12 Best Open Water Swim Events for 2026 Every Swimmer Must Try

You’ll love tackling the 12 best open water swim events for 2026, featuring races that fit every skill level and adventure style. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned swimmer, there’s something perfect for you to dive into. These events promise thrilling experiences across beautiful natural waters, from lakes to oceans.

Stay safe out there by using brightly colored swim buoys with adjustable belts and built-in whistles. These help with visibility and emergency signaling, so you’re easy to spot at all times. It’s smart to pick courses that match your endurance and have strong safety support, like lifeguards and rescue boats nearby.

Don’t forget to keep your gear maintained for maximum durability and comfort. Well-kept equipment can really boost your performance and enjoyment. Keep exploring to discover how each event stands out and what gear suits you best!

ProCase Swim Buoy Float with Adjustable Waist Belt

The ProCase Swim Buoy Float with Adjustable Waist Belt is designed to enhance safety for open water swimmers and triathletes. Its bright color makes you highly visible to lifeguards and boaters, reducing the risk of accidents. This visibility feature ensures peace of mind during long swims or training sessions.

The buoy is lightweight yet durable, made from sturdy PVC that withstands regular use. It supports swimmers weighing up to 110 kg, attaching securely with an adjustable waist belt for comfort. The design minimizes drag, allowing you to swim efficiently without feeling slowed down.

Inflating and deflating the buoy is quick and straightforward, making it easy to set up before any water activity. Its compact size means it won’t get in your way, whether you’re swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking. After use, rinsing with fresh water helps maintain its material and prolongs durability.

While the buoy offers excellent visibility and convenience, it may create slight drag and supports only up to 110 kg. Also, color choices are limited, which might not suit all preferences.

Best for: Open water swimmers, triathletes, and water sports enthusiasts seeking reliable safety and visibility.

What We Like:

• Highly visible bright buoy enhances safety in open water.
• Lightweight and durable PVC with easy inflation and deflation.
• Adjustable and removable waist belt for a secure, comfortable fit.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	ProCase
Material	PVC
Weight Capacity	Up to 110 kg (242 lbs)
Color Options	Limited (Bright colors)
Dimensions	Compact and portable

New Wave Swim Bubble Safety Buoy for Open Water

The New Wave Swim Bubble Safety Buoy offers a simple solution to a common challenge for open water swimmers and triathletes: staying visible and supported without extra weight. Its ultralight design, weighing just 8 ounces, allows you to tow it effortlessly while maintaining your swim speed and efficiency.

This buoy improves safety by increasing your visibility to boats and jet skis with its bright, eye-catching color. It provides reliable flotation support for moments when you need to rest or manage cramps, helping you stay confident in open water conditions.

Designed without a dry bag compartment, the Swim Bubble minimizes drag, making it easy to tow behind you. Maintenance is straightforward—simply rinse with fresh water after use and let it air dry to keep the buoy in optimal condition for your next swim.

While it enhances safety and visibility, it is important to remember this buoy is not a substitute for personal flotation devices. Use it as a supplementary aid alongside other safety gear for best results.

Best for: Open water swimmers, triathletes, and paddlers who want a lightweight, highly visible safety buoy to enhance flotation and visibility during outdoor water activities.

What We Like:

• Ultralight at only 8 ounces, minimizing drag while swimming
• Larger and more buoyant than earlier models for dependable rest support
• Bright color significantly improves visibility to watercraft

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	New Wave
Weight	8 ounces (0.5 lb)
Material	Durable synthetic
Color Options	Bright orange
Dimensions	Larger than original model

New Wave Swim Bubble Safety Buoy for Open Water

Open water swimming demands both safety and convenience. The New Wave Swim Bubble Safety Buoy addresses these needs with its ultralight design and exceptional visibility. Weighing only 8 ounces and inflating to a 20L air capacity, it provides reliable buoyancy and a place to rest during long swims.

Its bright fluorescent green color stands out clearly in open water, making you visible to boats and jet skis. This enhances your safety without adding bulk or weight. The buoy measures 16 inches tall and 8 inches in diameter, offering a larger profile than previous models while remaining easy to carry.

