If you’re considering open water swimming, you may be wondering about the possibility of wearing wetsuits – or not wearing one at all. You may wonder if it’s worth it, or if you need to. In many cases, it is vital you wear a wetsuit, due to the temperature of the water. But there are other reasons, too, why wearing wetsuits is a good idea, no matter the condition you are swimming in. Read on for more on the importance of wearing a wetsuit.
The Importance Of Wearing Wetsuits:
It Can Be Too Cold To Swim Without One
Any temperature from 50-78 degrees, wearing wetsuits is highly advised. If you are too cold in the water, your body may start to shut down, and it can be quite dangerous – some temperatures are highly advised against swimming in at all. But even if that is not the case, it can still be uncomfortable to swim in mildly cold water without one, and comfort is key when it comes to a long open water swim. Before swimming, always check the temperature of the water, to ensure you require a wetsuit, and to check it is a safe temperature for swimming.
It Helps You To Swim – And Faster
A wetsuit streamlines your body, and while it is technically extra weight, it actually makes you swim faster. It gives you ‘free speed’, and the longer the distance you swim, the better results you will experience from wearing a wetsuit. When wearing a wetsuit, you will also feel less of energy exertion, and there is less of a water displacement. Essentially, if you’re looking for speed, wetsuits may be a great option for you!
It Can Stop Chafing
One of the worst parts of open water swimming? The chafing. The rubber will protect your skin from being directly exposed to the water, and you won’t experience any kind of water burns or chafing, making a more comfortable swim for you – allowing you to swim harder for longer.
It Can Help You In An Emergency
Wetsuits are often made of neoprene rubber. This type of rubber provides buoyancy that you do not get from swimming in swimming costumes or sleepless t-shirts. This is so that in an emergency, your wetsuit will help you float towards the top of the water. This can be very useful should you be going to swim on a route you do not know well, or if you are a beginner open water swimmer. But truly, a wetsuit is a good idea for all, regardless of ability!
A Wetsuit Allows You Greater Freedom
There are certain temperatures that you simply must wear a wetsuit, otherwise, it is unsafe. However, if you do choose colder temperatures to swim in – often in more adventurous locations – a wetsuit allows you to do so. A wetsuit allows you to participate in open water swimming in exotic locations and bodies of water, much more so than a standard swimming costume would allow you to.
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