Dear fellow swimmers

Perhaps more so than any time of year, summer is a time for simplicity. After all, you literally only need swimwear to enjoy the warmer water – and even that is optional! That said, a choice few pieces of outdoor kit can make things easier, safer and more comfortable: sunscreen that's ocean-friendly and made with swimmers in mind, a 'sauna bottle' that keeps you water icy even in a heat wave, a stay-put two-piece for easy beach changing or a spring suit for when you want to try a more adventurous swim. Read on for our best summer swimming kit recommendations!

We've also compiled our favourite swimming kit for kids, from cosy changing robes and rainbow tow floats, to rock pooling shoes and junior wetsuits. Plus, a round-up of our favourite tow floats and dry bags, so you can relax knowing your valuables are safe when you're in the water. 

Finally, if you're going further afield, we've pooled our knowledge to bring you a guide to packing for swim travel. 

So what are you waiting for? Come on in, the water is (genuinely) fine... 

Jo Tinsley

Gear Editor

Image: Harbour & Tide

PS. Thanks to our sponsor Voited. To put your brand in front of 40,000 swimmers, please email [email protected]

REVIEWS

Outdoor swimming kit we love this summer

Slogan t-shirts for swimmers, a backpack that doubles as a tow float and a fully immersible sling bag: our favourite pieces of kit we’ve tried and tested this summer.

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REVIEWS

Outdoor swimming kit for kids

From changing robes, goggles and swimwear to rainbow tow floats, rock pooling shoes and junior wetsuits: our pick of the best kit to help keep children safe and comfortable in the water this summer. 

Read more... 

REVIEWS

Best tow floats for wild swimmers

Keep hydrated, protect your valuables and stay seen: a tow float is a trusty companion when you’re swimming in open water. Choose your perfect buoy with our expert guide. 

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(Sponsored content)

VOITED: Redefining Comfort for Wild Swims and Summer Adventure

Born from a love of nature and smart design, VOITED creates gear that keeps you warm, dry, and ready – wherever the water takes you. From the stormproof Drycoat 3.0 to the lightweight, packable Outdoor Poncho 3.0, our eco-conscious changing essentials are built for cold dips, coastal mornings, and vanlife escapes. 

Crafted from recycled materials with technical performance and fresh prints, they’re made for swimmers, surfers, and summer explorers chasing the next wild moment.

REVIEW

The best sunscreen for swimming

What’s the best sunscreen for outdoor swimmers? We put ten sun lotions, mineral sunscreens and zinc sun sticks to the test.

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GUIDE

How to pack for swim travel

Your swim travel essentials – and how to carry them – as recommended by the Outdoor Swimmer team.

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REVIEW

Nine of the best swimming bikinis

Dive-proof, wave-proof and cut to allow freedom of movement in the water, we put nine swimming bikinis to the test.

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(Contains affiliate content)

REVIEW

THE BEST SPRING SUITS

Shorties, long Janes, neoprene swimsuits: spring suits are a great option for when you don’t need a full suit, ideal for warmer waters or taking part in a swim run event. Read our expert reviews.
 

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