The Horsetooth Open Water Swim in Larimer County, Colorado is a multi-race event (250 yards, 1000 yards, 1.2 miles, 2.4 miles and 10K).

Like most open water swims around the world, it attracts swimmers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Some are excellent, some are formerly world-class, some are newcomers, some simply want to finish the race, some do one race per year, and some are triathletes.

When such a gathering of open water swimming enthusiasts gathers, the types of swim gear used is also varied. This can create problems for race directors who have to make decisions as to what is permissible.

Joe Bakel of the Horsetooth Open Water Swim prepared the following swim gear rules:

“U.S. Masters Swimming swimwear rules apply. The swimsuit rules are in a state of flux. Please check the website as the race approaches for the latest rules. In addition to this list, the Horsetooth Swim has the following restriction: both men and women are allowed suits that go to just above the knees (jammer style) and may cover the shoulders as long as it is not made from material that gives floatation or traps air. Torso-type suits are legal. No wetsuits allowed in the 10K race.

In the 1.2-mile and 2.4-mile races, Swimmers may register as either a ‘wetsuit’ or ‘non-wetsuit’ swimmer. Wetsuits are not allowed for USA Swimming athletes.

Swimsuit Definition: U.S. Masters Swimming swimwear rules apply. The swimsuit rules are in a state of flux. Please check the website as the race approaches for the latest rules. In addition to this list, the Horsetooth Swim has the following restriction: both men and women are allowed suits that go to just above the knees (jammer style) and may cover the shoulders as long as it is not made from material that gives floatation or traps air. Torso-type suits are legal. USA Swimming swimwear rules apply. Female suits may have shoulders with short sleeves. Male swimmers may not wear “tops” and their jammers may extend to just above the knee.”

In other words, read the swimsuit rules closely and frequently.

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