Latest news with #Finisterre
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Shop the fleece gilet that Clarkson's Farm star Harriet Cowan owns in 2 colours
Harriet Cowan has become the standout star of season five of Clarkson's Farm, and her uniform fleece gilet is already being coveted by fans – so we tracked it down When on the lookout for fashion inspiration, you probably wouldn't think to head straight to Diddly Squat Farm, the location of Jeremy Clarkson 's Amazon Prime hit series Clarkson's Farm. However the arrival of new team member Harriet Cowan is about to change all that, as fans have already labelled her a fan favourite, not to mention been searching her social media for where to buy some of her outfits. And whilst Harriet's outfits are all done with practical farm life in mind, it seems this summer everyone's hoping to copy some of her country chic looks. One piece that's been a stand out is her fleece gilet, which has appeared in several scenes on the show, not to mention been spotted in multiple social media posts of hers posted prior to the show airing. In fact, Harriet loves the gilet so much she owns it in at least two colours. Whilst she's not mentioned the brand on her TikTok and Instagram posts, an eagle eyed look at her previous posts indicated it's most likely to be Schoffel's Lyndon Fleece Gilet. Although plenty of other outdoor brands have created their own versions, Schoffel's is considered the original blueprint for the look. It's also been worn by fellow Clarkson's Farm stars Charlie Ireland and Kaleb Cooper, although they would have presumably opted for the men's Oakham version. Harriet appears to have both the navy and the forest green colours, and a close look at some of her TikTok videos shows the white writing detail on the front zip and Schoffel's signature brown trim. It also features an adjustable drawcord around the waist which lets you cinch it in for a little more shape. The technical fleece is soft, warm, breathable and hard wearing, making it perfect for being out in the British countryside, and is made from Italian-milled Pontetorto fleece. It's currently available in sizes 6 to 22 for £160, with 10 colours to choose from. Although there are TikTok videos of Harriet wearing the iconic fleece as far back as 2021, more recently, Harriet shared a new addition to her fleece gilet collection, posting that Beaumont and Bear had also gifted her a navy fleece with a similar design. There are also plenty of other options around, including Finisterre's Women's Hegen Wool Fleece Gilet which is £135 and comes in a light oatmeal colour. For bargain hunters, Craghoppers has slashed the price of its Women's Dinas Vest from £65 to £45.50. Meanwhile Regatta's currently has 50% off slashing it to £12.50. However for the true authentic countrywear look – and to follow in almost all of the Clarkson's Farm stars' footsteps, shop Schoffel's women's Lyndon Fleece Gilet and men's Oakham Fleece Gilet now.
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Travel + Leisure
11-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Coastal English Area Is Known for Stunning Beaches—but It's Home to a Community of Artists, Too
I suppose there was a moment when someone hiked this cliff, above this opal-colored sea, for the very first time. Humans have occupied Cornwall, in southwestern England, since the Mesolithic period. Back then, however, they wouldn't have seen the town of St. Ives in the distance, with its tiered cottages and fishing boats. I imagine they might have admired the purple heather on the hills, like I did, or maybe noticed a pair of gannets, like the ones I saw plunging into the water for fish. 'This is an ancient area, a Celtic area,' Tom Kay, my hiking companion, told me—a fabled land of mermaids and giants. 'There's old myths everywhere.' Kay is the founder of Finisterre, the Cornish outdoors brand. An ardent surfer, he started making fleece sweaters in St. Agnes in 2003, because nothing in the local wave shops suited the Cornish climate, so often windswept and cold. Finisterre now has stores in St. Ives and London, as well as 12 more across the U.K. The label is still headquartered in Cornwall, with the region's history of craft woven into the designs. From left: The beach in St. Ives; low tide in St. Ives harbor. Hayley Benoit Cafés along the St. Ives waterfront. Hayley Benoit Kay held out a navy sweater he'd brought for our hike, made in collaboration with Britain's Royal National Lifeboat Institution. The pattern is inspired by the Cornish gansey, which was originally knitted by fishermen's wives and daughters: a tightly woven woolen style designed to keep out the wind and saltwater spray, with a pattern of chevrons above the chest. 'In the 18th century, the nearby villages each had their own knit pattern so, if you got washed overboard or were lost at sea, they could identify where you came from by the pattern,' he said. This was my first time in Cornwall, and I had only known the region for its greatest hits: beef-filled pasties, seaside holidays, a cultural identity that carries an independent political streak. (Cornish, a historic Celtic language, is now taught in some primary schools.) From left: Shellfish traps in storage at Porthmeor Studios; Philip Medley at Porthmeor. Hayley Benoit From left: Tagliatelle at the Harbour View House restaurant; a guest room at the Harbour View House. Hayley Benoit But St. Ives, which has a population of about 11,000, is also the region's creative hub, and has deep artistic ties. J.M.W. Turner, the Romantic artist, painted some of his best-known works in the area. Barbara Hepworth, the 20th-century British sculptor, lived in town, where a museum and sculpture garden preserves her studio and works. Cornwall has suffered from long declines in the fishing and mining industries, but the arts community remains strong. In recent years, a new group of craftspeople and artisans—'makers,' basically—have hunkered down and are reviving old traditions. 