13 Best Swim Parkas in 2024

The Swim Parka is one essential swimming equipment we rarely use in the water, probably because they are not the sleekest swimwear out there, nor are they the most affordable.

Swim Parkas are the epitome of versatility; they can act as winter jackets, a blanket, a changing room, and a gear storage unit. Their primary purpose, though, is to keep you warm between races or laps and before a big competition.

To prevent a poor performance caused by low body temperatures, you need to bundle up in between events, and nothing can do better than a swim parka.

Parkas are made with hoods and a fleece-lined interior with an outer shell that is water-resistant. They are virtually similar across all brands, but each of them has distinctive features.

This guide provides a detailed review of the best swim parkas that will help you stay warm while on deck, as well as a buying guide that will give you a rough idea of what you must consider selecting the best Parka.

Why Do Swimmers Need Swim Parkas?

A swim parka is a valuable asset every swimmer should endeavor to own. And why is that?

You May Like: Toddler Swim Vests

My Top Picks

Here is an outline of some of the best swim parkas you can get in the market. The list has something for everyone.

• Best Overall: Speedo Unisex Team
  “Multiple color and size options, highly efficient, durable- All you need on a swim parka.”
• Runner Up: TYR Alliance Team Youth
  “Great for team activities, multiple color and size options, stylish- what more would you want from a swim parka?”
• Best Budget: Tri-Mountain Team Jacket
  “Very affordable with all the standard requirements of a swimmer.”
• Best for Toddler and Kids: Homester Team
  “Very affordable, comfortable, waterproof, color, and size options.”
• Best Multifunctional: Surf-Fur Waterparka
  “The only one of its kind. Made for divers, swimmers, surfers, and many other functions.”

Comparison Chart

With this guide, you will be able to quickly see the features of each of the 13 best swim parkas and their distinguishing characteristic or ability thus, making it easy for you to find what suits your needs.

The 13 Best Swim Parkas Reviews

1. Speedo Unisex Team

(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)

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This is like the OG of swim parkas. It is very popular and rightfully so owing to its standards. If you are up for high quality, this should be your prime pick.

The Speedo Unisex Team Swim Parka is a high-quality product made with 100% waterproof polyester on the outside and inside. The inside is fleece-lined to keep you warm and comfortable even if you wear them when you are directly from the water.

It comes with a hood with an adjustable draw-cord for a nice and tight fit to keep your head warm. Additionally, the parka has 3 pockets in which you can keep your essentials; 2 on the outside and an extra one on the inside. They are all secured with 2-way zippers that have colored interchangeable pulls.

This unisex parka is famously known to be a preference for teams as it comes in multiple sizes and colors. You can easily achieve a unified look with it.

If you go for the longer length, you will get maximum coverage before and after your swim sessions as it offers great thermoregulation and, it will also save your car seat from soaking up.

The parka is easy to clean as it does not require any special procedures; therefore, you can maintain it in a proper hygienic condition effortlessly.

Here is a video of the Speedo Unisex Team Swim Parka, watch it for more information on features and usage.

See Also: Waterproof Fitness Trackers

2. TYR Alliance Team Youth

(Runner Up)

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TYR is a bigwig in the swimwear industry. They are popularly known for their goggles, tech suits, and swim bags. As usual, they did not disappoint with their line of parkas.

The TYR Alliance Team Youth Swim Parka was built with comfort and heat retention in mind. It is made with highly durable material; 100% polyester micro-fleece on the inside and nylon that is waterproof on the outside.

The parka is engineered to prevent wind and moisture penetration; it has a barrel lock hood bungee that keeps cold out as well as a front and back venting that allows temperature regulation. So, if you are an athlete in dire need of thermal protection, this is an optimal choice.

The parka features interior and exterior pockets that are both lined with micro-fleece as well as an adjustable hood. The interior pocket is zippered so you can safely store your goggles, or headphones as you listen to some good music to warm you up.

With the Velcro closures offered, you can seal your body off from the external environment. You also won’t feel bulky wearing it thanks to its slim athletic fit, and with its multiple size options you will be able to find your perfect size.

What’s more, the parka’s sleeves are specially designed to offer you flexibility; they are raglan style sleeves that allow you to move easily.

Check out this video review of the TYR Alliance Team Youth Swim Parka in case you want to see its features in action.

See Also: Waterproof Heart Rate Monitors for Swimming

3. Great Aussie Jacket/Robe

(Best for Post-Swim Training)

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If you are up for that comfortable feel of a parka after swimming, especially if you have to sit in your car immediately, this is your ultimate choice. The Great Aussie Jacket/Robe Swim Parka is not the typical parka with the standard fleece or faux lining. Instead, it has a cotton towel holder.

