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Cold water swimming has become increasingly popular in recent years and has been shown to have several benefits, ranging from general fitness to managing menopausal symptoms such as anxiety and hot flashes, and mental health, possibly thanks to the release of feel-good endorphins.
But it can also be a risky venture, as the low temperatures can lead to hypothermia, so it is essential to be prepared and have the right gear with you.
Shaun Challis, head coach at SwimTrek, the official training partner for charity Level Water’s open water events, shares the best gear to get you started.
Cozy coat
Dryrobe, from £145, dryrobe.com
Cold water swimming usually involves swimming in open water. There are no changing rooms.
A dry coat [an oversized, fleece lined waterproof parka] solves that problem, because you can show up in your swimsuit under the warm jacket, and more importantly, when you get out of the water, you can put the dry robe on immediately to warm up while you get changed and avoid the ‘afterdrop’. This is the danger zone around ten or fifteen minutes after you get out of the cold water, when your body temperature continues to drop.
Dryrobe is the market leader because it has been around the longest. And unlike some slightly cheaper alternatives, you can be sure that it is completely waterproof, windproof and very warm.
SAFETY FLOAT
Adventure Tugboat, £30, wild-moose.co.uk
A tow raft is a floating inflatable balloon that you attach to your waist with a belt and rope and float behind you while you swim. It has three main functions.
First, visibility: they are brightly colored so that you are clearly visible from the shore to other swimmers and other boats or vessels nearby.
Second, if you need to rest, you can keep the pillow on your chest, lie on your back and catch your breath for a moment.
Third, this bag has a waterproof compartment that is large enough to hold your keys, wallet, and phone, so you don’t have to leave them behind when you go swimming.
SWIM SPECIFIC WETSUIT, SOCKS AND GLOVES
Zone3 Women’s Agile Wetsuit, £199, zone3.com
A neoprene wetsuit traps a layer of water between your skin and the wetsuit. Your body heats up that water and it in turn keeps you warm.
Wetsuits are especially important when swimming in cold water, as opposed to just cold water immersion. If you plan to swim instead of just dive, you will be in the water much longer.
Neoprene socks and gloves or mittens can also come in handy here, as our extremities get colder much faster than the rest of our body.
But there are two mistakes that people often make: they don’t buy a special swimsuit and they buy it online.
Many wetsuits are for other sports, such as surfing, and do not have the flexibility you need to swim efficiently. So make sure yours is made for swimmers and, if at all possible, try it on in person, as a good fit is essential.
If you are buying online, ask if you can consult the company by providing your measurements over the phone or by email.
The Agile swimsuit is designed for beginner open water swimmers with super stretchy shoulder panels. Zone3’s website offers a ‘perfect fit guarantee’ with free exchanges and returns.
WATERPROOF BAG
Tide 30l recycled dry bag, £34.95, passenger-clothing.com
A waterproof drybag with a roll top and clip means you can carry your gear without it getting wet. Often you can also attach the bag to your tow raft and take it with you, which is great if you’re swimming to another location rather than doing a lap.
If you leave your bag on the beach or by the lake and it starts to rain, you can be confident that your clothes and other belongings won’t be soaked when you return them!
KEEP-WARM-HAT
Roam Beanie, £19.95, red-equipment.co.uk
The warmer it is before you step into cold water, the longer you will last and the more comfortable the experience will be.
Those who don’t put their heads under water while swimming will keep a hat on the whole time. Many will also use a swimming cap and it’s definitely a good idea to put a warm hat on after getting out of the water.
This stretch hat has a fleece lining for extra protection against the elements.
