New York City’s public pools require proper swimwear, and officials say street clothes—including business suits—are not permitted for regular swimmers.
New York, NY – As New York City’s free outdoor pools welcome swimmers for the summer, residents are being reminded that proper swim attire is required despite Mayor Zohran Mamdani making a splash by jumping into a city pool while wearing a business suit.
The mayor’s fully clothed plunge into the Thomas Jefferson Pool drew attention as a celebratory stunt marking the start of the summer pool season. However, the city’s rules for the public remain unchanged, and swimmers who arrive wearing street clothes can be denied entry.
NYC Parks outlines strict swimwear requirements
According to NYC Parks, all swimmers must wear proper bathing suits while using city pools. The agency prohibits street clothes, tank tops, sports bras, collared shirts, and colored shirts on the pool deck and in the water as part of its efforts to maintain sanitary conditions and water quality.
For men, swim trunks with mesh linings, Speedos, and standard swim briefs are permitted. Those wishing to wear a cover-up may only wear a plain white T-shirt over their bathing suit.
Footwear restrictions also apply
The city’s pool rules also prohibit sneakers on the pool deck. Visitors are instead instructed to wear rubber flip-flops or water shoes while entering and exiting the pool area.
Officials encourage visitors to review pool rules before arriving to help ensure a smooth entry and an enjoyable visit during the outdoor pool season.
Key Points
- NYC public pools require proper bathing suits and prohibit street clothes in the water.
- Only plain white T-shirts may be worn as cover-ups, while sneakers are not allowed on pool decks.
- Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s business suit jump into a city pool was a ceremonial stunt and does not change the rules for the public.
Related: NYC Parks • New York City • Zohran Mamdani • Thomas Jefferson Pool
