Recommended Kit
It is recommended that swimmers should arrive with the following equipment properly adjusted and in good working order prior to the start of each session. Swimmers need to bring the correct kit to every session preferably in a net bag which can come poolside. Please can swimmers keep their kit tidy in their bag during the session to avoid losing it.
Minimum Basic Training Kit - When trying out for the club or initially when you first start.
Swimming costume or trunks
Goggles - Speedo or similar (Please note ‘toy’ goggles are not suitable)
Swimming Cap (Latex not fabric - preferably Ashbourne Club Cap)
Drink – preferably a bottle of water
Correct Kit for All Swimmers by Squad
Once you know which squad you are in please have the following kit. There are some links here as examples just to show you the type of equipment needed - you do not need to purchase these actual items. Please note the club branded hat, shirt and hoodie are optional.
Swim Skills
Close fitting 1 piece costume - no shorts or skirts or bikinis
Hat - preferably club or at least latex type as it improves water run off the face and allows better breathing position
Goggles - double strap small, close fitting streamline type, not kids coloured ones with big rubber edges or googly eyes as they leak and come off when diving. Add your child's name and a distinguishing feature like a small thread tied round the strap.
Water bottle filled with fresh plain water or dilute squash
Development & Juniors
Costume as above
Hat as above
Goggles as above
Water bottle filled with fresh plain water or dilute squash
Kick float
Pull buoy
2 tennis balls
Fins - short ones
Seniors & Challenge
Costume as above
Hat as above - 2 hats is more secure for racing
Goggles as above plus spare pair for racing disasters
Large water bottle filled with fresh plain water or dilute squash
Kick float as above or can have streamline one, do not buy large ones
Pull buoy as above or can have slightly larger if over 5' tall
2 tennis balls
Fins as above
T-shirt to swim in - loose rather than close fitting with short sleeves
Snorkel any front facing you don't need an expensive one.
Paddles any finger type
*NEW!*
Online Club Kit Shop
Club shirts, hats* plus lost more are now all available to order through our club shop.
Please note you can order club branded items at any time. At the end of the month items will be printed and delivered 2-3 weeks later.
This shop is provided by Swimpath who also sell a range of equipment. Within our club shop are various items like fins, paddles etc that are examples of the items you may need. Please note these items are available from other suppliers (you do not have to purchase these exact items), these are our recommendations and suggestions.
The information on the left of this page details what equipment a swimmer will need for the different squads.
*Please note our club hats are currently on order and will be in stock in April.
Swimpath also offer a variety of swimming suits and trunks etc. Please see their website. You can purchase equipment and suits with a discount using the code: ASHBOURNE10
For any queries regarding club kit please email our Kit Officer
Note that nose clips are not permitted in any group as swimmers need to learn to exhale through their nose. Older swimmers in seniors may be advised to wear nose clips to improve their technique and will be seen individually by their coach.
Lap counting watches are only permitted in challenge group and are not compulsory. Parachutes may be used in challenge group but the club will purchase a set shortly.
No other accessories should be worn during training or competition eg watches, wristbands, jewellery,
We have a small amount of equipment to borrow but it is never enough to go round, and is very time consuming to distribute. If anyone has kit they have outgrown, please offer it by adding a note to our Facebook group and arrange a trade or swap.