Backstroke Ledges Are Coming to High School Swimming: What Parents & Swimmers Should Know
December 19, 2025
High school swimming is getting a major update for the 2025/2026 season. The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has approved a permissive rule allowing state associations to adopt backstroke ledges—a starting-block accessory designed to give swimmers a stronger, more stable backstroke start.
What Does the New NFHS Backstroke Rule Mean?
Starting next season, each state will be able to decide whether to allow the use of backstroke wedges (also called backstroke start ledges) in high school competition. If adopted, facilities can attach these adjustable wedges to their start blocks so swimmers have a reliable surface to press their feet against before launching into the water.
A few important parts of the NFHS backstroke rule:
- It’s not mandatory — states and individual facilities can choose whether to use them.
- Pools must have at least six feet of depth to use ledges at meets.
- All swimmers in a heat must use the same style of backstroke ledge for fairness.
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Even if the equipment is available, swimmers are not required to use it.
Why Backstroke Ledges Matter
Traditional backstroke starts rely on placing the feet against the wall or timing pad — surfaces that can be slippery or inconsistent. This can lead to false starts, uneven pressure, or lost power.
A backstroke start wedge gives swimmers a stable platform, helping:
- Reduce foot slippage
- Improve leg drive and explosiveness
- Create a more consistent start position
- Boost overall race momentum
For swimmers aiming to refine technique, this new equipment can be a game-changer.
What Swimmers, Parents, and Facilities Should Do Next
With the 2025/2026 high school swimming rules shifting, here’s how to stay ahead:
1. Ask Your Coach About State Adoption
Some states may move quickly on this NFHS equipment change; others may wait. Check whether your state has approved the rule and if your meet facilities plan to install backstroke ledges.
2. Practice With the Equipment Early (If Possible)
If your school or club team has access to backstroke start equipment, getting early reps with a wedge will help swimmers decide whether they want to use it in competition.
3. For Coaches, Athletic Directors & Facility Managers: Consider a Small Investment
If you’re responsible for pool or team equipment, this may be a smart time to consider purchasing one or two backstroke wedges for practice use.
Because the rule is permissive and adoption may vary by state or meet, having a few wedges on hand allows athletes to:
- Practice with the equipment they may encounter at away or postseason meets
- Learn proper setup, foot placement, and start mechanics
- Decide whether using a wedge benefits their racing performance
You don’t need to fully outfit every lane right away — even 1–2 wedges can rotate through practice and help swimmers prepare for real meet conditions.
4. Don’t Stress If Your Pool Doesn’t Have Ledges Yet
This is a permissive rule, not a requirement. Adoption may vary widely between states, districts, and individual facilities, especially in the early seasons.
5. Keep Prioritizing Strong Backstroke Start Technique
Whether using a ledge or not, technique still matters. Focus on:
- Powerful leg drive
- Solid grip and hip position
- Clean, streamlined entry
- Smooth transition into your stroke
These fundamentals matter just as much — if not more — than the equipment itself.
Gear Tip: Train With Backstroke Ledge Equipment
If your swimmer wants to prepare early — or your team plans to adopt the rule — training with meet-style backstroke ledge equipment can help eliminate surprises on race day. SwimOutlet carries:
- Backstroke start wedges
- Start block accessories
- Adjustable backstroke ledges for practice
- Replacement parts for high-school-legal backstroke equipment setups
Training with the right gear now can help swimmers, coaches, and facilities feel confident once the rule officially goes into effect.
