The most important piece of equipment for a synchronized swimmer is a nose clip. Nose clips serve one purpose only- to keep water out of the of swimmer's nose. Many synchro swimmers carry a spare noseclip inside their suits in case the original is dislodged during the swim.

The "stuff" that the swimmers put in their hair is unflavored Knox gelatin, not unlike that which is used in cheesecake and jell-o. When mixed with hot water, the Knox becomes paste-like and is brushed on or combed in to their hair. The Knox hardens and, in addition to keeping the hair out of their face, helps the swimmers to have a more uniformed look (it can be washed out with hot water). Before Knox, Vaseline was used for this purpose.

Most synchronized swimming competition suits at the elite level are handmade. Often each bead or sequin is sewn on by hand.