15 Best Nose Clips for Swimming in 2024

In recent times, there’s been an addition to the swimmer’s look. Most swimmers –both recreational and competitive swimmers- now use a device on their nose. These little devices are called a nose clip or a nose plug and help effectively combat nasal breathing issues while swimming and this review would help you decide on the best nose clips for swimming.

Originally associated with amateur swimmers and beginners trying to perfect their technique, they have been reintroduced into the world of water sports and can be spotted on professional and synchronized swimmers. Most swimmers have adapted to the use of nose clips as these clips help them breathe easier during water sports.

Although, professional or competitive swimmers can do without nose clips, using it makes swimming much easier as it shifts focus from worrying about water up their noses to perfect mouth breathing on the water surface.

Nose clips have become necessary to swimmers and it’s only fair that a swimmer would want to have an idea of the available products that ensure comfortable swimming adventures.

My Top Picks

Here is a list of the best nose clips for swimming that I recommend for 2024. Let’s check it out!

• Best Overall: Sinus Saver Water Sports
  “Innovative design, great for active water sport.”
• Runner Up: Speedo Liquid Comfort
  “Soft TPR pads, lightweight, flexible nylon frame.”
• Best Budget: TYR Ergo
  “Hypo-allergenic TPR nose pad, polyurethane frame, flexible bridge.”
• Best for Snorkeling: FINIS
  “Lightweight, Improves frame shape, soft TR pad.”
• Best for Synchronized Swimmers: Speedo Competition Metal
  “Soft silicone pads, gives maximum comfort, optimum fit.”
• Best for Open Water Swimming: BLUPOND
  “Special anti-slip design, soft and comfortable silicone material.”

Comparison Chart

Everyone deserves to have fun in the water without having to worry about runny nose, sinus infections or water running up their noses.

Below is a chart that would help swimmers – both competitive, beginners and recreational- make the ideal choice while shopping for nose clips when next they are planning a watery adventure.

The 15 Best Nose Clips for Swimming Reviews

Although I have stated the best and most comfortable swimming nose clips available for purchase online, it would also be best to give you details of each product to enable making up your mind much easier. Below are reviews of each product stated above and also their links in case you love it and decide to buy one immediately.

1. Sinus Saver Water Sports

(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)

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The Sinus Saver nose plug is a new invention. It is one of the most comfortable nose plugs for swimming. Made from high grade medical silicone material, it was the inventors’ answer to recurring sinus infections and chronic sinusitis caused by water entering his nostrils and sinus passages while surfing.

This nose plug fits firmly into the nostrils which makes it block out water effectively. It has two flexible cups connected by a narrow band that stays on the bridge of the nose. The silicone material it is made of is very durable. It will not shrink, break or dissolve if used normally.

The cups are inserted into the nose while leaving the band out on the bridge of the nose. The cup feature makes it discrete and makes it less likely to fall off while swimming. The cups are made of soft, flexible, odorless materials which makes it less likely to cause injury in case of collision with any object in water.

2. FINIS

(Best for Snorkeling)

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The Nose Clip is made up of a nylon material for prolonged life and pressure retention. The silicone nose pads offer maximum comfort. The anatomic design of the Nose Clip fits most noses comfortably and keeps the water out. The FINIS nose clip is one of the best nose clips for snorkeling. If you use a snorkel while swimming, then this product is appropriate for you.

It has nose pads that are made of silicon and this provides maximum comfort to the user. Another plus to this product is that it comes with a carrying case that helps you keep your nose clips safe during travels or while packing swimming gear and this in turn improves the durability of the nose clip. It comes in only one color which is blue so therefore if it slips off during swimming, the color similarities might make it hard to recognize in the water.

Also due to the unavailability of colors, if you love to be stylish with your swimming accessories, you might be disappointed. It also come in only one size which might not be necessarily fit all nose sizes.

See Also: Swimming Snorkels

3. Speedo Liquid Comfort

(Runner Up)

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This nose clip is extremely comfortable and low profile. Lightweight and comes in different colors making it easier to find if it slips off during swimming. Also comes in a protective plastic storage case so you don’t need to worry about damaging it during travel.