Designed for straightforward use, this buoy does not include a dry storage compartment or attachment loops, focusing instead on simplicity and visibility. It’s important to note that it should not be used as a substitute for a life vest or personal flotation device.

Cleaning and maintenance are simple—just rinse with fresh water after use to keep it in good condition. The durable construction supports regular outdoor use while maintaining functionality.

Best for: Open water swimmers and triathletes looking for a lightweight, highly visible safety buoy that offers buoyancy and rest during outdoor swims.

What We Like:

• Ultralight at 8 oz with 20L air capacity for easy portability
• Bright fluorescent green color ensures high watercraft visibility
• Durable design made for regular use in open water environments

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	New Wave
Dimensions	16 in (height) x 8 in (diameter)
Weight	8 oz (0.5 lb)
Material	Durable synthetic fabric
Color Options	Fluorescent green

New Wave Swim Buoy for Open Water Training

The New Wave Swim Buoy transforms open water training by making your swim safer and more convenient. Its bright color dramatically improves your visibility to boaters and lifeguards, which lowers the chance of accidents in busy or murky waters. This visibility boost helps you focus on your swim without extra worry.

Designed to provide natural floatation, the buoy lets you rest or recover from cramps effortlessly. It’s lightweight and compact, so it won’t weigh you down or feel bulky during your sessions. The buoy’s attached tether keeps it close without interfering with your stroke.

Inside, a secure storage compartment holds essentials like goggles and sunscreen. This feature helps you keep your valuables safe while swimming long distances. You can also place a waterproof phone inside to monitor your swim via GPS apps, enhancing safety and tracking your progress.

Cleaning the New Wave Swim Buoy is simple—just rinse with fresh water after use to maintain its vibrant color and durability. Its robust design stands up well to repeated exposure to open water conditions.

Best for: Open water swimmers seeking enhanced safety, easy rest options, and secure storage during training or races.

What We Like:

• Improves visibility to reduce accident risk in open water
• Provides comfortable floatation for breaks or cramps
• Secure storage keeps essentials safe and supports GPS tracking
• Lightweight, durable design for extended use
• Easy to clean and maintain after each swim

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	New Wave
Dimensions	Compact, buoy size approx. 12 inches (30 cm)
Weight	Lightweight, under 1 lb (0.45 kg)
Material	Durable, water-resistant fabric and plastic
Color Options	Bright orange (standard for visibility)

ProCase Swim Buoy Float with Adjustable Waist Belt

Stay safe and visible during your open water swims with the ProCase Swim Buoy Float featuring an adjustable waist belt. This brightly colored float dramatically improves your visibility to boats and lifeguards, reducing the risk of accidents. It provides gentle buoyancy, allowing you to rest or ease cramps without disrupting your swim rhythm.

The buoy is designed to tow smoothly behind you without pulling or dragging, so it won’t interfere with your stroke. Its adjustable waist belt offers a secure and comfortable fit for different body sizes. Made from durable, non-toxic PVC, the buoy withstands frequent use and exposure to water.

Inflating the buoy is quick and simple thanks to the built-in nozzle. When deflated, it becomes compact for easy storage and transport. Ideal not only for swimmers but also for paddleboarders and kayakers, it enhances safety and confidence during all your water activities.

Regular rinsing with fresh water after use helps maintain the buoy’s material and longevity. Keep it dry and stored away from direct sunlight to prevent premature wear.

Best for: Open water swimmers, triathletes, and water sports enthusiasts seeking enhanced visibility and safety during aquatic activities.

What We Like:

• High-visibility color increases safety by making the swimmer easily noticeable
• Adjustable waist belt ensures a comfortable and secure fit
• Lightweight and compact for easy inflation, deflation, and portability
• Durable, non-toxic PVC material resists wear and tear

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	ProCase
Dimensions	Compact when deflated
Weight	Lightweight
Material	Non-toxic PVC
Color Options	Bright, high-visibility color

New Wave Swim Buoy for Open Water Training

Open water swimming demands safety and visibility, and the New Wave Swim Buoy delivers both with thoughtful design. Its bright, eye-catching colors make you easily spotted by boats and jet skis, reducing the risk of accidents in busy or murky waters. This buoy acts as a natural flotation aid, offering a safe place to rest if you experience cramps or fatigue during your swim.

