Wetsuit Alternatives: Stay Warm Without a Full Wetsuit While Open Water Swimming
With high-quality wetsuits being priced north of $500, it’s smart to gauge your actual need for a wetsuit before investing in one.
If you need a wetsuit, there aren’t many true alternatives. However, if you’re not sure if an alternative would work instead of investing in a wetsuit, Coach Christina has a couple of suggestions for you to try first.
● Neoprene Hood
A neoprene hood swim cap insulates and warms your head while swimming in cold temperatures. It also can keep cold water out of your ears. Neoprene material is a thick synthetic rubber that is water, oil, and heat resistant, meaning it will keep your head warm without allowing the cold to have as great of an impact on your head.
● Earplugs
Earplugs prevent swimmer’s ear, which is an infection, and surfer’s ear, which is a bony growth stimulated by exposure to cold water and wind. They can also help keep your body warm by preventing cold water from entering your ear canal.
● Both
The combination of earplugs and a neoprene hood can keep your head warm without having an entire wetsuit. While it does not provide the warmth of a wetsuit, it’s a solid alternative. By trying both before purchasing a wetsuit, you can test your body’s ability and your personal comfort with swimming in cold temperatures before making a significant investment in a wetsuit.
We also recommend renting a wetsuit before purchasing at Sports Basement, a local chain. Sports Basement offers a rental fee refund when you purchase from them!