Heated apparel for outdoor swimmers
Warming technology and fabrics – how to keep toasty waterside this winter
ORORO Classic Heated Jacket
£199.99
This is a clever and effective piece of kit for those who struggle with warming up after a swim. It’s a slim-fit, hip length jacket, which you could wear under a changing robe if needed. It has four different heating zones, across the back, in pockets and around the collar. It also has three different heating levels. It comes with a warranty on the heating elements and battery. The outer fabric is water and wind resistant, and yet it’s still machine washable! There’s a hood, plus pockets in all in the right places. I loved it.
DDIPP The Pika Gilet
£80
You can always tell when gear is made for swimmers, by swimmers. The clue in this lightweight but exceptionally warm gilet is the built-in hot water bottle pocket at the back. It also has a 10,000mm waterproof rating and a substantial hidden hood, so it’ll keep you dry and warm. A reliable, and rather retro, layering piece for when you don’t fancy bringing a full robe.
WILD MOOSE Moose Mat
£25
With 2mm neoprene on one side and 350gsm Sherpa fleece on the other, this wild swimming changing mat is both insulated against cold ground and absorbent to dry your feet so you can get in your boots faster. Fold it then roll it and it fits neatly into a side pocket of a back pack, then use the elastic cord to hang it to dry once home.
ICEME Wool Swimsuit Skåbu – Blåfjord Pattern
£94
Designed for the sauna and swimming, this swimsuit is made from 100% merino wool. Wool allows you to sweat freely, and feels warmer against your skin when wet. The natural fibres wick moisture away from the skin and works well in water. The swimsuit allows for a more natural experience in both the water and sauna. Primarily designed for dips and sauna wearing, it feels lovely against the skin. In the water, it feels soft and surprisingly light. It does need care after wearing and takes longer to dry!
WILD MOOSE Hottie Bottle
£14 (£24 for two)
Pop them in your pockets; pop them in your boots. These brightly coloured mini hot water bottles are simply adorable and just the thing to warm up cold hands (or feet) after a dip. Sized and shaped to hold snugly in your hands, they’re a Godsend for those afflicted with Raynaud’s. They’re well made, too, with a secure topper, and universally loved (read the 50-odd five-star reviews on the Wild Moose website!). I popped one in each pocket of my robe and coming back to cosy fleece-lined pockets felt like a real treat.
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.
