FEATURES

In-depth features that celebrate the vibrant outdoor swimming community, spotlighting extraordinary individuals and their stories.

Something to declare: the rise of swim holidays

As swim holidays come of age, Rowan Clarke finds out how they’re bringing us more joy than ever before.
Participants needed for cold water study into treating depression

Trial results are promising as researchers begin the next stage exploring the effectiveness of outdoor swimming to help reduce symptoms…
Eastern Bay Ice Mile 2024

Simon Griffiths went along to watch (but not participate in) this popular ice mile event in Dublin.
How hard is it to swim the Channel as part of a relay?

We spoke with Louise Campbell, a partner with Moore Barlow LLP and a member of the Aspire Eagles, who crossed…
The Fell Foodie’s muesli recipe

Packed with fibre and complex carbohydrates, muesli is the perfect breakfast for fueling your morning swim.
A celebration of swim travel

Get ready to embrace the travel and adventure opportunities in swimming, says Simon Griffiths.
Swims of the unexpected

Jonathan Cowie shares his most memorable swims around the world, from an icy skinny dip in Sweden to a jungly…
Jerrie Roberts: why I swim

73-year-old Jerrie holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest person to swim an ice mile.
Daniel Start: Wild Thing

Rowan Clarke meets adventurer, photographer, author and publisher of some of our favourite adventure and wild swimming books, Daniel Start.
Wild swim retreat: Elmley Nature Reserve

Ella Foote discovers unexpected beauty and wild adventure on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent.
Open water swimming goggles vs open water swimming masks – which should I choose?

While open water swimming goggles are lightweight, adjustable and streamlined, open water masks can offer a better fit, a curved…
Swims that shaped me: Ella Foote

Much like books we've read, places we've visited and people we've met, our swim experiences shape us. In this new…
The Fell Foodie’s energy balls recipe

These energy balls are the perfect carbohydrate hit for long-distance and endurance swimming – and with no foil sachets left…
Meet outdoor cook Harrison Ward, AKA Fell Foodie

Harrison Ward, known as the Fell Foodie, is an outdoor cook who loves to recreate restaurant-style meals in remote locations.
New wonders in neoprene

Pops of neon and easy-to-remove gloves and swim socks feature in Speedo’s new range of neoprene swimming kit.
Weekend swim retreat: The Good Hotel, London

Looking for a London weekend break with a swim in the Thames? Ella heads to The Good Hotel in the…
How to swim a marathon (in 12 weeks): Preparation and motivation

Gear editor Jo Tinsley is taking on the WaterAid Swim Marathon – swimming 26 miles (42.2km) in 12 weeks –…
How I train: Andy Donaldson

Andy is a Scottish-Australian marathon swimmer and a three-time world record holder with records including the fastest time to complete…
Going long distance

Paul Newsome, Head Coach at Swim Smooth, shares his smarter approach to training for long-distance swims.
Watch our webinar about open water swimming events: all you need to know

Am I a strong enough swimmer to enter an open water swimming event? How do I train? Are events only…
Choosing an open water wetsuit: thermal or non-thermal?

Digital journalist Abi Whyte explores the differences between thermal and non-thermal wetsuits from Orca, and the benefits they offer open…
New Spring yoga and wild swimming retreat in the Lake District

The Zest Life Yoga and Wild Swimming Retreat promises guided swims in amazing swimming locations in the Lake District as…
Is it safe to swim in cold water when pregnant?

Can colder temperatures of open water have a negative impact on pregnancy? Cold water experts Dr Mark Harper and Dr…
Win an incredible Keswick Mountain Festival / Aquasphere prize bundle worth over £750!

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Winter freestyle refresher, part 5: putting it all together

Reflecting on the various components covered in his front crawl refresher series – body position and balance, breathing arms and…