What swimwear is my child allowed to race in?
Rule- England
- Swim England
- Club swimming
- Licensed meets
- World Aquatics rules
- 2026
- Parents
- Under 18
Under Swim England Regulation 411, the swimwear of competitors in all competitions (swimsuit, cap and goggles) must comply with the World Aquatics rules and bylaws on swimwear in force on the date of the competition.
World Aquatics rules also ban anything that could help speed, buoyancy or endurance, such as webbed gloves, fins or glue. Tape on an injury is allowed.
Swimwear exceptions: a swimmer who can't comply for reasons such as faith, gender reassignment or taping a medical device can apply to Swim England for a Certificate of Exception. It is valid for two years and must be shown to the referee before the race, so the swimmer isn't disqualified.
Added 21 Oct 2026