Dear fellow swimmers

In The Dip this week, we investigate the difference between thermal and non-thermal wetsuits, our Gear Editor Jo takes on the WaterAid Swim Marathon ahead of the official event this summer and we ask 'Is it safe to swim in cold water when pregnant'? Plus, you can now watch our webinar on open water swimming events and download our free 2024 Events Guide!

Scroll to the end for our new ‘Tip of the week’, exploring why now is the time to practice sighting plus your chance to win fantastic bundles from Deakin & Blue and Orca. 

(Sponsored content)

Get dry quickly with dryrobe® Advance

Dependable and easy changing for spring's unpredictable weather. The waterproof outer combined with the fast-drying lining of the dryrobe® Advance means you can use it multiple times throughout the day, without the need to dry it in between swims. The long-sleeved version provides extra warmth and is ideal for colder conditions, whilst the short-sleeved version allows you to get changed quickly, and is perfect for slightly warmer conditions.
 

GEAR 

How to swim a marathon (in 12 weeks)

How do you prepare for a long-distance swim challenge and stay motivated? Gear editor Jo Tinsley takes on the WaterAid Swim Marathon (26 miles in 12 weeks) in the run up to the official event. 

Read more...

GEAR 

Thermal or non-thermal wetsuits: which to go for?

Digital Journalist Abi Whyte explores the differences between thermal and non-thermal wetsuits from Orca, and the benefits they offer open water swimmers.

Read more... 

OUTDOOR SWIMMER EXTRA

Is it safe to swim in cold water when pregnant?

Can colder temperatures of open water have a negative impact on pregnancy? Cold water experts Dr Mark Harper and Dr Heather Massey respond to this reader's question. (Premium content)

Read more... 

(Sponsored content)

STAY INFORMED & SWIM RESPONSIBLY

Outdoor Swimmer – the magazine for adventurous swimmers

Expand your swimming horizons and achieve your swimming dreams.

MAR 2024 - THE ENDURANCE ISSUE

• “A good day is a one swim day, a great day is a two swim day.” Meet sporting hero Duncan Goodhew 
• How do you even contemplate swimming 100 miles? 
• Can I swim in cold water when pregnant? Dr Mark Harper advises
• How to stay fuelled and hydrated on a long-distance swim.

WIN GREAT PRIZES

WIN a Deakin & Blue bundle

To celebrate the launch of Deakin & Blue’s beautiful new Deadstock collection, we are offering readers a chance to win a fantastic prize bundle comprising a £100 D&B gift voucher, Keep It Dry Bag and D&B Tote.

Enter now... 

WIN an Orca neoprene accessories bundle

We’ve teamed up with Orca to give readers a chance of winning one of three neoprene accessories bundles – perfect for keeping you swimming whatever the weather and water temperature.

Enter now... 

(Sponsored content)

EVENTS COMING SOON 

THE COOL MILE (1 mile)
6 April | Tal y Llyn, North Wales
Find out more...  

SWIMATHON 2024 (400m to 30.9km)
26-28 April | various location
Find out more...  

KESWICK MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL (750m, 1.5km, 3.6km)
17-19 May | Derwentwater, Lake District
Find out more...  

ULTRASWIM 33.3 #3 CROATIA (33.3km over 4 days)
17-20 May | Stari Grad, Croatia
Find out more...  

GAELFORCE GREAT RIVER SWIM (5.8km, 3.1km, 800m)

18 May | Lanesborough, Co. Longford, Ireland
Find out more...  

GREATER MANCHESTER SWIM! (500m, 1 mile, 3 miles)

18 May | Dock 9, Salford Quays
Find out more... 

BEST Fest 2024 (7 swims over 7 days: 5k, 1.9/3.8k, 1.5k, 2.5k, 3k, 7/10k and 4x500m)
25 May | Colonia Sant Jordi, Mallorca, Spain
Find out more...  

Great North Swim (250m, half male, 1 mile, 2 miles, 5km, 10km)

7-9 June | Windermere, Lake District
Find out more...  

24-hr Swim Relays (24hr challenge)

8 June | Shepperton

15 June | Clevedon

22 June | Bedford
Find out more... 

Browse our full list of events. To promote your event here, please email stuart@outdoorswimmer.com. 

TIP OF THE WEEK: IT'S TIME TO PRACTICE SIGHTING

In the northern hemisphere, we’ll soon be able to do longer swims outdoors. If you’re a front crawl swimmer, it’s a good idea to practice sighting in the pool before you venture outside, even if you’re already proficient. If I don’t practice in the pool then I find my neck gets stiff and tired quickly on my first few longer open water swims. If you’re not yet proficient, practicing in the pool will make it much easier when you venture outside. Look out next month in our April issue for more on this. In the meantime, check out our 'Guide to sighting'. 
 

Simon Griffiths

Founder & Publisher, Outdoor Swimmer 
 

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