Most people prefer this parka because it feels like wearing a bathrobe or towel when you are still wet. The outside of the parka is specially treated to be waterproof and leak proof. This comes in handy when you and your kids want to go straight home after swimming without changing from your swimsuits.

The parka features a custom-fitted hood, two zipped pockets for storing your stuff, and a durable 2-way YKK zipper. It is also longer than the standard parka offering you extra warmth and also ensures your car remains dry.

The sleeves are also long to keep your fingers warm, and you can roll them up to form an attractive cuff whenever you want because they are elasticized. You can choose your perfect size from a variety of colors. The parka comes in a baby version size, children’s size and adult sizes.

Lastly, the Great Aussie Jacket/Robe Swim Parka can be worn by any swimmer and used in various ways because of its simple wash and waterproof exterior polyethylene door and soft inner lining for an added comfort.

Check out this video of the fantastic Great Aussie Jacket/Robe Swim Parka for more detailed information on its usage.

See Also: Swim Jammers

4. Surf-Fur Waterparka

(Best Multifunctional)

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If you are looking for a parka, you can wear while swimming, diving, surfing, or boat riding you best settle for this. It sure is the most functional parka out there.

The Surf-Fur Waterparka is entirely waterproof and windproof. Unlike most parkas, it is made with 2 layers of fleece bonded together. The standard parka usually has fleece on the inside and nylon on the outside which makes it challenging to wear especially when wet because the layers move separately and bunch up together. So this parka is easy to wear because it moves as a single layer. That’s a huge tip right there!

As if that’s enough, the parka does not soak up moisture like many others; it does not get wet and heavy as it wicks away and sheds water. This is what makes it one of the best swim parkas out there.

The parka features high-quality snaps. Snaps are superior to zippers as they are built to handle harsh ocean conditions do not bunch, and are highly durable.

After your swim session, dive, or surfing activities, you can change into warm and dry clothes and still get to wear the parka. It is fully reversible with a pocket, dry side in, wet side out. So you can still keep warm even after using it in the water.

Another praiseworthy feature is the changing pockets. Just by snapping it up, you can easily reach through and take off your clothes in privacy. You don’t have to queue in the washrooms to change. The parka has plenty of room to maneuver.

Additionally, the parka has a neck cozy and hood that will keep you warm and protected from the wind when you go for an offshore boat trip. It comes in 7 size options, and you can use the size chart to find your perfect fit.

You can wear this parka to any kind of outing thanks to its formal and solid color design. You will never feel out of place in it.

Here is a video review of the Surf-Fur Waterparka, watch it, and see if it is worth its price.

5. Speedo Color Block

(Best Color Design)

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If you are a sucker for style in your swimwear this is your go-to parka. The reason being, it comes in 6 color-block options and 7 different sizes. You can get what you desire from all the choices offered.

The Speedo Color Block Swim Parka is made with 100% polyester fleece on the inside and waterproof polyester on the outside. You can, therefore, wear it to any water-borne activities without any worries. The fleece makes it warm enough to wear even during winter, and it dries fast.

It features 3 pockets; 2 exterior and 1 interior with 2-way zippers. You can zip either from the inside or outside whenever you want. All the pockets are lined with fleece to keep your hands warm when you pocket. You can safely store your essentials in the internal zip pocket.

It also comes with a hood that has a drawstring for adjusting it to your personal fit.

To prevent you from overheating, the parka features a vent opening to allow air circulation. The parka should help moderate your body temperature and not make you too hot thus; ventilation is key.

This parka is incredibly lightweight and compact. You can easily fold it into a compact size to fit in your backpack. It’s an excellent choice for traveling because it will always fit in your bags.

Watch this video of the Speedo Color Block Swim Parka and see if the beauty is joining you on your next water activity.

6. Adoretex Faux Fur Lining

(Best for Team Activities)

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Adoretex is not a big brand in the swimwear industry, but that cannot be said for their swim parkas. Their parkas are pretty comfortable and offer the standard luxury that any swimmer would need in a swim parka.

The Adoretex Faux Fur Lining Swim Parka is the parka you want to pick for team activities or competitions. And why is that? Well, one it comes in multiple sizes for children and adults and two, it comes with a sew-in tag on which you can write your name and phone number or customize it to that of your team.

The parka comes in 5 shades and is made with faux fur on the inside and nylon on the outside. The faux fur lining offers exceptional thermal protection while the nylon outer shell makes it waterproof thus, ideal for any kind of weather and activity.

