Christmas Day dips. Boxing Day plunges. New Year’s Day swims.
These aren’t just quirky traditions in the UK - they’re part of a growing movement. Across the country, thousands gather at beaches, lakes, and lidos each December to strip off, zip up, and dive into icy water as part of an annual celebration of community, challenge and resilience.
From the famed Serpentine Swimming Club’s Christmas Morning race in London to Boxing Day swims and New Year’s plunges all along the coast, cold water swimming has become a feel-good tradition that unites thrill-seekers, charity fundraisers, and seasoned open-water swimmers alike.
Here Are Top Tips for First-Timers to Cold Water Swimming this chritsmas
Stepping into near-freezing water for the first time can be daunting, but with the right mindset and preparation, it’s exhilarating. Here’s how to get started safely:
Start with a Dip, Not a Swim: Stay close to shore and only go in for a short time - 30 seconds to a few minutes max.
Wear Quality Swimwear or a Wetsuit: You can still get the thrill of a cold water swim wearing a wetsuit - it just helps retain body heat while still letting you feel the invigorating cold.
Gloves, Socks & Cap: Neoprene accessories like gloves and socks protect your extremities and can help you withstand the cold for longer.
Acclimatise Gradually: Don't go from the sofa to sub-zero water. Try cold showers in the lead-up to your swim to help acclimatise.
Bring Warm Layers for Afterwards: Changing robes, beanie hats and thick socks are ideal for post-swim warmth and a robe helps you get changed discreetly and easily on the shore.
Never Swim Alone: Even in a group event, always swim with someone - if you start to feel unwell they can help you.
Listen to Your Body: Numb hands, confusion, or prolonged shivering are signs it’s time to get out.
Swim-spiration from Zone3 Ambassadors
"get together and enjoy the physical and mental benefits of the cold water."
"Blue Balls Cornwall is cold water dipping group based in Cornwall, that encourages men into the water to improve our health & wellbeing.
We’re a supportive community where us fellas get together and enjoy the physical and mental benefits of the cold water.
Christmas can be a tricky time of year to navigate for so many different reasons, it’s important to take some time for yourself.
We’ll be dipping frequently over the festive period, so if you’d like to join us for a cold water swim, please reach out.
Trunks, boardies & wetsuits are all welcome but please bear in mind it’s a cold time of year, and warming up after your swim is essential!"
Tom - Co-Founder, @BlueBallsCornwall
"I've just taken part in the annual santa swim with @madhattersports, an incredible swimrun event company based in Cornwall that also host weekly social swims all year round.
Every year we pick a local swim spot, get all dressed up and the best dressed wins a prize. The winners were astoundingly clear this year with the epic 'Cinderella's Ugly Sisters' outfits.
This year was at Porthpean beach, we swim/splash our way over to the rocks and John the leader of Madhatters jumps out and plays the role of conductor and we sing Christmas carols loud and proud whilst floating in the sea, surrounded by pigs in blankets, elves, you name it.
It is my favourite day of the year. People go all in. They smile, they laugh and they let go for a little while!
I wore my Zone3 Yulex cozzie and my neoprene boots and made myself into some sort of ice queen/frozen woman!
My top tips for anyone taking on a santa swim is make sure your outfit is swim friendly! Real tricky when you realise 'I’m quite heavy in the water!' So, a nice lightweight outfit. Make it ocean friendly! Nothing that is going to melt off you into the water and most of all, have your layers for afterward ready! I had my changing robe waiting for me on the shore!….most importantly, wear a big smile!"
Sarah @EnLivenUKTri
"I swim all throughout the year anyway, but Surrey Outdoor Swimmers always have festive themed swims, plus a Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year's Day swim.
Fancy dress is encouraged, and festive treats are essential. Anyone is welcome to come along, just join our Facebook group and sign up via the events section - for all of our swims a tow float is essential, as we swim in a busy river.
I swim all year round, as I can't bear to be away from the river - even for a short time! Winter dips are great, we all support and look after each other, the feeling is amazing and there's a real sense of achievement.
This December is my 6 th year of swimming through winter.
My top tips for people doing thinking of doing it this year:
Take it slowly, breathe and don't stay in too long. A hot drink, warm layers and a hot water bottle for afterwards will also help you warm up properly."
Sue - @52swims52weeks
"I don't have a festive swim planned as such, but I do swim in the North Sea all year round so know a thing or two about cold water swimming.
For those thinking of going for a swim during winter, like a New Years Day dip my top tips is:
Layer up! Cold Water exposure still counts if you are wearing a wetsuit, or Yulex or both!
I often layer for swims using Zone3 trisuit, Yulex knee skin, neoprene hood, socks and gloves as well as my wetsuit.
I also like to have a sip of tea before and after going into the sea, to warm you up from the inside."
Martin @Mart_71__
Cold Water Swimming in Winter
Is it safe to swim in winter?
With the right preparation, cold water swimming can be a safe and incredibly rewarding experience. The key is to treat it with the respect it deserves. That means:
Wearing the appropriate kit, such as a wetsuit, gloves, socks along with a bright coloured swim cap and tow-float for safety and visibility.
Knowing your own limits, the risks of cold water shock and exiting the water before you feel cold to the core.
Never swimming alone - always go with a friend or join a group, ideally with lifeguards or safety support on site.
Choosing safe, known swim locations like supervised open-water venues, lakes with lifebuoys, or organised festive swim events.
Listening to your body. If you feel lightheaded, start to shiver uncontrollably, or feel confused, it’s time to get out and warm up immediately.
While the water may be cold, the swim should feel controlled and intentional - not a test of endurance. With the right kit and attitude, winter swimming is both safe and deeply energising.
What temperature is too cold to swim in?
Water below 5°C is considered “extreme cold” and at this level, even a few minutes of exposure can lead to cold shock or hypothermia if you're unprepared.
However, short dips of 30 seconds to 2 minutes can still be safe and enjoyable if you:
- Acclimatise gradually (cold showers or regular cold dips help).
- Avoid diving or jumping in - always enter the water slowly to allow your body to adjust.
- Focus on breathing - cold water shock can cause hyperventilation, so keep your breath calm and controlled.
Join In the Festive Fun
Open Water Swimming really grew in popularity in the UK during the pandemic and winter swimming has never been more popular.
Social media is full of icy smiles, red noses, and post-dip mugs of tea. In part, it’s about wellness - mental clarity, resilience, and natural highs. It’s also a great way to become part of a community, or extend your swim training.
Many clubs around the UK are hosting festive events this winter. If you want to join in, just searching on social media or Google will help you find an event to join!
