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Open Water Swimming
Lakes, bays and channels. Filter, sort and register.
Discipline Guide
Open water swimming takes the sport out of the pool and into lakes, bays, rivers and channels, with distances that range from a quick 1K to marathon 10K swims and iconic channel crossings. The Kinetic Chronicle catalogs the full field, including 1K and 5K mass-participation swims, 10K marathon swims (the Olympic open-water distance), solo channel crossings and relay events. Typical distances span 1K, 2K, 5K, 10K and longer point-to-point swims, often held in water between 60°F and 75°F with wetsuit-legal rules depending on temperature. The directory includes Masters-sanctioned open water races, iconic channel and lake crossings, coastal point-to-point swims and beginner-friendly 1K events with kayak escort. Filter by state, date or distance to find your next open water swim and register directly with the organizer.
How far is a marathon swim?
A marathon swim is 10K (6.2 miles), the Olympic open-water distance. Most open water races also offer 1K, 2K and 5K options, and channel crossings (like the English Channel at 21 miles) are considered the sport's benchmark achievements.
Do I need a wetsuit for open water swimming?
Wetsuits are legal in most races when water temperature is below 78°F (25.5°C) and can add both warmth and buoyancy. Many channel and marathon swims are governed by traditional rules that ban wetsuits for official recognition, so check each race's rules before deciding.
Is open water swimming safe for beginners?
Yes, with the right event. Beginner-friendly 1K and 2K swims are held in sheltered water with kayak escorts, lifeguards and a mass start close to shore. Practice sighting (lifting your eyes to navigate) and swimming in a group before your first open water race.
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