Speedo joins forces with Folk for new swimwear collection

From swimsuits and robes to hoodies and base layers, swimwear brand Speedo has unveiled a capsule collection with British independent fashion label Folk, celebrating the adventure and community of cold water swimming

Global swimwear brand Speedo has unveiled a limited capsule collection with independent British fashion label Folk. Harnessing the design and spirit of Folk with the heritage and swimwear knowhow of Speedo, the collection celebrates the rush and rapture of wild swimming with the cosiness and comfort of the post-swim warm up.

The campaign saw the two brands meet in Bude, North Cornwall to create an uplifting, ethereal set of images where swimmers, surfers and outdoor lovers came together to capture the essence of the collaboration. The rugged coastline and ever-changing weather grounds each image in the campaign fronted by former surf champion Sophie Hellyer and supported by a group of true wild swimmers. The windswept shots capture the kinship between Speedo and Folk and how each brand represents the moment of exhilaration in the water and the comfort of warmth back on dry land.

Speaking to the creative behind the collaboration, Cathal McAteer of Folk Clothing said, “Losing yourself in nature has always appealed to me – hiking up mountains, dancing in a field, bathing in the sea – all big positive moments. So here at Folk we have admired and been part of the love for cold water swimming, these small groups & communities of people taking to the rivers, ponds, lakes and coast to get the elemental rush of being outdoors in the water.

“Wanting to introduce a lived-in sense of ease to the kit that people use, the aim was to make an excellent range of swim and warm-up gear. So we designed robes, fleeces, base layers, hoodies, hats etc, partnered with swimming icon, Speedo, for performance quality swimwear. We have tackled the outer cold to help deliver the inner peace.”

Speedo’s VP of Brand Kirsty Saddler said, “The idea of working with FOLK to create a cold water swim collection felt really exciting at a time when we know there’s a growing appetite for outdoor swimming. The design ethic of FOLK and the importance they put on quality really speaks to our brand and our wild swim audience- The collection is stylish and vibrant yet refined with high function – We’re thrilled to launch such a joyful collaboration.”

Comprising of 31 skillfully designed pieces, the range features a mix of unisex Folk outerwear styles in the form of fleece tops, parkas, track pants, sweatshirts, t-shirts and autumn/ winter accessories, all made in relaxed fits showcased in vibrant colours with a signature Folk print.

For the swim pieces, Speedo has blended its best-selling iconic silhouettes with Folk’s earthy spirit. The Long-Sleeve Paddle Suit, classic Medalist and Front Zip Hydrasuit on the womenswear side feature the exclusive Speedo x Folk print – a graphic in burnt orange, sunshine yellow and sky blue tones. The same print takes shape on the classic Speedo brief, a Jammer and Swimshorts on the menswear pieces.

“The unisex Swim cap and Goggles are simply coloured using the earthy but fresh tones with the collaboration logo on the side – a perfect rising sun over the horizon with its shadow rippling through the sea. The half circle is the brand mark of Folk and the dynamic Boom is the unmistakable emblem of Speedo.

Speaking of the collaboration, wild swimmer and surfer Sophie Hellyer said, “I’m so proud to be a part of this special campaign with Speedo and Folk and this collection beautifully reflects the hunger for adventure from both brands by showcasing it authentically on real people for whom wild swimming is a way of life”.

The limited edition Speedo x Folk collection launches today (11 September 2023) with prices ranging from £20 to £340. The collection will be available to buy at speedo.com and folkclothing.com as well as selected retailers, Selfridges, END and Mr Porter Italy.

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