Safety First: Wetsuit Recommendations for Wild Swimming at Divers Cove

At Divers Cove, we are passionate about providing a safe and fun wild swimming experience for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned open water swimmer, or you’re new to the world of wild swimming, we’d love it if you’d join us for a swim here at our beautiful Surrey lake. 

For those completely new to wild swimming, we’d recommend trying our Introduction to Open Water Swimming course. This will teach you all about the proper breathing and stroke techniques to stay safe in the water, as well as all the gear you will need to get started.

Regardless of your wild swimming experience, we’re here to explain everything you need to know about the best wetsuits for wild swimming, to ensure that you have fun, stay safe and keep warm during every session.

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What are the best wetsuits for wild swimming?

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A good wetsuit should provide insulation, buoyancy, and protection from the elements. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

You’ll first need to consider the water temperature. A good rule of thumb is that the colder the water, the thicker your wetsuit should be. For winter swims, look for a wetsuit with a higher proportion of neoprene, the insulating material that keeps you warm. 

Also, think about the fit. A well-fitting wetsuit should feel snug but not restrictive. It should allow for a full range of motion in the shoulders and arms while reducing water entry at the neck and wrists.

Finally, look for features that improve comfort and safety, such as a smoothskin neck seal to reduce chafing, a durable zipper, and flexible panels for greater freedom of movement. After all, you’ll want to be comfortable when you’re gliding through the open waters of our Surrey swimming lake. 

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How do I choose the right wetsuit for open water swimming?

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Choosing the right wetsuit depends on several factors. Water temperature is the most important factor, as colder water requires a thicker wetsuit. 

Your personal cold tolerance is also important, as everyone experiences cold differently. If you tend to feel cold easily, opt for a thicker wetsuit or layer up with a thermal rash vest underneath. Remember, if the water feels too cold for you, it might be best to wait for the temperature to warm up slightly. You know your limits, and safety should always be the top priority.

The duration and intensity of your swim also play a role. Longer swims and more strenuous activity will generate more body heat, so you might be able to wear a slightly thinner wetsuit. 

What safety features should I look for in a wild swimming wetsuit?

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Safety should always be a top priority when wild swimming. Choose a wetsuit with bright colours or reflective panels to make you more visible to others in the water. We also ask our swimmers to use tow floats and wear brightly coloured swim caps for additional visibility.

A wetsuit with good buoyancy can help you stay afloat if you get tired or experience any difficulties in the water. At Divers Cove, we ask that all of our swimmers are able to swim a minimum of 450m without stopping.

Keen swimmer? You should also make sure to choose a durable wetsuit that will withstand the wear and tear of regular use and provide lasting protection.

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Are there specific wetsuit brands recommended for wild swimming safety?

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Several reputable brands offer wetsuits specifically designed for open water swimming, and prioritise safety and performance. Some popular choices include: 

• Zoggs (available here at Divers Cove) are excellent for elasticity, fit and resistance. 
• Zone3, known for their high-performance wetsuits with optimal flexibility and buoyancy.
• Orca, which offers a wide range of wetsuits for different water temperatures and swimming abilities.
• Huub, with a focus on innovative designs and technologies to enhance comfort and performance.
• 2XU, which provides durable and comfortable wetsuits with a focus on safety features.
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What wetsuit thickness is best for cold water swimming?

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For colder water swimming, a wetsuit with a thickness of 4mm to 5mm is usually ideal. The torso area, in particular, tends to be thicker to help keep your core warm, while the arms and legs may be slightly thinner to allow for better mobility. 

In colder climates or during the winter months, some swimmers choose wetsuits with additional thermal layers or even neoprene gloves and boots to protect their extremities from the cold. During our winter season, we ask that all swimmers wear a wetsuit suitable for winter swimming, neoprene winter swimming socks and gloves, a neoprene coloured winter swimming hat, decent ear plugs and a tow float. You will also need a changing robe and warm clothes to wear post-swim. 

If you’re swimming in slightly warmer waters, a 2mm to 3mm wetsuit might be sufficient. You still get the protection and buoyancy of a wetsuit, but with a bit more flexibility and less bulk. The key is to find a balance that works for your needs and that keeps you warm without restricting your movement too much.

Wetsuits for Hire and Purchase at Divers Cove

At Divers Cove, many of our guests prefer to hire wetsuits when trying out wild swimming for the first time. Wetsuit hire is a great option if you’re unsure about what thickness you need or if you simply don’t want to invest in a wetsuit straight away. 

If you're new to wild swimming or want to try it out before buying your own wetsuit, we offer hire at affordable rates. Our team is always on hand to offer advice and help you find the best fit for your swim. Please note, our wetsuits for hire are subject to availability.

If you’re looking to buy a new wetsuit, we also stock a selection of Zoggs high-quality wetsuits in our on-site shop, so you can find the perfect fit for your swimming sessions. 

We also offer tow floats and swim hats for hire or purchase. Brightly coloured swim hats are mandatory for all swimmers for safety reasons, and we have a


variety of styles available to hire or buy. Tow floats are a great way to increase visibility in the water and can also be hired or purchased on site.

At Divers Cove, we're a community of passionate wild swimmers who are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, from beginners to experienced open water enthusiasts. Ready to swim surrounded by nature here in the heart of Surrey? Book your visit today!