Is 75 Degrees Outside Too Cold to Go Swimming?

Have you ever gone swimming on a warm day, only to be shocked at how much colder the water feels? Then you might be wondering just how warm the weather should be for the water temperature to also feel good. Is 75 degrees outside too cold to swim?

Is 75 Degrees Outside Too Cold to Go Swimming

When it’s 75 degrees outside, it’s most likely that the water temperature will also be pleasant enough to swim in. However, everyone has a different tolerance level, and certain factors such as the wind or rain can make the water conditions feel frigid. You may need to wear a wetsuit if you’re sensitive to the cold.

In this article, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to comfortable swimming temperatures, including air and water temperatures, as well as individual tolerance levels.

Table of Contents

Is 75 Degrees Outside Too Cold for Swimming?

When deciding whether 75 degrees Fahrenheit is too cold for swimming, it’s essential to consider both the air temperature and the water temperature. While a 75 degree day may sound inviting, it doesn’t automatically guarantee a comfortable swim.

Generally, water cooler than 60 degrees Fahrenheit can pose a danger to swimmers for longer than two hours. While 75 degree weather doesn’t necessarily equate to 75 degree water, the water temperature should typically trend toward the air temperature, so it should still be much warmer than 60 degrees.

Now you might be wondering what a comfortable water temperature is for swimming. A suitable range falls between 77 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit for most people. However, personal preferences, body fat percentages, and age can affect how well your body can withstand different temperatures.

When it comes to air temperature, 75 degrees outside might be a pleasant experience, but you should still consider how you feel while swimming. If the wind is blowing or the humidity is low, it could make you feel cold when you exit the water. Thus, you had best be prepared with towels and warm clothes for when you finish your swim.

How Does the Outdoor Temperature Affect the Pool Temperature?

The relationship between air temperature and pool water temperature can be complex due to several factors:

Heat Capacity: Water has a higher heat capacity than air, which means it takes more energy to change its temperature. This is why water heats up and cools down more slowly than air. For example, even if the air temperature quickly rises or falls, the pool’s temperature will change at a much slower rate.
Solar Radiation: Sunlight plays a significant role in heating the pool water. If it’s a sunny day, the pool water will heat up more than if it’s a cloudy day, regardless of the actual air temperature. The sun’s rays can penetrate the water and heat it, so a pool can sometimes be warmer than the surrounding air, especially in the morning or late afternoon when air temperatures might be cooler but the sun has been shining.
Evaporation: Evaporation can cool the pool water. When the water on the surface of the pool evaporates, it takes some heat with it, which can cool the rest of the pool. This effect is more pronounced on hot, dry, windy days.
Wind and Rain: Wind can increase evaporation and cool the pool’s surface water. Rain can also affect your pool’s temperature. Rainwater is often cooler than the pool water, and thus can bring down the overall temperature.
Pool Size and Depth: The size and depth of your pool can also impact how quickly the temperature changes. A smaller, shallower pool will heat up and cool down more quickly than a larger, deeper pool.
Pool Cover: A pool cover can help retain heat in the pool when it’s not in use, particularly overnight when temperatures may drop. It reduces heat loss due to evaporation and can also help absorb and retain heat from the sun.

For these reasons, it is actually a much better question to ask what the pool or outdoor water temperature is, rather than wondering about the air temperature.

Can I Get Hypothermia from Swimming in 75 Degree Weather?

While 75 degrees Fahrenheit weather might feel pleasant, that does not necessarily mean the water is also at 75 degrees as explained above.

Furthermore, don’t underestimate 75 degree water; it’s still much cooler than your core temperature, and water is great at conducting heat away from your body compared to air. In fact, it’s possible to experience hypothermia even in moderately warm water, as your body can lose heat faster than it generates it.

Hypothermia occurs when your body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C). Under normal circumstances, your body maintains a temperature of around 98.6°F (37°C).

If you’re swimming in moderate water temperature, even 75°F, you might be at risk of hypothermia if you’re not wearing proper gear and it’s windy outside.

To protect yourself from cold shock and hypothermia, consider wearing a wetsuit if you are swimming outdoors, such as in a lake or the ocean. They can help maintain your body temperature and aid with buoyancy. If you don’t have a wetsuit, then minimize the time you spend in the water.

What Does 75 Degree Water Feel Like?

Water at 75 degrees Fahrenheit may feel slightly cool when you first get in, especially if you are entering from a warmer environment. Once you’re in the water and start moving around or swimming, your body will usually adapt to the temperature and it can feel quite comfortable and refreshing.

