If you’re eyeing up the surface as a way of getting closer to nature, or are a diver looking for a less equipment-intensive way to get in the water (or both!), open water swimming is probably the perfect activity for you. It’s good for your fitness, great for the mind, and a brilliant way to connect with like-minded people in some pretty awesome environments. While open water swimming requires very little kit to get involved, you will need a good swimming wetsuit if you’re planning to dip regularly.
Open water swimming encompasses loads of different environments, from lake dips to wild swims, and casual sea swims to triathlon training. In all of these scenarios, a swimming wetsuit plays a crucial role in keeping you comfortable and warm. With this in mind, we’ve compiled our rundown of the best swimming wetsuits we’d recommend right now. Some are purpose-built for swimmers, while you might find others familiar if you’re already diving regularly!
Tips For Choosing A Swimming Wetsuit
Before filtering through the different options available, knowing what to look for in a swimming wetsuit is key. A good open water swimming wetsuit needs to offer insulation as standard, alongside flexibility to support a complete range of movement on the surface. It’s no good picking something that will rub or chafe (on the neckline, for example), as you’ll quickly become uncomfortable and wish you were anywhere but the water.
Some key features to keep in mind and look out for include:
Wetsuit Thickness
The thickness of swimming wetsuits can vary significantly. Typically, you’ll want one of the most common types: 3mm or 5mm. While others do exist (both thinner and thicker), these offer the levels of insulation most suited to UK waters.
A 3mm wetsuit is a good choice for summer swims or warmer conditions, offering a balance of insulation and flexibility without too much restriction. If you’re planning to swim out of season, a 5mm wetsuit will provide the added warmth and protection you need.
Flexibility & Fit
Any wetsuit should fit like a second skin, and this sentiment is particularly important for open water swimming. You want a wetsuit that provides flexibility around key areas like the shoulders and hips, as these will be key movement areas. A wetsuit that is too stiff will reduce your efficiency as you stroke through the water.
Neckline & Comfort
Comfort around the neck can make or break your swim, so look out for swimming wetsuits with innovation in this area. Softer, stretchier necklines will reduce friction and help to prevent chafing - something that, if you’ve ever had the displeasure of experiencing it before, can cause serious distraction.
Our Top Swimming Wetsuits
-
Cressi Fast Onepiece Wetsuit
A serious all-rounder with 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm thicknesses available, the Cressi Fast Onepiece wetsuit is a versatile open water swimming companion. It’s warm, sturdy, and incredibly tough, with a flexible construction primed to offer the mobility needed for swimming. Double-lined neoprene adds extra durability and insulation to this swimming wetsuit, with the handy back zipper making getting it on and off hassle-free.
-
Cressi Karua Swimming Wetsuit
Designed specifically as an open water swimming wetsuit, the Cressi Karua is perfect for anybody taking their time on the surface seriously. Available for men and women, this swimming wetsuit is ultra-lightweight and highly flexible, with a friction-free neckline making the most of 2mm glide skin XT neoprene. It’s also one of the most visible swimming wetsuits available right now, with an eye-catching, fluorescent-coloured sleeve and upper-back design to help you stand out amongst other water users.
-
Scubapro Sport 5mm Wetsuit
Although officially a diving wetsuit, the Scubapro Sport 5mm wetsuit (men/women) performs brilliantly for colder open water swims. The 5mm neoprene construction is more than enough for use in UK water year-round, yet still flexible enough with a triathlon cut that allows for a proper freestyle stroke. Flat-lock stitches make a noticeable difference when it comes to comfort, while durable brass zips and abrasion-resistant fabric ensure this swimming wetsuit will stand the test of time. The perfect pick if you’re looking for a versatile and warm crossover suit for shorter winter swims and summer diving.
-
Scubapro Sport 3mm Wetsuit
Another great crossover wetsuit, the Scubapro Sport 3mm (men/women) wetsuit offers less insulation and slightly more flexibility than the 5mm version. It’s a great choice for warmer conditions or shorter swims, perhaps if you’re planning to swim this summer or are heading overseas but still want some degree of protection. Despite being slightly thinner than its 5mm counterpart, it’s still made from the same abrasion-resistant material to ensure long life and many years of happy swimming. Like the 5mm, this is perfect for shorter winter swims and summer diving.
Extra Open Water Swimming Gear
While your swimming wetsuit will provide most of the insulation you need in open water, there are a few extra bits of kit that will make a big difference should you feel the cold. Having a pair of neoprene boots and/or gloves can go a long way, with both offering extra insulation and the former also great for protecting your toes as you enter the water.
When you head out, you should also remember to have a swimming tow float with you to make sure you can’t be missed, even from the shore, as you cut through the water.
We hope these tips and recommendations have helped you find the right swimming wetsuit for your needs. If you need any further advice, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team, who will be more than happy to talk you through the options available.