The swim buoy features a waterproof compartment where you can store essentials like goggles, phones, or GPS devices, keeping them secure and dry. Its lightweight and durable construction ensures it won’t weigh you down or interfere with your strokes, making it suitable for training sessions, races, or casual swims. To increase visibility further, you can attach additional accessories such as a bike blinker.

Maintenance is simple—just rinse with fresh water after use and allow it to air dry. While the buoy enhances safety and convenience, it is important to remember it does not replace life jackets or personal flotation devices. Swimmers who prefer minimal drag might find the tethered design less appealing.

Best for: Open water swimmers and triathletes who want to improve safety, visibility, and carry small essentials securely during their swims.

What We Like:

• Bright colors that enhance visibility to watercraft and others
• Provides natural flotation for resting during long swims
• Waterproof compartment keeps personal items safe and dry
• Lightweight and durable design suitable for training and racing
• Compatibility with additional visibility accessories

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	New Wave
Dimensions	Not specified
Weight	Lightweight
Material	Durable, waterproof fabric
Color Options	Bright high-visibility colors

Open Water Swim Buoy for Safety and Visibility

Open water swimming presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to safety and visibility. The Freedom Buoy addresses these concerns with its bright, highly visible colors, making swimmers easy to spot by watercraft and safety personnel. Its design helps reduce risks by keeping you clearly marked in open water.

This buoy is lightweight and streamlined, so it won’t slow your pace or create drag. You can enhance visibility further by attaching diver flags, which provide extra signaling in busy or low-visibility waters. Its versatile design also allows it to double as a kickboard, making it helpful for beginners or training sessions.

Durability is key for open water gear, and the Freedom Buoy is built to withstand various conditions. Maintenance is simple—just rinse off after use and store it in a dry place to keep it in good condition. While it comes in a single green color and measures about 18 inches, its functionality outweighs these minor drawbacks.

Whether you’re training, competing, or swimming recreationally, this buoy offers an effective solution for staying safe and visible in open water environments.

Best for: Swimmers and water enthusiasts seeking a reliable safety and visibility aid during open water activities.

What We Like:

• Bright colors enhance swimmer visibility to boats and spotters
• Lightweight, low-resistance design supports natural swimming motion
• Multi-functional use as a safety buoy and beginner kickboard
• Durable construction for long-lasting performance

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Freedom Buoy
Dimensions	Approximately 18 inches
Weight	Lightweight
Material	Durable synthetic fabric/plastic
Color Options	Green only

Open Water Swim Buoy for Safety and Visibility

Open water swimming can be challenging, especially when safety and visibility are a concern. The open water swim buoy addresses these issues by making you highly visible to boats and spotters. Its bright colors create a clear signal, reducing the risk of accidents in busy waters.

Designed with performance in mind, this buoy is lightweight and low-resistance. It won’t slow you down, allowing you to maintain speed and focus on your swim. The buoy also doubles as a kickboard, making it a practical training aid for swimmers.

Maintenance is simple; just rinse with fresh water after use and let it dry to keep it in good condition. Its durable material withstands regular exposure to water and sun. You can also attach various flags, including a diver flag, enhancing safety during solo swims or specific water activities.

Though highly functional, it’s important to note that this buoy is not a flotation device and should not be used for rescue purposes. Some users might find that bright colors attract wildlife, so awareness of your environment is advisable.

Best for: Open water swimmers, triathletes, and recreational paddlers seeking enhanced safety and visibility during training and events.

What We Like:

• Bright colors improve visibility for boats and spotters.
• Lightweight, low-resistance design preserves swimming performance.
• Dual functionality as a kickboard and safety buoy.
• Attachability for diver flags and other markers.
• Easy to maintain and durable for regular open water use.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Dimensions	Not specified
Weight	Lightweight (exact weight not specified)
Material	Durable, water-resistant
Color Options	Bright, high-visibility colors

JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float with Adjustable Waist

Stay safe and visible in open water with the JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float with Adjustable Waist. This brightly colored swim buoy enhances your visibility to lifeguards, boaters, and fellow swimmers, reducing the risk of accidents during swim training or events. It offers a simple yet effective way to boost your confidence when swimming in lakes, oceans, or open water.

