For decades lifeguards, rescue divers, aquatic first responders or swimmers have found jeans a practical and effective measure against injuries. They are versatile and protect the rescuer from sharp metal and fiberglass when doing rescues from rocky shores, boat accidents and submerged vehicles.

Swimming in Jeans to a Water Rescue

Jeans enable the rescuer to be prepared to swim and respond to an in-water emergency without the added inconvenience and waste of precious time required to 'suit-up'.

Make sure your jeans fit well and stay put during a rescue, otherwise they become a hindrance. Shrink-to-fit jeans may be the best choice as you can get an optimal fit with good freedom of movement.

Swimming Training in Jeans

You can also enhance your swimming training with jeans. Start swimming with a just jeans and a T-shirt to get a feel for it. Then put on a sweatshirt and/or a lifesaving anorak.

You can layer these clothes to fine tune the level of resistance training you need. The British Marines use this method to build up strength and stamina.