Allens Review

Allens Review: Is This UK Swimwear Specialist Worth Your Money?

Allens of Kingsbury has served UK swimmers for five decades, building a reputation as a go-to destination for competitive and leisure swimwear. With an extensive range from Arena, Speedo, TYR, and more, Allens claims to cater to everyone from club swimmers to casual paddlers. But does the online store match the hype? We’ve analysed their range, pricing, and customer experience to give you a clear verdict.

Verdict

Allens is a reliable choice for UK swimmers seeking quality brands and specialist advice. Their 50-year history and focus on swim-specific gear sets them apart from general sports retailers. While prices are typical for premium brands, the range and expertise justify the cost for dedicated swimmers. Casual buyers might find cheaper options elsewhere, but for performance and fit, Allens delivers.

Quick Review

Quality: 4.5 / 5.0 - Premium brands like Speedo and Arena ensure high-grade materials and durability. Range: 5.0 / 5.0 - Extensive selection across men's, women's, and kids' swimwear, plus goggles, training aids, and accessories. Price: 3.5 / 5.0 - Premium pricing, but competitive for the brands offered. Customer Service: 4.0 / 5.0 - Helpful support and a rewards scheme add value. User Experience: 4.5 / 5.0 - Easy navigation with filters by size, brand, and activity. Overall: 4.3 / 5.0 - A top-tier specialist for serious swimmers.

Pros and Cons

Pros: - Huge selection of swimwear from top brands like Speedo, Arena, and TYR. - Specialist categories for racing, training, and leisure swimming. - Useful filters by size, brand, and performance range. - 50 years of expertise in the swimwear industry. - Swim Club rewards scheme offers member benefits. - Helpful UK-based customer support with phone and contact options.

Cons: - Prices are higher than general sportswear retailers. - No physical store for those who prefer in-person fittings. - Limited product reviews on the site, making comparisons harder.

What Is Allens?

Allens (also known as Allens of Kingsbury) is a UK-based swimwear specialist with over 50 years of experience. They stock a wide range of swimwear, goggles, training equipment, and accessories for men, women, and children. The company focuses on competitive and fitness swimming, offering premium brands like Speedo, Arena, TYR, and Zoggs. Their online store provides detailed categorisation by performance range, size, and swimming discipline, making it easy to find the right gear.

What Makes Allens Different?

Allens stands out due to its deep specialisation in swimming. Unlike general sports stores, they offer dedicated performance ranges like Speedo Fastskin and Arena Powerskin, along with period-proof swimwear and extra-coverage options. Their size guides are swim-specific, covering UK dress sizes and chest measurements, which helps ensure a better fit. The brand also runs a Swim Club rewards scheme, offering points and discounts to frequent buyers. This level of focus is rare among UK retailers.

Scoring

Quality: 4.5 / 5.0 - Only premium brands, so expect well-made, long-lasting products. Range: 5.0 / 5.0 - From toddler swimwear to elite racing suits, it's all here. Price: 3.5 / 5.0 - Premium pricing, but you're paying for quality and expertise. Customer Service: 4.0 / 5.0 - Responsive support and a loyalty scheme, though no live chat. User Experience: 4.5 / 5.0 - Clean site with advanced filters, but some pages are busy. Overall: 4.3 / 5.0 - Highly recommended for dedicated swimmers.

Who Should Buy From Allens?

Allens is ideal for competitive swimmers, triathletes, and fitness swimmers who need reliable, high-performance gear. Parents looking for durable kids' swimwear will also find a broad range. If you want a specific suit from a top brand and value expert advice, Allens is a great fit.

Who Should Skip Allens?

If you're a budget-conscious casual swimmer who only swims occasionally, you might find cheaper options at discount retailers. Also, if you prefer to try on swimwear in person, the lack of physical stores could be a drawback. But for online shoppers wanting quality, it's still worth it.

Review Method

We analysed Allens' website, product range, pricing, and customer feedback from third-party review platforms. We did not conduct hands-on testing. Our evaluation focused on product selection, brand authenticity, usability, and value for money. We also considered their 50-year history and industry reputation.

Buying Advice for Allens

Before purchasing, use their size guides carefully, especially for racing suits that fit tightly. Check the returns policy for unworn items. To save, join the Swim Club rewards scheme to earn points on purchases. Also, use the filter tools to narrow down your search. If between sizes, consider sizing up for training suits, but racing suits should be snug.

Final Verdict on Allens

Allens is a standout UK swimwear retailer with an impressive range and genuine expertise. While the prices are premium, the quality and specialisation make it a smart choice for serious swimmers. If you want gear that performs and lasts, Allens is a reliable online destination.