You will get a drawstring hood, two front pockets, and one exterior sleeve pocket all lined with faux fur. The two side-lined pockets are zippered while the sleeve pocket uses Velcro closure in which you can keep your essentials like heat pad, earplugs or phone.

For more legroom or free movement you can simply unzip from top or bottom with the YKK 2-way zipper provided. The parka also has reinforced wrinkles and is incredibly wear and tear-resistant.

Just to emphasize, this parka has numerous size options for children and adults. They are about 8 sizes for men and 20 sizes for women in 4 categories; overall size, plus size, petite size, and junior size. You cannot fail to find a perfect fit from all the choices.

7. Adoretex Unisex PK005

(Best Size and Color Options)

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If you want to quickly warm up after a swim, dive, surf, or bath on a budget, this your ultimate pick. It is the epitome of versatility with a nearly endless choice of colors and sizes.

The parka is lined with fleece on the inside and water-resistant 100% oxford nylon. No more wet car seats, you can comfortably go home without changing from your swimsuits on account of its leak-proof nature.

The fleece lining allows you to use the parka in any weather. During winter, it locks out cold wind, and during summer it blocks heat from outside. The fleece will give your body a toasty warm feeling, and it dries quickly, making it suitable for any water-borne events.

Like the Adoretex faux fur, this parka has a YKK 2-way zipper that you can unzip from top or bottom in case you want more legroom or free movement. You can also use it as a changing robe as it has enough room to maneuver.

You will get 3 pockets, 2 side pockets with zippers, and 1 sleeve pocket with Velcro closure. The side pockets are lined with fleece, and you can quickly warm up your hands in them. The parka also features a fleece-lined hood with a draw-cord to adjust it to your personal fit. The hood protects your head from wind when you are offshore.

You can also personalize this parka as it comes with a sew-in name label. This saves you a dime because you will not spend embroidery fees. You also get a headphone slit through which you can listen to a gangster playlist from your MP3 player as you warm up.

See Also: Waterproof iPod Shuffles for Swimming

8. Adoretex Unisex Black Lining

(Best Value for Money)

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Adoretex is known for high-quality swim parkas-this point is already home. Their unisex adult and kid warm coat is not an exception. There is not much of a difference between this and the previous Adoretex Unisex swim parka I have reviewed above, only a few adjustments to the design.

Like its predecessor, the unisex parka is made with very soft arctic fleece on the inside that offers you superior comfort and warmth. It also dries quickly, so; you can comfortably wear it to any water based activities or events. The outer shell is made of 100% oxford nylon that makes it entirely waterproof.

For legroom and free movement, you can adjust by unzipping the parka using the YKK two-way zipper either from top or bottom.

Like most swim parkas, it has 3 pockets; 2 fleece-lined side pockets with zippers and one sleeve pocket with Velcro closure. It also has a drawstring hood that is fleece-lined and can be adjusted to a personal fit.

The design feature that distinguishes it from its predecessor is the Velcro flaps on the front and back for ventilation. Remember, you are wearing a parka to prevent your body temperature from tanking but, you don’t want to be too hot either. The Velcro flaps come in handy in maintaining moderate body temperature.

Another distinguishing feature is that its sleeves are elastic around the wrists, so you can roll them up whenever you want to.

Like other Adoretex swim parkas, you get a sew-in name label for personalization, and since it comes in 5 different shades, it is a perfect choice for family or team activities. It also has multiple size options for both adults and kids.

9. Dryrobe Advance Short Sleeve

(Best for Changing)

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If you are looking for something you can easily change in at the beach or pool without going to the washrooms, look no further. This changing robe is a perfect solution made solely for easy changing of clothes or wetsuits within.

Other than letting you change, this swim parka can keep you warm and dry after your swim or when you go for an offshore boat riding. It is made with cozy fleece on the inside for added comfort and warmth.

The changing robe also features 3 pockets, an A4 size internal pocket that you can use to store your clothes, a cell phone pocket that is zippered with a headphone slit, and an external pocket lined with fleece. The external pocket has elastic zip pulls that make it easy to open and close.

Without forgetting, the parka has the essential YKK zip front that allows you to adjust it for more legroom or free movement.

This swim parka comes in 8 different shades and three sizes; medium, large, and extra-large. You also get sleeve options; there are short-sleeve and long-sleeve which are both suitable for keeping you warm and dry on any water-borne events.

Here is a video review of the awesome Dryrobe Advance Waterproof Changing Robe Swim Parka watch it for more features and usage information.