Because it is made of lightweight material, it makes it very comfortable to use while swimming. The soft thermoplastic rubber it is made off makes it snug tightly to the nose and this prevents it from falling off while in water. However, if this nose clips falls off while you are swimming, do not worry about it because you will find it floating.

The sizing is appropriate for most noses because it is a one size fit all. Also, the frame shape is designed to fit the contour of the nose perfectly. It comes with a nice plastic storage that makes it easy to carry around.

4. TYR

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The TYR swimming nose clips is one of the best nose clips with a strap. The strap prevents it from being completely lost during water activities. It is worn over the head and hangs on the neck while the nose clip is on. It makes it easy to remove or fix the nose clip back on while in water. The strap is made of plastic and a little stretchy which makes it super comfortable.

Also, it includes a metal that makes it easily adjustable to fit any nose size as long as the nose has a thin bridge. This nose clip can be used by both professionals and recreational swimmers but isn’t recommended for extreme water activities.

It is made with high quality materials that makes it flexible and durable. It is well padded which makes it unlikely to hurt your nose if you use it.

5. TYR Ergo

(Best Budget)

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The TYR Ergo swimming clip is one of the best in low profile swims clip technology. It comes in four stylish colors for swimmers who love to make a fashion statement with their swim gear and it’s recommended for both recreational and competitive swimmers.

The TYR’s Ergo Swim Nose Clip is designed with latex-free, hypo-allergenic nose pads and a polyurethane frame which is both lightweight and comfortable. It can be used with a frontline snorkel for training. Because of its sizing, it is not suitable for adults except adults with small noses.

6. Speedo Universal Clear

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The Speedo universal nose clip has a memory plastic frame for optimum fit and has soft silicone pads for maximum comfort. The Speedo universal nose clip is a simple but very essential swimmers accessory.

This nose clip keeps the water out of your nose so you can concentrate on your swimming technique and also not worry about proper nasal breathing on the water surface. Suitable for any stroke, this high quality, clear nose clip is made with soft silicone pads for a comfortable fit.

It comes with a reusable case which allows it to be easily protected and kept clean. Also it caters to the need of swimmers who’d like to be stylish with their swimming gear as it comes with a variety of colors.

7. Speedo Competition Metal

(Best for Synchronized Swimmers)

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The Speedo Competition Nose Clip is the perfect nose clip for all water enthusiasts. It is used by most synchronized swimmers. This nose clip is made of a rubber-coated stainless steel and has a low-profile fit for added comfort.

It is a simple yet essential swimmers accessory for training and racing. The competition nose clip keeps the water out of your nose so you can concentrate on taking on the competition.

Suitable for any stroke, this nose clip is made with soft silicone pads for a comfortable fit and is suitable for a range of face shapes. As with most Speedo swmming nose clips, you can protect your clip and keep it clean with the reusable case.

8. Arena Pro

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The Arena pro nose clip offers the extra comfort of soft nose pads and the memory plastic frame gives perfect fit for most noses. Made of silicon and polycarbonate. This nose clip comes with a memory plastic frame. It enables the swimmer to get a perfect fit for their nose, hence, that size is not an issue any longer.

These nose clips are attached with different colored lanyards. The structure makeup is a mixture of silicon and polycarbonate which brings in just the accurate volume of elasticity and strength. The soft silicon adds great comfort to the product.

What adds more value to this accessory is that it is an imported product, made with high quality materials. Also, this clip comes in two color variants which is clear plastic and opaque black.

9. BRBD Anti-Slip Dotted

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The BRBD anti slip silicone-based nose clip has a dotted design that makes it hard for the swimmer to lose it during water sports. The clip comes in colorful designs and suits the needs of a family wanting to partake in water sports. The silicone material makes them comfortable while the dotted grips make it hard to lose in water.

If a swimmer is not really bothered about high performance, branding, or subtle design cues, these might be one of the best options available in the market for you. With four clips all in different colors, you get a decent amount of variety in this package from BRBD. The different colors ensure that each nose clips of various individuals do not get mixed up.

