Open Water Swimming For Beginners

Open Water Swimming For Beginners

Introduction:

With swimming pools closed to the public and lakes and beaches now a little bit more accessible under new lockdown rules – you may be thinking about venturing into the open waters to get back to your training. Or, perhaps, you’re looking to get into open water swimming for the first time.

Open water swimming brings many health benefits, including better sleep, better circulation, improved mental health, increased metabolism, and a boosted immune system. It also brings the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and experience a side of nature you might not have before. Open water swimming is also great for mental health, as its relaxing, increases the production of positive hormones in the brain and can be highly rewarding.

Before jumping into your nearest open water venue please check the relevant guidance found here:

You’ll also need the following Zone3 equipment:

A Wetsuit

 

Swimming wetsuits differ from other water sports wetsuits. Surfing wetsuits are designed to provide insulation and are made with thicker materials whereas swimming wetsuits are made with thinner materials, differing levels of buoyancy and have a much higher flexibility range, allowing for more freedom of movement. You’ll find it incredibly difficult to swim for long periods of time in a surfing wetsuit, so we recommend the following:

For beginners:

The Advance Wetsuit is an entry-level wetsuit that features high-quality neoprene materials not often seen in wetsuits designed for entry-level swimmers. With Free Flex lining on the underarms, this suit provides the right amount of flexibility, buoyancy and energy conservation for swimmers making the transition from pools to open waters.

 

The Vision Wetsuit is a step up from the advance and can also be used as a training suit for the more experienced triathlete. It is also known as being the fastest entry-level wetsuit on the market. The Vision takes inspiration from other Zone3 wetsuits designed for professional swimmers, and is made to minimise drag in the water, provide great flexibility, and reach throughout the torso and helps save time and energy whilst reducing fatigue. The rear panel is also highly reflective – a great safety feature for being easy to spot in open water, particularly on solo swims in the sea.

 

For intermediate and competent swimmers:

The Aspire Wetsuit is for those wanting more buoyancy. The Aspire features 30% more buoyancy than standard neoprene wetsuits and provides increased flexibility and distance per stroke. It’s a great suit for beginners all the way up to professionals, due to its adaptability in the water.

 

The Vanquish Wetsuit is a suit that is loved by professional swimmers such as Josh Amberger and Tim Don. The Vanquish is our highest rated wetsuit and is notably for swimmers wanting to shave minutes off their swim time. The Vanquish ensures maximum flexibility and an improved catch in the water, reduces arm fatigue, and increases efficiency in the water and gives swimmers ultimate freedom of movement.

Other items you’ll need for open water swimming include:

Goggles

A good pair of goggles are absolutely crucial for open water swimming as you’ll really need to protect your eyes in the water and be able to swim without risk of fogged up lenses. Some goggles are suitable only for pool swimming and won’t provide much protection in open waters, so you’ll need to bear this in mind when goggle shopping. Our top picks for open water goggles are:

 

The Vapour Goggles

These are great for both indoor and outdoor swimming, with ultra-soft silicone gaskets, anti-fog treated lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection, large curved lenses for sighting, easily adjustable straps, and both polarised and photochromatic lenses.

Aspect Swim Goggles

Again, these are suitable for both pool and open water swimming, with lucid crystal-clear lenses with mirrored or clear finish, a hydro-dynamic design for fast, streamlined swimming, horizon wide-angle lenses for super vision, quick-fit strap adjustment system for an easy, secured fit, soft silicone gaskets for comfort and protection and 100% UVA/UVB protection with anti-fog treatment

Attack Goggles

Built to be flexible, these goggles conform to a wide variety of face and head shapes, with curved lenses for enhanced vision, polarized and photochromatic anti-fog treated lenses and a flexible soft silicone frame.

Safety Accessories

Keeping safe in the water is an absolute must, which is why we’ve produced a number of products designed to keep you safe, seen and comfortable in the water.

