Cold water dipping

By Liv Wilson

It’s about time you started Cold Water Dipping isn’t it?

You’d not be too far off thinking almost everyone is cold water dipping these days! Over the past couple of years, throwing yourself into bracing waters has been on the rise and now there are an enormous amount of people reducing their stress levels and boosting their immune systems (and their libido) by taking the plunge! As winter starts to disappear and the warmer Spring mornings approach, perhaps it’s finally time for you to give it a go. Whilst cold water dipping is fun, it’s important that you take it seriously and understand exactly what you need to be safe. Hypothermia is a real risk and beginners should only dip in cold, open waters for very short periods of time and ensure they have the correct accessories to warm back up afterwards. Here are a few things you’ll need to get your natural high, have fun and stay safe!!

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3mm Glove RRP $49.99

No we’re not mad. It’s crazy how much easier it is to get in amongst the cold waves if your hands are warm! These cold water surfing and swimming gloves are designed for even the chilliest of mornings and are, in my opinion, more important than a hood!

Toasty Life Ultra Warm Fleece Lined Weatherproof Jacket RRP $289.00

This outdoor changing robe is key to getting warm fast. Buy a size up so that you can change whilst inside it and you’ll thank your lucky stars! Its thick, soft, moisture wicking fleece acts as a blanket to keep your core warm and dry even during the coldest months.

Adrenalin Women’s Wahine Long Sleeve Suit RRP $159.99

If you think you’ll need a wetty (not everyone does), this super stretchy and lightweight suit is perfect for swimming and dipping, providing protection and warmth without restricting your movement. Awesome because a bit of floundering around is a must!

Body Glove Heavy Duty Dry Bag RRP$39.99

You can just as easily use a ‘bag for life’ but hey, if you want to look the part then these dry bags are awesome. Pop all your things inside and they’re guaranteed to keep your towel and clothes dry whilst you’re busy getting wet! Itiwit Waterproof Large Phone Pouch RRP $15.00

What’s the point in dipping if there’s no evidence you did it right? You’ll be so glad you invested in one of these when you’re bobbing around in the waves.

Speedo Long Hair Cap RRP $17

If you’ve got long hair and you’re considering daily dipping, this cap will be your new best friend. Not only does it keep your luscious locks bone dry and salt free, it also acts as another layer under a beanie and stops the wind getting to your ears!! (You’re welcome.)

Aussie Gold Floating Thermometer RRP $9.00

Don’t trust the weatherman, get yourself your own thermometer! This is what will score you your bragging rights. “It was only 8 degrees mum!”

Kmart 1.5L Vacuum Flask RRP $21.00

A flask full of warm tea or hot coffee will be the icing on the cake whilst you’re sitting waterside post dip. Filling the flask with clean warm water is also handy to pour over very cold toes. **Make sure it’s tepid and not hot otherwise you may burn yourself!

Target Women’s Sidney II Slipper Boots RRP $20

Covering your cold toes in talcum powder and sliding them into warm fur lined boots will be a pleasure like no other on cold days! Choose a size bigger so you can add chunky woolly socks too.

The key to keeping safe is to limit the time you spend in the water until you have acclimatized and get dry and dressed quickly when you get out. Now, go out there and wrap yourself in those gorgeous salty waves! Top tip: Wool is best for getting warm, so invest in a good woolly hat, thick woolly socks and a great pair of gloves.