Crafted from durable, non-toxic PVC, the buoy inflates quickly and provides excellent buoyancy without weighing you down. The lightweight design ensures it won’t drag you back as you swim. When not in use, the buoy deflates to a compact size, making it easy to carry and store.

The adjustable waist strap fits a wide range of body sizes comfortably and securely. This ensures the buoy stays in place no matter the intensity of your swim. Maintenance is straightforward—simply rinse after use and store deflated to prolong its lifespan.

While primarily designed to increase visibility and safety, note that it provides limited buoyancy and may cause slight drag. It requires manual inflation, which some users might find less convenient but manageable with practice.

Best for: Open water swimmers, triathletes, snorkelers, and anyone seeking increased visibility and safety while swimming or training in lakes, oceans, and other open water environments.

What We Like:

• Bright color greatly improves visibility for safety.
• Lightweight and compact when deflated for easy transport.
• Adjustable waist strap offers a secure and comfortable fit.
• Durable, non-toxic PVC material ensures long-lasting use.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	JOTO
Material	Non-toxic PVC
Weight	Lightweight (exact weight not specified)
Color Options	Bright colors (specific shades not specified)
Dimensions	Not specified

Swim Buoy & Drybag for Open Water Swimming

Stay safe and carry your essentials effortlessly with this Swim Buoy & Drybag, designed specifically for open water swimmers. It significantly boosts your visibility in lakes, oceans, or rivers, helping you stay clear of boats and jet skis. The buoy inflates easily by mouth, making setup quick and hassle-free.

The integrated 28-liter waterproof dry bag keeps your valuables dry and secure, so you can focus on your swim without worry. Its compact design folds neatly for travel, making it convenient for swimmers on the go. The soft, adjustable waist belt ensures a snug, comfortable fit for various body types without restricting movement.

Durably crafted to resist saltwater and UV damage, this swim buoy stands up to challenging conditions and frequent use. While it adds slight drag, it balances safety and comfort well. Maintenance involves rinsing with fresh water after each swim to prolong its lifespan and prevent wear.

Best for: Long-distance swimmers, triathletes, and serious recreational swimmers who want enhanced safety and dry storage during open water sessions.

What We Like:

• Improves visibility to reduce collision risks in open water.
• Large waterproof dry bag keeps gear dry and secure.
• Lightweight and easy to inflate without additional tools.
• Durable materials withstand saltwater and sun exposure.
• Adjustable waist belt fits a wide range of body sizes comfortably.

Specification:

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Dry Bag Capacity	28 liters
Material	Durable, UV and saltwater resistant
Inflation Method	Mouth-inflated
Weight	Lightweight (exact weight not specified)
Color Options	Not specified

Open Water Swim Buoy for Safety and Visibility

Open water swimming demands both safety and confidence. An open water swim buoy enhances your visibility, making you easily noticeable to boats and spotters. Its bright, eye-catching colors reduce the risk of accidents, providing peace of mind during your swim.

Designed to be lightweight, this buoy minimizes drag so your stroke remains smooth and efficient. You can also attach diver flags for extra safety, allowing you to swim independently without constant supervision. Its versatility extends beyond safety; it doubles as a training aid and even serves as a kickboard for beginners.

Maintenance is simple—just rinse with fresh water after use to keep the buoy clean and durable. The design suits various water activities, but the size and style may not fit every swimmer’s preference. Some accessories, like flags and clips, might be needed separately for full functionality.

This swim buoy is a practical tool for anyone serious about open water swimming, improving safety, training, and emergency preparedness.

Best for: Open water swimmers and triathletes seeking enhanced visibility and safety during their outdoor swims.

What We Like:

• High-visibility colors improve safety in open water.
• Lightweight design reduces swimming resistance.
• Multi-use as a training aid and emergency signal.
• Easy to maintain with simple rinsing.
• Compatible with additional safety accessories.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Dimensions	Not specified
Weight	Lightweight
Material	Not specified
Color Options	Bright colors (various)

Swim Buoy Dry Bag with Handles and Whistle

The Swim Buoy Dry Bag with Handles and Whistle is designed to enhance safety and convenience for open water swimmers. Its bright fluorescent yellow color improves visibility, making you easier to spot in the water. The buoy offers reliable flotation with dual chambers that help you rest or carry the buoy comfortably.

