Swimming & Water Sports

Swimming and water sports kit for the pool, lido, lake and sea: goggles and caps, swim training aids, wetsuits and swim parkas, inflatable paddleboards, towable tubes, dry bags and waterproof cases. Popular lines include TYR swim parkas, CRESSI dive computers, Pelican protective cases and inflatable SUPs from iTAOSTAR, Skatinger and niphean.

Sea swimming gear: UK seas stay well below pool temperature for most of the year, so most open water swimmers wear a swimming wetsuit, which is cut thinner at the shoulders than a surf suit to free the stroke. Add a brightly coloured cap so you are easy to see, a tow float to rest on and to carry keys, and neoprene socks and gloves in colder months; a changing robe or parka helps you warm up afterwards. Swim with others, get in slowly to let cold water shock pass, and if you get into difficulty, follow the RNLI advice to float on your back until your breathing settles. In an emergency call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

See swimming goggles, swim caps, wetsuits, paddleboarding, towsports and dry bags, or read open water swimming safety.

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Swimming & Water Sports: frequently asked questions

What gear do I need for sea swimming in the UK?

Start with well-fitting goggles, a brightly coloured cap and a tow float. Most people add a swimming wetsuit from spring to autumn, and neoprene socks, gloves and a thicker cap in winter. Bring warm layers or a changing robe for afterwards. Kit helps, but swimming with others at a spot you know matters more.

How is a swimming wetsuit different from a surf wetsuit?

Swimming wetsuits use thin, very stretchy neoprene on the shoulders and a smooth outer skin to reduce drag, with more buoyancy in the legs to help body position. Surf suits are tougher and less flexible at the shoulder, made for paddling and sitting on a board. You can swim in a surf suit, but your arms will tire sooner.

What is a tow float for?

A tow float is a bright inflatable buoy that clips to a waist belt and trails behind you. It makes you much easier to spot for boats, paddlers and lifeguards, gives you something to hold while you rest, and many have a dry pocket for keys. It is not a life-saving device and does not replace skills or supervision.

What should I do if I get into difficulty in cold water?

The RNLI advises fighting the instinct to thrash about. Lean back, spread your arms and legs and float until the initial cold water shock passes and you can control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety. If you see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Sources: rnli.org

Our guides for this category

Open Water Swimming Safety in the UK: Cold Water, Kit and Rescue

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