'There's a lot of opportunity for creative work here,' Andrew Todd, a fashion designer and mixed-media artist, told me one morning over coffee. 'It feels like Cornwall is building on its legacy of arts, crafts, and niche businesses.' From left: Works at Leach Pottery; Roelof Uys at Leach Pottery. Hayley Benoit From left: Tom Kay, the founder of Finisterre; a Finisterre vest. Hayley Benoit So what is it about the area that people find so inspiring? I flew in to London's Gatwick airport last July and took a quick flight to Newquay, followed by a 40-minute drive down the coast. It was an easy trip, but a long one—I was traveling from Los Angeles—so when I checked in to the Harbour View House, I gratefully accepted a Negroni. Then I started to look around. With some surprise, I noticed the staff was young and the décor rustic and sunny. The vibe was kinda Melbourne, kinda Malibu. To discover the next morning that there was a surprisingly good breakfast burrito—well, if I hadn't known St. Ives was a beach town, I did now. My first outing was the cliff hike with Kay. He thought the coastal vistas were key to understanding what stirs creativity—the ruggedness of the hills, the soft colors. Afterward, I continued walking, but in a more urbane fashion: strolling the streets around my hotel. St. Ives is hilly, and filled with cottages, tiny shops, and art galleries, all of them overlooking a bay of fishing boats. In the summer, it's also smashed with tourists. I was lucky to snag a table for lunch at St. Eia, a chic wine bar and coffee shop that served me a delicate, delicious sandwich filled with Cornish crab. A short walk later, I arrived at Leach Pottery, a town institution that's both a museum and a working studio. Founded in 1920 by a pair of ceramists, Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada, it continues to draw potters from around the world to learn from its unique melding of British and Japanese traditions. 'Getting all this knowledge is highly coveted,' Callum Cowie, one of two current apprentices, told me. The restaurant at Harbour View House, in St. Ives. Hayley Benoit Roelof Uys, the studio's lead potter, said generations of artists had traveled to Cornwall for its scenery and rustic, small-town culture. 'It's about a way of living, and living in a beautiful way,' he said. Historically, rent was also cheap. But that is no longer the case—especially since the pandemic, when Londoners snapped up coastal homes and prices spiked. Uys, who has lived in Cornwall for 26 years, worries that his children won't be able to afford to stay when they grow up. Leach Pottery has persevered, he said, because of its devotion to the craft. 'It's about continuing the tradition of Cornwall being a place for creativity.' St. Michael's Mount, near Penzance. Hayley Benoit For a fuller picture of Cornwall's creative pedigree, I headed back toward the sea, to the Tate St. Ives. What other beach community can claim a major museum with ocean views? Opened in 1993, the Tate celebrates the area's artistic legacy. One gallery had a special display of five abstracts by Mark Rothko. The paintings were originally commissioned for the Four Seasons restaurant in New York. But Rothko, who took a break from the murals in 1959 and visited St. Ives, decided they weren't right for the Four Seasons and donated them to the Tate Gallery shortly before his death in 1970. I was able to sit quietly for 10 minutes and absorb them; for a moment, I honestly felt like they were speaking to me. From left: The studio of Andrew Todd, Finisterre's head designer; Andrew Todd in his studio. Hayley Benoit I dined that night at the Fish Shed St. Ives, a light meal of oysters and french fries, and on a recommendation from my bartender, I finished the evening with a hike up to St. Nicholas Chapel (in the summer the sun sets as late as 9:30 p.m.). The church has been there since the 15th century, overlooking the beach. It made me wonder if the light had always been so sumptuous, and if it had seemed that way to people centuries ago. My second day started at Porthmeor Studios, possibly the oldest artists' studios in England. It has provided workspaces for fishermen and artists since the 1880s—a truly Cornwall-esque combination—which meant some rooms were full of nets and buoys and others stocked with art. The artists I met were all professionals represented by galleries in London, New York, and beyond. I asked one painter, Philip Medley, if the ocean inspired him. His abstract work did not look remotely nautical, but his studio had massive windows that faced the sea. 'Subconsciously it gets in,' he admitted. 'Especially in the winter, when the weather kicks off. I'm not conscious of it, but I suspect it's there.' From left: The Roundhouse, in Penzance; baked goods at the Roundhouse. Hayley Benoit Perhaps that was the key. Cornwall is more than just a place—it harbors a mystery and mystique that stir the imagination. I spent my final afternoon in the nearby town of Penzance, where I visited a modern art gallery called the Exchange. Lunch was a Cornish beer and a superb mortadella sandwich at the Roundhouse, a tiny café housed in a Victorian-era toll booth whose owner bakes his own focaccia. I felt nourished—by art, by nature, by the spirit of people creating with their hands. To live and work in Cornwall has probably never been easy, but its tradition of resourcefulness and artistry is thriving more strongly than ever. A version of this story first appeared in the June 2025 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline 'Dyed in the Wool.'