This dry bag keeps your essentials secure and organized with a spacious 28-liter capacity divided into two compartments plus an external pouch. The adjustable waist strap fits up to 49 inches, ensuring a snug fit during your swim. A built-in whistle adds an extra layer of safety by allowing you to signal for help if needed.

Maintenance is simple: the soft nylon material is durable and easy to rinse after use. The buoy inflates and deflates quickly, so you can prepare for your swim without hassle. Note that the waterproof phone case is not included, so you may need to purchase it separately to protect your electronics.

Best for: Open water swimmers who want enhanced visibility, safety features, and convenient storage for their swim essentials.

What We Like:

• Dual flotation chambers for stable buoyancy and rest
• Bright fluorescent yellow color improves water visibility
• Large 28-liter capacity with multiple compartments
• Adjustable waist strap for a comfortable, secure fit
• Built-in whistle enhances personal safety

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Dimensions	Adjustable waist up to 49 inches
Weight	Not specified
Material	Soft nylon
Color Options	Fluorescent yellow

Factors to Consider When Choosing Open Water Swim Events

When picking an open water swim event, you’ll want to check the water conditions and temperature to guarantee comfort and safety.

Also, consider the course distance and layout to match your skill level and endurance. You don’t want to bite off more than you can chew, right?

Make sure to look for strong safety measures, clear navigation aids, and support throughout the swim. Feeling confident and secure is key when you’re out there in open water.

Water Conditions and Temperature

Although water temperature and conditions might seem like minor details, they play a crucial role in your safety and performance during an open water swim event. Ideal water temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F, so you’ll want to prepare accordingly.

If the water’s colder than 60°F, hypothermia becomes a real risk, making wetsuits or thermal gear essential. On the other hand, temperatures above 80°F can cause overheating and dehydration, so plan hydration and cooling strategies carefully.

You also need to take into account water conditions like currents, waves, and tides, which can tire you out or cause disorientation. Finally, water clarity affects visibility—murky waters require extra caution and bright swim caps or safety buoys to help you stay seen and safe throughout the race.

Course Distance and Layout

Choosing the right course distance and layout can make all the difference in your open water swim experience. Distances vary widely—from quick 500-meter sprints to challenging 10-kilometer swims—so pick one that matches your endurance and training.

Course layouts differ too: you might tackle straight routes, loops, or point-to-point swims, each affecting how you pace and navigate. Look for courses with clearly marked buoys or landmarks to help you stay on track, especially when visibility’s low.

Also, consider the course width; wider routes ease congestion, while narrow, crowded paths increase the risk of collisions. Finally, understand the terrain and water conditions like currents or underwater obstacles.

Selecting a course aligned with your skills ensures a safer, more enjoyable swim. It’s all about finding that balance that works for you!

Safety Measures and Support

Understanding the course layout and distance sets the stage for a safe swim, but safety measures and support play a vital role in protecting you throughout the event. You should verify that lifeguards, spotters, and rescue boats are present to monitor your well-being and respond quickly if needed.

Check that flotation devices and communication tools are readily available for emergencies. Confirm the event provides safety briefings and clearly communicates protocols so you know what to expect.

Using brightly-colored swim caps, buoys, or flags helps increase your visibility in open water, which adds another layer of protection. Choosing events with these safety features ensures you can focus on your swim, confident that support is close at hand whenever you need it.

Visibility and Navigation Aids

When you swim in open water, staying visible is essential for your safety and ease of navigation. High-visibility swim buoys in bright fluorescent colors, like yellow or green, help you remain easily seen by boats, spotters, and other watercraft.

Navigation aids such as diver flags attached to your buoy or paddle signal designated swimming zones and alert nearby operators. It’s important these floatation devices are lightweight and low-resistance so they don’t hinder your performance or cause fatigue.

Incorporating reflective or highly visible materials on your safety gear boosts visibility during both daytime and low-light conditions. Properly placed navigation aids also help you maintain your course, preventing disorientation and ensuring you stay within safe, designated areas throughout the event.

