What is Winter Swimwear? Everything You Should Know

Two words you thought you'd never hear together: winter, swimwear. Honestly, it sounds insane doesn't it? Winter swimwear? You're telling me there are people who get in water when it's freezing outside?

Astonishingly, yes, there are, and it turns out, it's really good for you (of course. Everything that sounds terrible is good for you.) In fact, swimming during the winter months is a great way to boost your immune system, prevent SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), and look like a total badass in front of your friends.

In fact, you don't actually need to jump into any frozen lakes or do open water ocean swimming to keep swimming all year long: your local gym probably has a heated indoor pool, and while it may not be quite as badass as jumping into a frozen lake, it does offer a lot of the same health benefits.

So let's talk about winter swimwear. What it is, what it isn't, and why you would even need it.

What is Winter Swimwear?

Okay, so is winter swimwear actually a thing?

Well, yes and no. Obviously, you don't actually need a different type of swimsuit to swim in winter if you're just planning to swim in a heated indoor pool. If you are planning to jump into a frozen lake, however, then you might need something more substantial than a g-string bikini.

A wide range of swimwear, including rash guards, wetsuits, and even regular one piece swimsuits with long arms, high necks and longer legs are available for staying warmer during your holiday season swims.

In addition, you'll probably want to invest in some cover-ups and extra layers to put on when you get out of the water, since the air temp will be significantly lower than it is in summer. 

Finally, buying yourself a cute new one-piece swimsuit or some new swim bottoms specifically for this time of year can be a way to motivate yourself to get out there and keep swimming during the winter months when motivation is hard to come by.

Look for styles you wouldn't normally wear in summer, and switch up the patterns and colors to make it truly "winter."

Popular Swimwear Styles for Winter

If you're looking for the perfect swimsuit for your body type this holiday season, consider some of the styles that lend themselves well to winter swimming.

Tankini

The tankini provides a little more coverage than your standard bikini, which will trap more heat next to your skin and keep you a little warmer. And, since you'll most likely be swimming indoors, you won't have to worry about getting awkward tan lines.

Rash Guard

The rash guard is popular among surfers because it protects the skin from damage from your board, sand, and sun. But it makes a great winter swimwear option too, because of the long sleeves, high neckline, and full coverage.

A rash guard basically looks like a shirt, and comes in various thicknesses, so depending on how cold your water is going to be, you can probably find something suitable. Just make sure it's the right size and pay close attention to the care instructions.

Long Swim Bottoms

Paired with a rash guard or tankini up top, long swim bottoms can do a lot to keep you warmer in chilly water. Again, they come in various thicknesses, like swimsuits, so read the label to figure out which thickness is right for your water temperature.

Wetsuits

For those doing hardcore lake swimming, winter surfing, diving, or other activities, a good wetsuit is a must. Most surfers and divers have a few different suits of varying thicknesses. The best way to choose the right suit is to go to a surf shop and have a professional help you figure out what you need.

Styles and Colors

For those of us sticking to the indoor pool, playing with style and color is a fun way to keep swimming interesting in the winter. Plenty of companies make winter-specific styles and prints, and others make suits that just scream winter!

Here are a few options we think would make great winter swimsuits.

Surfer Top

The Surfer Top is sporty and comfortable, with long sleeves and scoop neck. It shows off a little bit of midriff while keeping most of your top half covered. Perfect for winter!

Bon Voyage Bottom

These bottoms provide full coverage and are made of thick, fully-lined material that will keep you warm and won't ride up or slip down. Pair with a long-sleeve top like the one above and you're good to go!

Kirra One-Piece Swimsuit

A one-piece swimsuit with excellent coverage and cap sleeves, this suit is great for any body type.

Layering for Warmth

Layers are essential if you don't want to freeze your tukkus off running back and forth between the heated pool and the hot tub. While a big comfy hooded sweater or a towel works great, cover-ups like the Ocean Breeze coverup will also keep you warm and stylish. 

Deals

Of course, if you're not into the idea of winter swimming, December through March is still a great time to shop for the perfect swimsuit at a discount. Most companies run deals on off-season items like swimwear and resort gear, so it's the perfect time to score high-quality gear at discount prices.

Summing It Up

Whether you're taking a winter vacation, looking to up your badass credentials by taking a dip in the cold plunge or a mountain stream, or just looking to get some laps in at the Y, a winter swimsuit can be the perfect way to stay motivated, look stylish, and keep swimming during winter months.