How to get started with wild swimming
If you’ve ever fancied trying wild swimming, this blog post is for you. We're going to dive into the world of wild swimming and share how you can get started on this exhilarating journey that connects you to nature in the most refreshing way.
Stormy wild camp and swim at Loch A’an, Scotland
01. Find a group to go with
If you haven’t already got any pals coaxing you to go with them, there’s a worldwide group called ‘The Bluetits’ who came together to form local communities through wild swimming. They are a non-profit organisation and swims are always free and open to anyone wanting to join in. You can search your location on their website and find your local facebook group to join. This is how I first got started with wild swimming.
River Lark at Icklingham, Suffolk
02. Location, location, location
Look for a spot that offers easy access and is known for its safety. Public lakes, rivers, and designated swimming areas are great places to start. Be sure to check if there are any specific rules or guidelines for the location you choose. If you are swimming in the sea always check the Surfers Against Sewage website before you go to check the water is clean.
Lake dip on the way up Cadair Idris, Wales
03. Safety
Wild swimming is fun, but safety should be your top priority.
Safety in numbers: Always swim with a group of people or a friend, or if that's not possible, let someone know where you'll be and when you expect to return.
Start Small: If you're new to wild swimming, begin in calm, shallow waters. Gradually build your confidence before tackling more challenging conditions. Remember, it's all about having fun and feeling the connection with nature.
Acclimatise to cold water: Start with short dips/swims and slowly extend your time in the water. Cold water can be shocking to the system, so listen to your body and get out if you start feeling too cold. You do not need to be in long to feel the benefits.
Know the area: Learn about the local conditions, such as currents, tides, and any potential hazards. Seek advice from experienced local swimmers who can provide insights on the best spots and safe practices.
Safety Equipment: Carry a tow float with you and wear bright colours if you can. It not only helps with buoyancy but also makes you more visible to others, such as boats or kayakers.
Getting out: Make sure you have a hot drink ready and warm clothes to put on. Hand warmers are great to have in your pockets and if you wrap a hot water bottle in your clothes they will be nice and toasty when you get out.
Morning dip at Loch Garten (Nature reserve so please read up on where you are allowed to go in before you go!)
04. Gear
Not all of the below are essential but you might want to consider the following depending on the water temperature.
Swimming costume / Wetsuit: Depending on the water temperature you might want to consider a long sleeved costume, a neoprene cozzie, a wetsuit top or full wetsuit. You can even layer up swimming costumes to keep you warmer.
Gloves: Gloves are game changing especially if you have poor circulation / raynaud's . I have tried a couple of pairs but found my C Skins Legend 3mm gloves to be the best. My hands barely get wet with them!
Footwear: Personally, I can’t swim without anything on my feet, the thought of standing on something just freaks me out! In summer I wear a 1.5mm neoprene shoe from Decathalon and in winter I wear a thicker pair of neoprene boots. I’ve never tried them but some people like to wear neoprene socks.
Hats: It’s good to wear bright colours where possible for safety. Remember to pack an extra hat for afterwards in case the one you wear gets wet when you swim.
Changing robe/towel: There are many variations of these out there but if you are just getting started you can just use a dressing gown! I use a Passenger micro fibre poncho as I wanted something that could pack down fairly small to carry to those mountain lakes. It’s not as cozy as some of the others on offer but it is a lot less bulky if you have to hike to a swim spot so have a look at the options out there and decide what’s best for your needs.
Drybag / tub: It’s a good idea to have a drybag or tub to throw all your wet gear in afterwards. I just use a cheap ‘Tuff tub’ from Homebase and it works great.
Thermometer: If you want to swim throughout the year, it’s a good idea to take the water temperature, that way you can work out what you need to wear on future swims and how long you can stay in for.
Changing mat: Not an essential but makes for changing on the beach a lot less sandy, also great for wet/cold surfaces in the winter! Personally, I love my Palm changing mat as it also doubles as a kneeling pad or something to sit on after.
Batoka swimming costume at Achmelvich Bay, Scotland
05. Enjoy the Experience
Wild swimming offers a unique connection with nature and your body. Take your time, take your surroundings and enjoy the post swim chats over a cuppa and a piece of cake.
Why not get a patch to celebrate your first swim - add it to a towel or changing robe!