10. Tri-Mountain Team Jacket

(Best Budget)

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If you love cheap thrills, this is it for you. It is the cheapest swim parka on this list, almost half or quarter the price of most of the swim parkas I have reviewed. Yes, you can afford it and get to keep some change, but it does not operate cheaply, its features meet the standards of the average swim parka.

The Tri-Mountain Team Jacket Swim Parka is made with polyester anti-pilling microfleece on the inside to keep you warm, dry and comfortable. The outer shell is made of 100% nylon, which makes it water-resistant.

It also features a 2-way zipper on the front, which you can unzip either from bottom or top for more room in the jacket. In case you want legroom you unzip from the bottom. It will work either way. It also has a back vent that allows easier movement.

With this parka, you are sure of a perfect fit because it comes with an adjustable hood and elastic cuffs which offer a custom fit. All you need to do is adjust them to your personal and comfortable fit.

In case you want to customize the jacket swim parka to your team’s parka or personalize it, you can access embroidery through the vented front and back yoke panels provided. Since it comes in 7 different sizes and 3 colors, it can do well for swim teams or any sports activities.

This parka offers plenty of storage for your essentials with the 3 pockets provided. It has 2 side pockets, both zippered on the front and 1 interior one on the chest.

11. Nike

(Best Stylish)

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Everybody knows Nike, and everybody knows they don’t play when it comes to style and quality in their sportswear. Their swim parka is not an exception. If you care about style, this should be your ultimate choice. You can wear it anywhere without any worries.

The Parka is made with 100% polyester on the inside and outside. The polyester outer shell is completely waterproof, and the polyester fleece lining on the inside is soft, comfortable and keeps you warm and dry in any kind of weather.

It comes with a hood for protecting your head against the wind. The hood has elastic for a comfortable and snug fit. However, most girls complain that the hood does not accommodate their head well if they have a high pony or bun.

Imagine leaving the water then burning hot in a swim parka, especially on a hot summer afternoon, not cool, right? Well not with the Nike Swim Parka as it has mesh vents with Velcro closure in the front and back to keep your core temperature moderated.

The parka also offers you some color selection, in addition to the standard black, you can get it in navy and red. The fabric and construction of the parka is also very high quality- commonplace with Nike products.

You will get three pockets for your gear and gadgets. 2 side pockets on the front and one on the inside.

Watch this video review of the Nike Swim Parka by swimoutlet.com in case you want to see more of its features and style.

12. Homester Team

(Best for Toddler and Kids)

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Kids can catch cold pretty fast especially after a long pool game or swim by the beach. This should be the case with swim parkas made just for them. The Homester Team Swim Parka will keep your little ones warm and dry in between swim sessions, and they might not even need to change before you head home.

First off, this parka is very affordable. Kids grow up; they wear stuff for a short time, so why break the bank for a swim parka? In case you are that parent who does not want to spend $$$ dollars on a swim parka, this is the best you can get your hands on.

It is made with cozy fleece on the inside for warmth and comfort and nylon on the outside for water protection. The nylon makes it leak-proof, so you can comfortably have a wet kid on your car seat without any worries.

It also has a front zipper, though not 2-way, 2 side pockets, and a hood. The hood is also not adjustable, be sure to go through the size chart to find a perfect fit for your child.

It comes in 5 colors and 3 sizes for 8, 10, and 12-year-olds. Most customers claim that it runs small, so you might want to upsize your order to avoid any disappointment. It is easy to clean as you can do a machine wash as long as you do not tumble it dry.

Not forgetting, the parka is incredibly lightweight. No child wants to be burdened by weight, and this parka was made with that in mind.

See Also: Life Jackets for Kids

13. Arena Pistony Ol

(Best Construction Quality)

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This is an excellent option for triathletes, aqua athletes, trainers, lifesavers or swimmers who frequent the water because it is made to endure all the rough water-borne environments. You will not need to replace this in a while because of its construction quality.

The Arena Pistony Ol Swim Parka has a soft fleece lining on the inside made with 100% Polymide material. The ultra-plush inner lining will offer you warmth and comfort, given it provides thick insulation.

It features the essential 2-way zipper that allows free movement and more legroom, 2 side pockets (both zippered) for your gears and gadgets, and an adjustable hood with a drawstring.

The only downside to this swim parka is that it comes in a single color, the standard black, so you won’t have much of a choice. The size options are also not very particular, but you can use the size of your shirt to find a perfect fit. It comes in 4 sizes.

