As the air turns crisp and leaves blanket the ground, your Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spa remains the perfect place to exercise, relax, and unwind. The warm water feels therapeutic, and it’s hard to beat the experience of soaking while surrounded by vibrant fall colors.
But stepping out of that cozy water into chilly air can quickly steal those feel-good vibes. Many swim spa owners ask, “How do I stay warm after using my swim spa when it’s cold outside?”
Here’s the good news: staying comfortable doesn’t mean cutting your swim sessions short. From towel warmers to swim parkas, there are plenty of practical solutions to keep you toasty so you can enjoy your spa all season — and well into winter.
Why do you get cold after getting out of the spa?
It’s normal to feel cold the moment you leave the warm water of your swim spa. Why? Your body loses heat quickly when wet. Water evaporates from your skin, drawing heat away in the process — this is known as evaporative cooling. Even if the air temperature isn’t that low, the combination of evaporation and cooler outdoor air makes the chill feel more intense.
Additionally, while you’re in the spa, your blood vessels expand (a process called vasodilation) to release heat and keep your body cool. But when you step into colder air, your body needs time to readjust, forcing blood vessels to constrict to retain heat. Until your body adapts, you can feel that post-spa chill.
Wind can also amplify the cold. Even a light breeze will accelerate evaporation from your skin, making you feel even colder. That’s why it’s helpful to have warm towels, robes, or even a wind-blocking parka ready when you step out of your swim spa.
Practical tips to warm up after a spa session
The transition from your swim spa’s warm water to the cool fall air can be a shock. While the crisp weather makes autumn a great time to enjoy your Michael Phelps Swim Spa, getting out can leave you shivering and scrambling for your coziest robe.
But how do you stay warm after getting out of the spa in fall and winter?
These tried-and-true tips from spa owners will help you stay cozy after a swim or soak in the spa.
Wear a wetsuit jacket
This simple trick has become a favorite among swim spa owners looking to stay warm. By slipping on a neoprene wetsuit jacket while you’re still in the water, you create a thermal layer that helps trap your body heat. This makes a noticeable difference when you step out of the spa, as the cold air feels much less intense. Many owners report that wearing a wetsuit jacket allows them to comfortably transition from the warm water to the chilly fall and winter air.
Not only does this method help you stay warm, but neoprene jackets are also relatively affordable and easy to find. You can purchase them online or at local sporting goods stores, making it simple to add this effective layer to your spa routine.
Use a heated towel or robe
Cold air feels much less shocking when you have something warm to put on right away. Here are a few ideas to help you stay cozy:
Towel warmers: Placing a towel warmer near your swim spa ensures that your towels and robes are toasty when you step out. Simply toss them inside before your session, and they’ll be perfectly warm by the time you need them. Portable models are easy to move between your spa and home, giving you flexibility.
Yeti robes or thick terry cloth robes: These robes provide excellent insulation and coverage, especially if they come with hoods. The soft, absorbent fabric dries your skin while also trapping body heat, helping you stay warm as you head indoors.
Swim parkas: Originally designed for competitive swimmers, these long, insulated coats are perfect for blocking wind and keeping you warm post-swim. Swim parkas often feature fleece linings, waterproof exteriors, and large pockets — ideal for keeping your hands warm.
Keep warm accessories close by
The transition from heated water to cool air can be uncomfortable, but having the right accessories within arm’s reach makes all the difference. By organizing key items ahead of time, you’ll create a smooth and comfortable exit from the spa, no matter how chilly it gets.
Here are a few strategies fellow spa owners swear by:
A coat tree or hook: Placing one near the swim spa keeps towels, robes, or jackets within easy reach, so you can wrap up immediately and avoid the cold. Having a designated spot also keeps your items off the ground and dry,
Slippers or lined clogs: Rubber-soled options are best since they offer traction and stay dry longer. One tip? Buy cheap pairs and swap them out if they get smelly or worn.
Heated rice packs: Store one in a cooler next to the spa to keep it warm and dry. Use it on your neck or hands as you head inside.
Add a patio heater for extra warmth
Outdoor heaters can transform chilly spa sessions into cozy experiences. Whether you use a gas heater or an electric infrared option, the warm zone around your swim spa will make getting out much more comfortable.
Plan your exit strategy
As the weather cools, it’s important to think ahead — not just for warmth but for safety, too. Make sure your spa steps and surrounding area aren’t slippery by using non-slip mats or adding traction strips. Wet surfaces combined with cold temperatures can become hazardous, especially if frost or snow accumulates. Some owners even invest in snow-melting mats to keep patios and walkways clear and dry.
Enjoy your swim spa all season long
Whether it’s a crisp fall morning or a snowy winter evening, your spa is always ready to offer a warm, inviting space for exercise, relaxation, and recovery. Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spas feature powerful heaters and well-insulated construction so that you can enjoy your spa year-round, no matter the season.
Unlike traditional in-ground or lap pools that need to be shut down for the winter, swim spas are designed to perform through every season. The full foam insulation not only retains heat but also protects the plumbing, so you can use the spa confidently even in freezing conditions. This thoughtful construction helps maintain energy efficiency, making it easier to keep the water warm without driving up monthly utility costs.
The insulated cover plays an important role in maintaining the temperature when your swim spa isn’t in use. It locks in heat, reduces energy loss, and keeps snow and ice from building up on the surface. Keeping the cover secure also makes it simple to hop in anytime, knowing the water is clean and warm.
Adjusting the water temperature allows you to customize your experience, whether you want to swim in cooler water or enjoy a warm soak. This flexibility makes it easy to keep up with your routine no matter the season, helping you stay active, recover after workouts, or simply relax — even when you’re surrounded by autumn leaves or fresh snow.
How to buy a swim spa
Do you want to be able to swim, exercise, and relax at home? Having a Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spa allows you to swim on your schedule while adding a fun factor to your backyard. Click here to find out more about the benefits of hydrotherapy and relaxing in a hot tub. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about swim spa ownership. Wondering how much a swim spa costs? You can request a quote here.