Morning swim done—3100 meters in the bank. And now it’s time for a long-overdue gear breakdown. The folks at FINIS, known for their swim training gear, sent me a care package recently, and in it was the FINIS Agility Kickboard, among other tools. I’ve been using it in training, and I’ve got thoughts—detailed ones.
Why a Kickboard Isn’t “Just a Kickboard”
Most people assume kickboards are interchangeable. But once you’re logging thousands of yards a week, small differences in design, comfort, and utility become glaringly obvious. Enter the FINIS Agility Kickboard, a sleek, thumb-loop style board that’s winning serious points with me already.
First Impressions of the FINIS Agility Kickboard
Unlike the bulky flat kickboards that stress the neck and shoulders, the FINIS Agility Kickboard is minimalist in all the right ways. You simply slide your thumb through the top hole, and the rest of the board gently rests beneath your hand. It’s a seamless design that makes it quick to transition in and out of sets without disrupting your swim rhythm.
Key Features:
- Thumb loop design keeps hands relaxed and aligned
- Encourages proper hand position—no fork-like splayed fingers
- Lightweight and compact
- Provides just enough resistance without overloading shoulders
What Makes the Agility Kickboard Stand Out
The FINIS Agility Kickboard offers the perfect balance of technique support and ease of use. Unlike traditional boards that overstress your shoulders or make your arms crane out awkwardly, this one keeps you streamlined and natural in the water.
It’s not just about resistance—it’s about feel. You can actually maintain your swim rhythm while getting valuable feedback on hand position, all without turning a technique set into a chore.
Comparison with Other Kick Tools
Traditional Paddles
Great for brute strength, bad for biomechanics. They offer tons of resistance but can wreak havoc on your shoulders. Use sparingly.
FINIS Freestyler Paddles
Helpful for entry angle feedback, but they’re loose and unstable, which can make stroke feel a bit awkward.
Early Vertical Forearm Trainers
Excellent for developing proper pull mechanics—but hard to put on and very technique-specific. Not practical for mid-set transitions.
FINIS Agility Kickboard
The most balanced tool of the bunch. Helps technique without sacrificing usability. Great feel, minimal shoulder stress, and super quick to slide on and off.
Final Verdict
Of all the kick tools I’ve used, I’ll reach for the FINIS Agility Kickboard most often. It helps with form, doesn’t strain the shoulders, and feels intuitive in the water. It’s $22 well spent—and frankly, it just works.