Makala's Top Winter Swimming Tips

What to wear

Swimsuit, rash vest, wetsuit
Bright swim cap so you can be seen (they are also good to keep on under your woolly hat for extra warmth)
Ear plugs are great to help prevent surfers ear (exostosis/abnormal bone growth in the ear canal) or Swimmers ear (inflammation of the ear canal)
Tow float, you are easy to spot in the water, we highly recommend them, If you get a dry bag one you not only put any kit in them but a light for night dipping
Swim shoes are a great barrier for weever fish stings and will help keep your feet warmer
Swimming gloves, are a great way to help keep your hands warmer
Goggles if you want to put your face in

Acclimatisation

Start with short dips
Build your cold-water acclimatisation over time
Getting into the water slowly will help you avoid cold water shock
Swim your own swim-it’s not a competition on who can stay in the longest, all the benefits happen in the first 30 seconds
Get out before you get cold (sounds odd as its cold water)

What is cold water Shock?

Its when your body hits the cold water, and you start to involuntary gasp, putting your head in at this point can be dangerous.

When is it a good time to get your head in?

You don't have to put your head in to enjoy a dip but if you want to wait until your breathing is under control, when the gasping has stopped.

Getting Out

The swim is not over until you are dry and dressed
Get dressed as quickly as possible and your body temperature will continue to drop
Warm drink and snack, your body warks hard when its cold so will need some sugar and or crabs to help feed the energy you need to warm up

Clothing

If you want to learn more about cold water dipping keep your eyes peeled for our new water safety training programme coming out soon!

Makala Jones

Water Development Director