The entire body of the clip is covered in soft silicone that promises exceptional comfort and durability. The tips feature a unique embossed design. Compared to smoother surfaces, these should offer improved grip on your skin, helping the clips to stay on securely for longer

10. The Wolf Moon Silica Gel

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The wolf-moon silica gel swim nose clip is made with silicone that provides soft comfort for the nostrils. Its water proof feature makes it hard to be damaged by water. One small size fits a child from 5 years and above.

This 6-pair set comes with both earplugs and nose plugs for swimming, improving the swimming experience for anyone who gets them. With a different color in each set, you have plenty of options to pick from every time you head out into the water.

The nose clip sits on your nose, clipping your nostrils together. The pads that push your nose are colored to match the earplugs while the band connecting them is clear that’s discrete and doesn’t stand out. With a carrying case to match, this set is perfect for family travels as well!

11. Speedo Core Competition

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The Speedo core competition swimming nose clip is ideal for racing or training. It has a lightweight, adjustable frame. As it was specifically made for competitive events, this nose clip features a very subdued low profile fit. They offer an extremely tight yet comfortable fit.

This is the kind of nose clip that lets in zero water into your nostrils without causing any pain or discomfort. They are made from a firmer plastic material and offer excellent grip on the nose.

The molded flexible plastic does not contain any toxins or allergens and is extremely safe for all types of skin. At just under one ounce, they are extremely light and fit snugly on your nose. The metal bridges are somewhat flexible and can be bent slightly to offer a better fit on different sized noses

12. Arena Strap Pro

(Best Nose Clip with Strap)

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The arena strap nose clip pro gives the extra comfort that only a soft nose pads can give. It also has a memory plastic frame that enhances its perfect fit. It is made of 60% silicone and 40% polycarbonate. It is easily washable and made of quality material that enhances its durability.

It is a one size fit all which means it fits most nose sizes, however, people with bigger noses might still have difficulty using this nose clip. It has a strap that can go over the head when in use. This strap prevents it from falling off when in use and even if it falls off, it is easy to find.

13. BLUPOND

(Best for Open Water Swimming)

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This is one of the few open water swimming nose clips available on the market. This nose clip comes with a special dotted design that prevents the nose clip from slipping off or losing its grip during swimming. It also comes packed with ear plugs designed to protect your ears from infection. It’s durable and made to fit every type of nose that’s available.

Their design has been optimized in such a way that a single nose clip can fit a child or adult equally well. These clips are suitable for adults as well as children as small as six years old.

The metal bits are securely hidden away behind a sheath of durable, medical grade silicon. There are no toxic or potentially hazardous plastics involved here. The inclusion of medical grade materials ensures that these nose clips are suitable even for individuals with common allergies and sensitive skin types.

As an added bonus, you also get a convenient carrying case for safe and easy storage of these nose clips. Appearances are minor concerns when it comes to accessories like this. But still, these clips are available in sets of six different colors, in case you or your kids are picky about color choices.

14. Cressi

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This nose clip is extremely good for meaty and oily noses. It comes with an arch wire frame that can be easily bent to fit on the nose. The Cressi Nose Clip is a must have for swim lovers. It prevents water from entering your nose while swimming. With a lightweight, waterproof design, this nose clip provides a low-profile, comfortable fit.

Perfect for all kinds of training and competition, but also for recreational swimming. One size fits most children and adults. The Nose Clip is the ready option for swimmers. This is because it stops water from going in the nose during swimming. Moreover, It is designed with soft silicone to make sure that it is has a long life and is also comfortable to use.

The wires are easily moldable, therefore, the rubbers around the cups do not allow it to slip from the nose.

15. Harmony Smiley’s

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Worn and tested by some of the best paddlers in the world, Smiley’s Nose Plugs stay on in the largest of holes. Very discrete and light, made with soft cushioned pads for comfort while you enjoy a paddle. Ideal for whitewater kayakers, the bendable wire frame allows for full adjustability and the nylon cord easily loops around your helmet strap helping to keep the nose plug in place.

The Smiley’s Nose Plugs were designed by world champion Eric Southwick, Smiley’s are a bit less obtrusive than other nose plugs for the fashionably conscious. Bendable wire frame cushioned by plastic nubs on each side allow paddler to adjust for precise fit. Equipped with looped lanyard. These nose plugs are so comfortable you can hardly feel them.