The Guardian
30-03-2025
- The Guardian
Always roll your clothes! 13 travel packing hacks to save you space and money – according to seasoned travellers
Packing is a fine art. No one wants to lug heavy bags around transport hubs or arrive at the other end to a chaotically stuffed bag full of creased clothes. But we all have our 'essentials' to cram in. For some, that'll be a full skincare routine or a semblance of a wardrobe; for others, it'll be sports equipment (though you really should leave the weights at home). So whether you're flying on an airline offering ever-dwindling luggage limits, trying to cram a car for the whole crew, or rushing between trains with a backpack, it really does pay to travel light. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. But what are the secrets to lightening the load without compromising? To find out, we've asked world travellers for all their best hacks and buys. Whether it's the travel writer who's been solo backpacking for more than 20 years or the hotel designer who has to dress smartly while zipping to locations across Europe, our globe-trotters shared their tips for everything from the ultimate wear-everywhere shoes to the best tech cheats. Ziploc variety pack (347 bags) £25.38 at eBay£25.15 at Amazon Rather than packing cubes, I use large ziplock bags; they are cheap and flexible. There are many sizes, so you can pick the right one for the job. Plus, they adapt to what you are packing: they can be rolled, squished and used inside one another to save space in your suitcase or bag. Ruby Hammer, makeup artist and founder of Ruby Hammer Beauty Drift 35-litre bag £110 at Finisterre I swear by my Drift waterproof tote bag from Finisterre. It's an essential part of my surf kit, though I also use it as my bag for cafe laptop sessions and as a catch-all for my beach gear. It fits everything I need, keeps it dry and works as hand luggage if I'm flying, too. Lindsey Holland, founder of surf retreat company Marnie Rays Travel yoga mat £55 at Yoga Design Lab£54 at Amazon This packable yoga mat by Yoga Design Lab is a gamechanger. It has revolutionised my routine when I'm travelling because I hate borrowing the gym studio mats. It's made from recycled bottles and is completely foldable, like a towel. It reacts to slight moisture, so if you are travelling to hot places the sweat on your hands makes the mat more sticky – which is great! Tamara Lohan, co-founder of Mr & Mrs Smith Houdini jacket £100 at PatagoniaFrom £60 at Cotswold Outdoor Fitz Roy down hoodie £240 at Patagonia I pack only a week's worth of clothes, even if I'm away for a month. Laundry can happen at the hotel. During the cold season, lightweight, technical coats and jackets cut out bulk: the best ones either pack into a tiny built-in bag or are made from down, which flattens and is super lightweight, taking up minimal space. I recommend Patagonia's Fitz Roy Down and Houdini jackets – I wear them while travelling to save room in my carry-on. The Fitz Roy is so warm you don't need to pack layers – just a T-shirt. Chuck George, founder of Chuck's restaurants Nevis Extreme 65 + 15 litre rucksack £99.99 at Mountain Warehouse£99.99 at Debenhams As someone who's on the road more often than not, packing light and for different weather is essential. For ease of jumping on and off public transport, I travel with backpacks. I like the selection at Mountain Warehouse because they're affordable and durable, which is important as they get chucked around on local buses. And as simple as it sounds, rolling and separating clothing (dresses, tops, bottoms) into fabric tote bags is my biggest space-saving hack. Why buy packing cubes when tote bags do the same job but roll up even neater? Rolling your clothes condenses them, so you can fit more in, and also keeps creases at bay. Lydia Swinscoe, solo travel writer, @lydiaswinscoe I pack colours and tones that pair well together, allowing me to mix and match while sometimes wearing the same pair of shorts or jeans on multiple occasions. I stick to packing the following: a cashmere jumper, a jumpsuit, a dress, four tops and jeans or shorts – depending on the weather. And I buy toiletries at my destination. I once moved to Palermo for six months, to research a cookbook and do travel writing, and just took a holdall using this technique. Anastasia Miari, of @MatriarchEats and author of Yiayia: Time-perfected Recipes from Greece's Grandmothers If you're off on a ski weekend and don't want to pay extra for checked luggage, it's possible to pack what you'll need within your cabin allowance. Free up space and weight by wearing your ski jacket and beanie. Take a pair of waterproof shoes with a good grip for walking around the resort, and wear these on the flight, too. Hire your skis and boots instead of bringing them, and clip your helmet to your bag, so it hangs from it. I've never had an issue flying with mine on display with British Airways. Alexander Blunt, co-founder of Heidi, the ski holiday planners Muji travel accessories From £1.50 at Muji Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion To maximise space in my suitcase, I streamline my toiletries, opting for products that double up. I also skip some makeup products altogether, such as blush and concealer – when travelling to hot destinations, I wear less makeup