How can we help?

Search below or browse by topic. Can't find what you need? We're one message away.

Products

What's the difference between the ST1, ST2, and ST3?

All three use the same UV-resistant pultruded fiberglass and include a belt, carabiner, and carry bag. The difference is height and flex:

  • ST3 — 69" tall, 39" flex range, 3-piece construction. The tallest pole with the most flex, giving you the smoothest, most natural swim feel. Best for lap swimmers, triathletes, and performance training.
  • ST2 — 47" tall, 25" flex range, 2-piece construction. A balanced mid-height option that works great for most people and pools. Best for families and fitness swimmers.
  • ST1 — 24" tall, 7" flex range, 1-piece construction. Short and rigid by design. Best for water aerobics, therapy, resistance exercises, and swim spas.

See the full comparison →

What's included in a kit?

Every kit ships with your selected pole (or poles for multi-piece models), one stretch cord, a swim belt, an anodized aluminum carabiner, and a carry bag. Adding an install base is optional — choose one if you need it, or skip it if you already have one mounted.

What are the stretch cords made of?

EPDM rubber (Shore-A 60 hardness). EPDM is highly resistant to UV, ozone, chlorine, and saltwater — it won't degrade from pool chemicals. Cords are available from 4.5ft to 20ft and stretch approximately 24% under normal swimming tension.

What are the poles made of?

Pultruded fiberglass — the same material used in fishing rods and high-performance composite structures. It's lightweight, extremely durable, UV-resistant, and won't corrode from pool chemicals or saltwater. The multi-piece models (ST2 and ST3) use progressively narrower diameter sections joined by precision CNC'd anodized 6061 aluminum fittings to create the flex curve.

What's the difference between the base options?
  • Concrete Deck Base — Drill-in anchor for concrete, stone, or paver decks. Included with every kit at no extra charge.
  • Threaded Wood Deck Base — Made of 316 stainless steel. Requires drilling into wood or composite decking and is secured with a heavy-duty nut (included).
  • Arctic Spa Adapter — Threaded adapter that screws directly into the female threaded receiver built into Arctic Spas swim spas. No drilling or additional hardware required.

Already have a base installed from a previous Swim Tether? Select "I Already Have a Base" in the kit builder and we'll skip the base. Adding a base is always optional.

Can I use Swim Tether for exercises besides swimming?

Absolutely. Beyond lap swimming, the Swim Tether is great for:

  • Water aerobics — resistance training for upper and lower body (the ST1 is ideal)
  • Aqua jogging — low-impact cardio without needing a deep pool
  • Rehabilitation therapy — safe, controlled movement in water
  • Strength training — resistance work with the belt or optional accessories
Can I buy replacement parts separately?

Yes. Cords, belts, carabiners, and bases can all be ordered individually. Contact us and we'll help you find what you need.

Installation

Can I install the base myself?

Yes. The concrete base needs a drill with a masonry bit — about 15 minutes. The wood deck base is also drill-in, secured with a heavy-duty nut that's included. The Arctic Spa Adapter simply threads into the built-in receiver on Arctic Spas swim spas — no drilling or extra hardware needed. Step-by-step instructions are included with every order.

How far from the water should the base be?

As close to the pool edge as practical. The base should be on a solid, level surface (deck, coping, or spa rim). The pole will flex forward over the water — that's by design. Most installations are within 6–12 inches of the water's edge.

Can I remove the pole when not in use?

Absolutely. The pole lifts straight out of the base in seconds. The base stays permanently mounted, and the pole stores in the included carry bag. Most people leave the base installed and just pull the pole when they're done swimming.

Can I install the base on pavers?

Yes, but the pavers should be at least 12×12 inches and 2–3 inches thick for solid anchoring. Make sure they're set firmly and won't shift under load. If your pavers sit on sand or aren't fully stable, consider reinforcing with a concrete pad underneath.

Can I use Swim Tether with an above-ground pool?

Yes. You'll need a solid mounting surface near the pool edge — a concrete pad, wood deck, or composite platform all work. A 2" PVC pipe filled with concrete, a 4×4, or a 6×6 post can also serve as a mounting point. The base mounts to that surface, and the pole extends over the pool wall. See our above-ground installation guide for details.

