Spring into the season

Care is still needed for spring swimming as the water is still cold and the weather can be fickle at this time of year

Swimming into spring from winter dips can be a welcome relief. You need a little less kit, you can take a little extra time after you get out of the water and there is a chance of warming sun on your back as you swim. Spring swimming gives you cool water temperatures and warming air. You might find mist dancing across your favourite swim spot in the mornings and any sunshine can alleviate the shivers. But care is still needed as the water is still cold and the weather can be fickle at this time of year.

Spring cleaning isn’t just reserved for our homes – now is a great time to review, clean and care for your swim kit.

Here are some swim kit spring tips:

• If you own or swim in a wetsuit, dig it out and give it a proper clean, fix any snags or tears, try it on and consider investing in a new one, taking care to recycle the old.
• Tow floats can get holes in the seams, inflate yours and then submerge in water in a bathtub or bucket, look for air bubbles and find holes.
• Are your goggles fogging up or scratched? Is it time for a new pair? See our guide from page 44 onwards.
• Swimsuits can thin and perish with repeated wear. Check around the bum or areas where you sweat, avoid rips or translucent fabric and save your modesty
• If you tend to leave a big change robe at home come summer, now is a good time to wash that too. Many are now machinewashable, check the label. Hang outside on a dry, bright day.
• Enjoy what the season has to offer!