Safe cold-water thresholds while wearing wetsuits approved for open water swimming competitions

Journal of Applied Physiology 2026

View at publisher
Authors: Benjamin C. Skutnik, Marley G. Owen, M. Jo Hite, Leo A. Sweitzer, Jonathan W. Petersen, Blair D. Johnson, Timothy D. Mickleborough, Joel McCormick Stager, Zachary J. Schlader
DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01102.2025
Cited by: 0
References: 17

Abstract

Using a novel experimental protocol, this study provides empirical determination of critical cold-water temperature for competitive open water swimmers while wearing two different World Aquatics-approved wetsuits designs. Well-trained swimmers protected core temperature down to 15.0°C, below current 16°C regulations, which did not differ between sleeved and sleeveless wetsuits. These findings provide objective evidence supporting current conservative regulatory approaches.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Thermoregulation and physiological responses Sports Performance and Training Cardiovascular and exercise physiology

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Applied Physiology
Volume
140
Issue
3
Pages
816–824
Publication date
24 February 2026
Language
EN