anyway. Alternatively, I decant as much of my skincare into reusable 100ml bottles that I can bring onboard with me in my hand luggage, freeing up valuable space in my suitcase. Muji's are best for clever packing, as they come in lots of shapes and sizes. Gina Jackon, author of An Opinionated Guide to London Hotels and travel writer, @ginagoesto For more, read our guide to the best refillable beauty Anker Prime charger £79.99 at Anker£64.99 at Amazon Although there aren't baggage limitations on trains, I like to pack light. I usually travel with my husband and two daughters and we always take just one multi-adaptor and multi-charger that the whole family can use. We like Anker and we always pack them in our rucksacks so we can use them on the train. Cat Jones, founder and CEO of Byway, the flight-free travel company Minako dyed linen trousers£140 at Toast Birkenstock Boston clog Men's, £140 at SchuhWomen's, £140 at Schuh I've finally cracked the capsule travel wardrobe: linen separates. A shirt and trousers in the same colour are lightweight, pack well, and can be styled in multiple ways. Pair them with classic foundational pieces – a tee, white shirt, jeans, Birkenstock clogs and a cardigan – and you're set for the whole trip. Rosie McKissock, brand director of Toast Keen Uneek sneaker £60 at Office£110 at Keen It's easy to overdo shoes when you go away, but I've realised that a single comfortable, neutral pair fulfils all my needs, and saves a lot of space. On a recent retreat in Ghana, I took a versatile sandal that was closed at the front, open with a strap at the back, and had a high-grip sole, making them perfect for pretty much every occasion. I also plan my outfits ahead of time, looking back at photos from previous holidays to see what I actually wore to help me pack smarter. Rebekah Jade, founder of Pana yoga and retreats Traveller shirts From £79 at Suit Supply I love travelling with my foldable Roav sunglasses – a space-saving gamechanger. They fit into a credit card-sized pouch rather than a bulky case. I also pack travel-friendly shirts from Suit Supply (they're made from a special type of high-twist pima cotton that is stretch- and wrinkle-resistant), packed with wire hangers to help maintain their shape. And remember: some items, such as toiletries, are best bought at the destination. Jacu Strauss, designer and creative director of Lore Group hotels Bob Beauté correction sticks £25 at Bob Beauté Violette_Fr Bisou balm £30 at Violette_Fr I travel with a few multifunctional beauty products that do it all. Makeup-wise, I like the Bob Beauté sticks – tiny pencils that work as a beauty balm, which is lighter than a foundation, and is buildable, so you can increase the coverage. Violette_Fr's lip balm is also a double lip moisturiser and colour in one. Inge Theron, founder of FaceGym Hayley Spencer is a journalist and editor with 15 years of experience in writing on topics spanning style, beauty and wellness
The Guardian
24-02-2025
- Climate
- The Guardian
‘Plunging is the ultimate tonic': the invigorating power of cold-water swimming
This winter has felt gloomier than ever in the UK, thanks to the current state of the world and the consistently grey, murky weather. But if you head to your nearest body of water – whether that's a river, lake, pond or sea – you will find colour, community and a flurry of joy at the water's edge. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. Yes, it's cold. Yes, it's a bit risky. And yes, it is a little odd at times, but winter swimming, dipping or plunging is the ultimate tonic. It's also believed to be good for us. I first started winter swimming more than a decade ago because I was lonely in the darker months. I already loved the open-water swimming community and was a committed May-September swimmer, but each autumn I would ache for adventure in the water. Winter swimming isn't anything new, but it's something that has grown significantly over the past five years, and while I was once the 'mad' lone swimmer in my local river, I am now one of many. And as interest in the activity grows, so does the amount of swimwear and kit you can buy. There have been some impressive developments in cold-water swimsuits. No swimsuit will take away the piercing cold against the skin (and nor do we want it to – that's a huge part of the thrill), but some do a great job of helping us stay in the water for longer. When I tested seven of this new breed of cold-water swimsuits for the Filter, I found that some helped me swim two to three times longer than usual, and recover more quickly after swimming. Some suits are more of a clever twist on a traditional swimsuit – like the M&S Scuba – while others are significantly better for cold-water swimming, such as Finisterre's Nieuwland. How did I test them? Easy – I dived into my local swim spot. I tested each suit in similar weather conditions and water temperatures, but no swim is the same, especially in winter: if the sun is out, it can feel warmer even if there's a frost on the ground. As a rule, more fabric against your skin can actually make you feel colder if it's wet, but with technical fabrics and considered design, cold-water swimsuits are well worth the money for regulars in the water. Look for features such as a silver lining and long-sleeved designs in thicker Yulex, a natural