Essential Wild Swimming Kit List: Take The Plunge

Wild swimming is an invigorating adventure that’s perfect for women seeking a unique way to connect with nature and improve their well-being. Immersing yourself in cool, open water can boost circulation, reduce stress, and leave you feeling energised and refreshed. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just dipping your toes in for the first time, having the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

If you’d prefer some company and guidance during your first swim, here at Women Outdoors, we offer a range of wild swimming events – we’d love you to join us!

Wild Swimming

Wild Swimming Must Haves!

If you’re new to Wild Swimming and attending a Women Outdoors Wild Swimming Event, then all you really need to bring is a swimsuit, a towel, change of clothes, water & snacks and your sense of adventure!

However, below is our ‘’recommended’’ wild water swimming kit list for those who intend to take a dip more often. 

Simply follow the links in pink to view these items in more detail and to buy!

WOMEN OUTDOORS QUICK LINK KIT LIST! 

A full breakdown of our recommendations can be found below, but for those who like to get down to the nitty gritty – here’s out quick link kit list! 

Water Shoes:
Protect your feet from rocks and uneven surfaces.

💚  We’d highly recommend these Swim Shoes as they’re breathable, lightweight (for easy carrying), quick drying  and affordable.  The upper fabric is smooth with good elasticity, making them comfortable and easy to take on and off.  The non-slip rubber sole is soft and thick, protecting your feet from stones and rocks.

Poncho:  A lightweight poncho is a lifesaver for changing out of wet clothes, a thicker poncho provides added comfort on those cooler days and waterproof ponchos enable you to take shelter from sudden rain showers too.

Microfibre towel poncho 
Great if you need to hike if need to hike to your chosen water spot ~ It folds small into your backpack, its light and super absorbent!

💚 We always recommend Winthome Changing Robe Poncho as it’s one of the best value for money ponchos on the market.  It’s great for use as a changing robe for privacy after a paddle or swim, or as a beach towel.  It enables you to dry quickly and stay warm after leaving the water. Its lightweight materials means it dries quickly too and folds small into your rucksack.  Even better, it comes in some lovely colours too. 

Bathing towel poncho
Thicker material to keep you warm, which is great for those colder days!

💚 For those who prefer a little extra warmth, the Winthome Changing Bath Robe is a great choice as its super absorbent and fluffy, keeping you warm and cosy.

Dryrobe
Excellent quality and waterproof too, making them the ideal choice for cold or rainy days.  They’ll last a long time and can be used as a waterproof coat too.

💚 Although more expensive, these Dryrobes really are amazing and very versatile, with many wearing them as general coats nowadays too, so you’re sure to get your wear out of them. (Football mum’s love them!)  They’re 100% waterproof and windproof with an inner fleece keeping you warm and dry at all times.  They’re great for using an oversized changing robe whatever the weather. 

Wetsuit
A wetsuit provides warmth in cooler waters.

💚  Gul wetsuits are impeccably good quality at the lower end of the market range. You’ll find it difficult to out wear this suit. The G-Force 3mm suit is an entry level suit designed to get you in the water for the first time. The 3mm suit will be adequate for April – October. 

Swimsuit:
A swimsuit is perfect for warmer days. Some prefer, a longer sleeved swim suit for extra protection.

💚 We love EVERYTHING Roxy here at Women Outdoors.  We particularly love this Roxy Long Sleeve Swimsuit.  The recycled material is great – super-soft, strong and stretch resistant, making it really comfy and long lasting.  The easy back-zip closure makes dressing and undressing easy and, combines both fashion and functionality for water adventures.

It adds a little extra warmth for the colder water, but also protects your shoulders from being sunburnt.

Dry Bag & Phone Case:
Keep your belongings safe from splashes and unexpected dips.

💚 The Blackace Arteesol Dry Bag comes in a range of sizes (5L, 10L, 20L, 30L).  We find the 20L is an ideal size and has plenty of room for all your kit.  It’s 100% waterproof and made from robust high quality material to last a life time.  It has a handy shoulder strap for easy carrying, has a free waterproof phone case, and comes in a range of bright colours.  Again, proving to be great value for money!

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Waterproof Phone Case:
Protect your phone from water damage while still having access to take photos or use navigation apps.

💚 For less than a tenner, the JOTO Waterproof Phone Pouch is a great buy and is great for those who don’t want to opt for a dry bag straight away and simply want to keep their phone dry. 

💚  It’s 100% waterproof and suitable for most phones (please check link for compatibility).  All this means you’re able to capture your adventures taking photos under water and above water.  Above all else, this is a fantastic safety feature too as you can keep your phone will you at all times and call for help if required. 

Tow Float:
These high-visibility floats increase your visibility in the water, alerting boaters and other swimmers to your presence. They can also provide some buoyancy and a place to rest if needed too.

💚 We particularly love this Tow Float, as it’s affordable, compact, with an easy inflate/deflate valve.  Even better, it has a waterproof compartment for phones and other valuables. 

Sun Cream (SPF 30+):
Water reflects of the water,  causing a higher risk of sunburn. Apply liberally and reapply throughout the day, especially after getting out of the water.

💚  We’ve chosen this particular Mountain Sun Cream  as its Factor 50, highly water resistant, sweat resistant and specifically designed for those who are active in and out of the water, providing up to 8 hours protection. Its also jelly fish repellent too.   The handy stick design makes it easy to fit into your kit bag too. 

 

Sunglasses:  
Shield your eyes from the sun’s glare. A strap helps prevent them from falling overboard.

💚 With so many different styles, the choice really is yours here ladies.  However, for use on the water, we would recommend those with a coating to repel water, and wrap around frames, to protect your eyes from the sun, wind and water spray. A secure fit is also important, or even a fitted strap to prevent them falling off while you’re own the water.  Try to choose floatable frames just in case. 

Don't Forget the Essentials!

Although there are some beautiful swimming spots just a stones throw away from a car park, some of the most tranquil and stunning places to enjoy a wild swim, can also involve a leisurely hike.

For additional hiking gear recommendations, check out our Women Outdoors Hiking Kit List which covers essentials from walking boots to first-aid kits. 

By packing the right gear, you can ensure your wild swimming experience is as enjoyable and safe as possible. So, grab your swimsuit, gather your essentials, and get ready to embrace the invigorating world of wild swimming!

For more information, please have a read through our blog ~ Wild & Wonderful: A Beginner’s Guild To Wild Swimming.

If you’d prefer some company and guidance during your first swim, please feel free to join us here at Women Outdoors for one of group swims with like minded ladies just waiting to take the plunge like you!

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