Items such as the Swim Safety Buoy/Dry Bag 28L, the Swim Safety Buoy/Hydration Control or the Swim Safety Belt with Tow Float Pouch are essential for keeping afloat in the water, with pockets to keep items in, and come in neon colourways, to ensure you can be spotted by other swimmers and those on shore. Safety floats are encouraged for beginners as having this device with you can really put your mind at ease.

Silicone Swim Caps

These brightly coloured Zone3 Swim Caps come in an array of neon colourways, to make sure you’re easily spotted in the water. Bright swim caps are recommended and encouraged by swim safety expects and the Zone3 swim caps are durable, comfortable, and lightweight.

Other accessories

For comfort, you may want to invest in other accessories such as a waterproof swim bag, spare towels, or a fleece lined parka robe to keep warm in after your swim. If you don’t enjoy the cold or briskness of open waters, you also might want to try our neoprene accessories such as the Neoprene Swim Cap, Neoprene Swim Gloves or Neoprene Swim Socks which are designed to provide and maintain insulation to keep your extremities warm.

The main differences between pool swimming and open water swimming is the lack of ability to push off of walls, not having swim lanes to guide you in the right direction and not being able to touch the bottom. These are all differences that with time, you can learn to adjust to. You can adjust to the differences by adapting the following techniques:

 

Sighting

As mentioned before, in open waters there are no swim lanes or lane lines guiding you in the right direction. To be able to guide yourself in the open water, you’ll need to learn how to sight. This just means practicing looking ahead during your swim to find a ‘marker’ in the distance to guide you. Most people spot a tree, or a small landmark, and use that as guidance on where to swim to. You can practice this in a pool by focusing on a spot on the wall at the end of the lane you’re in and focusing on that spot only. Another way to train in a pool for open water swimming is to try and swim in a straight line as much as possible. In open water triathlons, you’re bound to veer left or right and bump into other triathletes, so getting this spot on in the pool whilst you can is a good idea. If practicing this for the first time in open waters, swim close to the shore line until you’ve got it right and then go further into the water.

Treading water

There are no walls to kick off of or swim to in open water. You’ll probably find yourself treading water a lot when in a lake, or the sea, so it’s best to practice treading water in the deep end of the swimming pool.

Turning

Often, open water events require participants to turn around a water buoy, sometimes more than once in a race. You can train for this in open water once you’re confident, but it’s a good idea to try this in a pool as well – if you have space. When practicing this in a pool, make sure you’re not touching walls or the bottom of the swimming pool. In open water, practice this by swimming around water buoys, if safe to do so, or if you’re swimming with a friend, use each other as markers to swim around.

Breathing

In open waters, breathing on alternative sides is the most suggested breathing technique. It probably won’t feel natural to begin with, so practicing this in a pool is the best bet. It’s recommended that you learn how to breathe away from the direction of the waves to reduce water intake.

If bilaterally breathing, rotate your head and spine with your shoulders, breath in and then turn your face along with your next shoulder rotation.

Essentially, the easiest way to breathe in open water, is to inhale through your mouth and exhale when your head is submerged without breathing to the side. Do whatever feels most natural to you and what you’re most confident with. It’s a good idea to try lots of different techniques during training and recognise that when you’re swimming at different speeds and intensities, your preferred breathing technique will change to accommodate that.

 

Swim Technique

In open water, you’ll need a stroke with a slightly higher stroke rate than in the pool. This helps you keep momentum if you’re in choppy waters.

Most open water swimmers opt for the front crawl, so it’s a good idea to make sure you’re familiar with this stroke and can maintain it for longer periods of time. You need to be comfortable with whatever strokes you choose.

It’s recommended you get used to other techniques, such as breaststroke, as this uses less energy than front crawl and you may find yourself in a situation where all you can manage at that time is a breaststroke.

