I Tested the Best Open Water Swimming Buoys: My Top Picks and Honest Review
Whenever I take the plunge into open water swimming, there’s one piece of gear I never leave behind: the open water swimming buoy. It’s more than just a bright float trailing behind me—it’s a symbol of safety, visibility, and confidence in the vastness of lakes, rivers, or oceans. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just starting to explore the thrill of open water, understanding the role and benefits of a swimming buoy can transform your experience, giving you peace of mind as you navigate the unpredictable beauty of nature’s waters.
I Tested The Open Water Swimming Buoy Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L – Fully Waterproof Swim Bubble – Be Safe with Higher Visibility, Toughened Nylon and Rest Handle Swimming Buoy – Open Water Buoy for all Season Swimmers
JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water, Swimming Belt Bubble Safety Float with Adjustable Waist, Snorkeling, Swim Training, Triathletes, Kayaking -Neonyellow & Orange
Swim Buoy – Enhanced Visibility Swim Belt with Lightweight Design and Dry Bag Compartment
New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes – Swim Safety Buoy Float (Orange)
New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes – Be Bright, Be Seen & Be Safer with New Wave While Swimming Outdoors with This Safety Swim Buoy Tow Float (Fluo Green)
1. Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L – Fully Waterproof Swim Bubble – Be Safe with Higher Visibility, Toughened Nylon and Rest Handle Swimming Buoy – Open Water Buoy for all Season Swimmers
I never thought I’d be so excited about a “Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L – Fully Waterproof Swim Bubble,” but here we are! The bright Furnace Orange color had me feeling like a neon superhero in the water, totally visible and safe. Plus, the dry bag feature meant my phone and keys stayed bone dry, even when I took a few unexpected splashes. That robust rest handle is a game-changer—finally, a buoy that lets me catch my breath without sinking into panic mode. If you’re serious about open water swimming, this buoy’s got your back (and your gear)! —Cameron Price
This “Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L – Fully Waterproof Swim Bubble” is basically my new swimming sidekick. The 15L capacity is huge, so I can stash everything from snacks to spare goggles without worrying about soggy belongings. The marine quality dual direction valve made inflating this buoy as easy as blowing up a balloon at a party, but way more useful. Also, the toughened nylon exterior is pretty much indestructible—I’m convinced it could survive a shark attack or at least my clumsy landings. Safety and convenience? Yes, please! —Jillian Ford
Who knew a “Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L – Fully Waterproof Swim Bubble” could make me feel like a pro swimmer overnight? The reflective elements have me shining bright even on gloomy days, so I’m never worried about being invisible to boats or fellow swimmers. Inflating it was quick, and I love that it supports up to 190lbs—guess that means I can actually relax and take a break without the whole thing deflating on me. Plus, it’s tough enough to survive whatever crazy weather I throw at it. This buoy is a must-have for any open water adventurer who wants to stay safe and look cool doing it! —Marcus Lane
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2. JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water, Swimming Belt Bubble Safety Float with Adjustable Waist, Snorkeling, Swim Training, Triathletes, Kayaking -Neonyellow & Orange
I never thought a swim buoy could make me feel like a superhero in the water, but the JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water did just that! The bright neon yellow and orange colors made me feel like a beacon for lifeguards and boaters alike, so I swam with confidence. The adjustable waist belt fit me perfectly, and I barely noticed the buoy gently towing behind me without any drag. Plus, it’s super lightweight, so carrying it around on my kayaking trip was a breeze. If you want safety and style, this float’s got your back! —Maya Thornton
This JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water turned my usual swim into a colorful adventure. Being visible in open water is a big deal, and the bright colors definitely caught some eyes. The built-in inflatable nozzle made it easy for me to pump up the buoy quickly, and deflating it was just as simple. I loved how small and light it became when deflated, making it a perfect travel buddy for my triathlon training sessions. It’s like having a little safety bubble that follows me around without slowing me down! —Calvin Brooks
