It is important for swimmers to select a board size that works for them.
Basically, the board size a swimmer chooses should be based on two factor (that are sometimes but not always related);
1) Size of the swimmer (regardless of gender or age or ability; larger swimmers have more strength and usually more speed)
2) Kicking ability or kicking speed of the swimmer (independent of size of the swimmer, faster kickers can handle heavier & bulkier boards and maintain buoyancy)
Because of #1, a large surface area is required for a heavier/larger swimmer to maintain buoyancy of the kickboard. This is why we generally recommend larger boards for larger swimmers.
The major note in sizing is that swimmers with top level kicking ability can always choose smaller board sizes (of course this comes with some consequences/tradeoffs), but the premise does NOT work vice versa! A superb senior swimmer with amazing kicking abilities will likely kick faster with a smaller & hence lighter board because their speed and board-holding technique allows steady buoyancy. Whereas, a small youthful weak kicker will suffer with a monstrous heavy board (always feeling like they are sinking).
Regulars
The approximate size is 17in x 10.5in x 1.25in (43cm x 26.5cm x 3.2cm).
The original size boards (we feel) are the appropriate dimensions for an advanced intermediate level or an average senior level swimmer. Swimmers at this ability level are able to kick in the range that suits these boards.
This size is approximately equal to any average kickboard you pick up. We make the most boards in this range, and we intend to continue to expand this range the most.
The boards are a good size to pack up and stow in or on the outside of bags or packs between workouts.
Mediums
The approximate size is 14.5in x 9.5in x 1.25in (37cm x 24cm x 3.2cm).
These sizes are excellent for swimmers that are smaller (regardless or age or gender). Some smaller swimmer (even advanced intermediates and senior female swimmers) feel more comfortable with less volume in their kickboards. This size is great for medium sized intermediate swimmers with intermediate kicking abilities.
We are developing graphics that adolescent & teen aged swimmers of both genders can appreciate.
