Wild Swimming for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Swim
There’s something about wild swimming that makes you wonder why you didn’t start sooner.
Maybe it’s the thought of jumping into a glassy lake first thing in the morning while the mist is sitting on its surface. Maybe it’s swimming in the sea with nothing but cliffs, sky and miles of blue water around you. Or maybe you’ve simply watched enough people disappear gracefully into cold water on Instagram and thought: actually… I want to give it a go.
Whatever has brought you here, welcome.
If you’re completely new to wild swimming, the good news is that you don't need to be an elite swimmer, own a van full of expensive outdoor kit or spend hours training before your first dip.
You do, however, need to know how to choose a suitable swimming spot, understand the risks of cold open water and make sure you have the right kit.
Here’s everything you need to know about wild swimming for beginners.
–
What is wild swimming?
Wild swimming simply means swimming in natural, open water rather than a traditional swimming pool. That could be a lake, river, loch, reservoir, the sea … anything really!
Unlike a traditional swimming pool, wild swimming means dealing with the natural environment around you. Water temperature, currents, weather, tides, depth, underwater hazards and entry and exit points can all change.
And that's part of the fun and why so many people do it. Every swim is different.
–
Is wild swimming safe?
Wild swimming can be hugely enjoyable, but open water comes with risks that you don't have in a swimming pool.
Before getting in, check the conditions, know the location and make sure you have a safe way in and out of the water. Water Safety Scotland recommends checking conditions, choosing your spot carefully, going with a buddy and having appropriate safety equipment.
It's also worth checking water quality, particularly if you're swimming somewhere unfamiliar. The Surfers Against Sewage Safer Seas & Rivers Service provides information on water quality and pollution alerts for swimming spots around the UK, so it's a handy one to check before you head out.
If you're swimming somewhere unfamiliar, don't assume that because you can see other people swimming there, it is automatically safe. Take your time to understand the water before you get in.
And if something doesn't feel right?
Don't swim.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with deciding that today isn't the day.
–
How do you start wild swimming?
You don't need to start with a freezing January sea swim.
In fact, if you're a beginner, there's a lot to be said for starting somewhere familiar and manageable.
Look for:
- A recognised swimming or open water venue
- A lifeguarded swimming area where possible
- Calm conditions
- An easy, clear entry and exit
- Somewhere you can swim with other people
- A location where you've checked local conditions and water quality
- Start with short swims and get used to how your body responds to cold water. You can build up gradually rather than trying to prove anything on your first swim.
–
What should you wear for wild swimming?
What you wear depends on the conditions, the water temperature and how comfortable you are in cold water.
Some swimmers wear a swimsuit or swimming costume in warmer conditions, while others choose a wetsuit for additional insulation.
You might also want:
- A bright swim hat / bobble hat (for visibility / to keep you warm)
- Wild swimming socks
- Swimming gloves
- A tow float
- A changing robe or poncho
- Warm clothes for afterwards
If you're wondering exactly what to wear, check out our What to Wear Wild Swimming guide.
–
Do you need wild swimming socks?
Not necessarily. But for many wild swimmers, they become one of those bits of kit that you wonder how you ever managed without. Wild swimming socks can help keep your feet warmer and provide protection and grip when you're walking over pebbles, rocks or uneven ground.
Swimming Wild's socks are designed specifically for open water, with flexible neoprene and reinforced soles. The EasyOff™ designs are also made to be easier to get on and off when you're cold and your fingers have stopped cooperating.
–
What should you take wild swimming?
Your first wild swimming kit doesn't need to be enormous.
The basics are:
Before your swim
- Swimwear or wetsuit
- Tow float
- Swimming socks or shoes
- Towel
- Water bottle
After your swim
- Warm layers
- Changing robe or poncho
- Dry socks
- Something warm to drink
- A way to get dry and dressed quickly
ULTIMATE WILD SWIMMING KIT LIST
–
What is cold water shock?
Cold water shock is one of the biggest things new wild swimmers need to understand.
Water below 15°C is considered cold water, and sudden immersion can cause an involuntary gasp and rapid changes in breathing. This can make it difficult to swim and can increase the risk of drowning.
That's why you shouldn't treat cold water like a swimming pool.
Enter gradually, give yourself time to adjust and don't feel pressured to stay in longer than you're comfortable with.
–
How long should a beginner wild swim for?
There's no magic number.
Your swim should be based on the conditions, water temperature, your experience and how you're feeling on the day. Longer isn't automatically better.
One of the best things about wild swimming is learning to listen to your body rather than treating every swim like a challenge.
A great hard and fast rule is If you're cold, tired or uncomfortable, get out.
–
Should you wild swim alone?
If you're new to wild swimming, swimming with someone else is a much better option than going it alone. Having other swimmers around you means there's someone there if you get into difficulty, and it can make that first swim feel a whole lot less daunting.
If you're looking for people to swim with, The Bluetits Chill Swimmers have a huge network of social swim groups across the UK and beyond, making it easier to find a local flock to join. Swimming Wild is proud to be one of just five partner brands working with The Bluetits, supporting their community and helping more people get outside and into the water.
The Bluetits – Find Your Flock
If you're heading out independently, always tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back, and choose a location where you know how to get help if something goes wrong.
–
Your first wild swim: the simple version
If all of this sounds like a lot, don't panic.
Your first swim can be simple:
1. Choose a suitable location.
2. Check the weather and water conditions.
3. Go with someone else.
4. Take the right kit.
5. Enter the water slowly.
6. Stay within your limits.
7. Get out while you're still feeling good.
And most importantly, enjoy it. You don't have to swim a mile. You don't have to stay in for ten minutes. You don't have to become an ice swimmer overnight.
Your first wild swim is just that: your first.
And once you've done it, there's a very good chance you'll already be wondering where to go next.
—
Wild Swimming for Beginners FAQs
Is wild swimming suitable for beginners?
Yes, provided you choose an appropriate location, understand the risks of open water and stay within your ability.
What should I take on my first wild swim?
At minimum, take suitable swimwear, a swim hat, something to dry yourself with and warm clothing for afterwards. A tow float and appropriate footwear can also be useful.
What temperature is too cold for wild swimming?
There isn't one universal temperature that is safe or unsafe for everyone. Cold water can significantly affect breathing and movement, so conditions, experience and time in the water all matter.
Can I wild swim without a wetsuit?
Some experienced swimmers do, while others prefer a wetsuit. What is appropriate depends on the water temperature, conditions and your experience.