When it comes to swim training, kickboards are a staple in any swimmer’s toolkit. Kicking like Michael Phelps (pictured above) matters. The greatest swimmer of all-time used to use a kickboard in swim workouts and in warmup at all of the big international swimming competitions. Whether you’re focusing on improving your kick technique like a swimming world champion, isolating your legs for a stronger propulsion, or building endurance, a quality kickboard can make all the difference in your swimming workout sessions. But with so many options out there, finding the right one can be a bit overwhelming. When you do find your favourite kickboard, you will keep it or stay with that same brand for years and years.
Here at SwimSwam, we’ve reviewed a wide range of kickboards to help you make an informed decision. From affordable, no-frills designs to premium boards that offer more versatility and advanced features, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re an Olympic swimming star looking to refine your technique or a newbie age group swimmer working on building leg strength, there’s a kickboard in this guide that’s perfect for you.
In this review, we’ll break down the top options, highlighting key features such as buoyancy, durability, and comfort, so you can find the ideal kickboard to elevate your swim training in 2025.
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Let’s dive in and find the perfect board to help you swim stronger, faster, and with more power than ever before. Kickboards are listed from the highest to lowest price.
1. Arena Pull Kick II Kickboard
The Arena Pull Kick II Kickboard is a versatile and durable option that combines the best of both a kickboard and pull buoy. It’s great for swimmers looking to work on their kick and body positioning, but it also functions well as a pull buoy for those working on their upper body strength. Its compact size and comfortable design make it an ideal choice for training sessions where you need to target both the legs and arms.
What Makes It Great:
- Dual Functionality: Acts as both a kickboard and pull buoy for versatile training.
- Compact and Comfortable: Smaller than traditional kickboards, it’s easier to maneuver while providing great buoyancy.
Ideal For: Swimmers who want a multi-functional tool to improve both leg and upper body strength.
2. Arena Kickboard
The Arena Kickboard is a straightforward yet effective kickboard, designed for comfort and support during training. The classic rectangular design provides excellent buoyancy, and the textured surface ensures a solid grip. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced swimmer, this kickboard helps reinforce a strong, stable kick during your swim workouts.
What Makes It Great:
- Classic Design: Provides excellent buoyancy and stability for kick training.
- Comfortable Grip: Textured surface helps prevent slipping, even in wet conditions.
Ideal For: Swimmers of all levels looking for a reliable, no-frills kickboard.
3. Speedo Jr. Team Kickboard
The Speedo Jr. Team Kickboard is a great option for younger swimmers looking to improve their kick technique. It’s smaller and lighter than adult kickboards, making it easier for kids to handle while providing adequate buoyancy for proper training. Its compact size also makes it easier to store and carry. Pro Tip: A lot of elite swimmers use smaller kickboards with less surface area and buoyancy to allow their bodies to be lower in the water, forcing them to kick harder. Just because the product title says “Jr” doesn’t mean developed pro swimmers don’t use it. They do!
What Makes It Great:
- Perfect for Juniors: Sized appropriately for younger swimmers, providing the right buoyancy without being too large.
- Sturdy Build: Offers great support during kicking drills, helping swimmers develop their technique.
Ideal For: Young swimmers who are working on building strong kicking fundamentals.
4. Speedo Team Kickboard
The Speedo Team Kickboard is a versatile and durable option that’s perfect for swim teams or individuals looking for a reliable kickboard. Its ergonomic design and slightly contoured shape help swimmers maintain a natural body position while focusing on their kicks. The bright, eye-catching color makes it easy to spot in a crowded pool.
What Makes It Great:
- Ergonomic Shape: Contoured edges provide additional comfort and stability during use.
- Durability: Built to last through frequent use in both training and competition settings.
Ideal For: Swim teams or swimmers looking for a durable, high-performance kickboard.
5. Speedo Pull Kick Pull Buoy Kickboard
The Speedo Pull Kick Pull Buoy Kickboard is another excellent dual-function option, combining the benefits of both a kickboard and pull buoy. This design helps swimmers target both their legs and upper body while maintaining excellent buoyancy and comfort. It’s perfect for swimmers looking to improve their overall technique and conditioning, particularly for interval training.
What Makes It Great:
- Dual-Function Design: Works as both a pull buoy and kickboard, saving space in your training bag.
