What Do I Wear for Open Water Swimming?

Open water swimming is an exhilarating way to connect with nature, enjoy the water, and challenge your body. However, choosing the right gear is vital for a comfortable and safe experience. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a beginner, understanding what to wear can make a significant difference in your performance and enjoyment.

Why Wear a Wetsuit for Open Water Swimming?

Wetsuits are an essential part of open water swimming for many reasons. They provide thermal insulation, buoyancy, and protection from the elements, such as jellyfish stings or rocky surfaces. Here’s why a wetsuit should be on your open water swim gear list:

Thermal Protection: Even in warmer months, open water temperatures can be chilly, especially in deeper or shaded areas. A wetsuit helps retain body heat, keeping you warm and reducing the risk of hypothermia.

Buoyancy: A wetsuit provides extra buoyancy, which helps you swim more efficiently by keeping your body higher in the water.

Protection: It offers a barrier against the sun, marine life, and other environmental factors.

What to Look For in a Wetsuit for Open Water Swimming?

When choosing a wetsuit for open water swimming, you need to consider the following factors:

Fit: A snug fit is crucial for warmth and comfort. A loose wetsuit will allow water to enter, which can cause drag and reduce insulation.

Flexibility: You need a suit that allows for full range of motion, especially around the shoulders and arms, to avoid fatigue during long swims.

Thickness: Thicker wetsuits offer more warmth but can be less flexible. Select the thickness of your suit balancing water temperature with flexibility, so consider suits where the panels of neoprene protecting your core are thicker than for the arms, for example.

Fourth Element Surface Wetsuit

The Fourth Element Surface Wetsuit is specifically designed for surface sports, making it an great choice for open water swimming. Here’s why:

Optimized for Surface Sports: The Surface Wetsuit is engineered for surface sports, offering greater flexibility and comfort. The mini chest zipper eliminates the need for a back zip, radically improving mobility and minimizing the opportunity for water to enter the suit though the teeth of the zip. The flexible rubber of the suit provides freedom of movement and the inner ankle and wrist seals ensure that suit flush is minimized.

4/3mm Neoprene Thickness: This wetsuit strikes a perfect balance between warmth and freedom of movement, suitable for cooler water temperatures.

Sustainable Materials: Made from natural rubber and lined with ocean-bound plastic bottles, the Surface Wetsuit not only supports your performance but also aligns with environmentally conscious values.

Streamlined Design: It features a sleek, hydrodynamic design to minimize drag and enhance your swimming efficiency.

Fourth Element RF1 Freediving Suit

For those seeking a versatile wetsuit that performs well across various water activities, the Fourth Element RF1 Freediving Suit is an excellent alternative. While it’s primarily designed for freediving, its features make it a strong contender for open water swimming:

Superior Flexibility: With its ultra-stretch neoprene, the RF1 provides exceptional flexibility, allowing unrestricted movement, which is ideal for swimming.

3/2mm Thickness: The RF1 offers extra warmth in core areas, making it suitable for temperate and slightly cooler waters.

Close Fit: Designed to fit like a second skin, the RF1 minimizes water entry and maximizes thermal protection without compromising on flexibility.

Multi-Purpose Use: Its versatility means you can use it for other water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding.

Additional Gear for Open Water Swimming

In addition to a wetsuit, consider the following gear for a complete open water swimming setup:

Swim Cap: A neoprene or silicone cap can help retain heat and increase visibility in the water.

Goggles: Choose polarized or mirrored goggles to reduce glare and improve visibility in various light conditions.

Safety Buoy: A tow float increases your visibility to other water users and can provide support if you need a rest.

Poncho: A robe to give privacy when changing, and to provide warmth after your swim.

Choosing the Right Wetsuit for Your Needs

Selecting between the Surface Wetsuit and RF1 Freediving Suit depends on your specific needs and the conditions you’ll be swimming in:

Opt for the Surface Wetsuit if you are looking for comfort, sustainability, and a design tailored specifically for surface sports.

Choose the RF1 Freediving Suit if you need a more versatile wetsuit with enhanced thermal protection for the core or if you participate in multiple water activities.

Consider the Thermocline range if you want a lightweight, neoprene-free alternative that offers excellent flexibility and is ideal for travel and layering.