Which Swim Tether Is Right for You?
You don't need to compare specs. Just tell us how you'll use it — we'll point you to the right one.
Tell Us How You'll Use It
Find the scenario that sounds like you. We'll tell you exactly which model to get — and why.
"I have a swim spa and want to swim in place."
Swim spas are compact — you need something that fits the space and doesn't get in the way.
The ST1 is our most popular swim spa model — short, rigid, and designed for tight spaces. Want a smoother swim feel? Step up to the ST2. Most swim spa brands have a factory-installed base, so you may not need to buy one separately. Check the Shop Your Spa page.
"I'm training for a triathlon or want serious swim training."
You need long, continuous sessions with a natural body position and smooth resistance.
The ST3 is our tallest, smoothest-swimming pole. The high cord attachment point keeps your body horizontal — the way you'd swim in open water. Pair it with a 10–14 ft cord for a full-length swim lane feel. This is what competitive swimmers and triathletes choose.
"My family wants to use it — kids, teens, and adults."
Different swimmers, different speeds. You need something that works for everyone.
The ST2 works great at any speed — a teenager doing laps and a parent doing water aerobics can use the same setup. The belt adjusts to fit everyone, and the cord provides smooth resistance whether you're cruising or pushing hard.
"I mostly do water aerobics, aqua jogging, or resistance training."
You need a stable anchor point — not a tall, swaying pole. Think exercises, not laps.
The ST1 is short and rigid — essentially a fixed anchor point in the water. It stays out of the way while you jog, stretch, kick, and do resistance exercises. Perfect for therapy pools, rehab programs, and anyone who uses their pool more for fitness than for laps.
"I travel a lot and want to swim at hotel or vacation rental pools."
You can't drill into a hotel pool deck. You need something portable that works anywhere.
No pole, no installation, no permissions needed. The Travel Belt packs into a bag and anchors to a handrail, ladder, fence post, or any fixed object. Includes an 8-foot cord and adjustable belt — everything you need to swim in any pool, anywhere in the world.
"I'm recovering from surgery and need gentle, low-impact exercise."
Rehabilitation swimming needs controlled resistance at a pace you set yourself — no motor or current to fight.
Both give you a stable anchor for gentle resistance walking, swimming, and stretching in the water. You control the intensity by controlling your speed — swim slower for lighter resistance, faster for more. No sudden forces, no turbulence, no noise. Just calm water and your own pace.
"I just want the best possible swimming experience."
You want the smoothest, most natural swim feel — cost isn't the deciding factor.
The ST3 is our flagship. The tall pole creates a high cord angle that keeps you perfectly horizontal in the water — no belt dragging your hips down. The resistance is smooth and progressive, so you feel like you're swimming through open water, not fighting a rubber band. Pair with a 10–14 ft cord for the ultimate home swim lane.
All Four Models at a Glance
Every Swim Tether includes a swim belt, carry bag, and free US shipping.
A Few More Things to Consider
Pool Size → Cord Length
Bigger pools use longer cords. Swim spas typically use 4.5–6 ft, backyard pools use 8–14 ft. The kit builder handles this for you automatically.
Your Deck Surface
Concrete, wood, composite — all work. Just pick the matching base in the kit builder. If your swim spa has a factory base, you may not need one at all.
Multiple Swimmers
If different people will use it, the ST2 is the safest bet. The belt adjusts to fit everyone, and it works great at any speed.
Pool Aesthetics
Every pole removes from the base in seconds. The base sits flush with your deck when not in use — invisible under a pool cover.
Still Not Sure?
No worries. Text us at 770-702-4558 or email shop@swimtether.com — tell us about your pool and your goals, and we'll recommend the right setup.
Ready to Build Your Kit?
Choose your pole, base, and cord length. Takes about 2 minutes.
Build Your Kit