Open Water & Wild Swimming

In the UK during winter, sea temperatures typically average between 6°C and 10°C, though they can dip to as low as 3°C in certain areas. Lakes and ponds might register slightly higher temperatures. For comparison, during the traditional beach-going seasons, swimmers usually encounter waters ranging from 15-20°C. Most wild swimmers opt for a wetsuit, cap, gloves, and boots from November to February – a practice we strongly endorse and will delve deeper into subsequently.

Diving into water near freezing may not seem enticing, but the benefits for both your physical and mental health are plentiful.

A Boost for Your Immune System
Short periods in cold water have been found to enhance our immune system. Exposure to cold temperatures prompts your body to increase its white blood cell count. Consistently partake in your icy swim routine, and over time your body will become more adept at bolstering its defences, helping you fend off illness more effectively.

The Feel-Good Factor
If you've conversed with an open-water swimmer, their enthusiasm might have already lured you into giving it a go – if only to understand the excitement. Wild swimmers are indeed a passionate lot! Regulars to the cold depths often speak about the invigorating feeling and the boost to their morale. This can be attributed to cold immersion bringing you close to the pain threshold, triggering an endorphin release that uplifts your mood. Coupled with the exercise's inherent mood-enhancing properties and the sense of accomplishment, it's no wonder that winter open-water swimming is gaining traction. Consider an early morning dip in a sea or lake before starting your day.

It’s Accessible to Everyone
Open-water swimming welcomes all. If you can swim, you can wild swim, and winter shouldn't deter you (though always heed our safety and warmth tips). Regardless of your size, age, or proficiency, this activity is inclusive. It doesn't require a hefty investment either – the sea, along with numerous lakes and rivers, is accessible to all. However, note that some locations, equipped with lifeguards and safety measures, might levy a nominal fee.

Maintains Fitness and Burns Calories
Keeping fit during the chilly season can be a challenge, especially with the allure of a warm bed. Hence, an engaging, pleasurable, and motivating activity can ease the transition from snug blankets to rigorous exercise. Open water swimming ticks these boxes and also burns more calories than its summer counterpart. The cold demands your heart to work harder, ensuring you remain warm.

It's a Social Activity
The camaraderie within the cold-water swimming community is unparalleled. Whether you're up for a chat mid-swim or need assistance dressing after, there's always someone at your local swimming spot ready to help. Moreover, it's a fantastic way to forge lifelong friendships.

Open water swimming in winter can be treacherous if you’re unprepared, which is where our guidance comes in.

Never Swim Solo
There are numerous reasons to avoid open water swimming alone, especially in winter seas where waves can be erratic and visibility reduced. It's prudent to have at least one companion to watch over you, assist if you encounter difficulty, and help you transition from the cold water to warm attire swiftly.

Be Cautious of Where You Wild Swim
Not all water bodies are suitable for swimming. Some rivers, streams, and lakes might house toxic plants or protected species. Moreover, during certain periods, sewage levels in seas can be hazardous. Always conduct thorough research on your desired swimming location, and heed local signs and warnings.

Listen to the Lifeguard and Use Buoyancy Aids
Lifeguards are trained to ensure our safety. Their expertise and perspective make their guidance invaluable. However, many wild swimming spots may lack lifeguard supervision, potentially offering buoyancy aids as a substitute. These are essential; if not provided, bring your own. Seasoned open water swimmers might consider keeping a grab bag ready with all necessary safety equipment for spontaneous swims.

Gradually Build Up Your Tolerance
Acclimatising to chilly water temperatures requires a gradual approach. If you can, begin your open water swimming adventure during autumn, ensuring you swim weekly. This allows your body to adapt to the incremental temperature drops. By January, when a local lake or sea might be at 5°C, the cold will be less jarring.

Know Your Limits
Avoid venturing too far or remaining submerged, especially in particularly frigid waters, for extended periods. Short, frequent swims are the safest approach for winter open water excursions. Remember, there's no merit in risking hypothermia.

Invest in Appropriate Gear
Equipping yourself with the right open water swimming gear is paramount. It should keep you warm, enhance visibility, and facilitate natural movement. Even for those accustomed to cold waters and favouring a swimsuit over a wetsuit, shielding your hands, feet, and head with gloves, boots, and a hat is advisable. After exiting the water, change promptly and warm up gradually – whether by sipping a hot beverage or taking a shower, to ensure your body temperature stabilises safely.

This segues into our recommendations on the ideal attire for open water swimming from October to March.

We boast an impressive array of wetsuits tailored for open water swimming during winter, each offering its unique advantages. On the more affordable side, our wetsuits serve as a protective barrier against the cold, mitigating the bite of icy temperatures and minimising chafing. For those seeking enhanced thermal comfort, we offer wetsuits enriched with thicker neoprene layers on the chest and legs. As you ascend the price ladder, you'll encounter thermal wetsuits crafted from materials with reduced absorbency, complemented by an additional lining. These premium variants also incorporate flexible panels, ensuring optimal mobility — a perfect choice for those participating in races.

We highly recommend donning a head covering for outdoor winter swimming. It significantly enhances your cold-water tolerance and overall comfort. An open water swimming balaclava is specifically designed to snugly fit under your wetsuit, ensuring an effective seal against water ingress. The majority of our swimming hoods feature a fleeced heat-tech lining, guaranteeing superior heat retention, while also being exceptionally stretchy.

For winter swimmers, a changing robe or dry robe is indispensable. It not only preserves your modesty but also facilitates the essential drying and warming process, crucial for gradually and safely elevating your body temperature after emerging from chilly waters. Most outdoor swimmers swear by their dry robes, and you'll soon recognise its invaluable utility yourself.

There are various swimming aids available for open water swimming in winter. Your choice will hinge on your personal preference, your confidence level in the water, and any safety guidelines or expectations set by the venue. Open-water swimming buoys, for instance, offer buoyancy while navigating the waters. Their primary benefit, however, is the support they provide when you need a moment to rest, float, or catch your breath. Additionally, they are highly visible from the shore and to passing boats, adding an extra layer of safety.

While not a necessity for open water swimmers, a dry bag can be quite beneficial. For instance, if you're embarking from a boat, a dry bag can safeguard all your essentials – notably the warm, dry clothes you'll need post-swim – ensuring they remain dry. Perhaps the vicinity of your favourite lake or pond tends to be muddy or water-logged? Or maybe your car boot occasionally houses wet dogs? At the minimum, our dry bags offer ample space, assisting in organisation, and might just spare you the discomfort of donning damp socks.