Top Hand Paddles - 2012 Finalists - About Swimming Readers' Choice Awards

From the Manufacturer: Specifically designed for freestyle training, the Freestyler Hand Paddle planes the hand forward through the water, improving reach and distance-per-stroke. With a long fin shape and unique skeg design, the Freestyler promotes a strong pull through, better hip-rotation and increased efficiency. With an adjustable finger strap for a perfect fit, the Freestyler paddle is narrower than most paddles, which prevents shoulder strain.

From the Manufacturer: Han's Paddles are the most versatile paddles available. There are 2 different positions for crawl stroke technique instruction and for training (plus one additional position for special backstroke drills). Two positions enhances the ability of the swimmer to adapt to the "feel" or sense perception of the water on the hand. This is accomplished without changing the tubing position on the paddle. The swimmer only reverses the position of the paddle on the hand for a simple and quick stroking adjustment. The tapered end frontal position places the paddle further forward on the hand. This changes the "feel" adaptation, and teaches the hand, wrist, elbow order of entry. It also encourages a downward sweep of the hand and high elbow position to continually reach "new" water in the crawl stroke. A downward sweep is more efficient than the older concept of lateral sweeps. Hans Paddles are holed paddles with the number and size of the holes optimum for reducing joint stress.

From the Manufacturer: The Speedo Training Paddle is great for developing stroke technique and upper body strength. The paddle's square design increases the surface area of the user's hand, thus providing more resistance for better training. This training paddle is made of durable plastic and surgical rubber fasteners.

From the Manufacturer: Strokemakers can be used in all four competitive strokes for drills, pulling sets, and sprint-asisted swimming. When swimming fly, do not circle in a single lane to avoid hitting your teammates! When switching from freestyle to fly and back, try dropping down one size or two during taper and at the beginning of the season. Strokemakers are also useful for synchro swimmers, water aerobics and some typical medical rehab because they increase strength and sculling skills. They are also great for body surfing.

From the Manufacturer: Invented by World Record Masters swimmer and former ASU coaching great Ron Johnson, the Catalyst Training Paddles help improve stroke technique while building strength. Showcasing a patented keyhole design, the LVC Training Paddles help distribute pressure more evenly while improving water feel and reducing shoulder stress. Constructed of lightweight, injection molded, UV resistant polypropylene, the Catalyst Paddles feature smooth edges and a multi-hole strap design for custom centering on hand.