It has a unisex styling with excellent fabric stitching. Most girls claim that unisex designs are more male-oriented or “made for boys” come to think of it; it is somehow true! All in all, the Arena Pistony Ol Swim Parka offers the best construction and fabric quality; thus, highly durable.

Watch this video of the Arena Pistony Ol Swim Parka to get a closer look at its features and style.

How to Choose the Right Swim Parka?

Like I have mentioned above, choosing a swim parka depends on your needs and preferences. They are all meant to keep you warm and dry, but they have features that set them apart from each other. However, these are some key features you have to look out for when buying a swim parka.

1. Lining

All swim parkas come with an inner lining that makes your body warm. It is usually made of fleece, faux fur, or cotton. Fleece is more comfortable and feels great on the skin especially if you are wet when you wear it. Most swimmers prefer it because it dries off nicely. The fleece used nowadays is synthetic as it is made from polyester, but it looks and feels like the real thing.

The faux fur isn’t a bad choice either, but it feels scratchy if you wear it when wet. If you need a swim parka that you can wear before you get in the water, then it will serve you well.

As for the cotton lining, it will feel as if you are wearing a bathrobe or a regular bathroom towel. Although it is a comfortable feeling on the skin, it can soak up a lot of water and become heavy.

2. Pockets

Pockets are very handy on swim parkas. You can use them to store your essentials like swimming gear and gadgets. Some parkas come with only two pockets while others come with extra pockets on the inside and outside. Some even have a special pocket for your mp3 player or phone with an earphone slit.

3. Ventilation

As much as a parka’s primary purpose is to keep you warm, you are not supposed to burn hot in it. Your body temperature should be moderate enough for it to not affect your performance. It is therefore essential to have ventilation in your parka. This can be found under your arms or on the front and back flaps.

4. Design

Parkas are designed in a similar way, lining, hood, sleeves, and a knee-length long coat. Make sure you settle for a design that covers a huge part of your body, and you can easily adjust to perfectly fit you. For instance hoods with drawstrings are better as well as long sleeves with elastic on the wrist. You have to ensure you feel comfortable in your parka.

5. Material

Most swim parkas are made with polyester and nylon to make them windproof and waterproof. These combined with the inner lining offer you the warmth and comfort you would need after leaving the water or before you get in since you will merely be in your swimsuit.

6. Durability

Swim parkas are one swimwear that are highly durable. They withstand chlorine, saltwater and the sun for years without wearing out. You will not need to replace it every other time especially if you are an adult, and you maintain it well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is a Waterparka?

A Waterparka is a unique multifunctional coat made for surfing, diving, swimming, and any other water sports. It is only made by Surf-fur, and it is completely windproof, waterproof, and breathable.

Are All Parkas Waterproof?

Most parkas are waterproof, but not all of them. Make sure you check the specifications before buying to ensure it is waterproof. All the parkas I have reviewed above are waterproof and windproof.

What Should I Do to Ensure My Parka Lasts Longer?

For your parka to be durable, you need to carry out some maintenance, which is not so complicated. All you need to do is dry it off after every use to avoid mildew and a bad smell. You can simply hang it to dry or put it in a dryer.

You might need to wash it if it gets dirty and also to get rid of chlorine and sunscreen. A hand wash would do, and for some, you can do machine washing. Some parkas might bleed when washed, but just ensure you dry it thoroughly.

Swim Network Overview

If you swim a lot on open pools, lakes or ocean and you feel cold after leaving the water, you should get yourself a swim parka. A swim parka is very necessary because other than keeping you warm after or in between swim sessions, you can wear it as a raincoat, wear it on a dive, or an offshore boat riding. Its versatility goes on and on, so, you would never regret buying one, and it is a long-lasting piece of clothing.

There are multiple brands of swim parkas, and they almost look alike, but each has a distinguishing feature that makes it stand out. It is upon you to identify your primary need in a swim parka then settle for one that meets that need.

For instance, the Speedo Unisex Team is the best swim parka you can get in the market. It offers everything you would need on a swim parka as long you are ready to part with the amount it sells at.

If you are looking for style, there is no better parka than the Nike. Nike is a brand known for quality and stylish sportswear, and the same can be said with this swim parka.

For your kiddos, you best settle for the Homester Team as it is pocket-friendly and has features that meet the standard needs of a swimmer. You don’t want to spend so much on a parka that your child will soon outgrow.

If you want nothing pricey but very efficient, the Tri-Mountain Team Jacket has got you covered. You will spend way less but get the most out of it because its features are just as good as the expensive brands.

This guide has almost all the information you would need before you go shopping for a swim parka. It will give you the buyer’s confidence, and you will easily settle for the best swim parka.