Finis Agility Paddles Size Guide

This size guide covers the FINIS Agility Floating Hand Paddle. Designed to provide instant stroke feedback for technique imperfections, the Agility Paddle uses an ergonomically advanced convex shape to teach an early vertical forearm position and increase stroke efficiency. The strapless design means the paddle will fall off if your technique is incorrect — making it one of the most effective feedback tools available for all four strokes.

Now made from a new floating material, the Agility Paddle is ideal for learn-to-swim programmes and open water swimming as well as pool training. Available in four sizes — XS, S, M and L — selected by hand circumference. The size can also be identified by the black circles on the lower half of the paddle: XS (○), S (●), M (●●), L (●●●).

✓ Strapless Design
✓ Instant Stroke Feedback
✓ Convex Shape
✓ New Floating Material
✓ All Four Strokes
✓ USA Patented
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How to Measure & Size Identification
FINIS Agility Paddle — how to measure hand circumference and size identification
Measurement Guide

Select your size using your hand circumference — measured around the palm, excluding the thumb. The paddle should cover the palm comfortably with the hand fitting flat against the surface.

  • 1
    Hand CircumferenceWrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of your palm, excluding your thumb. This is the primary measurement for selecting your Agility Paddle size.
  • 2
    Vertical LengthThe vertical length of the paddle is shown in the sizing table below. As a secondary check, the paddle should be slightly longer than your hand from wrist to fingertip.
  • 3
    Fit CheckYour hand should fit comfortably flat on the paddle. Apply pressure with your palm to keep it on — do not grip. If the paddle falls off during normal swimming, check your technique rather than your size.

Tip: Identify the size of a paddle by the black circles on the lower half — XS (○), S (●), M (●●), L (●●●). Speak to a member of staff at Allens if you are unsure.

Sizing Table — FINIS Agility Floating Hand Paddle
Measurement XS S M L
Size Overview
Recommended For Youth Youth / Adult Adult Adult
Size Indicator (●) ○ ● ● ● ● ● ●
Paddle Dimensions
Vertical Length 5.8″ (14.7 cm) 6.5″ (16.5 cm) 7.25″ (18.4 cm) 8″ (20.3 cm)
Hand Circumference (excluding thumb)
Inches 7″ or less 7″ – 8″ 8″ – 9″ 9″ or more
Centimetres 17.8 cm or less 17.8 – 20.3 cm 20.3 – 22.9 cm 22.9 cm or more

Hand circumference is measured around the palm, excluding the thumb. The paddle should sit comfortably flat on the hand. Speak to a member of staff at Allens if you are unsure.

Usage & Fit Notes — FINIS Agility Paddle
  • The Agility Paddle is strapless by design — it is held in place by water pressure and correct hand position. Apply pressure with your palm to keep the paddle on; do not grip with your fingers.
  • If the paddle falls off, this is technique feedback, not a sizing issue. It indicates your hand entry, catch angle, or pull path needs correction — use this as a coaching cue.
  • The convex shape encourages a palm-positive hand position and early vertical forearm — focus on pressing the paddle flat into the water at the catch rather than slicing in with a flat hand.
  • The streamlined thumb hole creates proper hand placement — keep your thumb relaxed through the hole and maintain a flat palm position throughout the stroke.
  • Suitable for all four strokes — butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle. Particularly effective for developing feel for the water in freestyle and butterfly.
  • The floating material means the paddle will float to the surface if dropped, making it suitable for open water and learn-to-swim use as well as pool training.
  • Identify your paddle size by the black circles on the lower half: XS (○), S (●), M (●●), L (●●●).
  • Rinse in fresh water after use and store away from direct sunlight. Unsure? Contact our team or call +44 1827 330600.
Frequently Asked Questions — FINIS Agility Floating Hand Paddle

Measure around the widest part of your palm, excluding your thumb. XS is for a hand circumference of 17.8 cm or less, S for 17.8–20.3 cm, M for 20.3–22.9 cm, and L for 22.9 cm or more. Most adult swimmers will use M or L. Speak to a member of staff at Allens if you are unsure.

The Agility Paddle falling off is a feature, not a fault — it is designed to provide instant feedback on technique imperfections. If the paddle falls off during swimming, it indicates that your hand position, catch angle, or pull path needs correction. Common causes include a flat hand entry, a dropped elbow at the catch, or pulling with the fingers rather than the palm. Focus on applying pressure with your palm and maintaining an early vertical forearm position.

Place your hand flat on the paddle with your thumb through the streamlined thumb hole. Apply pressure with your palm to keep the paddle in place — do not grip the paddle with your fingers or try to hold it on. The paddle is held in place by water pressure and correct technique. If you find yourself gripping, focus on relaxing your hand and pressing through the palm.

Yes — the FINIS Agility Paddle is designed for use across all four competitive strokes: freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. It is particularly effective for developing an early vertical forearm position in freestyle and butterfly. The strapless design provides immediate feedback on hand position in all strokes, making it a versatile technique tool for swimmers at all levels.

The size of each Agility Paddle is indicated by the black circles on the lower half of the paddle: XS has an open circle (○), S has one filled circle (●), M has two filled circles (●●), and L has three filled circles (●●●). This makes it easy to identify sizes quickly at poolside when multiple paddles are in use.

The new floating material means the paddle rises to the surface if it falls off during swimming rather than sinking to the bottom of the pool. This makes it easier to retrieve and safer for use in open water swimming and learn-to-swim programmes. It also reduces the risk of the paddle becoming a hazard for other swimmers sharing the lane.

Yes — the FINIS Agility Paddle is suitable for swimmers at all levels, including beginners in learn-to-swim programmes. The instant feedback it provides on hand position and technique makes it an excellent teaching tool. Beginners should start with short sets and focus on maintaining a flat palm and relaxed hand position. The floating material also makes it particularly suitable for learn-to-swim use.

Rinse the paddle in cold fresh water after every use to remove chlorine and salt. Allow to dry naturally away from direct sunlight — UV exposure can degrade the material over time. Store in a cool, dry place away from sharp objects or heavy equipment that could cause the paddle to crack or warp. Avoid leaving paddles in direct sunlight for extended periods, such as on poolside or in a hot car.