rubber alternative to neoprene, especially in the UK where the water rarely rises above 18C, even in summer. When it comes to other kit, whether tow floats or hats, what you need changes through the seasons. In winter, your body continues to cool even when you've left the water, so having a flask of tea, some decent base layers and a warm coat or robe will really help. Outdoor swimming purists will claim that all this kit is just clever marketing and you don't need much more than a suit, towel and carrier bag. But some developments in performance swimwear and kit have been designed or even invented by swimmers, so they can often solve a problem. I've put together a guide to all the cold-water swimming kit that could genuinely help. Whether you're a regular cool swimmer or considering dipping your toe into icy waters for the first time, no other activity forces you away from the world so successfully. And if you go prepared, it usually adds to the joy. 15 of the best men's jumpers, from cashmere and cable knit to merino wool I'm obsessed with finding the perfect pillow. These six favourites prove there's one for every sleeper 'The classiest gift I've heard of': what to bring to a dinner party (that isn't wine or chocolates) 'I love bass, bass, bass and bass': DJ Paulette, Carl Craig and more on the best DJ headphones 'More like vegetable cooking water': the best (and worst) supermarket chicken soup Trainer shopping can be a confusing experience, fraught with the danger of possible embarrassment. What are we supposed to wear now that Rishi Sunak has ruined Adidas Sambas? And which socks can you carry off without being labelled 'brave' by gen Z? We've pulled together the ultimate guide to trainers, including 64 of the coolest pairs you can buy right now. Our experts explain everything you need to know, from the best fitness trainers to looking after your existing pairs – and which trainers you can get away with at work. Monica HorridgeDeputy editor, the Filter As the weather slowly improves and the days lengthen, many of us fair-weather cyclists are getting our bikes out of winter hibernation. If your bag is looking a little tired, check out our guide to the best panniers and bike bags around; and if you're looking for more security, you'll find it in our roundup of the best bike locks. Happy pedalling! Last week we asked how you look after your things to make them last longer. Reader Elizabeth Jollimore wrote in from Halifax, Nova Scotia to tell us how she's made her beloved leather bag last 37 years. 'In 1988, I worked part-time as a sessional university lecturer, teaching in the evening. As I recall, a full-year course paid C$3,500. From this, I invested C$200 in a good-sized leather bag. Lined, with a pocket and a zip. It seemed incredibly expensive. I thought long and hard about whether to spend ALL THAT MONEY on a bag. I still have it. I replaced the lining and zip about a decade ago. Once every half-dozen years I take it to the shoemaker and say I want a 'briefcase spa' – the leather and hardware are fully cleaned and it's restored to its 1988 glory, all for about C$50. Money well spent.' What everyday item or new habit has helped you cut down on plastic? Whether it's switching to refills or taking a Thermos to work, investing in a tea strainer to use loose-leaf tea or ditching single-use razors, we want to hear from you. Let us know by replying to this newsletter, or emailing us at thefilter@
The Guardian
14-02-2025
- Climate
- The Guardian
I tested the best thermal swimsuits for wild swimming. Here are my favourites for beating the cold
For those brave enough to swim outdoors in winter, there have, until recently, been two options: wear an ordinary swimsuit and feel the thrill/horror of cold water on your skin for a few minutes; or pull on a wetsuit and stay in for longer, but without the endorphin high. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. But there is now a third way: a cold-water swimsuit, made from thermal fabric to keep your core warmer for longer and lengthen your time in the water. A wetsuit may seem the obvious choice for winter swimming, but many open-water wetsuits won't offer much warmth in water below 10C, and the effort of putting one on at this time of year when swims are short often isn't worth it (see more detail below). But is a cold-water swimsuit any different from a standard suit, and are they worth buying? I tested seven of the best to find out. Best overall cold-water swimsuit: Zoggs Brave crossback£65 at Zoggs Best sustainable cold-water swimsuit: Finisterre Nieuwland 2mm Yulex long-sleeve£150 at Finisterre Best for simplicity:Zone3 OWS Ti+ thermal high neck costumeFrom £65 at Amazon I'm an experienced, year-round outdoor swimmer, teacher, guide and lifeguard, and the author of How to Wild Swim: What to Know Before Taking the Plunge. I frequently enjoy dips in rivers, lakes, ponds and the sea, as well as long-distance swims in the warmer seasons. I also have a decade of experience testing swim kit for outdoor publications. I have first-hand experience of poor-fitting swimwear, with the chafing scars to prove it. This has given me the firm belief that the best thing to wear when swimming is something comfortable that supports your body and is suitable for the type of swim you want to do. Whether that's a string bikini