Looking for a new hobby and considering cold water swimming? This blog is just for you. We’re thrilled to welcome cold water swimming expert Heather Meek as a guest contributor to the blog. With years of experience swimming in open water, Heather understands how incredible the experience can be, as well as the importance of approaching it with the right knowledge, preparation and kit. Heather has shared with us her top tips for coping in colder water, along with her personal routine and thermal layers she relies on to stay warm before and after every swim.
This time of the year can be the coldest time of the year for winter swimming. Temperatures can catch you unaware, so it is important to be as prepared as possible. Here are my 5 Top Tips for coping with the dropping lake temperatures and keeping safe while swimming.
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Acclimatise Gradually
Swim regularly (little and often) as the water cools, rather than taking long breaks.
Short dips help your body adjust to the changing temperature without over-stressing it.
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Check Conditions First
Always assess weather, water temperature, and wind before swimming.
Cold and wind chill after swimming can increase your risk of continued cooling, which can be very dangerous and lead to hypothermia.
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Limit Time in the Water
As the water cools, shorten your swim duration.
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Layer Up Quickly After - this is the most important. Time is of the essence.
Have warm, dry layers ready on shore. Ensure a good routine and know where your kit is when you get out of the water. Get dressed starting with your core (torso) first, then extremities, to reduce continued cooling that can happen for 20 - 30 mins afterwards. Less talking, more getting changed quickly!
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Swim with others
Have company in the water or have a spotter on land, along with a warm drink and phone nearby in case of emergency. Tow floats are essential, (a good tip is to write your emergency contact details on it, as well as yours!) A whistle is also a must-have.
The colder months can be the most rewarding time to swim, with the crisp air, quiet waters, as well as a big endorphin boost. It’s important to respect the conditions, prepare well, so you can enjoy every dip safely.
Staying Warm Around the Swim: My Heat Holders Kit Guide
Cold water swimming doesn’t stop when you climb out of the lake; your body continues to lose heat long afterwards. That’s why having the right thermal clothing for before and after your swim makes all the difference for comfort, circulation, and recovery. I rely on the following Heat Holders products to stay warm from first arrival to post-swim cosy:
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Thermal wear - warm air is trapped close to your body, making them a go-to for chilly lake days when you’re not in the water.
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Thermal tights - a super cosy base layer under trousers or waterproofs after swimming.
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Thermal tops - great for layering under jackets or shells on cold days. These thermal base layers are a must-have for cold water swimming. They use ceramic-infused fibres designed to reflect body heat back towards you. They’re soft, warm, and don’t feel heavy, perfect when your body is tired and cold. I use all types of Heat Holders thermals from t-shirts to jackets
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Thermal socks - these hold warm air close to your feet; ideal for post-swim warmth. There are different thicknesses and lengths, from Original to Lite to Ultra Lite, ideal for year-round warmth.
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Hat, gloves and neck warmer - warm, durable and you can fit hand warmers into the mitts.
How I Use My Kit on Cold Days
Before arriving - I put on my thermal leggings and tops under my outer layers, as well as my socks, hat, gloves and thermal neck warmer.
Swim - thermal top under my thermal wetsuit.
After swimming - slip into warm socks and tights immediately, to keep the warmth close to your core.
Cold water doesn’t go away as soon as you climb out — supporting your body with proper layers makes every swim safer and more enjoyable.
My Post-Swim Routine (This really matters)
Mid-winter swimming isn’t the time to linger in wet kit, here is my simple routine for once you’re out of the water:
- Swim suit top off first.
- All thermal tops on including a jacket.
- Hat and neck warmer on.
- Swimsuit fully off.
- Slip on thermal leggings and trousers.
- Socks and footwear on.
- Warm drink in hand, hand warmers on the go.
- Getting dressed quickly and in the same order every time reduces heat loss and faffing when your body is already working hard.
Final Thoughts
Cold water swimming in winter can be incredibly rewarding — but it asks more of us. Good kit, a clear routine, and respect for the conditions helps to keep swims safe, enjoyable, and sustainable through the coldest months. Warmth isn’t a luxury in winter, it’s part of safety.
Explore Heather’s recent swims and follow her on Instagram.
