7 Unusual Swimmer Gift Ideas That Aren’t Goggles or Towels
Buying a gift for a swimmer is deceptively hard.
They already own multiple pairs of goggles.
They have towels coming out of every bag.
And most “swimmer gift guides” recycle the same generic gear without considering what swimmers actually struggle with day after day - especially those with chlorine-sensitive skin.
If you want to give a gift that’s genuinely useful, thoughtful, and not something they already have, this guide is for you.
Below are non-generic swimmer gift ideas designed for year-round gifting - not just holidays - and curated specifically for frequent swimmers, lap swimmers, competitive athletes, and anyone living in chlorinated water.
Also, check out our fun gift guide for recreational and fitness swimmers here.
What Makes a Good Gift for a Swimmer?
Before we dive in, here’s what actually matters to swimmers (and what most gift guides miss):
- Chlorine exposure affects skin, hair, and comfort
- Post-swim recovery matters as much as training
- Swimmers value simplicity, softness, and function
- Sensitive skin is common - synthetics often irritate
The best gifts solve a real problem without adding clutter.
1. Organic Cotton T-Shirts (Designed for Post-Swim Skin)
After hours in chlorinated pools, swimmers want soft, breathable, non-irritating clothing - not performance synthetics that trap chemicals against the skin.
That’s why high-quality organic cotton t-shirts make an exceptional swimmer gift.
Why swimmers love them:
- Gentle on chlorine-sensitized skin
- Breathable and non-itchy after showering
- Comfortable for commuting, recovery days, and everyday wear
- Unlike tech apparel, they don’t smell or cling post-swim
Lane Line Threads organic cotton t-shirts are specifically designed with swimmers in mind - minimalist, durable, and made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, which reduces exposure to harsh dyes and chemical finishes.
Gift tip:
If you’re unsure on sizing, go one size up. Swimmers tend to prefer relaxed comfort over compression outside the pool.
2. Chlorine-Neutralizing Body Wash (But Not the Drugstore Kind)
Most swimmers know they should remove chlorine - but many are using overly harsh soaps that strip the skin barrier even further.
A high-quality chlorine-neutralizing body wash is a practical, thoughtful gift - especially when it’s dermatologist-recommended or formulated for sensitive skin.
What to look for:
3. Soft Hair Wrap or Swim-Specific Microfiber Turban
Yes, swimmers already own towels - but most towels are bulky, rough, and terrible for post-chlorine hair.
A lightweight microfiber hair wrap designed for swimmers:
- Dries hair quickly without friction
- Reduces breakage and chlorine damage
- Fits easily in a swim bag or carry-on
This is especially appreciated by swimmers with curly, textured, or fragile hair.
4. Skin Recovery Essentials (Beyond Lotion)
Instead of generic lotion, consider skin recovery products that address chlorine exposure directly.
Examples that make excellent swimmer gifts:
- Post-swim barrier repair balms
- Colloidal oatmeal bath powder for irritation
- Mineral-based hand creams (great for cracked knuckles)
These are small, affordable gifts that feel surprisingly personal - especially for swimmers with eczema or sensitive skin.
5. Swim-Life Apparel That Isn’t “Cheesy”
Many swimmers avoid novelty gifts because they’re loud, awkward, or overly jokey.
Minimalist swim-inspired apparel - when done right - feels wearable and meaningful.
What works:
- Clean typography
- Subtle swim references
- Soft, natural fabrics
This is where Lane Line Threads stands apart from mass-market swim merch. Their pieces reflect swimmer identity without shouting it - and they’re comfortable enough to wear every day, not just to practice.
6. Poolside Recovery Accessories
Swimmers spend a surprising amount of time recovering between sessions. Thoughtful accessories can elevate that downtime.
Non-generic ideas:
- Refillable stainless steel bottles (neutral designs)
- Compact foam rollers for shoulders and calves
- Soft cotton socks for post-practice warmth
These items pair well with a premium t-shirt to create a complete swimmer recovery gift bundle.
7. Everyday Items That Make Chlorine Life Easier
Some of the best swimmer gifts are things they didn’t realize could be better.
Consider:
- Gentle laundry detergent for chlorine-exposed clothes
- Wet Dry bag organizers to separate wet gear
- Natural anti-friction deodorants that don’t react with chlorine residue
These are practical, everyday upgrades swimmers genuinely appreciate.
Best Swimmer Gifts (Quick Summary)
If you want a shortcut, here are the top non-generic swimmer gifts from this guide:
- Organic cotton t-shirts (best overall gift)
- Chlorine-neutralizing body wash
- Microfiber hair wraps
- Skin barrier repair creams
- Minimalist swim-life apparel
- Recovery accessories for post-practice comfort
Give Something They’ll Actually Use
The best swimmer gifts don’t sit in a drawer or get regifted.
They become part of the swimmer’s routine - after practice, between sessions, and on rest days.
If you want a gift that’s thoughtful, practical, and designed for swimmers who live in chlorine - especially those with sensitive skin - start with Lane Line Threads organic cotton t-shirts, then build around them with recovery-focused essentials.
That’s how you give a swimmer something they’ll truly appreciate - long after the pool deck dries.