or a hooded wetsuit, it's all fine as long as you are safe and happy. I took the swimsuits to the same body of water – my local lake, QuaySwim, in Surrey. I ensured the water and air temperature were the same each time – the former a cool 8C, the latter 6C. I made sure I felt fit, well and warm, and that I was swimming in similar weather conditions. But many factors affect whether you feel cold while swimming outdoors – from the level of sunshine, to how much you've slept or eaten – so testing couldn't be an exact science. I experimented with body and skin thermometers, but it was pointless; if my body temperature had dropped, I would be entering hypothermia. I researched suits specifically designed or marketed for cold water, with a mix of brands, materials, sleeve length, neckline and price. While long sleeves can psychologically make you feel warmer, having more wet fabric against the skin can actually make you feel colder. Long sleeves work well when the fabric is snug against the skin, and is thicker or has a technical element to it. After testing, I donated these suits to the Every Body Outdoors kit pool, a community campaigning for clothing, gear and representation for larger bodies in the outdoors, which I previously wrote about for the Guardian. When Zoggs designed silver-lined suits a couple of winters ago, I was convinced it was a marketing stunt. The lining is a bit like a first aid foil blanket designed to retain body heat: Zoggs claims it helps retain body heat for 60% longer than normal swimwear. Whenever I plunge into cold water my skin turns bright pink due to increased blood flow and dilating blood vessels – it's this that creates that psychological high. If I wear neoprene gloves during my swim, I see a significant difference in the colour of the skin on my hands compared with my arms. This suit maximises exposed skin with a crossback design, while still keeping your core warm and chest covered with its high neckline. Why we love it I felt warmer, and my skin under the suit was visibly warmer, not red like the skin exposed directly to the cold. My recovery was quicker after I got out, too. The uplifting neon animal print design is perfect for visibility in the grey, low light of winter. I also loved that you can remove the padded cups in the bust area. It's a shame that … Zoggs hasn't continued to develop the concept into a long-sleeve suit. Suitable for: outdoor dips and longer swimsMaterial: Ecofeel fabric: 79% recycled micro polyamide, 21% elastane made from recycled plastic wasteSizing: UK8-26 £65 at Zoggs£64.99 at Swim the Lakes Finisterre is an expert in keeping water lovers warm. It's predominately a surf brand, with years of experience designing wetsuits that offer warmth, flexibility and durability – and this suit is no different. Made from Yulex natural rubber, a plant-based alternative to neoprene, it operates like a wetsuit by allowing water into the suit, which then warms up against your skin to keep you insulated. But the swimsuit design enables you to still enjoy the elements on your bare skin. Long sleeves, 2mm fabric and a high neckline keep the upper body and core warmer for longer, and the clever seam placement in the shoulders ensures you get a full range of movement for some serious swimming. If you feel the cold, this suit is ideal: it made a significant difference to my swim, allowing me to spend 20 minutes more in the water than usual at 8C. It wouldn't be allowed for swimming the Channel or at winter swim events, because of the Yulex fabric and long-sleeve design, but it's a winner if you want to spend as much time as possible in the water over winter. Finisterre offers similar Yulex products without sleeves and as separates. Everything is delivered in biodegradable packaging, and the brand offers repairs, pre-loved products and the option to trade in old gear. Why we love it As well as keeping you warm, it gives you more buoyancy in the water like a wetsuit, lifting you into a prime position for swimming. Finisterre has also recently extended its size range to a UK22, and there's a rental option if you want to try before you buy. It's a shame that … it's a little tricky to take off once wet. Bending and flexing to get the suit off solo was a workout, but swimming with a pal will solve that issue. Suitable for: longer swims, paddle boarding, surfing and cool dipsMaterial: 85% Yulex, 15% synthetic rubberSizing: UK6-22 £150 at Finisterre This classic high-neck suit in sleek black will be popular with traditional swimmers who like simplicity. It has a titanium lining in the front and back panels, which gives thermal benefits to your core. Much like the Zoggs silver-lined suits, this left my arms and legs exposed but kept my core warmer for a little longer. I liked the high neck, which gave coverage against the wind across the neckline and upper back. It also meant less drag when swimming. The lining made a difference, too, and it certainly felt warmer compared with Zone3's other high-neck suits. The leg cut and body length are ideal, but coverage across the bust was a little lacking, so it didn't feel as supportive as other suits. An extra inch of fabric could have made all the difference. Those with smaller busts are unlikely to have these issues. Why we love itThe shiny, slick material is stylish and practical and