Deck Change- One piece suit for women

One of the joys of open water swimming is that you don't always have a place to change your clothes before or after. Before is easy, I've put on a suit in a car, or behind a tree. No sweat. But when you are cold and wet after, things can be harder.  Here's a tutorial for how to deck change, out of a one piece suit, if you are a woman.  Two piece suits have a similar sequence, and men's suits are easy, make a "skirt" from your towel and drop you drawers!

First step, you are in your suit, it is wet.  You take off the goggles and cap to make clothing removal and donning easier.

Then, pull the shoulder straps down, over your shoulders and into your armpits.

At this point, you can put on whatever top you want.  For me, a hoodie is always best after swimming. Keeps me warm and is easy to put on.

Now you pull your suit down as far as you can without exposing yourself to anyone.  This can be hard as the wet bathing suit can stick to your body. If you are built like me, getting it over your breasts can be a challenge. With my curves, pulling it over the belly is also a good step at this point. If you want a bra, this is your opportunity to put it on. With the sweatshirt over your shoulders, but your arms not yet in it, you can slip the bra on.

The next step is probably the hardest of all. Use your towel as a "skirt". I wrap it then roll the top.  If I were smarter, I'd get one of those towels with Velcro that we all used as cover-ups back in the 80's.  Or I'd make one.  Just haven't bothered yet. 

 Then pull your suit off, using the towel for modesty.  Yes, this can be a challenge to not drop the towel, or open it in such a way that you flash the world.  Take your time. A wet suit sticks, but you will get it off.

Now, keeping the towel as a modesty cover, pull on your pants.  My friend who shot these photos pointed out that I was showing the world that I go commando after swimming. That is true. If you want underwear, you can slip them on in this stage. I just don't bother.  Remove the towel and you are done!!

And a bonus "gear" photo. That silver circle is a changing mat from Rareform. I love this mat (and no, I don't get anything from them for saying this.) It keeps my feet dry and clean while I change. And then I put all the manky gear it in and pull the drawstring closed to make a carry case for the dirty wet gear.  Really handy AND it is made of a recycled billboard, so it has low environmental impact.

When closed it looks like this but with gear bundled inside.