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Cold water swimming has gained popularity in recent years and is credited with multiple benefits, from general fitness to controlling menopausal symptoms such as anxiety and hot flashes, and mental health, possibly due to the release of endorphins that produce a feeling of well-being.
But it can also be a risky task, as low temperatures can cause hypothermia, so being prepared and having the right equipment is essential.
Here, Shaun Challis, Head Coach at SwimTrek, the official training partner for charity Level Water’s open water events, shares the best kit to help you get started.
COZY COAT
Dryrobe, from £145, dryrobe.com
Cold water swimming usually means open water, so there are no changing rooms.
A dry robe (an oversized, fleece-lined waterproof parka) solves that problem, as you can put your swimsuit on underneath your warm coat, and more importantly, when you get out of the water, you can put the dry robe on straight away to keep you warm while you change and avoid the “after-temperature drop.” This is the danger zone around ten to fifteen minutes after you get out of the cold water, when your core body temperature continues to drop.
Dryrobe is the market leader because it has been on the market the longest and, unlike some of the cheaper alternatives, you can be sure that it is completely waterproof, windproof and very warm.
SAFETY FLOAT
Adventure Tow Float, £30, wild-moose.co.uk
A tow float is a floating inflatable balloon that is attached to your waist with a strap and rope and floats behind you while you swim. It has three main uses.
Firstly, visibility: they are brightly coloured, so you can be easily seen from the shore by other swimmers and any other boats or vessels that may be nearby.
Secondly, if you need to rest, you can hug him against your chest, float on your back and take a breath.
Thirdly, this one has a waterproof compartment at least big enough to hold your keys, wallet and phone so you don’t have to leave them behind while swimming.
SWIMSUIT, SOCKS AND SPECIFIC GLOVES
Zone3 Women’s Agile Wetsuit, £199, zone3.com
A wetsuit traps a layer of water between your skin and the suit. Your body heats that water, which in turn keeps you warm.
Wetsuits are especially important for swimming in cold water, rather than just submerging in it: if you intend to swim rather than just submerge, you’ll be in the water much longer.
Neoprene socks and gloves can also be useful here, as our extremities cool down much faster than the rest of our body.
But there are two mistakes that people often make: one is not buying a specific swimsuit and the other is buying it online.
Many wetsuits on the market 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 possible, try it on in person, as a good fit is critical.
If you buy online, see if you can ask the company to advise you by providing them with details of your measurements over the phone or email.
The Agile swimsuit is designed for beginner open water swimmers with high-stretch shoulder panels, and 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 dry bag with a roll-top and clip allows you to carry your belongings without getting them wet. You can often also attach the bag to your tow float and take it with you, which is great if you’re swimming to a different spot rather than taking a circular route.
If you leave your bag on the beach or by the lake and it starts to rain, you can rest assured that when you return your belongings and change of clothes they won’t get wet.
Hat to keep warm
Roam Beanie, £19.95, red-equipment.co.uk
The warmer you are before entering cold water, the longer you will last in it and the more comfortable the experience will be.
Those who do not submerge their heads while swimming wear a woollen cap for the entire time they swim. Many also wear a bathing cap, and it is certainly a good idea to put on a warm cap after getting out of the water.
This stretchy beanie has a fleece lining to provide extra protection from the elements.
