Drag suits have been a staple in competitive swim training for decades. You don’t need a scientific study to tell you that swimming with extra resistance builds power — just ask any coach. From sprint sets to aerobic base work, a good drag suit helps you feel the difference when you strip down to your racing brief or tech suit.
Adding drag is like adding weights in the gym — it builds strength, improves form under resistance, and sharpens your feel for the water when it counts. Whether you’re grinding through threshold sets or fine-tuning speed on short rest, a drag suit makes your training more efficient. It’s one of the simplest ways to add load without complicating your routine.
Used by club swimmers, college programs, and even pros, drag suits continue to be one of the most valuable and underrated pieces of gear in the bag. For many, it’s a daily tool — a staple for power days and aerobic maintenance alike.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up four of the best drag suits for 2025. These picks are built for swimmers who want to crank up the resistance and make every yard count. And as always, Speedo still leads the lane.
