In a global poll, 769 open water swimmers from dozens of countries were asked “At what temperature do you think the water gets cold?”

The answers are below:

Under 5ºC (41ºF) – 0%
Under 10ºC (50ºF) – 7%
Under 12.5°F (54.5°F) – 14%
Under 15°F (59°C) – 20%
Under 17.5°F (63.5°F) – 24%
Under 20°F (68°C) – 15%
Under 22.5°F (72.5°C) – 17%

Photo shows Simon Tobin after a cold-water professional marathon swim.

Copyright © 2011 by Open Water Source