What swim spa is best for you?

Don't Get Soaked

Learn the secrets to buying the perfect swim spa - without getting bamboozled

Buying a swim spa is a big investment, and the last thing you want is to end up with something that doesn’t fit your needs—or worse, overpay for a low-quality model that leaves you frustrated. Unfortunately, most buyers make a critical mistake that costs them thousands, and they don’t even realize it until it’s too late. In this article, we’ll uncover that mistake and break down the different types of swim spas (so you don’t get lost in the jargon). Plus, we’ll walk you through the must-have features to consider before making your final decision. If you want to make a smart, confident purchase—and avoid getting bamboozled—keep reading!

The #1 Mistake 95% of Swim Spa Buyers Make...

There are several ways to buy a swim spa or a hot tub. You can purchase from local family owned and operated dealers, you could buy online, you can even buy from some big box retailers. All buying options may get your a swim spa, but not all of them will result in a “happy purchase”. I want you to be conscious of the #1 mistake 95% of swim spa buyers make.

Beware of traveling swim spa and hot tub expos advertising “50% off this weekend only!” These pop-up events flood local media with flashy deals but disappear just as fast. The so-called "unbelievable deals" often turn into major regrets—when your swim spa needs service, you’ll likely be left on your own. Local dealers rarely service these spas, and even if they do, they may not be authorized for warranty support.

Expo sales tactics are aggressive, with high-pressure pitches designed to force quick decisions. Unlike local stores, these sellers don’t care about long-term customer satisfaction because they won’t be around after the weekend.

If you still find yourself at one of these expos, ask these critical questions:

Do you have a local showroom where I can test soak?
Can you provide local references and reviews?

Who handles service and warranty support?
What are the full delivery details?

BOTTOM LINE:

Buy from a reputable local store. Even if you have to drive an hour, the service, support, and experience will be worth it. Stay tuned—I’ll share trusted dealers I personally recommend.

Swim Spa Types Demystified

Standard Swim Spas (Single-Zone)

Purpose: Designed for both swimming and relaxation.
Features:

Powerful jets or propulsion systems create a current for swimming in place.
Seating areas with hydrotherapy jets for relaxation.
Varying lengths (typically 12 to 19 feet).
Heating system to maintain comfortable water temperature.

Pros: Compact size, dual-purpose for exercise and relaxation, energy-efficient.
Cons: Water temperature may not be optimal for both swimming and soaking.

Dual-Zone Swim Spas

Purpose: Separates the swimming and spa areas with independent temperature controls.
Features:

One section has swim jets for exercise, while the other is a hot tub with hydrotherapy jets.
Independent temperature controls allow the swim side to stay cooler and the spa side to be warmer.
Larger than single-zone spas, often 18–21 feet in length.

Pros: Best of both worlds—exercise in a cool environment and relax in a hot tub.
Cons: More expensive, takes up more space, and may have higher energy costs.

Propulsion Swim Spas

Purpose: Advanced swimming experience with a smooth, adjustable current.
Features:

Uses paddlewheel or propeller-driven currents instead of jet propulsion.
Provides a more natural swimming experience with less turbulence.
Adjustable resistance for different skill levels.

Pros: Better for serious swimmers, highly customizable, smoother water flow.
Cons: More expensive than jet-powered swim spas.

Jet-Powered Swim Spas

Purpose: Creates a strong water current for resistance training and swimming.
Features:

High-powered jets push water in a single direction to simulate swimming against a current.
Often adjustable for different resistance levels.
Can double as a hydrotherapy spa with seating and massaging jets.

Pros: More affordable than propulsion swim spas, good for both fitness and relaxation.
Cons: Can be turbulent and less smooth than propulsion systems.

Fitness-Oriented Swim Spas

Purpose: Designed for exercise beyond swimming.
Features:

Includes resistance bands, underwater treadmills, rowing attachments, and aquatic therapy equipment.
Adjustable current strength for low-impact workouts.
May have added depth for better resistance training.

Pros: Great for rehabilitation, low-impact workouts, and cross-training.
Cons: Can be more expensive than standard models and require more space.

