FOUR in 10 singletons are looking for a partner for the colder ‘cuffing season,’ research shows.
A poll of 1,000 single adults found 35% enjoy the freedom of not being in a couple during the hotter months, but 40% want to ‘hunker down’ with someone in winter.
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While 32% want someone to snuggle with during the colder months, and 29% want to enjoy festive activities with them.
Requirements for a beau this “cuffing season” include someone with a good sense of humour at 70%, someone who texts back in a timely manner at 37%, and someone who doesn’t snore at 21%.
It also emerged the average winter partner will have a “test period” of up to four months before deciding whether they are a keeper or not.
A total of 30 % of people admitted they will ditch their winter partner when the weather gets hotter again.
The research was commissioned by giffgaff, which has launched its Cuffing Tariff that will keep your swipes and conversations flowing with plenty of data.
“As the nation gears up to find love this winter, there is a clear desire for new relationships, and this season brings a unique opportunity to create lasting memories,” said Sophie Wheater, who works with giffgaff.
“After all, there’s something special about sharing winter traditions and warm moments with someone by your side.”
It also emerged that 575 of people plan to sext this cuffing season while 42% hope to enjoy phone sex.
The biggest dealbreakers when looking for a new partner include someone who is disrespectful or lacks kindness at 27%.
Poor hygiene or bad breath were a no-go for 21% of survey participants.
Almost a quarter said their ideal first date would be a walk in the park, while 14% would enjoy a quirky dinner with endless conversation.
And 35% want a potential partner to spend New Year’s Eve with, whereas 25% want to enjoy watching Christmas movies with them.
But 36% said it’s unlikely they’ll continue to hunt for a new relationship once cuffing season is over – after Valentine’s Day.
It also emerged 27% of those polled, via OnePoll, would prefer to meet someone via dating apps and social media, compared to 23% who’d prefer to meet someone in real life at a bar or club.
However, despite swiping almost 20 different profiles in one session when using an app, 24% have rarely or never met someone in person after matching with them.
Expert’s top tips on how to spice up cuffing season
Lovehoney’s sex and relationship expert Annabelle Knight
- Understand how sexual wellness can help: Understanding your own needs and desires to fostering clear, respectful communication with a partner.
- Solo pleasure for better connections: Improve your own connection to and relationship with your body.
- Partnered pleasure with toys: Toys can then be an amazing way for you to get to know your partner in the bedroom a little easier.
- Utilise online platforms: Online platforms enable faster communication and match filtering, helping you find people with shared intentions.
- Key things playful: Whether it’s experimenting with new toys, discovering different forms of touch, or bringing a sense of humour into the bedroom, staying open and playful can deepen your connection and keep things fresh, fun, and pressure-free.
Of those who have, 43% will wait one to three weeks before meeting them face to face.
Giffgaff has also teamed up with Lovehoney’s sex and relationship expert Annabelle Knight to give top tips on how to spice up cuffing season.
The professional’s advice includes utilising online platforms and understanding your own sexual wellness.
“Sexual wellness is especially important during cuffing season – from understanding your own needs and desires to fostering clear, respectful communication with a partner,” Annabelle said.
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“This period often brings a surge of new relationships – people seeking warmth and companionship, and clear consent helps both you and your partner feel safe and relaxed.
“[This] leads to better connections and a more enjoyable experience overall.”
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