Swimrun FAQs

Simply put a Swimrun race is just called a Swimrun. Swimrun is an endurance sport that is usually done as a pair, but there is also a solo category offered. There are 3 divisions for each Swimrun race men’s, woman’s and mixed.

Swimrun-specific wetsuits typically have a front zipper (and sometimes a bonus zipper in the back), varied sleeve lengths (Long, short, sleeveless or removable), and are cut just above the knees. Swimrun wetsuits follow the “Goldilocks Rule;" some are made more for running, some more of swimming, and some that are right in the middle. These wetsuits will also come in varied thicknesses for different temperature conditions. Finally, most wetsuits do come in gender specific fit and sizing. For more information be sure to check out our Swimrun wetsuit guide.

A Swimrun can be as long as you want it to be! There are no specific or set distances or any swim or run legs during a Swimrun. Swimruns can be just a few kilometers with a handful of swims and runs or a long multi-day Swimrun adventure.

You are not required to swim in shoes during a Swimrun, but most swimrunners do swim in their shoes. The use of a pull buoy during the swim really helps to offset the drag caused by swimming in shoes.

To train for a Swimrun event we would recommend doing some run training and swim training. You can adjust your training to your own strengths and the type of Swimrun event you have coming up. We also find it very helpful to practice doing a Swimrun as it helps make the Swimrun transitions more smooth and quick.

Swimrun was invented in Sweden on the island of Utö at the Utö Värdshus hotel according to Ötillö.

Ötillö is both the brand name of a Swimrun race organization and the original Swimrun race which is now called Ötillö, the Swimrun World Championship.

Swimrun was invented in Sweden at Utö Värdshus in 2006 as a drunken bet between Anders Malm, Janne Lindberg and the Andersson brothers.

What you wear under your Swimrun wetsuit is up to you! Most people will usually wear some tight fighting non-cotton underwear bottoms or a swim bottom and top. Some folks ditch the undies altogether and only wear the wetsuit.

Yes! Socks play a key role in Swimrun. They help protect your shins and lower legs from rocks, debris, sticks, and other random things you encounter during a Swimrun. We recommend NOT using cotton socks or socks that have extra padding or cushioning in the footbed or toes (to prevent bogginess). Using a wicking sock like a thin running or cycling sock that is higher than ankle length is the way to go. Ankle socks could lead to getting more rocks or sand in your shoes.