Open Water Swimming Kit You Should Never Leave Home Without

If you love swimming in open water, you’ll know that a proper open water swimming kit is essential. Whether you like to swim at dawn to see the sun rise over the water, explore waters in remote areas of the world, or build up your comfort swimming in cold waters, you will find that having the right gear makes each swim safer and more enjoyable. Here are five items of gear that you simply should never leave home without. 

Swimming Tow Float Backpack

Safety should always come first when swimming outdoors, and a tow float is one of the simplest ways to improve your visibility in the water. The 2-in-1 Reversible Swim Tow Float Backpack works as a comfortable waterproof backpack for carrying your kit to the water, then quickly transforms into a high-visibility tow float with approximately 19 litres of dry storage while you swim.

This innovative design is particularly useful for point-to-point swims, remote locations or anyone who doesn't want to carry multiple bags. With reflective detailing, dual air chambers, integrated emergency whistles and waterproof storage for valuables, it's a practical upgrade for regular open water swimmers.

EVO Pro Change Robe

A quality changing robe gives you privacy while changing and helps you retain body heat after leaving the water. The EVO Pro Change Robe range is designed with waterproof outer fabrics, warm fleece lining and generous changing space, making it a favourite among wild swimmers throughout the year. Whether you're drying off beside a lake or standing in a breezy beach car park, having a good changing robe in your open water swimming kit helps make the transition from water to warm clothing far more comfortable.

Insulated Stainless Steel Adventure Flask

Packing a flask filled with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate gives you something warming to enjoy while you recover and change. The Insulated Stainless Steel Adventure Flask is compact enough to slip into your swim bag while helping to keep drinks hot for hours. It's a small addition to your kit, but one that many experienced swimmers wouldn't miss out on in their open water swimming kit, especially on chilly mornings or winter swims.

Flow Organic Cotton Beanie

You lose heat quickly once you leave the water, particularly through your head. A soft, comfortable beanie is one of those items you'll be glad you packed in your open water swimming kit. The Flow Organic Cotton Beanie Hat is ideal for pulling on immediately after changing, helping you stay warm while you enjoy a post-swim drink or head home. It's lightweight, easy to pack and useful well beyond swim days too.

Microfibre Adventure Towel

A lightweight microfibre towel dries you quickly, packs down small and dries far faster than traditional cotton alternatives. The Compact Quick Dry Microfibre Adventure Towel is ideal for open water adventures where packing space is limited. Its compact size makes it easy to keep permanently packed in your swim bag, ready for whenever the opportunity for a swim arises.

If you have any questions about any of the fantastic Red Equipment products in this open water swimming kit, you can always get in touch with us. Our expert team will be more than happy to assist you and help you ensure your everyday swimming kit is ready for whatever the elements throw at it!