the fabric is designed to retain shape after multiple uses. I really stretched and tugged at it, and also put it through a machine wash, and was impressed that it did indeed retain its snug fit. The long zip is ideal for quick changing after a cool dip. It's a shame that … it doesn't come in more colours. A lot of Zone3 swimwear is navy, grey and black. Suitable for: outdoor dips, short swims and wearing under a wetsuit Material: body 79% polyamide, 21% elastane; lining 87% polyester, 7.8% polyester ti, 5.2% spandex Sizing: UK8-20 From £65 at Amazon£75 at Zone3More stock will arrive at Zone3 in early March Best for: thickness Chilly Swim is a small business offering just three designs, all made from limestone neoprene. Limestone neoprene – a non-petroleum-based neoprene – is often touted as an 'eco-friendly' alternative to petroleum-based neoprene. However, as limestone is non-renewable and sourced from mines with a detrimental environmental impact, many still feel it isn't much better. But I've included this Jaws-inspired swimsuit in my roundup because it hooked me in with its performance in the water, and it's still more environmentally friendly than traditional neoprene, with its smaller production carbon footprint. This suit is 2mm thick – open-water wetsuits are usually between 3mm and 5mm thick – and allows ease of movement, with exposed arms and legs, while keeping your body warm. It's warmer than a standard Lycra swimsuit, and I liked the lining against the skin, as well as how sucked-in and supportive it felt. It added warmth to my core, but I could still feel the zing of cool water on my skin. Those thermal benefits were, however, cancelled out in front crawl, with the suit allowing a little too much water in at the neck. If you have a more athletic body shape, I don't think you'd have the same problem, though, and it was fine for a dip and breaststroke. The soft detail around the arms and thighs ensured no chafing in these areas that are prone to friction. Although it's a wriggle to get on, it feels fantastic when you get there. With every sale, a donation is made to the Rivers Trust, a charity that helps maintain the health of rivers in the UK. It didn't make the final cut because … it doesn't have a zip – getting my whole body through a tight neck hole was interesting! Suitable for: wild swimming and short dips; material: 90% limestone neoprene, 10% ultra-flex Lycra lining; sizing: UK8-18 Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion £159.99 at Chilly Swim£159.99 at Outdoor Swimmer Shop Best for: high-street value The £45 price tag got swimmers chatting on social media when this went on sale earlier this year, with many wondering if it would be any good. The answer is yes: it's a great entry-level suit at a good price, and it's comfortable and true to size. The high neck and long arms kept the chill off my upper body. The zip at the front is robust, and the ideal length to get the suit on and off with ease. The thicker, almost wetsuit-like material kept my core warm and I was able to get a decent 20-minute swim in the water. The arms were a good length. The thicker fabric was great but became heavy when wet, and the suit took a long time to dry. I wouldn't want to wear it for a competitive race, but for social dips and heads-up breaststroke swims, it worked well. I don't like padding in my suits, so I love that you can remove the pads. It didn't make the final cut because … the sleeves are too wide and have too much material, which flapped and caused drag, losing some of the warmth. Suitable for: outdoor dips, longer swims and paddle sports; material: body 80% polyamide, 20% elastane (exclusive of trimmings); lining 100% polyester; mesh 87% polyamide, 13% elastane; padding 100% polyurethane; sizing: UK6-24 £45 at Marks & Spencer Best for: longer bodies Alpkit has been a go-to wetsuit brand for swimmers for some time; the Dulsie swimsuit is designed for swims when you don't want to wear a wetsuit but do want a bit of extra coverage, whether that's against the elements or for sun protection. It's made from an ocean plastic waste recycled yarn that's hard-wearing and durable in chlorine and saltwater. The fabric was thinner than I was expecting, but it did keep the chill off my upper body and arms. This is a no-frills sort of suit, with a basic but effective design. The front body panel is lined, which offers additional core warmth and bust support. Sizing was generous; many swimmers prefer longer body suits, and this would be great if you're taller or rounder in the middle. The zip is strong and long at the back, with a decent pull, which makes it simple to take on and off on your own. It comes with a three-year bond, which means Alpkit will repair or replace it if there are any issues. It didn't make the final cut because … the whole suit isn't lined, which could make a difference to the overall warmth. As soon as the sleeves got wet, it felt cold against the skin and lost the benefit a little. Suitable for: outdoor dips and those with longer bodies; material: 78% Econyl, a recycled material made from ocean plastics and nylon waste, 22% spandex; sizing: UK6-20 £44.99 at Decathlon£44.99 at Alpkit Best for: paddle sports The bonded fabric – two pieces of fabric bonded together to make a 1mm-thick material – offers an alternative to neoprene