Our rules for successful swims are consistent with the traditions of our sport since Matthew Webb first crossed the English Channel in 1875: complete the swim, shore to shore, without assistance.
For generations, swimmers, pilots, and crew have interpreted "assistance" in light of their local conditions and changing technologies, but we all share a common commitment to swimming under our own power, without aids that provide artificial buoyancy, warmth, or forward motion.
The Marathon Swimming Federation provides a clear statement of the principles and values we all share in upholding the traditions of marathon swimming. Our rules are consistent with these principles. The Solo Swims swim master for each swim is ultimately responsible for compliance and interpretation of the rules below.