Swim paddles are one important swim tool that all categories of swimmers will find useful. They facilitate your swimming abilities and/or performances- one way or the other. Hence, irrespective of whether you’re a leisure swimmer, an amateur, or a professional, you’ll always see how a good swim paddle helps you become a better swimmer.
One good thing is that some of the swim paddles on the market have been specifically designed to facilitate certain swimming practices and users. For instance, there are swim paddles for breaststroke, that can help your breaststroke practices become more effective and result oriented.
When buying swim paddles for yourself or anyone, note that what you need is not just any swim paddles, but the type that suits your swimming needs and tendencies. If you’re new to swimming, then it is advised that you go for the best swim fins for training, while a younger person may check the list of junior hand paddles for swimming.
Ultimately, it is important that you’re only choosing the best swim paddle products- irrespective of what category you’re choosing from or what you’ll be using them for.
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Table of Contents
Why Do You Need Swim Paddles?
If you’re new to swimming, then it’s likely that you might want to know why swim paddle important to swimmers. Most people have had their first-time experience with swimming- and understand how it feels, so I decided to include this section on the review.
Although the benefits of using swimming paddles are quite extensive, the following are top two reasons why they are important for you:
Develop Muscle Strength and Swimming Power
There are remarkable differences related you will notice when you use swim paddles, compared to when you don’t. Many times, swim paddles build some level of resistance when you use them, thus making your upper body muscles exert more force for your swim strokes.
If this goes on for a while, the muscle strength becomes increased- which is an advantage for effective swimming practices.
Swim Faster and More Efficiently
This is another reason why anyone would go for a good swimming paddle. You’ll observe that you get to swim faster with better stroke/techniques when you’ve swim paddles on, than when you don’t.
Asides the speed however, the use of paddles also helps you know the best postures and actions that work best for you. Knowing this and utilizing it at all time, helps you build and sustain your swimming efficiency.
You May Like: Neoprene Buoyancy Swim Shorts
My Top Picks
Below is a list of some of the best swim paddles on the market for 2024. Let’s check it out!
- Best Overall: Speedo Power Plus
- Runner Up: Synergy
- Best Budget: Finis Freestyler
- Best for Improving Swim Strokes: Strokemaker
- Best for Training: TYR Catalyst 2
- Best for Comfort and Flexibility: Aqua Sphere Ergoflex
- Great for Improving Swimming Power: HEAD Contour
- Great for Equal Pressure Distribution: Arena Flex
Comparison Chart
The following are 15 top swim paddles on the market at this time, each of them with some unique features that qualify them for this list.
The 15 Best Swim Paddles Reviews
Each of the products listed in the table above have been carefully reviewed below. I have outlined its unique features, pros and cons. Find out below, why each of these swim paddles is among the best that you should buy with your money:
1. Finis Agility
(Great Ergonomic Design – Editor’s Choice)
Although the Finis company has several other products in its catalog, the Finis agility swim paddle seems to be taking so much of the attention right now. The paddle is the swimmers’ choice it is one of the best hand paddles for swimming, that can be used by all categories of swimmers.
Hence, if you’re specifically looking for that swim paddle that can be used by different persons with different swimming expertise, then you’ve found one of the best options. For instance, this paddle is economical for the all level swimming coach, since they wouldn’t need to spend more money buying swim paddles that are specifically designed for each level.
Now, judging by appearance and design alone, you may want to conclude that the Finis agility is just one of the many other random swim paddle products everywhere. However, its functions for the swimmer are top-notch, and very valuable too. The paddle’s ergonomic matches well with the contour positions of the hand, and helps you build good traction with the water.
Another thing to consider in this product is the fact that the paddle has a hole attached to the side- where your thumb fits in. Since there is no strap on the paddle, there are increased chances for good catch position and proper muscle memory for swimmers. The Finis agility is an ideal swim paddle since its overall design somewhat teaches you to adopt the right stroke pressure for your swimming.
