Autumn warmth for outdoor swimmers
Warm post-swim layers in natural autumnal shades of chestnut, russet and clay
FINISTERRE Offshore Full Zip Fleece
£145
As Finisterre’s thickest and warmest deep-pile fleece to date, this is a lovely post-swim cocoon that feels more like a substantial jacket than a standard fleece. The relaxed, true-to-size fit makes it effortless to pull on over damp limbs, while the fully zipped chest and hand pockets give you a secure place to tuck away car keys, phones, or rings before diving into the water. The contrast woven panels are a standout feature – beyond looking good, they add durability and wind-blocking protection around your neck. JT
MERRY PEOPLE Tully Ankle Wellies
£120
This bold update to the iconic Merry People ankle welly features a 90s-style chunky platform sole and an extended neoprene cuff. The 100% waterproof natural rubber shell keeps your feet bone-dry, while the 4mm neoprene insulation is rated for sub-zero temperatures. Built-in arch support provides instant, all-day comfort, while the extended wrap-around ankle cuff acts as a barrier to seal in heat. JT
DELTA ROAM Beaumont Robe
£155
With its understated design, slim silhouette and tailored fit, this robe is seriously smart! It’s definitely not the sort of changing robe you feel self-conscious wearing to the shops after a swim. It’s also remarkably hard-wearing. It easily protects you from the elements with its waterproof outer shell (up to 10,000mm), taped seams and a storm flap. It’s breathable and quick-drying, too, featuring a moisture-wicking fleece lining that claims to keep you comfortable in temperatures down to approximately -6°C – making it absolutely great for watching sideline sports. I particularly like the range of internal zipped pockets, including a clever removable pouch. You could easily tuck your valuables securely inside the pouch and pop it straight into a tow float.
BAM 73 Zero Boxy Fleece Gilet
£89
A gilet makes for a brilliant post-swim recovery layer, trapping heat around your core while keeping your arms free from bulky robe sleeves. This cosy Sherpa fleece is ridiculously soft and feels like a warm hug to put on. The double-ended zip allows you to easily change out of wet swim bottoms while keeping your torso covered, and the large, fleece-lined handwarmer pockets quickly thaw numb fingers. It comes in seven gorgeous natural shades; this one is called ‘macaron’, a nod to the classic French meringue biscuits. JT
RED Evo Pro Waterproof Insulated Trousers
£99.95
These deep chestnut insulated trousers are built for life at the water’s edge. Designed by paddleboarding and outdoor swimming brand RED, they offer a practical alternative to a changing robe. The soft grid-fleece lining traps heat without adding awkward bulk, glides smoothly over damp skin. Boasting a high 15,000mm waterproof rating paired with a tough, reinforced seat and knees, you can kneel in the mud to pack your dry bag or sit on wet rocks without water seeping in. JT
All products are reviewed independently by our editorial team. If you buy a product through a link on this page we may receive a commission.
Jo Tinsley
Jo is the Gear Editor for Outdoor Swimmer and also writes news and features for the website. A keen open water swimmer and long-distance walker, she loves seeking out lakes and lidos close to her home in the Mendip Hills, Somerset. She is the author of The Slow Traveller, editor and founder of independent magazine, Ernest, and has previously tested outdoor clothing and kit for BBC Countryfile Magazine, BBC Focus and Ernest Journal.
