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TEAM SWIM
How to size a team swimsuit.
Start with accurate measurements. Then use the size chart for the specific suit your team selected.
FIRST THING TO KNOW
Measure the swimmer. Don't guess from an old suit.
Competitive suits are designed to fit differently than fashion swimwear, and sizing can vary by brand and model. Your measurements plus the chart for your specific team suit are the best place to start.
BEFORE YOU START
Get the measurements right.
Use a soft measuring tape. A non-stretch string also works. Skip rigid rulers and metal tape measures.
Measure close to the body. Bare skin is best. If that isn't practical, use thin clothing that will not add bulk.
Snug, not tight. The tape should sit flat against the body without compressing the skin.
Have someone help. It is much easier to get an accurate chest, hip and torso measurement with a second person.
WHERE TO MEASURE
Four measurements matter most.
Not every suit uses every measurement, but having these numbers makes the size chart much easier to use.
01
Chest
Measure around the fullest part of the chest, keeping the tape level.
02
Waist
Measure the actual waist according to the suit manufacturer's chart. Do not use the size printed on jeans or pants.
03
Hips
Measure around the fullest part of the hips and seat with the tape level.
04
Torso
Start at one shoulder, run the tape down the front of the body, between the legs and back up to the same shoulder.
MEN'S & BOYS' SUITS
Use the actual waist measurement.
Pant size is not a reliable swimsuit measurement. Measure the swimmer and compare that number directly with the size chart for the jammer, brief or suit your team selected.
WOMEN'S & GIRLS' SUITS
Look at the whole set of measurements.
Compare chest, waist, hips and torso with the chart for the specific suit. If measurements fall into different sizes, do not automatically size down. The right choice depends on the suit model and the swimmer's proportions.
THE FIT CHECK
Snug is good. Painful is not.
A competitive team suit should stay secure against the body while still allowing the swimmer to move normally.
TOO BIG
- Fabric wrinkles or sags
- Loose straps
- The back pulls away from the body
- Open gaps around the leg or waist
- The suit shifts noticeably while moving
TOO SMALL
- Pain or pinching
- Restricted shoulder or leg movement
- Excessive digging at straps or leg openings
- The suit cannot be positioned correctly on the body
- Compression feels extreme rather than secure
IMPORTANT
Team suit sizing and tech suit sizing are not the same thing.
This guide is intended for regular competitive and team swimsuits. Technical racing suits can fit much more aggressively and may use different sizing rules. Always use the manufacturer's chart and fitting instructions for the exact tech suit.
BETWEEN SIZES?
Don't make up a sizing rule.
If the swimmer falls between sizes or different measurements point to different sizes, use the chart for the exact suit and consider the swimmer's proportions and preferred level of compression.
If you are still unsure, ask us before ordering. It is much easier to help before the wrong size gets worn in the pool.
NEED A SECOND OPINION?
Send us the measurements.
Email [email protected] with the swimmer's measurements and the team or suit name. We'll help you confirm the best starting size.