Pros
- The paddle design is built in such a way that users get instant swimming stroke feedback hence, it allows you to know if you’re using the right stroke or not
- Suitable for all level of swimmers, and all swim stroke types
- Its ergonomic design encourages proper hand positioning
- Comes in small, medium, and large sizes
Cons
- Some beginners may find it a little more demanding to start with
See Also: Pool Noodles for Swimming
2. Speedo Power Plus
(Best Overall)
When you think of the best hand paddles for swimming, then the Speedo products may readily come to mind. In 2020, the Speedo Power Plus paddle is unarguably one of the Best Swim Paddles for Training. If you’re looking to increase body strength and resistance while swimming, then know that these swim paddles are probably what you need.
The paddle comes with some specific features, which are the very components that help it achieve its purposes for the user. Firstly, the paddle comes in different size options, with an intent to enable users to choose their desired resistant training levels.
While the small size tends to suit the beginner category- with a lesser resistance ability, the extra-large variant provides optimum resistance training for the user. To enhance improved user flexibility and for better control in water, the paddle has multiple holes within the pad. This means that you have various strapping options when you use this paddle, as well as more optimized water pulling capacity.
Asides the hole straps, there are also tube straps that allow the user to put on the paddles, more comfortably. The ability of the paddle to create a better pulling trajectory is facilitated via its scalloped edges. It is no wonder why it is currently a best seller on Amazon.
Pros
- Specifically designed to help swimmers improve their resistance, and overall shoulder strengthening
- Various size variants allow intending users to decide the most suitable option
- The Speedo Power Plus swim paddles have a swim coach approval
- The scalloped edges on the paddles allow for improved trajectory
Cons
- Users may need to buy bigger sizes when they’re ready to increase swimming resistance and power abilities.
3. Synergy
(Runner Up)
This is another well-designed product that truly has the swimmer’s everyday needs at heart. There are quite some ways in which this paddle can be of help to you- from making you start well on your swimming training, to helping you hone your swimming skills in no time.
First, note that the Synergy Hand Swim Paddles comes with a broad blade design, that is good for helping the swimmer develop their shoulder and upper body strength. They also make the swimmer get a good feel of the water, in such a way that enhances their stroke quality for each time.
Also note that the holes on the paddles also facilitates this tendency- since the directed water passage allows for smoother swimming stroke displays. Usually, and irrespective of the paddle size you’re buying, the Synergy Hand Swim paddles are made to have an ergonomic design that also fits the shape of the hand.
All of these features are added in a bid to ensure that the user always has that required convenience underwater. The silicon straps on another hand, are added in a way that makes them adjustable- as the user deems fit. This product is made for all levels of swimmers and comes in three sizes.
Pros
- Its broad blade design facilitates strength building of the upper body and the shoulders
- Adjustable silicone straps allow users fit the paddles well
- Ergonomic and hand shape design allows your hand to stay in place, as well as carry out better swim strokes
- Suitable for all swimming resistance levels
Cons
- The paddles may seem a little bulky for users
See Also: Open Water Swim Buoys
4. Strokemaker
(Best for Improving Swim Strokes)
One thing you’ll enjoy about the Strokemaker swim paddle is their well-defined paddle sizes and categories. So, if you’ve been looking for that brand that quite distinctly produces junior hand paddles for swimming, then you just might have found one. Strokemaker swim paddles come in seven size variants, with good consideration for young beginner swimmers.
The sizes 0, 0.5, and 1 are specifically made for young swimmers of ages 5 to 10, 8 to 11, and 9 to 13, respectively. On the other hand, the Strokemaker swim paddles are noted for their ability to help the swimmer improve on their swimming strokes. For instance, they prolong user recovery- as a way of causing an increase in the distance per swimming stroke.
This action is consequently able to strengthen the swimmer’s stroke-specific muscles, and also help them build more resistance. Before this can be achieved, however, the user has to use the paddles continuously for a long period of time.
Note that the Strokemaker swim paddles also comes with several holes that serve as water passages for increased water control and stroke smoothness for the swimmer.
Pros
- The paddles come in up to eleven color variants
- The Cam be used for all the four swimming stroke types
- Comes with items that can be used to customize them, such as the added tiny stars in the package
- Best Swim Paddles for Training kids
Cons
- The tube is not coupled to the paddles, and there are no instructions on how to fix them
See Also: Pull Buoys for Swimmers
5. Speedo Tech
(Swim Paddle for Multi Strokes)
Just like the other Speedo swim paddles on this review, the Speedo Tech swim paddles comes with some unique function quality that is unique to this manufacturer. From over the years, the Speedo company products have filled the swimming gear market, with a relevance that is so far unbeatable.
