5 Top Accessories for Swimming
5 Top Accessories for Swimming
As we approach the iconic, beautiful summer season in the Hampton Roads area, swimming and water activities will return as one of the most popular activities for you and your family to enjoy together. Virginia Beach is no stranger to adventurists and beach-goers, and whether you’re a tourist or a longtime resident, preparing your entire family to spend a day beachside or poolside is no quick task.
Below are 5 accessories we at Katie’s Kickers recommend for your family’s next beach or pool day. Take the guess work out of what to pack by referencing this list.
A Well-Fitting Swimsuit:
If your family will be playing, jumping, or diving, or doing any sort of water activities, the most important accessory is a comfortable, well-fitting swimsuit! By choosing the proper swimwear, you’ll avoid your swimsuit riding up or slipping off while climbing in and out of a pool or wading through ocean waves.
A one-piece bathing suit or board shorts and a rash guard are a great option for girls, and shorts with a drawstring to keep them fitting well on the waist are an excellent option for boys.
Rash Guard or Swim Shirt:
Rash guards are the best sun protection, not just for you and your family, but it also protects swimming pools. Sun screen will wash off and linger in the water, but by wearing a rash guard, you can enjoy comfortable, light weight swimwear that provides the ultimate protection against sun damage – even when it's cloudy!
Eyewear:
Don’t forget to pack protective eyewear! Sunglasses for outdoor swim areas are key, and goggles for the pool are a must.
After burning my retinas at age 17, I'm super conscious about protecting my eyes as best I can. Chlorine allergies dictate googles (2 straps, non-adjustable nose piece) when lap swimming to minimize chemical burn. This is why I prefer my own saltwater pool to most others!
I like these from Amazon for children:
EWPJDK Kids Swim Goggles - 2 Pack
Swimming Goggles Anti Fog Anti-UV No Leaking For Children Teens Boys and Girls Age 3-15
Hat or Visor:
Continuing with proper sun protection, we need to protect our faces as much as possible. Wearing a hat or visor is the best way to have continuous coverage of this area – and helps us avoid accidentally getting sunscreen in our eyes!
Sunscreen:
If you and your family will be exposed to the sun through your swimming or water activities, and sunscreen is necessary, I recommend lotions over sprays.
A great option for your body is reef safe BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+, Water Resistant, UVA/UVB Protection with Smart Bottle Technology - Fragrance Free, 5 oz.
For sun protection on your face, I prefer Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face and Body, Broad Spectrum SPF 70 UVA/UVB Sunscreen Stick, PABA-Free, 1.5 oz
There is a children's version of this sunscreen, but I prefer this particular one for my face since the SPF is higher and it doesn't run!
BONUS Accessories: After Swim Care
Again, with a chlorine allergy, skin care is really important to have a relaxing night. These are my favorite after-care products to relax, treat and heal after a long day in the water and sun.
Gear up for those long summer days ahead with these awesome accessories the next time your family is
poolside or beachside. And don’t forget to equip your family with the most important thing of all – an understanding of safe swimming! Reach out to Katie’s Kickers today to learn more about our many classes so you can be as prepared as possible for a fun and safe summer in Virginia Beach with your family!