if you have a skin allergy or want a more environmentally friendly choice. This thicker fabric is reversible, and feels great against the skin, with a sculpting effect. It gave me extra warmth around my core, while the long sleeves and high neck kept off the elements. The panelling and seam structure around the armpits and shoulders provide support across the bust while still being flexible enough to allow ease of movement – which can be a problem with sleeved suits. The thumb holes are a great addition and something no other suit offers. They not only keep the sleeves in place, with less drag when swimming but are also great with gloves. Davy J offers a repair service on all suits and an upcycle scheme for when they reach the end of their lives. The latter means you can send back the suit and get 15% off a new one, while your old suit is turned into something else, such as a buckle on another suit. It didn't make the final cut because … the leg cut is so high. But I know many swimmers who love a high cut for ease of movement around the thigh joint when kicking or for paddle sports. Suitable for: outdoor dips, longer swims and paddle sports; material: 78% Econyl, a recycled material made from ocean plastics and nylon waste, and 22% elastane; sizing: XS-2XL £160 at Davy J There's a lot of opinion in swim circles about what you should wear in cold water. For cooler temperatures, wetsuits are an obvious choice. Designed to provide thermal protection when wet, they work by letting water into the suit, creating a thin layer of water between the rubbery fabric and the skin, which then warms up and insulates the swimmer. Purists will tell you it's not 'wild' swimming if you're in a wetsuit, and those chasing the endorphins from a cool dip won't want a wetsuit to get in their way. You could also argue that the time it takes you to get in and out of a wetsuit isn't worth it when weighed up with the time you will spend in the water at this time of year. As a result, many swimmers prefer a normal swimsuit or trunks and accept that an outdoor swim will be more of a dip. The swimsuits above offer a third option. Ultimately, swimwear should be snug, but not tight. It should feel like a second skin, but not leave red marks when you take it off. But if it's too loose, it will fight with the water, causing drag and discomfort. A lot of wet material against your skin can make you colder, too. When it comes to design or style, swimwear should suit the type of swimming you aim to do. If you're having a leisurely dip, most swimwear will be fine. But for longer, more physically demanding swims, seek simplicity and function over style. Zips need to be strong and not cause chafing. Thicker straps will support bigger busts, while thinner or cross-over straps can allow for greater movement of the shoulders. Padded swimwear will soak up water, drag while swimming and feel colder, but it's down to personal preference and whether you like padded cups for extra support or comfort. Recycled fabrics are more resistant to chlorine and saltwater, and they are more sustainable. All swimwear is machine-washable, but to lengthen the life of your swimsuits you should rinse them in cool water after each use, especially if you've been swimming in chlorine or saltwater. You only need to machine-wash every two to three wears, and even then a cool wash will be good enough. Never tumble dry swimwear. In my experience, swimmers are often more resilient, productive and positive when regularly swimming outdoors. It can improve your mood, relieve stress and maybe even have a positive effect on immune function. If you want to try cold water swimming for the first time, it can be a good idea to start when the water is warmer in late summer and continue as the water and weather cool. All water below body temperature will feel cold, and understanding how your body responds to this is essential for swimming outside. When entering cold water, cold-water shock can be an instant reaction – this is when you gasp, take a large breath and find it hard to exhale or control breathing. To overcome this, it's best to enter water slowly, but consistently. Look for a swim group, open-water coach or supervised venue. There are plenty of experienced swimmers and experts in the UK to help get you started. Swimming at a supervised venue will not only provide lifeguard cover when swimming but also give you a community of swimmers to help you get started. While there's a lot of anecdotal evidence and some studies suggesting cold water can aid overall wellbeing, if you're merely enduring winter swimming rather than enjoying it, ask yourself whether it's really worth it for you. Ella Foote is a freelance journalist, author, editor and outdoor swimming expert. She is an intrepid swim explorer, constantly seeking out new rivers, lakes, ponds, seas and pools to plunge into. She enjoys swimming in all seasons and has completed swims such as a Channel relay crossing, a 24-hour swim challenge, the Thames Marathon 14k and the Dart10k, as well as smaller more joyful dips and dunks across the world. Ella is director of Dip Advisor, a swim guiding business helping people enjoy wild water, an open-water coach and RLSS open-water lifeguard. She also teaches swimming to children and adults. You can follow her and her swimming on Instagram
