For those who brave the cold waters of the sea, keeping warm on the beach—especially after a chilly swim—can be a real challenge. This is where the Japanese haramaki comes in, offering an incredibly effective, simple, and comfortable way to stay cosy. A haramaki, essentially a warming belly wrap, provides core warmth when you need it most, making it an ideal accessory for cold water swimmers.
Even better, NukuNuku is thrilled to be collaborating with Seabirds Brighton CIC, an inspiring community group that offers free swimming lessons to local women asylum seekers. With a shared commitment to supporting wellness and inclusivity, NukuNuku and Seabirds are making cold water swimming a more accessible and comfortable experience for everyone.
What is a Haramaki, and How Does It Work?
A haramaki is a tubular, stretchy garment that wraps around your midsection to retain body heat. Originating in Japan, this belly band is designed to keep the core warm, which helps stabilise your body temperature. Worn under clothing, it functions like a thermal layer specifically for your abdomen and lower back.
Haramaki are incredibly versatile, too. They come in a variety of sizes, colours, and materials, making them suitable for outdoor and indoor use, whether as an additional layer for your workout gear or a cosy companion at home.
Why Cold Water Swimmers Love Haramaki
For those who swim in cold water, temperature management is crucial. The shock of the cold water may feel refreshing during the swim, but post-swim warmth is key to comfort and safety. Here’s why haramaki are so well-suited for cold water swimmers, especially when it comes to changing on the beach:
1. Core Warmth and Temperature Regulation
- When your core stays warm, your whole body feels warmer. The haramaki covers the body’s centre, where key organs are located, allowing swimmers to retain much-needed heat post-swim. By wearing it as soon as you get out of the water, you can counter the sudden temperature drop and avoid a prolonged chill.
2. Ideal for Beach Changing
- Changing out of a wetsuit or swimwear on a windy beach can be challenging and chilly. With a haramaki in place, you can stay partially covered while warming up, even while changing clothes. It’s a discreet, extra layer that’s easy to put on immediately after you’re out of the water.
3. Compact and Easy to Wear
- Haramaki are small, lightweight, and foldable, making them easy to carry in a beach bag or backpack. Cold water swimmers often need to travel light, and the compact nature of a haramaki means you can keep it handy without extra bulk.
4. Comfortable, Soft, and Non-Restrictive
- Unlike some warming layers that can feel bulky, haramaki provide warmth without adding weight. They’re stretchy and fit snugly without restricting movement, making them a comfortable option for both before and after swimming.
The Power of Community: NukuNuku’s Partnership with Seabirds Brighton CIC
NukuNuku is delighted to be working alongside Seabirds Brighton CIC, a community interest company dedicated to helping women, including local asylum seekers, feel the freedom and empowerment of cold water swimming. Through their "Swim for Good" programme, Seabirds offers free swimming lessons to local women who may not have had the opportunity to learn to swim before.
This partnership is about more than just warmth; it’s about fostering confidence and joy in swimming, even in colder weather. NukuNuku’s haramaki products help to make cold water swimming accessible, safe, and comfortable for all participants, regardless of their background or experience level.
By providing haramaki to Seabirds swimmers, NukuNuku is supporting Seabirds’ mission to break down barriers, create inclusive spaces, and promote mental and physical health through the act of swimming. Together, they’re helping build a community where everyone can feel welcome and warm, both in the water and out.
Why Haramaki Fit the NukuNuku and Seabirds Collaboration
The haramaki is more than just a functional garment; it’s a symbol of warmth, both physically and socially. It aligns with NukuNuku and Seabirds’ shared vision of inclusivity, wellness, and support. For many of the women involved in Seabirds’ programmes, cold water swimming is an empowering experience that builds resilience and courage. Providing a haramaki means these swimmers can focus on enjoying the moment, without worrying about the cold.
How to Use a Haramaki for Your Cold Water Swims
For those interested in trying out a haramaki, here are a few tips to get the most out of it:
- Wear It Before and After Your Swim: Put it on under your clothes before getting to the water, so your core is warm from the start. After your swim, put it back on immediately for an extra layer of warmth while you change.
- Pair It with Other Layers: Use it alongside a cosy jacket or warm blanket for optimal warmth. The haramaki adds a targeted layer of heat retention without bulk.
- Keep One in Your Bag: With its lightweight and compact design, the haramaki is easy to carry with you. It’s a small addition that can make a big difference on a cold beach day.
Conclusion: Stay Warm, Swim Free
Whether you’re a seasoned cold water swimmer or a beginner just getting started, a haramaki is the perfect companion for beach swims and chilly winds. Thanks to the partnership between NukuNuku and Seabirds Brighton CIC, more women in the community are able to experience the joy of swimming and the comfort of staying warm.
With NukuNuku’s cosy haramaki and Seabirds’ supportive community spirit, cold water swimming becomes not only accessible but deeply rewarding. Together, they’re helping people feel warm, welcome, and empowered, making a difference one swim at a time