6 Best Tow Floats For Personal Safety for Open Water
Stay visible and safe in open water. We review the 6 best tow floats, focusing on buoyancy, storage, and visibility to ensure your next swim is secure.
Open water swimming offers a unique sense of freedom, but the vastness of the water demands a proactive approach to your personal safety. A tow float is the single most effective piece of gear you can carry to ensure you remain visible to boaters and supported during fatigue. Investing in the right buoy transforms your swim from a nerve-wracking gamble into a confident, controlled adventure.
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Why Open Water Swimmers Need a Reliable Tow Float
When you are out in the middle of a lake or bay, your profile in the water is incredibly low, making you nearly invisible to passing boaters or jet skis. A tow float serves as a high-visibility beacon, signaling your presence to everyone else on the water. It’s not just about being seen; it’s about having a tangible safety net that provides buoyancy if you experience a cramp or sudden exhaustion.
Beyond safety, these floats act as a psychological anchor during long-distance sessions. Knowing you have a buoyant device trailing behind you allows you to relax your stroke and focus on your form rather than the looming threat of fatigue. It is the difference between constant vigilance and the ability to truly immerse yourself in the rhythm of your swim.
New Wave Swim Buoy: Best Overall Safety Option
If you want a "set it and forget it" piece of gear, the New Wave Swim Buoy is the gold standard. It is incredibly lightweight and features a dual-chamber design, which provides an extra layer of security if one side happens to lose air. The bright neon color is unmistakable even in choppy, overcast conditions.
This buoy is perfect for the swimmer who wants maximum visibility without the bulk of a dry bag. Because it lacks a storage compartment, it remains sleek and hydrodynamic, minimizing drag during your stroke. If your primary goal is being seen and having a reliable point of buoyancy, this is the definitive choice for your kit.
SaferSwimmer Dry Bag Float for Gear Storage
Sometimes you need to bring your car keys, a phone, or a spare pair of goggles along for the ride. The SaferSwimmer dry bag float bridges the gap between a safety buoy and a waterproof storage container. It features a roll-top closure that keeps your belongings bone-dry, even during extended swims.
This is the ideal companion for solo swimmers who don’t have a shore-side support crew to watch their gear. While it is slightly bulkier than a standard buoy, the trade-off for convenience is well worth it. If you are planning a point-to-point swim or a long training session where you need supplies, this is the most practical solution on the market.
The BuddySwim Hydrastation for Long Distance
Long-distance swimming isn’t just about endurance; it’s about fueling. The BuddySwim Hydrastation is specifically engineered for those pushing past the hour-long mark, featuring an integrated pouch for a hydration bladder. You can take a quick sip of water or electrolytes without ever leaving the water or breaking your stroke.
This float is a game-changer for marathon swimmers or those training for competitive open water events. It provides the same high-visibility safety as a standard float but adds a layer of performance utility that keeps you moving efficiently. If you find yourself hitting a wall during long sessions, the Hydrastation is the upgrade your training routine desperately needs.
iBasingo Inflatable Buoy With Phone Window
The iBasingo buoy is a unique piece of equipment that caters to the tech-savvy swimmer. Its standout feature is a transparent window that allows you to see your smartphone screen while it is safely tucked inside the waterproof compartment. It’s a clever design for those who rely on GPS tracking apps to map their routes in real-time.
However, keep in mind that the window adds a small amount of weight and complexity to the bag. It is best suited for swimmers who prioritize data tracking and need to check their progress mid-swim. If you are a fan of detailed analytics, this buoy offers the best balance of safety and connectivity.
Phelps Safety Buoy for High Visibility Needs
Stay visible and safe in open water with the New Wave Swim Bubble. This ultralight, buoyant float tows behind you without drag, providing reassurance and visibility for safer swims.
Designed with input from professional athletes, the Phelps Safety Buoy focuses on one thing above all else: being seen from a distance. Its construction is rugged, and the bright, high-contrast colors are specifically chosen to cut through glare and reflection on the water’s surface. It sits high in the water, ensuring it doesn’t get lost in the troughs of waves.
This is a premium choice for swimmers who frequent busy shipping lanes or areas with heavy recreational boat traffic. It is built to withstand the rigors of frequent, intense training sessions. If you prioritize safety above all else and want a product that feels like professional-grade equipment, the Phelps buoy is a top-tier contender.
ScubaPro Dry Bag Float for Added Durability
When you swim in rocky or unpredictable environments, your gear takes a beating. The ScubaPro Dry Bag Float is constructed with thicker, more abrasion-resistant materials than your average buoy. It is designed to handle the friction of dragging against gravel or jagged coastal rocks when you exit the water.
This is the right choice for the adventurer who isn’t always swimming off a pristine sandy beach. The added durability makes it a bit heavier, but the peace of mind knowing your float won’t puncture on a sharp rock is invaluable. If your swimming spots are rugged and remote, choose this for its superior build quality.
Key Features to Consider Before Your Purchase
When shopping for a tow float, your first priority must be the inflation system. Look for dual-chamber buoys, as these provide a backup if one chamber fails, significantly increasing your safety margin. Also, check the quality of the waist belt; it should be adjustable and feature a sturdy, quick-release buckle for emergencies.
Next, consider the "drag factor" versus your storage needs. If you are training for speed, a smaller, streamlined buoy is better. If you are doing long, multi-hour explorations, the added drag of a dry bag is a necessary trade-off for the ability to carry water and emergency supplies.
- Visibility: Choose neon orange, yellow, or pink for maximum contrast.
- Buoyancy: Ensure the float can support your weight in a resting position.
- Attachment: A leash length of at least 15-20 inches prevents the buoy from hitting your legs during your kick.
How to Properly Attach and Use Your Tow Float
Proper attachment is critical to ensure the buoy doesn’t interfere with your stroke. The waist belt should sit snugly on your hips, not your waist, to prevent it from riding up during your swim. Adjust the leash so the buoy trails just behind your feet; if it’s too close, you will constantly kick it, and if it’s too far, it will be harder to manage in the wind.
When inflating your buoy, don’t overfill it to the point of rigidity. Leaving it slightly soft allows it to better absorb the impact of waves and reduces the risk of seams bursting under pressure. Always check your valves before entering the water to ensure they are sealed tight and not leaking air.
Maintaining Your Equipment for Maximum Longevity
Your tow float is exposed to sun, salt, and chlorine, all of which can degrade the material over time. After every swim, rinse your buoy thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt crystals or chemical residue. Salt, in particular, can act like sandpaper on the fabric and degrade the seals on dry bag models.
Store your buoy in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use. UV radiation is the number one cause of premature material failure, turning bright colors dull and making the plastic brittle. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure your safety gear remains reliable for many seasons to come.
Selecting the right tow float is a vital step in taking responsibility for your safety in the open water. Whether you prioritize gear storage, hydration, or sheer visibility, there is a model designed to match your specific swimming style. Stay visible, stay prepared, and enjoy the unparalleled clarity of your next open water swim.
