Polar Bear & Penguin Challenges
The Polar Bear and Penguin Challenges are winter swimming challenges that run from 1 November to 31 March. Participants aim to complete a specified number of outdoor cold-water dips or swims, along with required distances, during the winter season. Swims may take place in the sea, rivers, lakes, or unheated lidos.
All successful finishers will receive a certificate, sew-on badge, and medal.
Challenge Categories
Polar Bear Challenge
The Polar Bear Challenge follows clothing rules similar to those of the International Ice Swimming Association (IISA) and the Channel Swimming & Piloting Federation (CSPF).
Permitted attire includes:
- One standard swimsuit (must not extend over the shoulders or below the knees)
- One standard silicone or latex swim cap (no bubble or novelty hats)
- Goggles
- Nose clip (optional)
- Earplugs (optional)
No wetsuits, neoprene accessories, gloves, boots, or other thermal protection may be worn.
For full clothing requirements, please see the detailed clothing guidance.
Penguin Challenge
There are no clothing restrictions for the Penguin Challenge. Participants may wear whatever they choose, including wetsuits, gloves, boots, hats, and other cold-water swimming equipment.
Extreme Penguin
Extreme Penguin is a sub-category of the Penguin Challenge.
To qualify, swimmers must follow the same clothing rules as the Polar Bear Challenge, with one exception: protective clothing may be worn on the extremities only.
This means you may wear any combination of:
- Hats or head coverings
- Gloves
- Socks, boots, or footwear
However, no additional clothing may be worn on the torso or limbs beyond a standard swimsuit that does not cover the shoulders or extend below the knees.
Extreme Penguin participants receive the same medal and badge as standard Penguin swimmers but are recognised as "Extreme Penguin" on the results lists and on their certificate.
Eligibility
Swimmers from all countries are welcome to participate. However, swimming conditions must be comparable to a UK winter, and water temperatures should not exceed typical UK winter swimming temperatures.
Please read the FAQs before entering.
Age Requirements
Classic
Open to swimmers of all ages.
Silver, Gold and (Ant)Arctic
Participants must be 16 years or older on 31 December of the current challenge season.
Apprentice, Jedi and Ninja
Participants must be 18 years or older on 31 December of the current challenge season.
How It Works
- Choose your challenge level and register via Eventbrite.
- Complete the required swims and distances for your chosen level between 1 November and 31 March.
- Ensure that all required swims and distances are completed each month.
Details of all challenge levels can be found on the Polar Bear & Penguin Challenge Levels page.
Recording Your Swims
You do not normally need to provide evidence of your swims.
However, for Apprentice, Jedi and Ninja swims completed at 7.0°C or below, you must submit a photograph showing two thermometers recording the water temperature.
Monthly Reporting
At the end of each month, you will receive an online form by email. Complete and return the form to confirm that month's swims.
Forms remain open for a limited period. If no form is received, it will be assumed that you have withdrawn from the challenge.
Community & Support
Participants are welcome to join the dedicated Facebook group to connect with fellow swimmers, share photos and experiences, and receive updates and information.
You'll also receive regular emails from MamaBear containing tips, advice, and guidance throughout the season. Support is always available if you need help or have questions.
Awards
Once you have completed your final swim in March and met all the requirements of your chosen challenge level, you will receive:
- A sew-on badge
- A certificate
- A commemorative medal
How to Enter
Choose your Challenge level and register via Eventbrite using the link in the page header.
If you're unsure which level to enter, I recommend selecting Polar Bear Arctic initially. After completing your November swims, you can adjust your chosen level if required.
Further information on the different Challenge levels can be found on the Polar Bear & Penguin Challenge Levels page.
Completing Your Swims
Complete the swims and distances required for your chosen Challenge level between 1 November and 31 March. You can undertake your swims at any time that suits you, provided you meet the monthly requirements for both the number of swims and the total distance.
Evidence of swims is not normally required. However, for Apprentice, Jedi, and Ninja swims completed in water temperatures of 7.0°C or below, you must submit a photograph showing two thermometers recording the water temperature.
Support and Guidance
Throughout the Challenge, you'll receive regular emails from MamaBear containing tips, advice, and seasonal guidance to help you prepare for and enjoy your winter swimming journey.
Whether you're a first-time participant or an experienced cold-water swimmer, support is always available should you need advice, encouragement, or have any questions along the way.
