From a tow float for your keys to the best beanie, your cold water swimming starter kit By Libby Galvin Published: 11:35, 16 July 2024 | Updated: 11:35, 16 July 2024 e-mail View comments Cold water swimming has soared in popularity in recent years, and is credited with multiple benefits, from general fitness to management of menopause symptoms such as anxiety and hot flushes, and mental health, possibly due to the rush of feel-good endorphins. But it can also be a risky endeavour, with cold temperatures leading to hypothermia — so being prepared and having the right kit 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 get you started.
COSY COAT Dryrobe, from £145, dryrobe.com Cold water swimming generally means open water, so there are no changing rooms. A dry robe [an oversized, fleece lined waterproof parka] solves that problem as you can turn up in your swimwear underneath the warm coat, and more importantly when you get out of the water, you can get the dry robe straight on to warm up as you change and avoid the ‘afterdrop’.
This is the danger zone around ten or 15 minutes after you get out of cold water when your core body temperature continues to fall. Dryrobe is the market leader as it’s been around the longest. And, unlike some slightly cheaper alternatives, you can be sure it is fully waterproof, windproof and very warm.
SAFETY FLOAT Adventure t.