What’s the Best 15–17 Foot Swim Spa?
If you’re shopping for a 15-to-17 foot swim spa, you’re already looking at some of the most versatile and powerful models on the market. But with size comes choice and cost. So how do you decide which swim spa is best for you?
We do get asked this at Hydropool frequently. The answer depends on your specific needs when it comes to buying a swim spa:
- Are you a fitness enthusiast looking for aquatic workouts?
- Looking for a family-friendly spa?
- Interested more in hydrotherapy and massage?
- Looking for the ultimate swim package?
All of these could be what you’re looking for, some combination or one more than others.
We’re flagging this here because this sized-category is not the biggest seller in the market. The 14-foot and smaller swim spas dominate.
What we have seen in the 30 some years we have been selling swim spas is that people buying this size are buying with a specific purpose in mind. So the swim spas in the marketplace are built according to those purposes (one of them or a combination of them).
It might help to look at a few examples. This guide will walk you through the top models in the 15–17-foot swim spa category and help you understand what to look for before you buy.
How to Choose the Best 15–17 Foot Swim Spa?
Before diving into specific models, here are a few key factors to consider:
1. Primary Use
- Swimming: Look for a powerful, adjustable current system and a long, unobstructed swim lane. See the best swim spa for swimming.
- Fitness: You want to ensure the tank has ample space to stretch out in so you can get the type of workout you want. See the best swim spa for exercise.
- Hydrotherapy: Prioritise massage jets, comfortable seating and ergonomic design. See the best swim spa that works as a big hot tub.
- Recreation and family fun: Choose models with ample seating, varied depths, and intuitive controls. See the best swim spa for families.
2. Swim Current Type
Swim spas use jets or propulsion systems to create resistance. Adjustable jets are great (if designed to minimize white water and spray). Propulsion systems offer a high-quality and consistent current while taking up a bit more room in your tank, minimizing the benefit of buying a larger swim spa a little bit as a trade-off.
Hydropool’s Executive Swim Explained
3. Space Requirements
A 17-foot spa takes up a significant footprint. Make sure you measure your available space, including access paths for delivery and installation. You need to add two-feet around it as a radius.
4. Energy Efficiency and Maintenance
Look for energy-efficient systems and self-cleaning features to reduce long-term costs and upkeep.
5. Budget
These large swim spas can range significantly in price. Decide what features matter most to you and look for models that meet your needs without unnecessary extras.
Top Swim Spas (15–17 Foot Range)
Here’s a quick overview of some of the most popular and reliable models in this category.
The Hydropool Aquatic Trainer comes in a 17-foot edition that is simply striking.
This model features adjustable swim jets, powerful hydrotherapy seating, and a self-cleaning system that reduces maintenance. At Hydropool the “Trainer” designation means elite swimming capability. Other available versions include a Sport designation, which is more for aquatic fitness and our 19-foot Executive Trainer, which is our top swimming unit.
Master Spas H2X Challenger 15D
Equipped with the Pro Swim current system, this spa offers multiple resistance levels, with six jets creating its stream without using any air in the mix. Its hydrotherapy seating also makes it useful for recovery.
Vita Spas VM6
This model features three swim jets and three hydrotherapy seats. It's versatile for both workouts and recovery.
Bullfrog Spas S200
This spa stands out for its JetPak Therapy System, allowing users to customise jet placement and pressure. The swim system features unique staggered swim jets to create its current.
Jacuzzi J-16 PowerPro™
Jacuzzi’s J-16 PowerPro is not going to be the cheapest on this list, as anything from this brand is a premium offering. Four seats and a selection of rich colors complete the package.
What’s the best 15-17-foot swim spa?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing a 15–17-foot swim spa.
There are four reasons people generally buy swim spas though:
- Family fun
- Swimming
- Fitness
- Hydrotherapy
So each model in this size must be weighed against those four factors and how much you value each one! There’s no question there’s a swim spa out there for you. But what we’d suggest is you spend a little time sorting out what you’re looking for first.
After that, we’d suggest you read this: Your Ultimate Swim Spa Buying Guide. It’s another article that breaks down the easiest ways to buy a swim spa.
If you're interested in Hydropool swim spas, you can find a local retailer here.
