Open Water Swimming Kit
Open water swimming in the UK is a different sport from pool swimming. This kit reflects that.
The thinking
Why these items
Cold water, chafe points from wetsuits, and post-swim warmth are the real concerns. What you wear under and after the swim matters as much as the swim itself.
The Kit
Complete Outfit
essential · Sweaty Betty
Sweaty Betty Power Leggings
£88
Post-swim warm base layer. Put these on immediately after exiting the water. This is not optional in UK conditions.
essential · Under Armour
Storm Fleece Hoody
£69.99
Warm-up layer for the walk back to the car. Do not underestimate how cold a UK car park is after a lake swim.
optional · Sweaty Betty
Athlete Seamless Workout Tee
£40
Fast-drying for post-swim. Also works as a base layer under a wetsuit on cold days.
optional · On Running
Weather Jacket
£134
Wind protection for the walk from the water. Lightweight enough to carry in a swim bag.
Before you start
Beginner Tips
Tri suits and wetsuits are not covered here — start with a good base layer and warm layers for before and after. The hardest part of open water swimming in the UK is getting out of a cold lake into a cold car park.
Links marked “Shop at” may be affiliate links — Forre earns a small commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Our kit recommendations are based on community fit data, not commission rates.