[mikejarema]

I haven't been able to minimize the shock too much, but I've seen a little success fully entering and exiting the water repeatedly, staying in a little longer each time. Eg. 5 secs, 15 secs, then 30 secs. After 3 or 4 in and outs, I just stay in and get on with the swim.

This gives me a chance to gauge what I'm dealing with (water temp + how willful and resilient I'm feeling that day). Plus it makes the initial entry less of a mental hurdle because I know I'm coming out shortly after entering.