Open Water Swimming Kit Essentials in Oxfordshire – What You Need to Get Started
- Annie Hollest
- Apr 21, 2023
- 3 min read
Getting into open water swimming in Oxfordshire? Whether you're training for a triathlon, swimming for fitness, or building confidence in open water, having the right gear makes all the difference. At Tri Swim Coaching, we’ve coached hundreds of swimmers at Queenford Lake and beyond — and we know exactly what kit will help you swim safer, warmer, and stronger.
1. A Proper Open Water Swimming Wetsuit
Your standard surf wetsuit won’t cut it for distance swimming. A triathlon-specific wetsuit is designed for movement, warmth, and buoyancy — helping you glide through the water more efficiently.
There are now even wetsuits made specifically for breaststroke swimmers, so there's something for everyone!
💬 We proudly recommend and sell Zone3 gear — a trusted UK brand based in Oxford, offering high-performance wetsuits and accessories. We’ve been using Zone3 kit for over a decade, and it’s consistently top quality.
👉 Need help choosing your wetsuit? Email Ali and Annie for expert, local advice.
2. Tow Float – Stay Safe & Visible
Safety is everything in open water. A tow float is essential when swimming in lakes, rivers, or the sea — especially in areas like Queenford Lake, Dorchester, or Witney Lake.
You wear it around your waist, and it floats behind you, increasing your visibility to other water users and safety crews. Many models also include dry compartments for phones, snacks, and hydration — perfect for longer swims.
Looking to buy one? Check out Swim Secure — another brilliant UK-based brand offering durable tow floats and open water accessories.
3. Bright-Coloured Swim Hat
Most open water venues in Oxfordshire, including Queenford Lake Open Water Swim Centre, require you to wear a brightly coloured swim cap for safety reasons.
Even in non-lifeguarded areas like Farmoor Reservoir or parts of the Thames, a high-visibility swim hat helps other water users see you clearly.
🎯 It also helps retain heat on colder days, so it’s a win-win for safety and warmth.
4. Polarised or Photochromatic Goggles
Goggles are a personal choice, but we recommend polarised or photochromatic lenses to reduce surface glare and protect your eyes when swimming in natural light.
Popular Oxfordshire swim spots like Queenford, Cotswold Water Park, and Wallingford’s Thames swim locations are exposed to sunlight — so glare can be intense.
Tips:
Choose a pair that fits your face snugly
Avoid touching the inside of the lenses
Once you find a favourite pair, get a backup!
Try checking out goggles from brands like Zoggs UK or Aqua Sphere.
5. Neoprene Extras for Cold Water Comfort
If you're new to open water swimming in the UK or feel the cold easily, neoprene accessories are a great investment.
We recommend:
Neoprene booties to protect your feet
Neoprene gloves for colder months
A neoprene swim cap or thermal hat for added warmth
You’ll see plenty of swimmers at Queenford and the Cotswolds going without wetsuits — but that’s usually the result of gradual adaptation. Don’t rush — layer up and build confidence first!
Want to know more about acclimatising to cold water? Outdoor Swimmer Magazine has great tips on staying safe and warm.
Get your Open Water Swimming Kit Essentials with us!
We use Zone3 and Swim Secure kit ourselves and can advise honestly on the best open water swimming kit essentials fit for your needs.
📍 Join Us at Queenford Lake – Oxfordshire’s Premier Open Water Swim Centre
Now that your kit is sorted, why not join one of our open water swim coaching courses at Queenford Lake Open Water Swim Centre, located just outside Oxford?
We offer group courses and 1-to-1 coaching for all levels:
Nervous beginners building confidence
Intermediate swimmers refining technique
Triathletes training for local events like Blenheim Palace Triathlon or the Cotswold Classic
📞 Can’t find the right course for you? No problem. Contact Ali on 07760 449884 or email ali@triswimcoaching.com and we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Why Tri Swim Coaching?
✅ Experienced, friendly coaches based in Oxfordshire
✅ Decades of open water and triathlon experience
✅ Local knowledge of venues, races, and training spots
✅ Fully insured, welcoming environment for all abilities
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're preparing for your first event or just want to feel stronger in the water, we’re here to help.
👉 Contact us for kit advice or training support
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