Picking the Right Swimming Nose Clip

Now it’s time to choose a nose clip that would best fit your swimming need. However, before you choose it is important to note that there are parameters that should guide you when buying a nose clip or a nose plug. This guide will assist you in making the best choice for your nose clip device.

1. Size

The size of your nose would determine the type of nose clip you need to buy. Also, the size of the nose plug also comes into play as a defining factor. A proper nose clip should sit on the bridge of the nose to bring together the nostrils thereby depending on the pressure gotten from the nose clip to keep water out. Nine times out of ten, these nose clips are made in the shape of a nose to ensure close fit.

However, some nose clips have a metal piece that can shape the clip into the shape you need, therefore allowing for flexibility instead of molding to your nose automatically. These metal pieces can be adjusted to provide either a much looser or secure fit depending on how you’d like your nose clip to look.

Nose clips like the Sinus Saver Water Sports Nose Plug are designed to fit into your nostril, therefore this size has to be much more accurate than the standard nose clip. This is why it is advisable to do a quick q-tip test before ordering a nose plug.

2. Durable Materials

It’s highly advisable to pay close attention to the material of the nose clip you want to buy because it plays an important role in determining the durability, especially if you would be transporting them occasionally.

Some nose clips are made from metal, making them easily adjustable. These metals are protected from any chemicals that might be in your pool or waterbody you are swimming in.

Silicone is another popular material used to create nose clips. These are typically softer than metal nose clips, but they can also deteriorate over time from regular wear and tear. While they are cheaper than metal nose clips, it can be frustrating if one rips unexpectedly and you have to wait for another one to come in and adjusts to your nose again.

There’s a variety of other things that nose clips can be made out of, so make sure you look into the material before making the purchase. It can have a big difference on how your swimming trip pans out.

3. A Strap or Lanyard

Having a strap or lanyard on your nose clip can make a world of difference. While nose clips aren’t supposed to come off the nose during use, there are occasions that can’t be predicted that can easily take them off your nose. In those cases, a lanyard is the perfect way to protect your nose clip.

While you can get nose clips in a variety of colors, oftentimes they come in clear. They’re also typically made to be as discrete as possible, so if one falls off in the water, it can be incredibly difficult to find.

With a lanyard, your nose plug won’t get lost, and instead will fall back around your neck, making it easy to slip back in. In a case whereby the lanyard is ripped off as well, it’s a lot easier to find than just a small nose clip. Save yourself hours of searching and money for a new nose clip by investing in a strap to keep yours in place.

4. Design

The design of the nose clip you choose to buy is another extremely important feature. With a few different options, you can completely change your swimming experience.

The biggest thing is whether or not to get a nose clip or a nose plug, the difference being mentioned above. Both of these are great options, but nose plugs are a little more comfortable than nose clips.

Nose plugs insert into your nose and leave a tiny bit of a connecting band that can be seen. This is much more comfortable than a nose clip for most people as your nose isn’t being held together by a clip. However, many people get adjusted to a nose clip after the initial discomfort of wearing them; the action of a nose clip is very similar to that of holding your nose.

With the tiny connecting band, nose plugs are also more discrete than a nose clip. While looks aren’t the most important thing in the world, it can be a bit nerve-wracking to have a neon green nose clamp keeping your nostrils together. Many people opt for the sleeker design that nose plugs can offer.

Benefits of Using a Nose Clip

Nose clips provide a measure of comfort for the nose during swimming as it prevents water from going up the nasal passage which often results in nasal infections. Little wonder most competitive swimmers use nose clips seeing as it helps eradicate the issue of always having sinus infections.

Other benefits of using a nose clip includes: lesser chances of having a post swim runny nose, prevention of sinus infections for competitive swimmers, helps backstroke swimmers keep water out of their nose while swimming and also keeps water entering the nostrils of divers.

How to Wear a Swimming Nose Clip Properly?

Wearing a nose clip is not difficult. All you have to do is push the nose clip against your nose while the bridge points upwards. Afterward, push both ends of the clips against your nostrils so it pinches them.

You will use a similar method to wear a nose with straps. When done, move the strap over your head to your neck so the nose clip can hang from it if it slips off. You can wear your swim cap first, goggles second then the nose clips last. You can wear a nose plug same way you wear an ear plug.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who Can Benefit from Using Nose Clips?