I already have a base from a previous Swim Tether. Do I need a new one?

Nope. In the kit builder, select "I Already Have a Base Installed" and you won't be charged for one. If you're unsure whether your base plate opening is the standard size (7/8" or larger) or the narrower size, send us a photo and we'll confirm which pole fitting you need.

Sizing & Compatibility

Will it work in my pool?

The Swim Tether works in virtually any pool — in-ground, above-ground, swim spas, and plunge pools. We've even had customers install on a boat swim platform. The key requirement is a solid surface near the water to mount the base: concrete, wood, composite decking, or an Arctic Spa rim.

How do I know which cord length to pick?

Our kit builder has a built-in calculator. Enter the distance from your base to the center of where you want to swim, and it recommends the right cord. If you're between sizes, go one size longer — you can always shorten the effective length by clipping the carabiner to a different loop on the belt.

What if I pick the wrong cord length?

Free returns within 30 days, no hassle. But our calculator is quite accurate, and going one size longer gives you flexibility. Cords can also be DIY adjusted to a shorter length by unscrewing the end clips, cutting to size, and re-assembling.

Does the Arctic Spa Adapter work on all swim spas?

No — the Arctic Spa Adapter is designed specifically for swim spas manufactured by Arctic Spas, which have a built-in female threaded receiver. It won't fit other brands. If you have a different swim spa, the concrete or wood deck base will work if you have a solid surface nearby. Contact us if you're unsure — we'll help figure out the best mounting option.

Is there a weight limit?

The system is designed for normal swimming resistance, not pulling or hanging. There's no strict weight limit for swimming use — the cord and pole flex to absorb force progressively. The belt fits waists up to 48".

Which model is best for a swim spa?

The ST1 is usually the best fit for swim spas — its short, rigid design works well in smaller spaces. If your swim spa is on the larger side (14ft+), the ST2 can also work. The kit builder's cord calculator will confirm the right cord length based on your measurements.

Orders & Shipping

Do you offer free shipping?

Free shipping on all US orders over $99. Every complete kit qualifies.

What's the return policy?

30-day free returns on all orders. If something isn't right, we'll make it right — exchange, refund, or help you find the correct size.

Is there a warranty?

1-year warranty on all components against manufacturing defects. If something breaks during normal use within the first year, we'll replace it.

Do you offer wholesale or bulk pricing?

Yes. We offer wholesale pricing for pool builders, spa dealers, OEM swim spa manufacturers, pool service companies, and homeowner associations. Apply for a reseller account →

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship worldwide. Shipping rates are calculated automatically in the cart based on your destination. If your country isn't available at checkout, contact us and we'll work it out.

Care & Maintenance

Can I leave the pole outside?

The fiberglass pole is UV-resistant and won't be damaged by sun or rain. That said, we recommend removing the pole and storing it in the carry bag when not in use — it protects against accidental damage, keeps it cleaner, and takes just seconds to pop in and out of the base.

How do I clean the equipment?

Rinse everything with fresh water after each use — especially if you swim in saltwater or heavily chlorinated pools. That's it. The belt can be machine washed occasionally if needed. Avoid harsh solvents on the cord or pole.

How long do the stretch cords last?

With normal use and a freshwater rinse after each session, EPDM cords typically last 1–3 years depending on frequency of use and sun exposure. Signs it's time to replace: visible cracking, loss of elasticity, or the cord feeling stiff. Replacement cords are available separately.

How should I store the equipment in winter?

Remove the pole and cord, rinse with fresh water, dry them off, and store in the carry bag indoors. The base can stay mounted year-round — it's stainless steel and designed to handle the elements. When spring comes, just pop the pole back in and you're ready to go.

Is the cord safe with chlorine and saltwater?

Yes. EPDM rubber is specifically chosen for its resistance to chlorine, bromine, saltwater, ozone, and UV. A quick freshwater rinse after each swim is all you need to maximize cord life.

🔍

No matching questions found

Try different keywords or contact us directly.

Still have a question?

We typically respond within a few hours.

Contact Us →