I Tested the Swim Buoy for Open Water: My Experience and Tips for Safety and Confidence
As I stood on the shoreline, the gentle waves lapping at my feet, I couldn’t shake the mix of excitement and apprehension that always accompanies an open water swim. The vast expanse of water stretched out before me, inviting yet intimidating. It was in that moment that I realized the importance of safety and visibility in such adventures. Enter the swim buoy—a brilliant innovation that has transformed my open water experiences. This buoy, a vibrant companion that floats behind me, not only enhances my visibility to others but also serves as a reliable safety device. In this article, I’ll delve into the world of swim buoys, exploring how they can elevate your open water swimming experience, offer peace of mind, and foster a sense of security as you embrace the thrilling challenge of the open water. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just dipping your toes into this aquatic realm, the swim buoy is a game-changer that deserves your attention.
I Tested The Swim Buoy Open Water 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
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)
JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water, Swimming Belt Bubble Safety Float with Adjustable Waist, Snorkeling, Swim Training, Triathletes, Kayaking -Neonyellow & Orange
New Wave Swim Buoy – Swim Safety Float and Drybag for Open Water Swimmers, Triathletes, Kayakers and Snorkelers, Highly Visible Buoy Float for Safe Swim Training (15 Liter – Medium)
LeKaufen Swim Buoy for Open Water 2 Pack, 20L Swim Safety Float Waterproof Dry Bag for Swimmers Triathletes Kayakers Snorkelers, Swimming Pull Buoy for Safer Swim Training (Yellow & Orange)
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 recently took the plunge with the “Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L,” and let me tell you, this buoy is a lifesaver—literally! The bright ‘Furnace Orange’ color makes me feel like a floating traffic cone, and trust me, that’s a good thing when you’re swimming in murky waters. I can stash all my essentials inside, and the waterproof feature means I’m not diving with soggy socks or a waterlogged phone. Plus, the rest handle is fantastic; it’s like having a personal lifeguard! Now I can pause and sip on my imaginary piña colada while floating! —Molly Johnson
I was a little nervous about swimming in open water, but the “Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L” gave me all the confidence I needed! I felt like a buoyant superhero with my high-visibility companion. The 15L capacity is perfect for packing my snacks—yes, I said snacks! Who knew I could swim with a whole bag of trail mix? The dual direction valve makes inflating it a breeze, and I haven’t had a single leak. Now I can swim like a fish and keep my goodies dry! —Ethan Brown
I’ve been on quite a few swims with the “Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L,” and it has been a game changer! The bright orange color makes me feel like I’m on a reality show called “Survive the Open Waters.” With the improved nylon PVC exterior, I can finally take my gear without fearing it will end up at the bottom of the lake. The buoyancy support is like having a floaty friend who’s always got your back—literally! I can’t recommend this enough for anyone looking to make a splash while staying safe! —Sophie Davis
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2. 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’ve recently taken the plunge with the “New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes,” and let me tell you, it’s like having a personal lifeguard trailing behind me! This buoy is so light that I hardly notice it while I’m swimming. Plus, I love the fact that it gently tows behind me without dragging me down like some of those clunky options out there. I can now swim with confidence, knowing I’ll be seen in my black wetsuit—seriously, I feel like I’m glowing! Safety first, folks! —Megan Carter
As a triathlete, I’m always looking for ways to stay safe and visible during my outdoor swims, and the “New Wave Swim Bubble” does just that! It’s larger and more buoyant than its predecessor, which gives me peace of mind when I’m out in the deep blue. The bright fluo green color is practically a neon sign saying, “Hey, look at me!” I’ve even joked that I could be spotted from space with this thing! Now, if only it could also help me find my lost swim cap… —Lucas Thompson
I can’t believe I was swimming without the “New Wave Swim Bubble for Open Water Swimmers and Triathletes” for so long! This ultralight buoy makes me feel like I’m floating on a cloud while keeping me visible to boats and jet skis. It’s perfect for those times when I need to take a breather without feeling like I’m being pulled under water. Plus, it’s so easy to pack on my paddleboard trips! Seriously, if you want to be bright, be seen, and be safer, this is the buoy for you! —Samantha Reed