The best answer is everyone can benefit from using a nose clip. If you’re someone who holds your nose underwater, then investing in a nose clip can free up your swimming routine. Imagine jumping into your crisp, cold pool in the middle of a hot summer day with both hands in the air instead of just one. The freedom you can gain with both hands is wonderful!

For people with sensitive nasal cavities, nose clips help protect against sinus infections as well. Even if you don’t have a sensitive nose, it’s still a good idea to protect yourself. Sinus infections from water are common, and extremely painful.

Nose clips are also a great way to teach kids how to swim underwater, or swim in general. Normally the hardest part about teaching a child to swim is getting them to go in the water after the first-time water gets up their nose. With a nose clip, this won’t happen, and your kids will learn to swim quicker than normal.

What Is the Difference Between a Nose Plug and a Nose Clip?

A nose plug can be a good alternative to nose clip. While a nose plug is slightly different than a nose clip, their functions are the same. A nose plug inserts into your nostrils while a nose clip clips your nostrils shut. There are different types of nose plugs.

There are some homemade nose plugs for swimming that can also help you achieve your goal Nose plugs vary about as much as nose clips do, so it’s important to do your research before buying anything.

How Do They Work?

What you’re using depends on how your nose clip (or nose plug) works. There are different ways that your nose protective gear can function. If you have a nose clip, then it’ll clamp onto your nose, pinning your nostrils together to use your own skin as a natural protection against the water. The clip itself is adjustable or made out of a malleable plastic or metal, meaning that it will conform to your nose after use.

Nose plugs are different and require you to know your nose size. Nose plugs work similarly to ear plugs, inserting into your nostril and blocking water from entering itself. This is a slightly different feel from the nose clamps, and most people prefer them.

Can Children Use Nose Clips?

Yes, children can use nose clips. It is safe for them to use it. However, whether you’re using a nose clip or a nose plug, children fits are very different. Most nose clips specify if they’re made for children, and nose plugs are definitely a challenge when shopping for your little one.

Children’s nostrils are also smaller than adults, so most clamps won’t work properly on children. If the nose clip is too big, then the contours of kid’s noses will cause the clamp to clamp down on their actual nose. This stops the nose clip from working properly and can be quite uncomfortable as well.

Are There Different Types of Nose Clips Available?

Nose clips are all very similar; however, there are some minor differences between most nose clips. The first big area to notice a difference in is the material they’re made out of. Some nose clips are made with a pliable metal that lets you adjust the size to better fit your nose. Others are made out of silicone, or even a memory plastic, to mold around your nose.

There are also different kinds of clips and pads where your nose will actually be closed. There’s a growing difference between these, and some people just like other designs more than others. There are soft pads, and there are pads that are textured to help avoid the nose clip slipping off.

Do Professionals Use Nose Clips?

Not all professionals use nose clips. Some professionals are already experts at holding their breath under water, therefore do not need nose clips.

Swim Network Overview

It’s also worthy to note that nose plugs can be used outside of the swimming world. Are you pregnant and want to avoid those smells that irritate you when you step out? I’m sure you will find a nose plug handy.

The above listed nose plugs and nose clips can be said to all have their charm but of course there would always be one that stands out. I pick the Sinus Saver Water Sports.

The sinus saver water sports swim nose clip truly deserves its name; Sinus Saver. It literally saves the sinus from any harm while undergoing water sports. With its high-grade medical grade silicone material, it’s pliable, soft, doesn’t dissolve or shrink during extreme water sports.

It’s worth every penny. The Sinus saver nose clip would last and when in the water you don’t have to worry about it falling off your nose like in the case of nose clips. This device was made to eliminate any dissention one might have towards buying a nose plug as it passes the checklist with flying colors.

Coming a close second, the Speedo Liquid Comfort would be my next best choice for a nose clip. Equipped with a lightweight flexible nylon frame, it can fit perfectly on top most noses. Available in a one size fits all nose sizes.

These are my thoughts however; if you have owned or used any of these nose clips, please do leave your comments and experiences below. It would be highly appreciated.