What to wear after winter swimming

Short answer: After winter swimming you should put on dry, soft and warm clothes quickly, so your body does not keep cooling down. Choose layers that are easy to pull on with cold hands. Here are tips on order, fit, feet and washing.

Why the clothes afterwards matter

When you come out of cold water your skin is wet, and your body needs dry clothes quickly. What you put on must be easy to pull on over damp skin and clumsy fingers. So choose something soft and simple rather than clothes with buttons and tight waistbands that you have to fight with.

Dry off first, so the clothes can do their job

Clothes cannot warm you if you put them on over wet skin. Dry yourself thoroughly, also in the folds and between your toes, and change into dry underwear if it has gone damp. Then the first layer feels pleasant against a chilled body, and you hold the warmth better.

A full set is easy to put on

When your fingers are cold, it is nice to have fewer pieces to put on and keep track of. A matching set in the same soft fabric makes sense, because you can put it all on in one motion. You can see the options among bamboo jogging sets for men.

The sweatshirt that warms quickly

A soft sweatshirt with a little room is easy to pull over your head, even when your shoulders are stiff with cold. Choose a model that does not squeeze at the neck and that covers your lower back when you bend to put on shoes. See the choice among bamboo sweatshirt for men.

Feet and head last

Feet get cold quickly on a cold jetty or stone. Keep a pair of dry, soft socks ready and put them on early. Remember a hat or a scarf, because a lot of warmth leaves through the head when your hair is wet and you stand still waiting.

Have it ready before you go in the water

Lay your clothes out in a fixed order so you can put them on without searching. Keep them in a dry bag and place it as close as you can to where you change. That way you do not fumble with cold hands, and you are in dry clothes quickly once you come out. Many people start with bestsellers from Copenhagen Bamboo when they put together a spare set.

Warm drinks and movement

Once you are dressed, a warm drink and a little movement can help you out of the cold. Take a short walk or do some light movements. If you are unsure how cold baths suit your body, talk to your doctor before you swim.

Washing so it stays soft

Wet swimwear and spare clothes should not stay in the bag. Hang them up to dry and wash them following the care label, usually at a low temperature and without fabric softener. Then your sweatshirt, set and socks are soft and ready for the next time you walk down to the water.

Frequently asked questions

What should I put on first after winter swimming?

Dry off thoroughly and put on dry underwear first, then a soft, loose layer and then a warm sweatshirt. Keep a hat and dry socks ready for last, so the cold does not creep in.

Why is loose clothing best after a cold dip?

Your skin is wet and your fingers are cold, so loose, soft clothes are easier to pull on. Tight clothes cling to damp skin and are hard to put on quickly.

Should I talk to my doctor about winter swimming?

Yes, if you are unsure how cold baths suit your body, or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor before you swim. Clothes alone do not make it safe.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.