Swim Tether vs. Swim Jets & Endless Pools
Two ways to swim in place. One costs a fraction of the other. Here's an honest look at what each does well — and where they fall short.
If you want to swim in place at home, you've probably come across two main options: current-generating systems (swim jets, Endless Pools, counter-current machines) and tethered swimming systems like Swim Tether. They solve the same problem — getting a real swim workout without a lap pool — but they do it in completely different ways.
Swim jets push water toward you so you swim against a current. Swim Tether anchors you in place with a fiberglass pole and stretch cord, letting the water stay calm while you generate all the resistance yourself. Both work. The right choice depends on your budget, pool setup, and what kind of swim experience you're after.
Side-by-Side Comparison
How the three main approaches to swimming in place stack up.
| Swim Tether | Swim Jets | Elastic Belts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Cost | $215–$299 | $5,000–$30,000+ | $20–$60 |
| Installation | DIY deck mount | Professional plumbing & electrical | Anchors to railing or post |
| Ongoing Costs | None — no electricity | $50–$150+/month electricity | None |
| Noise Level | Silent | Loud pump motor | Silent |
| Water Quality | Calm, still water | Turbulence, bubbles, choppy | Calm, still water |
| Stroke Feel | Natural — smooth progressive resistance | Simulates current (when smooth) | Jerky pull at waist, inconsistent |
| All 4 Strokes | ✓ Freestyle, back, breast, fly | Mostly freestyle — others fight current | Limited — constant backward pull |
| Adjustable Resistance | Change swim speed to increase | Dial adjusts current | Fixed cord tension |
| Removable | Pole removes in seconds | Permanently installed | Fully portable |
| Durability | Fiberglass — UV/chlorine/salt resistant | Stainless/acrylic — built-in | Latex/rubber degrades in 6–12 months |
| Body Position | Elevated cord angle keeps you horizontal | Current supports body position | Belt pulls hips down |
| Maintenance | Rinse after use | Pump service, filter maintenance | Rinse after use |
Where Swim Tether Wins
1/50th the Cost
A complete Swim Tether system starts at $215. Swim jet installations typically run $5,000–$30,000+ before the first electric bill. That's not a typo.
Silent, Calm Water
Jets create noise, turbulence, and bubbles that can make it hard to relax or maintain good form. Swim Tether keeps the water perfectly still — you hear nothing but your own strokes.
All Four Strokes, Naturally
Backstroke and butterfly are nearly impossible against a jet current. With Swim Tether, you swim in still water and practice any stroke with full range of motion.
Simple Setup. No Plumber. No Electrician.
Mount the base to your pool deck. Drop in the pole. Clip the cord to your belt. Done. No permits, no contractors, no ongoing maintenance costs.
Removable in Seconds
Hosting a pool party? Pull the pole out. Swim jets are permanently installed — there's no removing them when you just want a normal pool day.
Zero Energy Costs
Swim Tether uses no electricity. Swim jet pumps consume 6–11 kW per session. That adds up fast — especially in summer when you're swimming daily.
Which One Is Right for You?
Swim Tether Is Built For
Consider Jets If
Ready to Swim in Place?
Build your perfect setup in under 2 minutes. Choose your pole, base, and cord length — we'll handle the rest.