How to Choose the Right Jammers for Training vs. Racing
Little things play a big role in competitive swimming, from how quickly you make your turns to what you are wearing in the pool. A jammer is an important piece of equipment for male swimmers. Choosing the right jammers for training and racing can impact your comfort, performance, and durability of the suit over time. Whether you’re new to the sport or guiding a competitive swimmer through their gear choices, understanding the difference between training and racing jammers is key.
It covers the main features of each type, explains what to consider based on swimming objectives, and explains why having both is beneficial for dedicated swimmers.
What Are Jammers?
Jammers are knee-length swimwear primarily used by male swimmers. They fit close to the body and create less drag when swimming, making them better for hydrodynamics than most swim trunks or briefs. Commonly worn in both practices and competitions, jammers have become the standard for male swimmers at almost every level of the sport.
But not all jammers are created equal. Training and racing jammers are built with different goals in mind, durability versus performance enhancement. Selecting a swimsuit that is not right for the occasion can make it wear out too quickly or reduce your swimmer’s speed.
Key Differences Between Training and Racing Jammers
While jammers all share a similar look, their construction, materials, and purpose vary considerably depending on whether they’re meant for everyday training or high-stakes racing.
Training Jammers
Training jammers are designed to withstand frequent use and repeated exposure to chlorine. The majority of swimmers put on their suits several times a week for practice. Swimming suits must be solid, dependable, and comfortable for when you are in the water for a long time.
Features of Training Jammers:
- Polyester fabric or blends are used to make them
- Ability to stand up to chlorine and UV rays
- Makes it comfortable to rest for a long period
- Less expensive than racing jammers
It comes in many different prints and color options.
Because they prioritize longevity and comfort, training jammers do not offer much in the way of compression or drag reduction compared to tech suits. But they are important for swimmers as they last long and are practical.
Racing Jammers
Racing jammers, often referred to as tech suits, are engineered for maximum speed. They are made using special materials and stitches to decrease resistance, increase water flow, and boost your muscle strength. They are used in major events and time trials, not for every-day training.
Features of Racing Jammers:
- Constructed with hydrophobic, high-compression fabrics
- Made to be snug and prevent water from getting in
- Using bonded seams can increase the efficiency of water flow.
- Significantly more expensive than training jammers
- World Aquatics (formerly known as FINA) approved styles for competitive meets
Racing jammers are not designed for long-term wear or durability. Usually, a tech suit will last for about 6 to 12 races, depending on how it is used and looked after. Therefore, most swimmers only use these suits in big races.
Why You Need Both: Training and Racing Jammers
People who take swimming seriously should have at least one jammer for training and one for competitions. Using a racing jammer for training is not useful, as it wears the suit out and doesn’t help as much in building endurance as training with more resistant gear. On the other hand, wearing a training jammer in a meet is not ideal for the swimmer.
Using both types ensures:
- Improved training longevity: Polyester jammers last through months of daily wear.
- Optimized race performance: They lower drag and guarantee a more effective stroke.
- Better gear care: Keeping your race suits until you need them will preserve them.
How to Choose the Right Training Jammers
When shopping for training jammers, comfort and durability should guide your decision. Look for:
- Chlorine resistance: Suits that are made entirely of polyester or a polyester-blend hold the best.
- Fit: Training jammers should be snug but not restrictive.
- Waistband design: A drawstring waistband allows the wearer to adjust the size.
- Brand reputation: Well-known brands like TYR, Arena, and Speedo make quality training swimwear.
It is common for swimmers to train in different suits so that one isn’t worn down too quickly.
How to Choose the Right Racing Jammers
Picking a racing jammer requires more thought. It should be the right fit for your body and also be made for your skill level and the type of swimming you do.
Look for:
- Compression: When blood flow is better and muscles are less tired, it’s thanks in part to higher compression.
- Hydrophobic materials: They do not get soaked in water and remain light when you wear them in the pool.
- Seam type: Bonded seams have less drag than those with stitched seams.
- Approval status: Always double-check that the jammer you are using is World Aquatics (formerly known as FINA) approved for swimming races.
Fit is critical with racing jammers, they often take several minutes to put on and may feel tighter than most swimmers are used to. It is intentional and happens naturally.
Comparison of Training vs. Racing Jammers
Material
- Training: Polyester or polyester blend
- Racing: High-tech, hydrophobic compression fabric
Purpose
- Training: Daily workouts and lap swimming
- Racing: Competitive meets and time trials
Durability
- Training: High, meant for regular exposure to chlorine
- Racing: The technology is useful for only a few areas
Fit
- Training: Comfortable and flexible
- Racing: Very snug, designed for compression
Cost
- Training: Budget-friendly
- Racing: Premium pricing
Caring for Your Jammers
Proper care can extend the life of both training and racing jammers. By following these suggestions, you will get the most value from your suits:
- Rinse your suits with fresh water right after you have worn them.
- Do not twist or wring your clothes to dry.
- Put your clothes in a shaded and well-ventilated area to dry flat.
- Every so often, wash your swimsuit with a suit-specific detergent to get rid of chlorine.
- Avoid using detergents, hot water, or machines when cleaning your jammers. A racing suit should always be placed flat and not kept inside a wet towel or a swim bag.
Why Elsmore Swim Shop Is a Go-To Swim Store for Jammers
Elsmore Swim Shop offers one of the largest selections of training and racing jammers from trusted swimwear brands. No matter if you need jammers for daily training or a high-quality suit for your competitions, they have the knowledge you need.
Because Elsmore focuses on serving teams and serious athletes, they stock jammers in a range of fits, fabrics, and price points to meet each swimmer’s unique needs. You can find plenty of help, both in the store and online, when deciding on the perfect suit.
Gear Up with the Right Jammers
You need to consider more than just the size and color when picking a jammer. Purchasing the right gear for training and for races will help swimmers be comfortable, swim well, and protect their suits for a longer period. If a swimmer has swimwear that is durable and performs well, they can feel more confident in the pool at any time.
It is easier for parents and swimmers to choose if they know what to look for and where to shop. Go to a reputable swim store such as Elsmore to get a carefully selected range of gear that is right for the sport. The choice of gear is crucial for athletes, and it is especially important to have the right jammer.