This is another swimming paddle that works well for all swimming stroke types, hence making you cut costs that would have been required in procuring specific paddles for all four swim strokes. If you’re looking to become a professional swimmer, then this type of paddle will help you gain mastery faster.
According to its design, this paddle comes with a multiple stroke technique that facilitates all of the swimmer’s catch, pull, and feel swimming actions. This paddle would also help you assume the right positions for your hand, as well as increase your strength and resistance.
Another thing you would observe when using this paddle is that you can interchange the paddles and use them for either hand. This is some sort of advantage, as it enables you to perform some specific stroke techniques. Other features of this paddle are the multiple holes that allow water passage and increased user control and feel of the water.
Of all the best hand paddles for swimming in 2024, the Speedo Tech swim paddles have one of the highest sales rates.
Pros
- Great swim paddles for all swim strokes
- Apt swimming paddles for improving user strength, endurance, and resistance levels
- Tubing straps ensure proper fitting of the paddles to the user’s hand
- Holes for water passage allows increased user feel of the water and smoother stroke control
Cons
- Although beginners can make use of it, it is not the best option for them
6. Finis Freestyler
(Best Budget)
Just as the name already suggests, the Finis Freestyler swim paddles are specifically made for the freestyle swimming strokes. This makes them a good option for professionals, and users participating in freestyle competitions. One feature of this paddle that helps the user, is its pointed front.
The pointed front is well structured to aid its efficiency, by pushing through the water forward and enabling improved distance reach. Note that this effect of the blade design can be observed in the swimmer’s distance per stroke coverage. Another reason why the narrow surface area of the blade is good is that it tends to help reduce the strain on the shoulders.
The main strap on this paddle is a finger strap positioned for the middle finger of the user. There is a skeg on the bottom surface of the paddle, which helps in the streamlining, as well as for providing the user with stroke feedback.
Obviously, this paddle is not anything close to a junior hand paddle for swimming. However, it is one of your wisest options, if you’ve passed the beginner stages.
Pros
- Great paddle for professional swimming
- Pointed blade surface allows for increased reach and distance per stroke ratio
- Enhance the efficiency of the paddles, courtesy it’s under bottom skeg
- The adjustable finger strap allows users to hold the strap in place
Cons
- Not ideally designed for multiple swimming stroke types
7. Speedo Nemesis Contour
(Great for Improving Swimming Techniques)
This is another top swim paddle with a lot of resistance. The Speedo nemesis contour swim paddles have become a common name on the market, due to their interesting features and functions. They’re most suitable for the professional swimmer, while the intermediate level swimmers may also find them useful.
The increased resistance on this paddle is hinted to be of health benefits for the users- in terms of the cardio actions that accompany their use. Note that the Speedo nemesis contour swim paddles come with tubercle-like structures, which importantly improves the swimmer’s overall surface area.
This is what consequently creates a smooth and improved user trajectory. Since the paddle’s surface area is increased along the edge, there is also an increased resistance, which consequently goes a long way in enhancing the user’s strength- as they continue to use the paddle.
The contoured design on the paddles is aimed at holding the swimmer’s hands in position, while there is a restraining tubing that holds the user’s hands and wrist to the paddle. This also helps you improve your techniques.
Pros
- Tubercle-like structures increases the paddle’s surface area and consequently helps the user build strength
- Great swim paddles for cardio workouts, as well as for effecting some weight loss
- Contoured design improves user comfort, as well as holds the hand in place
- The Speedo nemesis contour swim paddles come in small, medium, and large sizes
Cons
- Certain users may not find it so comfortable when underwater
8. TYR Catalyst 2
(Best for Training)
The TYK catalyst 2 training swim paddle is one of the best swim paddles, that has done well to retain its position on the top spots. Now, if you’re concerned about getting a swim paddle with size dimensions that is more precise, then you should see the TYK catalyst 2 size options.
