May 2024
May 2024 - Gear
Top 6 wild swimming walks in Eryri
Emma Marshall, author of a new guide book Wild Swimming Walks Eryri/Snowdonia shares six of her favourite swim-hikes in the…
The best racing wetsuits 2024
New technical materials, increased range of motion and dynamic flexibility: Simon Griffiths reviews the fastest wetsuits on the market.
Nine of the best swimming bikinis
Dive-proof, wave-proof and cut to allow freedom of movement in the water, our experts put nine swimming bikinis to the…
Best open water swimming wetsuits
Our experts review the best open water swimming wetsuits in 2024 including options for entry-level, breaststroke wetsuits, plus-size and racing…
Outdoor swimming kit we love this spring
Size-inclusive hiking and swimwear, protein-boosted breakfast cereal and a change robe designed with wheelchair users in mind: a round up…
Best spring suits for swimmers
Shorties, long Janes, neoprene swimsuits: spring suits are a great option for when you don’t need a full suit, ideal…
How to navigate challenging conditions with confidence
Swimming in rough water needn’t be something to fear, says Paul Newsome.
Laura Coffey: why I swim
Writer Laura Coffey discovers the redemptive powers of travel, nature and cold-water swimming.
Swims that shaped me: Simon Griffiths
Outdoor Swimmer founder Simon Griffiths shares the swims that have shaped his life over the years, from his childhood swimming…
May in the swim community
NOWCA and Mental Heath Swims share their latest news, including lifeguard training and an exciting new peer support venture in…
“How do I prepare for a 6.5km swim in 10 weeks?”
Swimming coach Cassie Patten answers this reader Q about how to prepare for the around-Brownsea Island swim in June –…
Best jammers, briefs and shorts for outdoor swimmers
Whether you’re after a flexible fit for training, thermal fabric for core warmth or a lightweight hybrid short for impromptu…
Weekend swim retreat: The Roundhouse, Wye Valley
Hide away in this romantic spa retreat in the Wye Valley, complete with a rooftop swimming pond and waterfall.
Don’t blame it on the weatherman
In Matt Gaw’s new book, In All Weathers, Matt immerses himself in the elements and discovers there is more than…
Wetter by design
Rowan Clarke delves into the fascinating evolution of our swimming kit, and how these humble items can go way beyond…
The Fell Foodie’s berry and banana smoothie recipe
Whizz up this simple and nutritious smoothie – ideal for post-swim adventures.
How I train: Ivan Puskovitch
Ivan is an American open water swimmer who will be competing in the men’s 10km at the 2024 Paris Olympic…
Wandering Ireland’s wild west
Mountain hikes, lake swims and foot-stomping live music around every corner, Killarney’s Wander Wild Festival has something for every kind…
It’s time to start planning your summer of swimming
Brush up on your open water skills and plan ahead now to make the most of summer swimming season, says…
Open water swimsuits for all bodies
Whether you're looking for spaghetti strap training suits or more modest coverage, body positive styles or longer body lengths, bonded…
How to maintain your outdoor swimming kit
How not to be an “all the gear and no idea” swimmer. Simon Griffiths has your guide to maintaining your…