Winter Swimming

The official open water swimming season has closed, so what does that mean?

Well it means not a lot really, well not to me, I’m lucky to have my sea all year round. Mind because it’s not official bathing season you’ll see lots of ‘out of season’ icons on the Safer Seas and Rivers Service app, water quality and many spillages aren’t declared – download the app and click to campaign.

It’ll be getting cold and by that I don’t just mean the temperature of the water. A cold swim can become delicious with a ray of sunshine when you’re scrambling to get dressed, likewise a blast of icy wind can leave you unable to pull on your socks. Prepare accordingly.

Kit update

These have been game changers for me in the colder months:

• Mask-style goggles – covers that bit between your eyes and reduces brain freeze
• Neoprene hat on top of my normal swim cap
• Hot water to put into a hot water bottle (a gift from a friend that wraps around my waist)
• Reusable hand warmers to enable me to use my hands quickly
• Snowboots – oh yes! – even typing snowboots makes me happy
• My husband’s big duvet coat, too big but it’s the warmest thing ever
• My friend has given me some neoprene booties and gloves. I can’t cope with the gloves but the booties were really rather good. I do suffer from bruised feet in the winter when my hooves have been too cold to feel what I’ve hobbled on

Being Safe

It’s defined as ‘cold water’ when it’s 15 degrees or below. Temperatures in the rivers and lakes go colder quicker. Brrrr. Even very seasoned swimmers can get into a pickle. You need to know about:

• Cold water shock
• Swim failure
• Afterdrop
• Hypothermia

Head to Outdoor Swim Society to find out all about these under the gentle title of ‘COLD’.

My Top tips are

• Go with someone experienced
• Don’t play with your limits – get out before you get cold – your body will continue to cool after you get out
• Get dry, dressed and warmed up – ALL the clothes – less chatting more action
• Pay attention to the conditions (water and land) – wind chill, no sun… brrrrrr
• Get in slowly and know where you’re getting out
• If you’re not sure, don’t. If you need help, call for it. 

I blinking love the cold sea.
It’s lovely once you’re in.
 Honest!