For some people, especially those who are more sensitive to cold, 75 degrees might feel a bit chilly throughout their swim. For others, especially on a hot day, 75-degree water might feel absolutely perfect.

The sensation can also be affected by what you were doing before you entered the water. If you were exercising or you’re hot and sweaty, the water might feel very refreshing. If you were sitting in an air-conditioned room, it might feel a bit cold.

It’s also worth noting that prolonged immersion in water of this temperature can lead to your body cooling down, as water conducts heat away from the body much more efficiently than air. So while 75 degrees may feel comfortable for a swim, staying in the water for a long time could make you feel chilled.

Is Wind Chill Factor a Concern Even with 75 Degree Weather?

For those unaware, the wind chill factor is a calculation that takes into account the air temperature and wind speed, reflecting how cold the weather feels on your skin due to heat loss caused by the wind.

In general, the higher the wind speed, the colder the wind chill factor will be, making an otherwise comfortable day feel cooler than what the thermometer indicates.

When it comes to swimming, consider both the water temperature and the wind chill factor. A 75 degree day might feel comfortable, but the wind chill factor will make it feel colder, so on a windy day you might not enjoy your time in the water.

Being exposed to cold outdoor temperatures, especially when wet, can put your body at risk for hypothermia if you are not properly prepared. If it’s windy outside, definitely think twice about swimming that day if you don’t have a wetsuit or some other insulating layer.

Is 75 Degree Weather Too Cold for Children or the Elderly?

While 75 degrees may feel comfortable for adults and younger children, it might not be suitable for small children or elderly people, as these groups have different body types and sensitivities to temperature.

For example, older adults are more sensitive to cold than younger people. Nursing a body temperature below 95°F could result in health problems, such as heart disease and kidney or liver damage.

Depending on the body type, a swim in 75-degree weather might feel too cold for these vulnerable demographics, so err on the side of caution and either don’t swim or wear a wetsuit.

If you have your own swimming pool, a good rule of thumb is to ensure that the water temperature is at least 78 degrees Fahrenheit, which is generally considered safe and comfortable for swimming.

Can I Swim in the Sea or a Lake When It’s 75 Degrees Outside?

Keep in mind that the water temperature is a more important factor to consider rather than air temperature. Generally speaking, water temperatures ranging from 78 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit are considered pleasant and safe for moderate physical activity in water, like swimming and aquatic therapy.

Natural water bodies like seas and lakes tend to have varied temperatures, and you should be aware of the ocean water temperature and beach weather before deciding to take a plunge. When you’re visiting beaches, find out what the specific water temperature is at your chosen location.

You might find that the water is cooler in certain areas, which can affect your ability to swim comfortably. For example, the water at some beaches can be fairly cool, even on a warm day, because the water hasn’t had enough time to warm up yet.

Furthermore, if you will be diving underwater, be aware that water is warmer at the surface, but colder the deeper you dive. Also, flowing water tends to be cooler than still water, so keep these tips in mind; you might be shocked at how cold the water might be despite the warm weather.

What Kind of Swimwear is Suitable for 75 Degree Weather?

During 75-degree weather, you’ll want to find swimwear that provides warmth and coverage without sacrificing movement.

A wetsuit is a great option, as it can help insulate your body and maintain a comfortable water temperature while you’re swimming laps or engaging in other water-based fitness activities.

There are different thickness levels of wetsuits to choose from, so consider your swimming experience and comfort level when making a decision.

In addition to a wetsuit, you might also want to consider wearing other neoprene accessories such as neoprene socks, neoprene gloves, and even a neoprene cap. They basically provide the same benefits as a wetsuit does, but for your feet, hands, and head respectively.

How Warm Should It Be Outside to Swim Comfortably?

Aim to swim in water temperature around 78-86 degrees Fahrenheit for maximum comfort and safety. At this temperature range, you’re likely to feel comfortable while swimming without a wetsuit.

Now, if the air temperature is 75 degrees Fahrenheit, saying nothing about the water temperature, it might be on the cooler side for some swimmers, especially if there’s a breeze or if you’re in an area with high humidity.

In this situation, you may want to gauge your comfort level as you dip into the water. If you feel too cold or start shivering, stop swimming and warm up before continuing.

If you have a heated pool, then you can guarantee your water temperature will be exactly what you set it at, so this should never be a concern. However, for those swimming outdoors, take your time acclimating to the water and don’t hesitate to get out when you feel cold

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