Open water testing strips
SwimSense from Sundfœrr is the first quick-response water testing strip designed specifically for wild swimmers – giving results in seconds, not days. We spoke to founder Anita Richardson about this new innovation
Please introduce us to the SwimSense kit…
SwimSense is our new water testing kit, created for anyone who loves wild swimming in lakes, rivers and the sea. The kit gives you real-time results in just a few minutes, so instead of worrying about hidden risks you can focus on the freedom and enjoyment that comes with being in the water. Each pack contains 20 strips, enough for 10 safe swims, and it’s small enough to take anywhere.
How does the test kit work?
It’s a really easy to use. The kit includes two different test strips, the first tests for 16 different parameters, from pH balance to heavy metals and pollutants. The second focuses specifically on ammonia nitrogen, which can indicate sewage or organic waste. You just dip each strip, and within minutes you can compare the colours to the chart provided. The leaflet included in every kit explains what each result means for your safety.
What does it test for?
SwimSense checks for 17 key parameters including ammonia nitrogen, which can indicate run-off sewage or organic waste, pH, chlorine, hardness, nitrates, nitrites, iron, lead, copper, chromium and more. These are the factors that can cause irritation, discomfort, or signal wider pollution issues.
How can we use the results to inform our decisions?
We have used simple traffic-light system: green means generally safe, yellow suggests caution should be taken (such as spending less time in the water), and red indicates potentially unsafe conditions. It’s a straightforward way to cut through uncertainty and remove that nagging doubt. .
How did you design it?
We worked with Sundfœrr’s in-house chemist to create SwimSense specifically for people who love wild water. We selected the parameters that matter most to swimmers, made the process easy, and added a clear guide to explain the results. The aim was to combine science with simplicity – a kit that fits in your swim bag and empowers you at the water’s edge.
Why are quick results important?
Because water quality can change fast. Rainfall, runoff or pollution can alter conditions within hours. Nobody wants to stand by the water’s edge and be left wondering, and some water test kits take a minimum of 48 hours to get results. SwimSense gives real-time results, in minutes, so you can make more informed decisions about the quality of the water.
When is a good time to test the water?
It’s especially useful after heavy rainfall, in new or unfamiliar spots, or when the water looks or smells unusual.
You can buy SwimSense Water Testing Kits by visiting sundfoerr.com
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.
