With Fall just starting, the days are still relatively long, and the water hasn’t lost its warmth. But as we know, the chill of winter is creeping closer, and for those who love cold-weather water sports like swimming, surfing, or stand-up paddling, now’s the time to prepare. It’s much easier to build your confidence and mental strength in these transitional months, rather than diving in cold when winter fully arrives. I want to talk about that today.
Ease into the cold now
If this is your first time trying winter water sports, the idea of colder water might feel intimidating. Take it slow. Try starting with early morning swims or paddles when the water is just a bit cooler than in the middle of the day. As you build up, your confidence will grow, making the eventual winter plunge much less daunting.
I still remember my first October swim. I hesitated at the edge of the water, feeling the cool breeze against my skin, but once I got in, it felt invigorating. That moment of pushing through the initial discomfort made all the difference. It showed me that the cold is something you can adapt to, and it’s as much about the mind as it is the body.
1. Set intentions rather than rigid goals
As the weather changes, think about setting intentions for your time in the water rather than focusing on strict goals. When you’re preparing for colder months, your mindset matters. You’re not just chasing distance or time; you’re getting ready for how the cold will feel.
For instance, instead of telling yourself, “I’ll swim for 30 minutes,” try something more flexible like, “I want to stay calm and see how I adjust to the cooler water.” The key is to allow yourself the space to adapt, without the pressure to perform. By focusing on how you want to experience the water, you’ll make the transition into winter much smoother.
2. Train your mind alongside your body
It’s easy to think water sports are just about physical endurance, but mental preparation is half the battle, especially when the temperatures drop. Fall is a great time to start building mental strength, while the cold is still manageable.
Visualization is a great tool here. Before you hit the water, spend a few moments imagining how the colder temperatures will feel. Picture yourself staying calm, adjusting your breathing, and feeling comfortable, even as the water gets colder. This small habit can help ease the mental shock when winter really sets in.
Alongside visualization, focus on your breathing. Cooler water can make your breath quicken, which can make you panic. Practicing slow, deep breaths now, while the water is still relatively warm, will help you stay relaxed once it gets colder. This will help you control the “shock factor” and keep you in the water longer.
3. Build your community
You don’t have to face the cold alone. So, it's time to connect with others who enjoy cold-water sports too. Joining local swim groups or surf clubs, if they're still open this time of year, can be incredibly motivating, and it gives you a built-in support system. You’ll meet people who are also preparing for winter, which can make the experience more enjoyable and less intimidating.
There’s something about knowing that others are braving the cold alongside you. Cold-water swimming events, group surf sessions, or casual paddle meetups are easier to join now before the real chill sets in. Once winter rolls around, you’ll have a community you’re already familiar with, making those colder sessions much more fun.
4. Get the right gear before the real chill
As important as mental preparation is, having the right gear will make all the difference once the water starts to cool. Fall is the perfect time to take stock of what you need for the colder months. Whether it’s a thicker wetsuit or a cozy changing robe, investing in good gear now will ensure you’re comfortable when winter hits.
A good wetsuit will keep you warmer for longer, allowing you to enjoy your time in the water without worrying about getting cold too quickly. And if you’re planning to swim or surf through the winter, a changing robe will be your best friend when you’re drying off afterward. You’ll thank yourself later for having the right equipment to keep you warm and comfortable.
5. Track your progress as the season shifts
One of the great things about starting in Fall is that you’ll notice your progress as the days get colder. Each time you get into the water, celebrate the fact that you’re building resilience. Maybe your swims are getting longer, or you’re recovering faster. Maybe you’re just less worried about the cold than you were before. Every small step matters.
Building cold-water confidence takes time, but starting now, before winter is in full swing, will help you feel stronger and more prepared. By the time those icy days arrive, you’ll be ready to enjoy them, mentally and physically.
Have fun!