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@ZONE3OFFICIAL

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There’s a lot of kit to think about for a triathlon. ✅ The perfect fitting wetsuit ✅ Doubling up on swim caps for warmth and to hold goggles in place ✅ Goggles suitable for the light conditions (& that won’t fog up!) ✅ Anti chafe balm - does what it says on the tin ✅ Sunglasses to protect your eyes on the bike and run ✅ Stretchy laces to save time in transition. These are just a *few* of the things you need to pack for race day. But don’t panic. We’ve got the FULL kit list, so you can tick it off item by item. Comment ‘packing list’ and we’ll DM it to you 👊
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zone3official
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There’s a lot of kit to think about for a triathlon. ✅ The perfect fitting wetsuit ✅ Doubling up on swim caps for warmth and to hold goggles in place ✅ Goggles suitable for the light conditions (& that won’t fog up!) ✅ Anti chafe balm - does what it says on the tin ✅ Sunglasses to protect your eyes on the bike and run ✅ Stretchy laces to save time in transition. These are just a *few* of the things you need to pack for race day. But don’t panic. We’ve got the FULL kit list, so you can tick it off item by item. Comment ‘packing list’ and we’ll DM it to you 👊
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Z
zone3official
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There’s a lot of kit to think about for a triathlon. ✅ The perfect fitting wetsuit ✅ Doubling up on swim caps for warmth and to hold goggles in place ✅ Goggles suitable for the light conditions (& that won’t fog up!) ✅ Anti chafe balm - does what it says on the tin ✅ Sunglasses to protect your eyes on the bike and run ✅ Stretchy laces to save time in transition. These are just a *few* of the things you need to pack for race day. But don’t panic. We’ve got the FULL kit list, so you can tick it off item by item. Comment ‘packing list’ and we’ll DM it to you 👊
READ MORE...
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Z
zone3official
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There’s a lot of kit to think about for a triathlon. ✅ The perfect fitting wetsuit ✅ Doubling up on swim caps for warmth and to hold goggles in place ✅ Goggles suitable for the light conditions (& that won’t fog up!) ✅ Anti chafe balm - does what it says on the tin ✅ Sunglasses to protect your eyes on the bike and run ✅ Stretchy laces to save time in transition. These are just a *few* of the things you need to pack for race day. But don’t panic. We’ve got the FULL kit list, so you can tick it off item by item. Comment ‘packing list’ and we’ll DM it to you 👊
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zone3official
27/06/25
There’s a lot of kit to think about for a triathlon. ✅ The perfect fitting wetsuit ✅ Doubling up on swim caps for warmth and to hold goggles in place ✅ Goggles suitable for the light conditions (& that won’t fog up!) ✅ Anti chafe balm - does what it says on the tin ✅ Sunglasses to protect your eyes on the bike and run ✅ Stretchy laces to save time in transition. These are just a *few* of the things you need to pack for race day. But don’t panic. We’ve got the FULL kit list, so you can tick it off item by item. Comment ‘packing list’ and we’ll DM it to you 👊
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zone3official
25/06/25
Zips go on the back, people! For newbies putting on their first ever triathlon or swim specific wetsuit, we get it, it can be confusing to know which way around the suit should go. Surf wetsuits can have zips on the front or back, swimrun wetsuits are often on the front, and shorties vary too. But FYI all triathlon wetsuits zip up at the back. We’ve been popping up at lots of different events and lakes around the UK the last few months, helping people into wetsuits who haven’t worn one before. And we have seen a lot of people trying to put them on backwards. So if you are a newbie or know a newbie, this is for you 👊 📍 The Quays, Mytchett @quays_watersports @nice1wetsuitscoaching
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zone3official
24/06/25
We’ve seen so many people at events over the last few weeks wearing their swim goggles on their head waaaay before they’re due to swim. Only put your goggles on as you walk down to the water and are about to get in, this stops the heat from your head causing them to fog up! We also recommend splashing your face and dunking your goggles in the water before you start swimming - to eliminate the temperature difference on each side of the lens. And DON’T TOUCH the inside of the lens with your fingers, you’ll wear off the anti-fog coating. 📍 The Quays, @quays_watersports @nice1wetsuitscoaching, Mytchett Lake #tipsfornewbies #triathlon #openwaterswim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
15/06/25