- Excellent Buoyancy: Offers great flotation for swimmers of all levels.
Ideal For: Swimmers who want to focus on both kick and pull exercises in one tool.
6. Bettertimes Hydro Kickboard
The Bettertimes Hydro Kickboard is a solid entry-level kickboard that gets the job done without breaking the bank. Its lightweight design and comfortable, ergonomic shape make it a great option for beginner to intermediate swimmers looking to build leg strength and improve their technique. It provides enough buoyancy for effective training while remaining easy to maneuver.
What Makes It Great:
- Lightweight: Easy to handle, even for younger or less experienced swimmers.
- Affordable: Provides a good balance of performance and cost.
Ideal For: Beginner swimmers or anyone looking for a simple, budget-friendly kickboard.
7. Sporti Hybrid Pull Buoy Kickboard
The Sporti Hybrid Pull Buoy Kickboard combines the functionality of a pull buoy and kickboard into one piece of equipment. With its hybrid design, swimmers can use it for both lower body and upper body drills. The buoyancy is excellent for supporting swimmers during their kick sets, and the smaller size makes it easy to adjust during various drills.
What Makes It Great:
- Hybrid Functionality: Works as both a kickboard and pull buoy for versatile training.
- Compact Design: Small size makes it easy to store and carry.
Ideal For: Swimmers looking for a versatile training tool that doesn’t take up much space.
8. Dolfin Kickboard
The Dolfin Kickboard is a no-frills, reliable choice for swimmers focused on strengthening their kick. Its durable construction and streamlined shape make it a go-to option for swimmers who want to isolate their legs during workouts. Whether you’re working on technique or just need a solid kickboard for training, this product delivers.
What Makes It Great:
- Simple Design: Effective at isolating the legs for better kick technique.
- Durable Build: Sturdy enough to withstand frequent use in both pool training and competitions.
Ideal For: Swimmers who need a basic yet effective kickboard for focused training.
9. Sporti Momentum Premium Kickboard
The Sporti Momentum Premium Kickboard is a great option for swimmers who want an affordable yet durable kickboard. It’s made with a high-quality, buoyant material that helps keep swimmers afloat while they work on their kick technique. Its sleek design allows for a comfortable and stable training experience.
What Makes It Great:
- Affordable and Durable: Provides solid performance at a reasonable price.
- Streamlined Design: Ideal for swimmers who need a no-frills, effective training tool.
Ideal For: Swimmers on a budget who still want a reliable and durable kickboard.
10. Sporti Adult Kickboard
The Sporti Adult Kickboard is a basic, budget-friendly option that provides reliable performance without any unnecessary frills. It offers solid buoyancy and a comfortable grip, making it a great choice for swimmers looking to isolate their legs and build strength.
What Makes It Great:
- Simple Design: Perfect for swimmers who need a basic and reliable training tool.
- Affordable: An excellent option for those on a budget.
Ideal For: Budget-conscious swimmers or anyone who just needs a functional kickboard.
11. Sporti Team Kickboard
The Sporti Team Kickboard is a solid, durable option for team swimmers or anyone looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense kickboard. Its sturdy construction and decent buoyancy make it suitable for swimmers of various skill levels. While it doesn’t come with any extra features, it’s a great choice for general training.
What Makes It Great:
- Durable Construction: Built to last through rigorous training sessions.
- Affordable: A great option for swim teams or swimmers who want a no-frills product.
Ideal For: Swim teams or swimmers looking for a practical, durable kickboard for general use.
12. Sporti Junior Kickboard
The Sporti Junior Kickboard is perfect for young swimmers looking to develop their kick technique. It’s smaller and lighter than adult kickboards, making it easier for children to handle. The buoyancy and soft construction provide support, while the compact size makes it easy for young swimmers to maneuver.
What Makes It Great:
- Kid-Friendly Size: Ideal for younger swimmers who need a comfortable and easy-to-handle kickboard.
- Affordable: A great value for families looking to buy equipment for younger swimmers.
Ideal For: Young swimmers or beginners who are learning to kick and build leg strength.
Are you looking for more product reviews and guides? Checkout these:
2025 Best Budget-Friendly Tech Suits for Competitive Swimmers: A Buyer’s Guide
The Best Swim Fins for Training and Technique: A Comprehensive Review
The Ultimate Guide to Buying Swim Paddles: What You Need to Know
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