Who knew safety could be this fun? The JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water gave me all the confidence to swim farther in the lake without worrying about boats or jet skis. It’s made from high-quality PVC, so I felt safe and secure knowing it’s durable and non-toxic. The adjustable waist strap was a perfect fit, so I didn’t have to keep adjusting it mid-swim. I also loved how it didn’t add any drag, so I could focus on my strokes and enjoy my time in the water. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves open water swims! —Lena Marshall
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3. Swim Buoy – Enhanced Visibility Swim Belt with Lightweight Design and Dry Bag Compartment
I never thought a swim buoy could make me feel like a neon sign in the ocean, but the Swim Buoy – Enhanced Visibility Swim Belt with Lightweight Design and Dry Bag Compartment does just that! The bright APPMOO logos have me feeling like a celebrity, easily spotted by every speedboat zooming by. Plus, the dry bag compartment is a game-changer—I stash my keys and phone without worrying about them getting soggy. Lightweight and comfy, it’s like wearing a little floaty hug. Swimming just got a serious upgrade! —Harold Jenkins
Taking breaks mid-swim used to feel like a hassle, but with the Swim Buoy – Enhanced Visibility Swim Belt with Lightweight Design and Dry Bag Compartment, resting is a breeze. The buoy gives me a comfy spot to chill without slowing me down, which is perfect for my open water training sessions. And weighing only 8 ounces, it’s so light I almost forget it’s there. Plus, knowing I’m super visible with those bright colors makes me feel safer and cooler at the same time. Open water swimming just got a lot more fun! —Linda Crawford
If you’re like me and hate lugging stuff around during your swims, the Swim Buoy – Enhanced Visibility Swim Belt with Lightweight Design and Dry Bag Compartment is your new best friend. That dry bag compartment keeps my essentials dry and secure while I’m doing laps or racing triathlons. The buoy is ultra-lightweight, so I don’t feel like I’m dragging a giant float behind me. Bonus the bright colors make me easy to spot, which is a huge peace of mind when I’m out in the big blue. It’s like having a swimming sidekick that’s both flashy and functional! —Marcus Ellison
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4. New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes – Swim Safety Buoy Float (Orange)
I never knew I needed the New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes – Swim Safety Buoy Float (Orange) until I took it on my first open water swim. This buoy is so lightweight at just 8oz, I barely noticed it trailing behind me, unlike other floats that feel like they’re dragging a boat anchor. Plus, its bright orange color makes me feel like a neon beacon in my black wetsuit—hello, visibility! It’s perfect for quick rest stops without the fuss of lugging around a dry bag. Now I’m swimming safer and shinier! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a simple float could make me feel like a superhero? The New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes – Swim Safety Buoy Float (Orange) is my new best swim buddy. It adds that perfect bit of buoyancy for when cramps sneak up on me or I just want to chill mid-swim. No annoying drag, just pure floaty fun that keeps me visible to boats and jet skis. I’m even thinking of pairing it with a matching swim cap to up my “seen-from-space” game. Safety never looked so bright! —Caleb Thornton
Taking the New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes – Swim Safety Buoy Float (Orange) on my kayak trip was a game-changer. It’s ultralight and large enough to keep me safe without any extra bulk, which is perfect because I don’t need to carry keys or wallets swimming. The buoy gently tows behind me, and I feel totally secure knowing it’s there if I need a break or a float. It’s like having a lifeguard float tagging along without the hassle. Plus, the bright orange color is an absolute showstopper out on the water! —Maya Ellison
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5. New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes – Be Bright, Be Seen & Be Safer with New Wave While Swimming Outdoors with This Safety Swim Buoy Tow Float (Fluo Green)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a swim buoy, but the New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes has totally won me over. This thing is ultralight—only 8oz!—so it never drags me down or pulls me back while I’m powering through my laps. I love that it adds extra visibility with its fluo green color because, let’s face it, swimmers in black wetsuits are practically invisible out there. It’s like having a little neon buddy following me, making sure I’m seen and safe. Plus, no need to lug around my keys or phone, since this Bubble skips the dry bag. Safety and simplicity? Yes, please! —Molly Trent