Swim Spa Types Demystified

Standard Swim Spas (Single-Zone)

Purpose: Designed for both swimming and relaxation.
Features:

Powerful jets or propulsion systems create a current for swimming in place.
Seating areas with hydrotherapy jets for relaxation.
Varying lengths (typically 12 to 19 feet).
Heating system to maintain comfortable water temperature.

Pros: Compact size, dual-purpose for exercise and relaxation, energy-efficient.
Cons: Water temperature may not be optimal for both swimming and soaking.

Dual-Zone Swim Spas

Purpose: Separates the swimming and spa areas with independent temperature controls.
Features:

One section has swim jets for exercise, while the other is a hot tub with hydrotherapy jets.
Independent temperature controls allow the swim side to stay cooler and the spa side to be warmer.
Larger than single-zone spas, often 18–21 feet in length.

Pros: Best of both worlds—exercise in a cool environment and relax in a hot tub.
Cons: More expensive, takes up more space, and may have higher energy costs.

Propulsion Swim Spas

Purpose: Advanced swimming experience with a smooth, adjustable current.
Features:

Uses paddlewheel or propeller-driven currents instead of jet propulsion.
Provides a more natural swimming experience with less turbulence.
Adjustable resistance for different skill levels.

Pros: Better for serious swimmers, highly customizable, smoother water flow.
Cons: More expensive than jet-powered swim spas.

Jet-Powered Swim Spas

Purpose: Creates a strong water current for resistance training and swimming.
Features:

High-powered jets push water in a single direction to simulate swimming against a current.
Often adjustable for different resistance levels.
Can double as a hydrotherapy spa with seating and massaging jets.

Pros: More affordable than propulsion swim spas, good for both fitness and relaxation.
Cons: Can be turbulent and less smooth than propulsion systems.

Fitness-Oriented Swim Spas

Purpose: Designed for exercise beyond swimming.
Features:

Includes resistance bands, underwater treadmills, rowing attachments, and aquatic therapy equipment.
Adjustable current strength for low-impact workouts.
May have added depth for better resistance training.

Pros: Great for rehabilitation, low-impact workouts, and cross-training.
Cons: Can be more expensive than standard models and require more space.

Size & Space Constraints

Choosing the right size swim spa depends on the available space in your backyard, patio, or indoor area. First, measure the length, width, and depth of the area where you plan to install it, ensuring there’s enough room for both the spa and easy access for maintenance. Standard swim spas range from 12 to 21 feet in length, with larger models providing a more spacious swim area but requiring more installation space. If you have limited space, a compact model around 12 to 14 feet may be best for light swimming and relaxation. However, if you plan to use it for serious exercise or multiple users, consider a larger 17 to 21-foot swim spa. Also, account for surrounding features like decks, fencing, and pathways to maintain a functional and aesthetically pleasing setup. Proper planning will ensure that your swim spa fits comfortably and enhances your outdoor or indoor living space.

Consider Essential Features Before Buying

Swim spas come with a variety of features designed to enhance fitness, relaxation, and convenience. One of the most common features is an adjustable swim current, powered by jets or a propulsion system, allowing users to customize resistance for different swimming or workout levels. Hydrotherapy jets are another key feature, providing therapeutic massage benefits similar to a hot tub. Many swim spas also include built-in seating for relaxation, often with ergonomic designs and targeted jet placements. LED lighting is a popular option, offering customizable colors for ambiance and visibility at night. Some models come with touchscreen control panels or even Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to adjust temperature, jet settings, and lighting from a smartphone app. Other features include built-in sound systems, waterfalls, and ozone or UV sanitation systems for easy maintenance. For those focused on fitness, some swim spas include underwater treadmills, resistance bands, or rowing attachments to provide a full-body workout. These features make swim spas a versatile option for both relaxation and exercise.

So, understanding this information and being educated on making a good buying decision is one thing, but actually working with a company that has your best interest in mind to guarantee your happy with your decision is a whole other ball game. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

Here at Platinum Pool, Spa & Sauna we’ve been where you are. We’ve done the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.

We understand the struggle of finding the right swim spa when there are so many options on there. Although swim spas are wonderful and bring so much value to your backyard, we also understand swim spas are a huge financing investment and the research process needs to be done wisely.

We offer more than just information and swim spa product listings. We make your backyard dreams come true by supporting you every step of the way.