This swim paddle has five different size specifications, with possible options for young swimmers. Each of the paddle sizes has distinguishing colors. The largest comes in blue color, while the smallest paddle on the list has the orange color. The TYK catalyst 2 training swim paddles have a uniquely flat surface, which allows them to distribute pressure across both shoulders, and reduces the strain.
Another notable reason why this paddle has become a favorite is its high durability. The TYK catalyst 2 training swim paddle is made of polypropylene materials, which makes it last for a good while. Thus, if durability is a major criterion you’re considering, then this is one of the best swim paddles that you can get.
Pros
- The uniquely flat surface is well designed to effectively distribute pressure, and reduce strain on the user
- Comes with more size options for intending users to get a more precise size that fits them
- The paddle is made of highly durable polypropylene materials
- Tubing straps to firmly hold in user’s hands
Cons
- Not the best swim paddles, in terms of user comfort
9. Speedo Preflex
(Best for Smoother Strokes and More Strength)
This is another swim paddle that would be very effective for whatever swimming practices and/or training that you may want to engage in. If one of your main aims is to hone your swimming skills and techniques, then this may be perfect paddle for you- as it particularly allows you to build and improve your stroke techniques.
The Speedo Preflex swim paddles have a special hinge design that allows it to effectively initiate the catch stage for all four swim strokes. When using this paddle, there is an importantly smoother pulling trajectory, courtesy the paddle’s tubercle infrastructures. These tubercles are also the reason why users experience relatively improved control for their every stroke.
These paddles are specifically noted for their ability to effectively push up swimming strength in the user. Other important features that make the paddle what it is for users are its scalloped edges- which facilitates smoother strokes, and the tubed straps that stays comfortably in the user’s hands.
Pros
- The tubercles infrastructures allow for enhanced trajectory and control
- When in use, the paddle’s fingertip flexion becomes prominent
- Special hinge design that enables it to initiate the catch stage for all the stroke types
- The scalloped edges are an advantage since they facilitate smoother strokes
Cons
- The model does not come with a small-enough size for young swimmers
10. FINIS Iso
(Best for Targeting Specific Muscles)
This product is designed to create an imbalance in the catch phase of a stroke. This product helps to maintain a proper stroke technique by encouraging swimmers to put more pressure on the side of the paddle. It helps to isolate specific muscle groups, encourage proper hand position and improve stroke awareness.
Using this product helps swimmers to pay more attention to the position of their hand while in water, keep it at appropriate level and improves consistency throughout the stroke phases. It has an ergonomic shape designed to fit the natural shape and contour of the hand.
Pros
- Targets specific muscle groups
- Can be used for drills and stroke-specific training
- Fit the natural contour of the hand
- Paddles remain in place during proper stroke technique
Cons
- No provision for with very much smaller hands
11. Arena Flex
(Great for Equal Pressure Distribution)
The Arena Flex swimming paddles come with two important characteristics. Firstly, it allows for greater water resistance, which consequently provides a stronger workout on the swimmer. On another hand, the paddles come with a mesh design, which is unlike the more common plastic swimming paddle materials that are more common.
Based on its most important components, the Arena Flex paddles seems to have been made in a way that would show its distinct differences. Now, if you’ve been using this paddle for a while, then there are chances that you would have developed your vertical forearm, well enough. This is true, since the resistance of the paddle’s mesh and its interaction with the water, are important functions that would affect the swimmer.
The mesh paddle design is considered important because it prevents the paddle from slipping off the swimmer’s hand in the water. It is also instrumental in good pressure distribution between both shoulders of the swimmer. If you’re looking for a paddle that is a little off the regular but with great performance still, then the Arena Flex hand swimming paddle is not a bad option.
Pros
- Good paddles for improving your swimming technique
- Facilitates good pressure distribution between both hands and shoulders
- Increased resistance courtesy the paddle mesh and its impact with the water, causes stronger workout for the paddle user
- Wrist and finger straps for holding swimmer’s hand in place, when in use
Cons
- The plastic swim paddles are more effective for helping the swimmer build their strength, endurance, and resistance
12. MP Michael Phelps
(Great for Building Resistance)
Now, the Michael Phelps swimming paddle is not like the regular swimming paddles you see on the sports shop. This paddle comes with a different model design, which is effective and lovely. The paddle is built in such a way that it takes the structure of the hand bone. This is why it can affect an improved pulling function for all stroke types.
