Why Long-Sleeve Swimsuits Are a Game-Changer for Wild Swimming
Wild swimming through the seasons is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Whether you’re easing into cold water immersion or chasing the high of open water swims, the gear you choose matters.
One essential bit of kit that we swear by? A long-sleeve swimsuit.
At The Wild Swim Store, we’ve tested these suits ourselves in rivers, lakes, and the sea.
Here’s why a long-sleeve swimsuit for cold water swimming might just become your new favourite bit of kit.
1. Extra Warmth for Cold Water Dips
A long-sleeve swimsuit offers lightweight insulation — perfect for all your cold water swims, whether you are taking a cold water dip in open water or your dip tank or heading out for a longer distance training swim.
Neoprene works a little magic when it comes to cold water swimming — it traps a thin layer of water against your skin, which your body then warms up. That warm layer acts like insulation, helping to keep you more comfortable in chilly water, without the need for a full wetsuit.
2. Protection from the Elements
Whether you’re climbing over barnacle-covered rocks to reach the sea, wading through the reeds and tangled plants that line lakes, or navigating sharp stones near a waterfall, a long-sleeve swimsuit gives you that extra layer of protection between you and the wild.
They help guard against scrapes or jellyfish stings — making them a must-have for cold water adventurers swimming year-round.
3. Natural UV and Wind Protection
A long-sleeve swimsuit covers your shoulders and arms, helping protect your skin from both sun and wind — great for open water swimming in any season.
4. Confidence in the Water
Long-sleeve suits give a sense of security, especially if you’re new to cold water therapy or want more coverage. Our community often shares how much more confident they feel in a long-sleeve suit.
5. Designed for Wild and Open Water Swimmers
Not all swimsuits are made with wild swimmers in mind — but this one truly is.
Our Wild Swim Store x Yonda Long-Sleeve Swimsuit was created by wild swimmers, for wild swimmers. We know the small details matter when you’re getting changed on a windswept beach or stepping into icy water — and this suit was designed with those moments in mind.
It’s made from 2mm Yamamoto neoprene — a premium, ultra-flexible material that moves with you, not against you. The longer zip at the back means it’s easy to step in and out of, and the extended zip cord and clever finger loop make zipping up completely fuss-free, even with chilly hands.
We’ve also gone big on comfort and fit. The high neckline offers a secure, comfortable fit that feels snug and supportive without ever feeling restrictive — like a gentle hug around your neck.
The size range runs from UK 6 to 30 — because wild swimming should feel accessible and empowering, no matter what size you are.
This suit isn’t just practical — it feels good to wear.
Supportive, flattering, warm, and easy to move in — it’s become our go-to for cold water dips, coastal swims, and open water distance swims.
Shop the LongSleeve
Who Are Long-Sleeve Swimsuits For?
• Cold water dippers who want extra warmth
• Open water swimmers needing extra protection from the elements
• Wild swimmers who love exploring their swim spots
• Anyone practicing cold water therapy for health or wellbeing
• Swimmers who want more coverage without sacrificing comfort or style.
A long-sleeve swimsuit is one of the most versatile pieces of kit for anyone swimming through the seasons.
Whether you’re plunging into a cold water dip tank, swimming through the seasons, training for your next open water event, or simply going for a wild dip, these swimsuits are made to support your journey.
From fresh water rivers to salty sea swims, they offer warmth, protection, and the confidence to explore the wild, one swim at a time.
Ready to try one?