November — Embracing the Chill 🌬️🍂

November has arrived and with it comes one of the most magical transitions of the year.  As you head down to the water, you might notice it before you even touch the surface: the soft crunch of fallen leaves underfoot, the woodsmoke in the air and that unmistakable bite in the breeze that signals the start of the cold-water season.  For many of us this is when the true magic of wild swimming begins.

The Beauty of Autumn Waters

The trees are releasing their final bursts of colour and many of your favourite swim spots may now be dotted with amber and gold leaves drifting across the surface.  It’s a stunning time to swim — the skies are often crisp and clear, the world quieter, the water slightly calmer.

Take a moment to enjoy the contrast of warm colours around you and the increasingly cool temperatures beneath you.  It’s nature’s reminder to slow down, breathe in deeply, and savour the season.

Autumn Vibes

Temperature Check: The Big Drop

If you've been dipping regularly, you've likely noticed the change already. Water temperatures in lakes, rivers and seas are sliding down into the single digits.  This is the month when many swims shift from “refreshing” to “bracing” and everyone’s cold-water strategies start to matter a little more.

Be mindful of:

• Acclimatising yourself to the water temperature - don’t just jump in

• Shorter, more controlled swim time

• Afterdrop (that shivery phase after you exit the water)

• The importance of warming up slowly

Remember — cold adaptation is a journey.  Listen to your body every time you swim.

Start Thinking About Your Winter Kit

Now is the perfect time to gather the gear that will keep your winter swims enjoyable and safe.  A good kit doesn’t need to be expensive, but it does need to be ready.

Here’s a checklist to get you started:

Before & During the Swim

• Organise your kit bag - Place the clothes you’ll need first at the top of your kit bag so you can get dressed quickly and easily after your swim

• Neoprene gloves

• Neoprene socks or booties

• Swim cap or bobble hat

• Tow float (visibility becomes more important on darker days)

• Waterproof changing mat

After the Swim

• Warm hat — ideally something woolly and ridiculous

• Plenty of layers to step into immediately:

  • Base layer

  • Fleece

  • Insulated jacket

  • Loose, easy-to-pull-on trousers or joggers

  • Dry robe (long sleeves make a difference!)

• Thermos with something hot — ginger tea, soup or hot chocolate

• Enamel mug when filled with a hot drink can help warm your hands

• Stash of emergency snacks or CAKE!

Watch the Light

Shorter days mean less morning brightness and early darkness.  If you’re swimming at dawn or dusk:

• Wear bright colours

• Add a light to your tow float

• Swim with someone or tell someone exactly where you’re going

A Final November Thought

This month is all about transition — from warmth to cold, from bright green to rust and gold, from long swims to thoughtful dips.  It’s a beautiful reminder that swimming isn’t just a sport; it’s a seasonal rhythm.

Here’s to crisp air, cold cheeks and the invigorating joy of autumn water.

Keep swimming wild and keep swimming safely.