January 18, 2022 6 min read

Nose clips are an important part of the swimmer's arsenal for water sports. Nose clips are designed to push air out of the nose to reduce water getting into the nose. A lot of swimmers are prone to getting water up to their noses, which is not only uncomfortable but can hamper their performance.

Swimmers need to put nose clips on before submerging their heads so that nose clips are ready to protect them. Nose clips should be worn throughout the duration of the swim, even if there is no water in the nose.

Why do Synchronized Swimmers Have Nose Clips?

Synchronized swimmers have nose clips because it prevents their nose from interfering with their breathing. Without a nose clip, synchro swimmers cannot swim as fast because they have to stop and adjust their noses due to their restricted breathing.

Without a nose clip, synchro swimmers also have a decreased lung capacity and because of this, they have less oxygen to fuel their muscles.

Synchronized swimmers need the oxygen from swimming to do their best possible job, and a nose clip can increase their lung capacity by as much as 20%.

What to Look for When Buying Nose Clips for Swimming

A nose clip is used to help reduce the amount of water that goes up the nose while swimming. While there are no set rules, there are a few factors that are important to consider when buying nose clips for swimming. The material of the nose clip is important because some materials are more comfortable against the skin. The most popular materials are silicone and rubber because they’re both durable and comfortable. How do the nose clips fit? A clip should sit snugly against the nostrils and should not be felt on the tip of the nose. There are two types of clips: those that enclose the nostrils and those that sit over the nostrils.

blue nose clip

How to Use Nose Clips Properly While Swimming

When you are swimming, it can be difficult to breathe the air out of the pool. When using nose clips, make sure they are the right size for your nose. If the nose clips are too small they won't fit or if they are too big, they might not work correctly. Nose clips also come in different shapes such as one-piece and two-piece. One-piece clamps will pinch the nose and two-piece will pinch the nose and then attach to the ears. It’s important to use nose clips while swimming to create a clear breathing passage. You can also use nose clips to keep your ears clear.

The right pair of nose clips should sit across the bridge of your nose and create a seal against your nostrils. Your nose clips should be snug enough that they don’t fall off your nose, but not so tight that they create discomfort or impair your breathing. If your nose clips are too tight, try loosening them, if they are too loose, try tightening them. When it’s time for you to take your nose clips off, pinch the middle of the nose clip between your fingers and remove it slowly.

Benefits of Wearing Nose Clips

Nose clips are a common tool in the world of swimming. While some people find them to be claustrophobic, they are in fact a great way to keep water out of your nose. This allows you to focus on your swimming, so you can achieve the speeds you want to achieve. They are also great when you are in a public pool where the chlorine smell is overpowering. All you have to do is put the nose clips on, and you'll be ready to swim. A nose clip can be used in a variety of different ways. You can simply put them on your nostrils, or you can pinch your nostrils together. Either way, it's important to be attentive to how they are fitting. A study conducted by Ohio State University, State University of New York at Buffalo, and the University of Pittsburgh discovered that the use of nose clips can increase a swimmer's lung capacity by five percent. By placing a tight seal around your nose, nose clips provide a cavity that prevents water from entering your nose and mouth and encourages an athlete's nose to stay submerged in the water.

swimmer wearing a nose clip

How to Fit the Nose Clip Properly

Nose clips are a common addition to many strenuous exercises and strenuous workouts. These clips can help to regulate breathing and reduce the feeling of dizziness and lightheadedness. For those who wear nose clips regularly, it is important to ensure they are fitted correctly, as improper fitting may result in more harm than good. Nose clip placement usually involves attaching the top of the clip to the nose itself, and the bottom of the clip to the mouth. When fitting a nose clip, ensure that it is fitted snugly and not too tightly. Ensure that there is good airflow and that the mouth is not pinched closed – this can cause mouth soreness and discomfort.

How Nose Clips Work to Help You Swim Faster

It goes without saying that swimming is a heavy workout. As soon as you hit the water, your muscles start to tire and it becomes harder to keep going. To keep going and combat this struggle, there are a few swim gear pieces that can really help out. One of the most important pieces of swim gear is a nose clip. Nose clips work by not letting water into the nostrils. This helps the swimmer to focus on their stroke and not have to divert time and energy into breathing. Nose clips can be used in pool settings and in open water settings. If you've been struggling to improve your swim time, a nose clip may be just what you need to get back on track.

We all know how important it is that you are able to swim long distances without having to stop to take breaks. If you experience pain in your ears, ear infections, or a swimmer’s ear, using nose clips can help. All nose clips are used to keep the nostrils closed, which helps to prevent water from entering the nose and throat. By keeping water out of the nose and throat, you will experience less pain and swim faster.

Conclusion

Swimmers can use nose clips for a variety of reasons. Keeping the nose and mouth closed is the most common reason and for this reason, nose clips can be used to equalize pressure during a dive. If the goal is to equalize air pressure and avoid the danger of water entering the sinuses, then nose clips can be used to help with this process. Nose clips are used by swimmers to help with the nose's natural tendency to dry out and to reduce any risk of nosebleeds. Athletes, such as swimmers, face a higher risk of nosebleeds since they spend a lot of time in dry, cold environments. Nose clips can help maintain moisture in the nasal passage where the nose is exposed to a dry environment. Nose clips are usually made of plastic or silicone, but can also be made of rubber. These materials are safe and will make you feel secure while swimming.

Commonly Asked Questions

How do you keep your nose clip in when swimming?

The hardest part about swimming is getting your nose clip to stay in because of the water pressure. I have found that the best way to keep the nose clip in is to use a nose clip that is larger and higher up on your nose.

girl wearing a nose clip

Should I swim with a nose plug?

The answer is yes! It keeps your nose clean. People who are wearing nose plugs while swimming report less irritation and itchiness from allergens such as pollen and chlorine.

Will a nose clip stop snoring?

A nose clip won't stop snoring, but it may be able to help reduce it by narrowing the airway. If you have been struggling with your snoring, then you may want to take a look at the nose clips that are available to see if they may be the best option for you.

Are magnetic nose clips safe?

Adults, children, and even people who wear glasses sometimes use these nose clips to keep their noses from running and to help them chew. Magnetic nose clips are safe to use as long as they are not too strong. These nose clips create a gentle, but insistent, magnetic force. Magnetic nose clips should be used for short periods of time.
Author - Fred Felton
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Fred Felton          

Content Creator / Editor

Fred Felton is a copywriter, editor and social media specialist based in Durban, South Africa. He has over 20 years of experience in creating high end content. He has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. Currently Fred specialises in the adventure watersports space, focussing on surf, kayak and rafting. He is also a keynote speaker and has presented talks and workshops in South Africa.


Sign up for our Newsletter

Spin to win Spinner icon