6 Best Auxiliary Mounts For Swim Buoys For Open Water

Tracking your swim metrics or filming your stroke technique in the middle of a lake requires more than just luck; it demands a stable platform. Without a dedicated mounting system, gear often ends up tangled in your leash or lost to the depths entirely. Selecting the right auxiliary mount transforms a standard safety buoy into a comprehensive mobile command center for open-water training.

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New Wave Action Camera Mount: Best for GoPros

If the goal is capturing high-definition footage of your stroke mechanics or the surrounding scenery, this mount remains the gold standard. Designed specifically to interface with the standard GoPro prong system, it provides a vibration-free connection that keeps the camera oriented correctly above the waterline. The attachment point sits firmly on the top of the buoy, ensuring the lens isn’t submerged every time the buoy bobs.

This mount is the ideal choice for dedicated athletes who want to review their technique or content creators who prioritize stable, cinematic perspectives. It removes the guesswork from filming, as the rigid attachment prevents the camera from flopping around during a sprint. If you own a GoPro and demand professional-level stability, look no further than this option.

GETFLOAT Universal Mount: Most Versatile Option

The GETFLOAT system operates on the principle of modularity, making it a favorite for swimmers who cycle through different types of electronics. By utilizing a rugged strap-and-buckle mechanism, it can secure various small devices or secondary housings to the exterior of almost any buoy brand. It essentially functions as a universal anchor point for whatever gear you need to bring along.

This is the right choice for the pragmatic swimmer who isn’t married to one specific brand of electronic device. It offers enough flexibility to switch between a small light, a camera, or a modular GPS tracker without needing a tool kit. For those who prioritize adaptability over a proprietary fit, this is the most sensible investment.

Orca Safety Buoy Phone Pocket: Best Integration

Orca’s approach focuses on internal security, utilizing a dedicated, reinforced pocket integrated directly into the design of their buoy. Unlike external mounts that add weight to the surface, this system keeps your phone protected from splashes while still allowing for easy access during water breaks. The material is transparent and touch-sensitive, meaning you don’t have to remove the device to check a map or swap a playlist.

This integration is perfect for the recreational swimmer who wants to carry a phone for emergency communication or navigation without the risk of an external clamp failing. It prioritizes the safety and dry storage of your most valuable piece of tech. If you need your phone nearby but don’t want to worry about mounts or straps, this built-in solution is the superior path.

RAM Tough-Claw Mount: Most Secure Heavy-Duty System

For scenarios where you need to attach larger, heavier equipment, the RAM Tough-Claw offers industrial-grade holding power. It utilizes a high-strength composite clamp that bites into the fabric of a buoy, creating a secure base that won’t migrate even in heavy chop. It is undoubtedly the most robust option for swimmers who refuse to compromise on security.

This mount is meant for the serious adventurer or long-distance swimmer who needs to mount a primary GPS unit or a heavy light housing. While it might feel like overkill for a casual lap, it provides peace of mind that lighter mounts simply cannot match. If you prioritize reliability in rougher offshore conditions, the Tough-Claw is the only logical choice.

GoPro Adhesive Mounts: Best Budget DIY Solution

Using standard GoPro flat or curved adhesive mounts allows for a low-profile, permanent installation on any rigid or semi-rigid buoy surface. These mounts sit flush against the buoy, significantly reducing the drag associated with bulky hardware. Because they are inexpensive and widely available, they represent the ultimate DIY approach to buoy customization.

This method works best for swimmers who know exactly where they want their camera mounted and don’t plan on moving it often. It provides a sleek, lightweight setup that keeps the buoy’s original profile intact. If you are handy and prefer a minimalist, low-cost solution, adhesive mounts are the way to go.

Zone3 Dry Bag Window: Ideal for Phone Visibility

The Zone3 dry bag window is specifically engineered for those who utilize their phone as a primary training tool. It provides a clear, waterproof viewing port that keeps the screen visible while ensuring it stays bone-dry inside the main compartment. This eliminates the need for external housing entirely, protecting the device from the elements and potential drops.

This design is highly recommended for long-distance swimmers who rely on tracking apps or navigation overlays that need to be viewed frequently. It keeps the weight of the phone centered within the buoy, maintaining better buoyancy balance compared to top-heavy external mounts. For those who want their phone accessible without the clutter of extra hardware, this is the most efficient design choice.

How to Choose the Right Mount for Your Gear

Choosing an auxiliary mount depends primarily on the weight and type of equipment you intend to carry. You must consider the surface material of your buoy, as some suction-based or clamp-based mounts only function on specific fabrics like PVC or TPU. Always account for the center of gravity; a top-heavy buoy will inevitably tilt, making it harder to track and potentially causing it to scoop water.

• Weight Sensitivity: Ensure your buoy can support the added grams without losing its safety buoyancy.
• Device Protection: Decide if you prefer external exposure for filming or internal protection for storage.
• Accessibility: Consider if you need to manipulate the device while in the water or if you are simply recording a session.

Installing Your Mount: Tips for a Secure Fit

Before applying any adhesive or clamping a mount, clean the buoy surface with rubbing alcohol to remove any residual sunscreen or salt. A clean surface is the single most important factor in preventing mount failure. When tightening clamps, do so while the buoy is partially inflated to ensure the fabric is taut, preventing the mount from slipping as you increase pressure.

If using straps, always use a secondary safety lanyard to tether your device to the buoy handle. This provides a fail-safe in the event that a clip breaks or an adhesive patch peels back during a long swim. Consistency in your installation routine will ensure that your gear survives the most rigorous training sessions.

How Mounts Affect Buoy Drag and Performance

Any object attached to the exterior of a buoy will increase the surface area and create additional drag, which can lead to the buoy pulling awkwardly against your waist. To mitigate this, place your mount on the rear-facing side of the buoy, opposite to the pull of your leash. This positioning helps the buoy ride more smoothly through the water behind your legs.

Be aware that adding weight above the waterline shifts the buoy’s stability. If you are swimming in high winds or choppy water, a top-heavy buoy is more likely to tip over. Keep your camera or phone as close to the waterline as possible to maintain a lower center of gravity and ensure your swim buoy remains a reliable visibility aid rather than a hindrance.

Swim Buoy Mounts: Your Top Questions Answered

• Will a mount cause my buoy to leak? Clamps and straps generally do not, but be cautious with screw-in mounts that may puncture the chamber.
• Can I swap mounts between different buoy brands? Many mounts are universal, but always verify the strap width against your buoy’s handle or webbing.
• How does the added weight affect my speed? While the drag is minimal, the psychological benefit of having your tracking data visible often outweighs the negligible impact on hydrodynamics.
• Should I worry about the mount scratching my buoy? If you are concerned about abrasion, place a thin layer of rubber or neoprene between the mount and the buoy material.

Properly outfitting your swim buoy elevates your open-water experience by keeping your critical gear stable and accessible. By choosing the mount that best aligns with your specific equipment and swimming environment, you ensure that your focus stays on your form and safety rather than fumbling with unsecured tech. Invest in a system that complements your style, and enjoy a more connected, data-rich time in the water.