Although the product is relatively more expensive than several other swimming paddles in 2024, the fact remains that it deserves to rank amongst the best hand paddles for swimming.
In the Michael Phelps swimming paddles, the feel for the water is enhanced by the added paddle vents and palm risers. The paddle is large enough, durable, and fitted with high function rubber straps. Asides these, the paddle is also a good one, if you want to build your resistance in a relatively short time.
Pros
- The paddle has an appealing model design
- Good product with an impressive high resistance
- Fit for effective beginner training and stroke practices
- The paddle has vents and palm raiser that enhances the user’s control
Cons
- Not the best paddle option for professional level swimming
13. Start Smart Contoured
(Quite Comfortable and Reduces Strain)
This is one of the best hand paddles for swimming, that is also designed to boost your overall performance and techniques. The Start smart contoured training swim paddles come with a unique shape and design, and it has become more popular within a relatively short time. You would love all of the useful additions that make the paddle turn out just great.
Although the paddle can be used for all level of swimming, beginners and intermediate swimmers would find it especially useful as they continue to learn and practice the important rudiments of swimming.
Unlike other swimming paddles on our list, the Start Smart Contoured paddle reduces resistance for the user, through features like contoured form, and the several hole channels for water passage. According to design, this paddle works for all stroke types and would be effective for the catch, feel, and pull actions of each swimming stroke.
Their ergonomic design is worth commending, as this is what facilitates the comfort and reduced strain that is experienced during swimming sessions. The Start Smart Contoured training swim paddle is currently one of the most purchased swim paddles, and this is likely to continue for a while.
Pros
- Impressive contour and ergonomic design that facilitates user convenience and reduces strain during swimming
- Comes with holes and water channels that enhance water feel
- The rubber straps are adjustable to fit the user
- Effective swimming tools for practicing and improving your swimming techniques
Cons
- The paddle does not have size variant that is suitable for young swimmers
14. Aqua Sphere Ergoflex
(Best for Comfort and Flexibility)
The Aqua sphere Ergoflex swim paddle is made of high-quality rubber components, and impressive ergonomic design. The paddle’s peculiar design is what has importantly distinguished it, alongside its remarkable durability. People love the feel of this product, and most especially its function in water.
The Aqua sphere Ergoflex paddle doesn’t come with holes and water channels, hence causing more resistance for the user- which consequently helps them develop shoulder strength and endurance.
The rubber framework of the paddle allows for increased user comfort and flexibility in the water, as well as an increased feel for the water. Note that the paddle’s contoured outputs, also allows the paddle to hold well to the swimmer’s hands while enabling you to assume the correct hand positions.
Another important quality to note is the Aqua sphere Ergoflex’s impressive durable design- which makes the paddle stay useful for a long time. This is one main reason why the product’s positive reviews are continuously increasing, on several sales outlets.
Pros
- The paddle design enables it to provide strong resistance, that helps the user build strength
- The adjustable rubber straps make the paddle fit well on the user
- Quality rubber material with high durability traits
- The paddle’s contoured designs allow for a good hand positioning
Cons
- The resistance level of the paddle may not be suitable for some beginner swimmers
15. HEAD Contour
(Great for Improving Swimming Power)
You would be fascinated by this paddle’s hydrodynamic design and its other important features, that has made it qualify as one of the best swim paddles for professional practice. One of the most basic functions of the Head Contour Swim paddle is that it importantly helps users improve their swimming power and stroke techniques.
It does this, by providing an appropriate resistance level, as well as the best level propulsion that the swimmer needs. With consistent use, all of these provides a good effect on your upper body muscles and shoulder strength development.
There are the paddle holes that allows good water passage, while also allowing you to have a good feel of the water. The ergonomic design is top-notch, and the contoured design of the paddle is made to assume a pull posture.
Pros
- Great swimming paddle for building power and stroke technique
- Apt contoured design is made to assume the pull posture of the swim strokes
- The paddle is made of good quality and durable rubber and silicon materials
- The blades are made to grip the water, which consequently helps reduce the tendency for fatigue
Cons
- There are inadequate size options available
How to Choose the Right Swimming Paddles?
