find a suit that matches your training intensity and personal style, ensuring you get a piece of equipment that will become a staple in your workout routine.
Catch Seasonal Sales and Clearance Deals
If you love a good deal, timing your purchase can make a huge difference. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, especially around holidays or at the end of a swim season when new inventory is coming in. This is the perfect time to snag a high-performance drag suit at a fraction of the original price. Don’t forget to check out the Clearance Corner, which is often a goldmine for top-tier gear. You might find last season’s colors or styles at a deep discount. Being a savvy shopper means you can invest in quality training equipment without draining your wallet, leaving you with more to spend on race fees and post-practice snacks.
Find Great Suits on a Budget
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get an effective drag suit. Many brands offer excellent, durable options that provide the resistance you need without a hefty price tag. The most important factor is the suit’s ability to create drag, and even budget-friendly mesh suits are fantastic at this. When you’re browsing, focus on the construction and material rather than just the brand name. You can often find great value by checking out swimwear new arrivals, as newer models are sometimes introduced at a competitive price to attract buyers. A reliable drag suit is an investment in your performance, but it’s one that can definitely fit within your budget.
How to Care for Your Drag Suit
You’ve invested in a great piece of training gear, and now it’s time to protect that investment. Taking proper care of your drag suit isn’t just about keeping it looking good; it’s about ensuring it continues to provide the right amount of resistance and durability session after session. Chlorine, sun, and improper storage are the biggest enemies of any swimwear, but with a few simple habits, you can dramatically extend the life of your suit. Think of it as part of your cool-down routine. Just a couple of minutes of care after you get out of the pool can save you from having to replace your suit prematurely. By following these steps, you’ll keep the fabric strong, the color vibrant, and the fit consistent, ensuring your drag suit is always ready for your toughest workouts.
Simple Washing and Maintenance Tips
The golden rule of swimwear care is to rinse your suit immediately after every swim. Don’t let it sit in your bag. A quick rinse with cool, fresh tap water helps wash away chlorine and other pool chemicals that can break down the fabric over time. When it’s time for a proper wash, always opt for handwashing with a mild soap. Avoid harsh detergents and never use fabric softener, as it can damage the material’s elasticity. The process for caring for your tech suit is very similar and offers great best practices. Gently squeeze out the excess water—never wring it out—and lay it flat or hang it to air dry away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and fabric degradation.
The Right Way to Store It
How you store your drag suit is just as important as how you wash it. The worst thing you can do is leave it crumpled and damp in the bottom of your swim bag, as this creates a perfect environment for mildew and bacteria to grow. It also puts stress on the fabric and seams. Once your suit is completely dry, the best way to store it is by laying it flat or hanging it on a smooth, plastic hanger in a well-ventilated area. This helps the suit maintain its original shape and prevents the material from getting permanent creases or weakening in certain spots. A little organization goes a long way in keeping your gear in top form.
Make Your Suit Last Longer
Beyond washing and storing, a few extra habits can help you get the most out of your drag suit. If you train frequently, consider rotating between two suits. This gives the elastic fibers in each suit time to rest and recover their shape between uses, which significantly improves their longevity. It’s also a good idea to reserve your drag suit exclusively for in-water training. Sitting on rough pool decks or concrete can cause pilling and snags that wear down the fabric. By treating your drag suit as a dedicated piece of competitive swim equipment, you’ll ensure it lasts through many seasons of hard work.
So, Is a Drag Suit Right for You?
Deciding whether to add a drag suit to your gear bag comes down to your personal training goals, your current technique, and your budget. While they can be a fantastic tool for building power and endurance, they aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. Let's walk through the key factors to consider so you can make the best choice for your swimming.
Weighing Performance Gains vs. Technique
The main reason swimmers use drag suits is to build strength. The added resistance forces your muscles to work harder, which can translate to more speed and power when you race in a regular suit. However, there's a catch. Some coaches and swimmers have moved away from constant drag suit use because of the potential impact on form. Wearing one too often can alter your body's natural position in the water, causing you to inadvertently practice with poor technique. The key is to find a balance. A drag suit can be a powerful addition to your competitive swim training, but it shouldn't come at the expense of the clean, efficient form you've worked so hard to develop.
A Quick Cost vs. Value Breakdown
Drag suits are a pretty affordable piece of training equipment. Most new suits fall in the $45 to $55 range, but it's easy to find great options for less, especially if you keep an eye on sales. Think of it as a small investment in your training arsenal. For the price of a nice dinner out, you get a durable tool that can add a new layer of challenge to countless workouts. When you consider how long a quality drag suit lasts, the value is clear. If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to mix up your routine and build strength, checking out the Clearance Corner for a deal on a drag suit is a smart move.
Making the Best Choice for Your Training
If you decide a drag suit is a good fit, the next step is to use it wisely. Most experts agree that you shouldn't wear a drag suit for your entire workout. Instead, integrate it strategically. Use it for specific sets designed to build power, like pull or kick sets, or during your warm-up to get your muscles firing. The goal is to use it with purpose, not just to make every lap feel harder. Think about what you want to achieve. Are you trying to build a stronger finishing kick? Use the suit during your kick sets. By being intentional, you can get all the strength-building benefits without compromising your technique. It's just one of many pieces of new swim gear you can use to fine-tune your performance.
Related Articles
- Racing Swimming Suits 101: Find Your Perfect Fit
- From Pool to Gym: The Best Multi-Use Swim Products for Athletes on the Go
- Where to Buy Swimwear: The Ultimate Guide
- Everything You Need to Know About Swim Briefs
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wear my drag suit over my regular practice suit? Yes, that’s exactly how they’re designed to be worn. Think of your regular swimsuit as a secure base layer. Wearing the drag suit over it ensures everything stays in place, especially when you’re pushing off the walls or doing flip turns. This combination gives you the resistance you want without worrying about your suit shifting around.
How do I know what size to get? Should I just order a few sizes up? It’s best to start by ordering your normal training suit size. Drag suits are intentionally cut larger and baggier, so your usual size should provide the right amount of looseness for creating resistance. If you size up too much, you risk the suit being so loose that it slides down or interferes with your kick. When in doubt, check the brand’s specific sizing guide.
Can using a drag suit actually hurt my swimming technique? It can if you overuse it or ignore your form. The extra resistance naturally wants to pull your hips down, which can lead to a sloppy body position. This is why it’s crucial to use a drag suit for specific sets rather than entire practices. If you feel your stroke mechanics starting to break down, it’s a clear sign to take the suit off and reset.
What’s the real difference between a mesh drag suit and just wearing an old, baggy swimsuit? While an old, stretched-out suit will create some resistance, a proper drag suit is a much more effective training tool. The mesh material is engineered to catch a consistent amount of water, giving you predictable resistance for your workout. Plus, drag suits are made from durable, chlorine-resistant fabrics that won't fall apart after a few months of hard training.
How often should I actually be training with a drag suit? More is not always better. A great approach is to incorporate it into two or three of your workouts per week. On those days, you don’t need to wear it for the whole practice. Try using it for your warm-up to get your muscles activated or during specific power-focused sets to maximize the strength-building benefits.
