Swim Parkas

There is no better feeling than wrapping yourself in a warm swim parka after a grueling race or a freezing morning practice. Essential for every competitive swimmer, a high-quality parka does more than just keep you comfortable—it keeps your muscles loose and ready to perform. SwimOutlet stocks the largest selection of team parkas from top brands like Speedo, TYR, Arena, and our best-selling Sporti line.

The Anatomy of a Swim Parka

Unlike a standard winter coat, a swim parka is engineered specifically for wet athletes.

• The Shell (Waterproof & Windproof): The outer layer is typically made from durable, water-resistant Nylon or Polyester. It blocks the wind on outdoor decks and prevents water from soaking through to your car seat on the ride home.

• The Lining (Insulation): This is what touches your skin. You generally have two choices:

  • Fleece Lined: The standard for most teams. It is lightweight, wicks moisture away from the body, and dries relatively quickly. Ideally suited for year-round use.

  • Faux Fur Lined: The premium option for maximum warmth. It feels softer and heavier, providing superior insulation for outdoor winter swimming, though it takes longer to dry than fleece.

• Ventilation: Look for parkas with front and back ventilation flaps. These allow for airflow to prevent overheating and provide easy access for embroidery (team logos and names).

Must-Have Features

When shopping for swim parkas, look for these "pro" details:

• Two-Way Zipper: A non-negotiable feature. This allows you to unzip the parka from the bottom up, letting you sit comfortably on a bench or block without the jacket bunching up or stressing the zipper.

• Fleece-Lined Pockets: Essential for keeping hands warm and dexterous before a race.

• Internal Goggle Pocket: A dedicated secure spot to store your cap, goggles, and phone so they don’t get lost on a chaotic pool deck.

Team Warm-Ups & Customization

Beyond parkas, we offer full team warm-up sets (jackets and pants). Whether you need matching tracksuits for travel or podium gear, brands like Mizuno and Arena offer athletic cuts that look professional. Pro Tip: Most of our parkas and warm-ups feature large back panels specifically designed for custom team embroidery.

FAQs

How should a swim parka fit?

Parkas are designed to be oversized. You want it loose enough to change out of a tech suit underneath it (using the parka as a changing tent) and long enough to cover your knees for maximum warmth. If you are between sizes, we generally recommend sizing up.

Can I put a swim parka in the dryer?

It is best to hang dry your parka to preserve the water-resistant coating on the outer shell. If you must wash it, use cold water and avoid fabric softeners, which can degrade the waterproofing.

Parka vs. Robe: What’s the difference?

A swim parka is a heavy-duty, weather-resistant coat meant for the pool deck and travel. A swim robe (or changing poncho) is usually a towel-material garment meant specifically for drying off and changing on the beach.