What a weekend at the Great North Swim in Windermere! As proud swim sponsors, we loved being part of the action. Even with the odd downpour, spirits stayed high and the atmosphere was electric - a true celebration of community, determination, and open water adventure.
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zone3official
10/06/25
This weekend, the Zone3 team also volunteered at the incredible 24-Hour Swim Relay at Shepperton @levelwateruk 🏊‍♀️ We're proud to support Level Water, a charity that gives children with disabilities the opportunity to learn to swim, offering 1-to-1 lessons that empower kids with confidence, movement, and freedom in the water. The 24 hour event brought swimmers together for a non-stop relay challenge, raising vital funds to provide these lessons across the UK. To everyone swimming, supporting, and staying awake through the night: thank you for making a difference. This is what sport is all about.
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zone3official
10/06/25
This weekend, the Zone3 team also volunteered at the incredible 24-Hour Swim Relay at Shepperton @levelwateruk 🏊‍♀️ We're proud to support Level Water, a charity that gives children with disabilities the opportunity to learn to swim, offering 1-to-1 lessons that empower kids with confidence, movement, and freedom in the water. The 24 hour event brought swimmers together for a non-stop relay challenge, raising vital funds to provide these lessons across the UK. To everyone swimming, supporting, and staying awake through the night: thank you for making a difference. This is what sport is all about.
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zone3official
10/06/25
This weekend, the Zone3 team also volunteered at the incredible 24-Hour Swim Relay at Shepperton @levelwateruk 🏊‍♀️ We're proud to support Level Water, a charity that gives children with disabilities the opportunity to learn to swim, offering 1-to-1 lessons that empower kids with confidence, movement, and freedom in the water. The 24 hour event brought swimmers together for a non-stop relay challenge, raising vital funds to provide these lessons across the UK. To everyone swimming, supporting, and staying awake through the night: thank you for making a difference. This is what sport is all about.
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon 2025 brought together athletes, ambition, and the unmistakable energy of race season. 💥 As the Official Swim Sponsor, Zone3 was proud to support the event which included the British and English Sprint Distance Championships and GB Age-Group Team Qualifier. With athletes of every level pushing their limits and our ambassadors leading from the front, it was a weekend to remember. The rain came down, but the spirit? Unshakeable. The determination? Unstoppable. The atmosphere? Electric ⚡ From first-time triathletes to GB hopefuls, every stroke, step, and smile was a reminder of why we do this. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to chat! And huge kudos to everyone who raced! @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
14/05/25
Are you ready for the Arla Great North Swim in June? @zone3official takes you through ‘sighting’ in open water, so you swim in the right direction and don’t zig zag your way around. Practicing sighting before the event will make sure you swim in a straight line and ensures you don’t swim further than you need to on the day. If you’re swimming in the pool, why not grab a bottle and use it as a marker at the end of your lane. Try to lift your eyes or head to look at it every few strokes. If you can practice in the open water, a landmark in the distance is a good marker to swim towards too! #openwaterswimming #zone3 #zone3official #greatnorthswim2025
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zone3official
01/05/25
Introducing the all-new Glide Wetsuit — engineered to help new triathletes and open-water swimmers feel fast, supported, and in control from their first swim to their final stroke. Whether you're stepping into open water for the first time or building confidence ahead of race day, Glide is your perfect entry point. Its performance-enhancing design combines flexibility where it counts, balanced buoyancy, and durable comfort, helping you conserve energy, swim naturally, and stay focused on your goals. Comment 'Glide' for more info sent straight to your DMs.
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zone3official
01/05/25
Introducing the all-new Glide Wetsuit — engineered to help new triathletes and open-water swimmers feel fast, supported, and in control from their first swim to their final stroke. Whether you're stepping into open water for the first time or building confidence ahead of race day, Glide is your perfect entry point. Its performance-enhancing design combines flexibility where it counts, balanced buoyancy, and durable comfort, helping you conserve energy, swim naturally, and stay focused on your goals. Comment 'Glide' for more info sent straight to your DMs.
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