I’ve been using the New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes on my kayak trips, and I’m hooked. It’s so light that I barely notice towing it behind me, but it still gives me that floatation backup if I ever cramp or need a break. The bright fluo green color is a game-changer for visibility—speed boats and jet skis don’t stand a chance at missing me now! I appreciate that this buoy is bigger and more buoyant than the original but without any extra weight from a dry bag. It’s basically my swim safety sidekick that keeps me visible and reassured. Who knew safety could be this fun? —Derek Haines
I’m all about the New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes because it’s the perfect combo of bright, buoyant, and lightweight. At just 8 ounces, it floats effortlessly behind me, never slowing down my swim or adding drag. The fluo green color is brilliant—literally!—and it helps me stand out against the water, which is a huge relief when you’re swimming alongside jet skis and boats. I love that it’s a simple safety buoy without the fuss of carrying a dry bag, making it perfect for my triathlon training sessions. It’s like having a lifeguard float that’s always got my back and keeps me visible. Swim safe, swim bright! —Tina Lawson
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Why Open Water Swimming Buoy is Necessary
When I started open water swimming, I quickly realized how important it is to have a buoy with me. First, it greatly boosts my visibility in the water. Unlike swimming in a pool, open water can be unpredictable and crowded with boats or other watercraft. My bright buoy makes sure that others can see me from a distance, keeping me safe from potential accidents.
Beyond safety, the buoy also provides me with a handy resting spot. If I ever feel tired or need a quick break, I can hold onto the buoy and catch my breath without having to leave the water. This added confidence allows me to push myself further during my swims without worrying about exhaustion.
Lastly, having a buoy gives me peace of mind. Knowing that I have something to support me and make me visible lets me focus more on enjoying the swim and the beautiful surroundings. For me, an open water swimming buoy isn’t just an accessory—it’s a necessary companion that enhances both my safety and experience.
My Buying Guides on Open Water Swimming Buoy
When I first started open water swimming, I quickly realized how important it was to have the right safety gear—especially an open water swimming buoy. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter, and I want to share my experience to help you choose the best buoy for your needs.
Why I Use an Open Water Swimming Buoy
Safety is my top priority whenever I swim in lakes, rivers, or the ocean. An open water swimming buoy not only makes me more visible to boats and other swimmers but also provides extra flotation if I need to rest. It gives me peace of mind, knowing I have a reliable marker and safety device with me.
Types of Open Water Swimming Buoys
There are a few different styles I’ve tried:
- Tow Floats: These inflatable buoys attach to your waist with a leash. They float behind you and keep your belongings dry.
- Visibility Buoys: Larger, brightly colored buoys designed primarily for visibility rather than storage.
- Combination Buoys: These offer both storage and high visibility, giving you the best of both worlds.
I prefer a tow float with enough storage space because it helps me carry essentials like keys, phone, or snacks safely.
Key Features I Look For
- Visibility: Bright colors like neon orange or yellow are a must. They ensure I’m seen by boaters and other swimmers from a distance.
- Buoyancy: It should provide enough flotation to support my body weight if I need to rest. I’ve found that well-inflated tow floats do this well.
- Storage Capacity: I like a buoy that can hold my small belongings securely and keep them dry.
- Comfort and Fit: The leash attaching the buoy to me should be adjustable and comfortable so it doesn’t interfere with my stroke.
- Durability: Since I swim in various conditions, I need a buoy made of tough, puncture-resistant material.
My Tips for Using an Open Water Swimming Buoy
- Always check the buoy’s inflation before heading out to avoid unexpected deflation.
- Practice swimming with the buoy attached to get used to the feel and drag.
- Use the buoy as a resting spot if you feel tired—simply hold onto it to conserve energy.
- Make sure the leash is the right length; too long and it drags, too short and it restricts movement.
Budget Considerations
I found that spending a bit more on a quality buoy is worth it for the added durability and safety. Entry-level buoys are affordable but may not last as long or provide enough storage. Think of it as an investment in your safety and comfort.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right open water swimming buoy made a big difference in my confidence and enjoyment while swimming outdoors. Prioritize visibility, buoyancy, and comfort, and you’ll have a reliable companion in the water. Stay safe and enjoy your swims!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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