Before you jump off to the store to buy your swim paddle, there are some things you should know. Since there are a huge number of products out there, you must know what to look out for. The following are some important things that you should consider and decide on, before proceeding to buy swim paddles:
1. Swimming Paddles Have Been Designed for Different Objectives and Users
Usually, all the swim paddles you’ll see, have different objectives and purposes that they were designed to achieve in the user. For instance, while some paddles are made for users who want to develop their power and stroke techniques, another may be designed for swimmers who swim at leisure and who don’t want too much resistance build-up.
On another hand, there are the paddles for professional level swimmers, which would be of little use to swimmers in the beginner levels- and vice versa.
You should only buy your swimming paddles after you’ve decided what your swimming goals and objectives are. This would enable you to buy the product that is designed to meet your needs. Asides this, make sure you’re buying the product designed for your swimming level, or you may go for the ones that can be used by swimmers at all levels.
2. Swimming Paddles May Be Solid or Have Holes in Them
One of the most important things that you need to decide on, is whether you’ll be buying a paddle with holes or solid ones without holes. Essentially, solid paddles without holes are built to provide more resistance, while the ones with holes are designed to build less resistance.
If you’re a beginner, it is usually advised that you go for the swim paddles with holes, and switch to the ones without holes- when you’re past the learner stages. Note that the number of holes also matter, as a paddle with more holes has less resistance- compared to another paddle with lesser holes.
3. Size of the Paddle
Swim paddles come in different sizes too, and this characteristic also determines how effective a swim paddle would be for a particular user. The size of the paddle is another factor that determines the resistance of the paddle, as felt by the user.
Usually, it is advised that you start with a swim paddle that is just about the size of your hand or a little bigger. This provides just the right resistance that you would be able to handle from the start, while you may adopt larger paddles whenever you need to increase your resistance levels or workout rates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who Invented the Hand Swimming Paddles?
The hand swimming paddle was invented sometime around the 18th century, by Benjamin Franklin.
What Are the Basic Functions of a Hand Swimming Paddle for the Swimmer?
The swimming paddles increases the surface area of the swimmer’s hand, in a way that ensures an increased forward momentum of the swimmer’s body. They help improve the swimmer’s stroke technique, as well as their arm and shoulder strength.
How Can Hand Paddles Help Me Develop My Upper Body Strength?
The hand paddles can facilitate upper body strength development, by preventing water passage through the swimmer’s finger. This action consequently causes the swimmer to perform the arm pulls by necessarily exerting more power.
Are Swimming Paddles Allowed for Standard Swimming Competitions?
Usually, standard swimming competitions don’t allow competitors to make use of swimming paddles. However, it may be important that you use them for your training- since they confer you with some advantages that would be useful, even when you’re not using them.
For instance, if you’ve learned to develop swimming power and speed while using paddles, you’ll tend to fall back to these tendencies- even when the paddles are off.
Swim Network Overview
All of the best swim paddles have peculiar features- that makes them top sellers. However, what makes one product more suitable over the other, may be found in just a few differences. This is why you need to carefully make your choice, or ask a coach to help you evaluate yourself, and the product options before you.
For beginners, I recommend the Finis Agility, Synergy, Speedo Preflex, Speedo Tech and the Start Smart Contoured training swim paddles. The design of these paddles help you master your swimming skills faster. The stroke feedback mechanism it gives is a great feature that will help a beginner. For people who are not new to swimming, Finis Freestyle, Speedo Nemesis Contour, TYR Catakyst 2, Aqua Sphere Ergoflex and Head Contour swim paddles are great choices.
Furthermore, you must consider swim paddles to be more of a training tool, rather than a compulsory swimming kit for all time. Doing the swimming all by yourself sometimes, helps you build and sustain your swimming abilities and techniques.
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William, thank you for your review – very helpfull! Great job.
Rafal Gacek – FlexPaddles inventor
Great to hear that from you. Thank you!
Thank you for your excellent reviews (Swim fins as well).
These are the best reviews I have read in my search to finding fins and swim paddles.
I’m glad that you love my articles. Thank you!