It’s that time of year when we start to notice the water temperature falling. If like me you cool down quickly when this happens, but want to carry on swimming in open water, it might be time for you to think about buying a wetsuit.
Yes, they may seem like a bit of extra gear, but they can make a world of difference when you're swimming in chilly water. I want to explore the benefits, how they work, and what to look for when choosing your winter wetsuit.
All wetsuits are not the same. Some are designed for paddleboarding, some for surfing and some for swimming. Open-water swimming wetsuits have thick neoprene around your core, back and upper legs and thinner neoprene around arms and armpits to allow for better mobility of arms while you are swimming. Surfing wetsuits tend to have same thickness of neoprene throughout.
The Benefits of Wetsuits for Winter Swimming:
- Warmth: Wetsuits are like your cosy, second skin. They trap a thin layer of water between your body and the suit, which your body then warms up. This insulating layer keeps you toasty even when the water is icy.
- Buoyancy: Wetsuits provide buoyancy, helping you to swim higher in the water. This can reduce fatigue and allow you to swim longer and more comfortably in cold water. The change in buoyancy can make you feel like you're swimming downhill so take your time to get used to that.
- Protection: Besides warmth when swimming, wetsuits shield you from windchill on breezy days, reducing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
How Does a Wetsuit Work?
Wetsuits are made from neoprene, a special type of rubber-like material that traps and heats a thin layer of water against your skin. Your body warms this water, creating a barrier that keeps the cold out and your body heat in. Flush the wetsuit with water before you start your swim so that the layer of water is there to be warmed by your body.
The Importance of a Well-Fitting Wetsuit:
A proper fit is essential for your wetsuit to work effectively. It should feel snug but not suffocating. Any gaps around the edges of the wetsuit will let cold water in, flush out that layer of warm water that your body has heated, defeating the purpose. Make sure it allows for comfortable movement, especially around the shoulders and arms for a natural swimming stroke. The wetsuit will probably fit well if it requires some effort to get it over your hips.
Take care not to puncture the neoprene when taking the wetsuit on and off, especially if you have long fingernails. Some wetsuits come with gloves to reduce the risk.
Choosing your Wetsuit:
Thickness: Look for a suit with the right thickness of neoprene. Thermal wetsuits for the cold winter waters of Scotland, have a combination of thicker 4 and 5mm neoprene thickness around the core and legs. It’s trial and error to find out what thickness of neoprene you prefer. Often neoprene thickness is identified as 4/3 where the first number refers to the thickness around your core, and the second number is for your limbs. But each brand is different so check first.
Neckline: Some wetsuits are tight and high around the neckline. This can feel suffocating to start with but it really helps to keep you warm.
Length: Find a winter wetsuit that reaches your ankles and wrists. This allows you to tuck your gloves over and your socks under them keeping you warmer and more comfortable.
Zips: Back zips are universal with most wetsuits these days and have an extended zip cord for easy self-fitting. Most zip upwards to close the wetsuit but some do the opposite.
Brands: Stick with reputable brands known for their quality, durability and customer care. Search 'open water swimming wetsuit reviews' in Google
In conclusion, a wetsuit can be your best friend when taking on winter swimming. It offers warmth, buoyancy, and protection, ensuring you can enjoy your open-water adventures all year round. Make sure you do your research thoroughly to find what fits you best. Just remember, a well-fitted wetsuit is your ticket to a comfortable and safe winter swim.
Any tips of your own please them to the comments.