Participant Skill Level

Open water swim events come in a variety of formats designed to suit different skill levels, so you’ll want to pick one that matches your abilities. If you’re new to open water swimming, look for beginner-friendly races with safety measures like support boats, clearly marked swim zones, and shorter distances.

These features help build your confidence while keeping you safe. On the other hand, if you’re experienced, you might prefer longer, more challenging courses with competitive timing and rankings.

Before signing up, honestly assess your skills in navigation, stamina, and handling various water conditions. Choosing an event that aligns with your skill level not only reduces safety risks but also boosts your enjoyment and performance.

Make sure your next race fits you well for the best experience. It’s all about finding the right challenge that feels good for you!

Event Location Accessibility

Choosing an event location that’s easy to reach can make a big difference in your overall experience. Look for venues accessible by public transportation or with ample parking nearby to save yourself stress on race day.

Check if accommodations and amenities are close so you can rest and refuel conveniently. Make sure the event provides clear directions and maps to help you navigate without hassle.

Don’t overlook the site’s safety and water quality, especially if it’s in a remote area, to ensure a healthy swim. Finally, confirm the location supports spectators, volunteers, and emergency services adequately.

Prioritizing these factors helps you focus on your swim and enjoy the event without unnecessary logistical challenges. It really makes the whole day run smoother!

Equipment and Gear Requirements

Since safety and comfort are paramount, you’ll want to make sure you have the right gear for your swim. Start with high-visibility buoyancy aids like swim buoys or safety floats to stay visible and safe in open water.

Choose a wetsuit suited for the water temperature, typically between 50°F and 68°F, to keep warm and buoyant. Adjustable wetsuit straps, swim caps, and goggles ensure a snug fit and clear vision throughout the swim.

Some events may require extra equipment, such as diver flags or safety paddles, for signaling or training. Don’t forget a waterproof bag or dry bag to carry personal items and emergency supplies.

This makes your swim safer and more convenient. Proper gear enhances your experience and keeps you protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Training Tips for Open Water Swim Events?

You should practice sighting regularly and build endurance with long swims. Training in various water conditions is also key to preparing yourself fully.

Work on your breathing rhythm and include strength training in your routine. Don’t forget to simulate race conditions to boost confidence and pacing.

How Do I Prepare Mentally for Open Water Swims?

You prepare mentally by visualizing success, embracing discomfort, and practicing mindfulness. Stay positive, set realistic goals, and simulate race conditions during training.

Building confidence and managing anxiety will help you stay calm and focused during your swim. It’s all about training your mind as much as your body. Keep at it, and you’ll feel ready when race day arrives.

What Is the Typical Water Temperature for Popular Swim Events?

You’ll typically face water temperatures between 60°F and 75°F in popular open water events. It varies by location and season, so you should check event details.

Also, make sure to prepare with suitable wetsuits or acclimation strategies. Staying comfortable in the water really helps you perform your best!

Are Wetsuits Mandatory in Open Water Swim Races?

Wetsuits aren’t always mandatory, aren’t always optional—they depend on water temperature, race rules, and safety guidelines.

You’ll wear one when it’s cold, skip it when it’s warm, and always follow the event’s specific requirements.

How Do I Handle Marine Life Encounters During Swims?

Stay calm and avoid sudden movements if you encounter marine life. Don’t touch or provoke animals, and swim smoothly away.

Always check local guidelines beforehand. And if you see any aggressive or unusual behavior, be sure to report it to event organizers right away.

Conclusion

Diving into open water swim events is like setting sail on a vast, shimmering ocean of adventure. With the right gear by your side—your trusty buoy acting like a lighthouse guiding you safely—you’ll navigate every wave with confidence and thrill.

So, plunge into, embrace the challenge, and let each event be a splash of unforgettable memories. Your journey through these waters is waiting, vibrant and full of possibility.

Open water swim events offer a unique blend of excitement and endurance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned swimmer, these challenges push you to explore your limits and connect with nature.

From thrilling races to scenic swims, each event promises something special. So gear up, take the plunge, and discover why these are the 12 best open water swim events for 2026 every swimmer must try. Dive in and make waves that you’ll remember for a lifetime!