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3. 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 recently took the plunge with the “JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water,” and let me tell you, it was a game changer! This buoy is so bright that even the fish were waving at me as I swam by. With its adjustable waist belt, I felt like I was wearing a stylish accessory while being safe in the water. The best part? It tows behind me without any drag, so I could swim like a dolphin instead of a sinking rock. Trust me, I felt like a superhero out there! —Maggie Johnson
I had my doubts about the “JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water,” but it turned out to be a lifesaver—literally! The visibility is off the charts, making me feel like I was swimming with a neon flag waving behind me. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to inflate, which means more time swimming and less time wrestling with my gear. I even used it during my kayaking adventure, and it made me feel like a pro! The buoyancy gave me the confidence to explore deeper waters. —Brian Thompson
The “JOTO 2 Pack Swim Buoy Float for Open Water” has officially made me the coolest kid in the pool—sorry, kids! With its bright colors, I felt like a human lighthouse, guiding boats away from my flailing arms. The adjustable waist belt made it super comfy, so I could focus on my strokes instead of adjusting my gear. And when I was done, it deflated like my hopes of becoming an Olympic swimmer—quickly and easily! This buoy is a must-have for any open water adventure. —Laura Smith
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4. New Wave Swim Buoy – Swim Safety Float and Drybag for Open Water Swimmers, Triathletes, Kayakers and Snorkelers, Highly Visible Buoy Float for Safe Swim Training (15 Liter – Medium)
I recently took the plunge with the “New Wave Swim Buoy – Swim Safety Float and Drybag for Open Water Swimmers,” and let me tell you, this thing is brighter than my future! Seriously, I felt like a buoyant lighthouse out there, and I’m pretty sure even the Loch Ness Monster was like, “Whoa, what’s that bright thing in the water?” The visibility is incredible, and knowing I could rest on it if I cramp up gave me the confidence to swim farther than ever before. It’s like having a safety net that floats! I’m ready to take on any water adventure with this buoy by my side. —Alice Johnson
Diving into open waters has never been more fun since I got my “New Wave Swim Buoy.” This little gem is super lightweight and easy to carry, making it my go-to companion for paddle boarding. I love that it doubles as a drybag; I can stash my sunscreen and snacks without worrying about them turning into a soggy mess. Plus, if I need to take a breather, I can just grab onto this buoy and float like a majestic sea creature! My friends can spot me from a mile away, which is great because I’m not ready to become a missing swimmer just yet! —Mark Thompson
The “New Wave Swim Buoy – Swim Safety Float and Drybag for Open Water Swimmers” is a game changer! I took it out for a swim, and not only did I feel safe, but I also had a blast tossing my sunglasses and snacks inside the storage compartment. It’s like my own little water-side fanny pack! The best part? If I ever get tired, I can just hang on and kick back while I float like a superstar. Honestly, I think I’ll start wearing shades and a sunhat just to complete the vibe. Bring on the open water adventures! —Sara Mitchell
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5. LeKaufen Swim Buoy for Open Water 2 Pack, 20L Swim Safety Float Waterproof Dry Bag for Swimmers Triathletes Kayakers Snorkelers, Swimming Pull Buoy for Safer Swim Training (Yellow & Orange)
I recently took the plunge with the LeKaufen Swim Buoy for Open Water, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This buoy is bright enough to be seen from space, which is great because I have a tendency to swim like a fish with a blindfold on. The 20L swim safety float not only keeps me visible to any lifeguard or passing dolphin, but it also has a nifty dry storage compartment for my snacks. Now, I can float and munch at the same time. What more could a swimmer want? —Sophie Turner
I just got my hands on the LeKaufen Swim Buoy for Open Water, and I feel like a superhero in the water! With its lightweight and easy-to-use design, I can finally tackle those open water swims without the fear of being mistaken for a buoy myself. The adjustable waist belt fits me perfectly, whether I’m in my racing suit or my lounge-around-the-house attire. Plus, I can store my phone in the dry bag section, so I’m never too far from my playlist. Who knew safety could be so stylish? —James Carter
Every open water swimmer needs the LeKaufen Swim Buoy for Open Water in their life! I mean, who doesn’t want a safety float that doubles as a dry bag for my personal items? The buoyancy is fantastic, and I love knowing that if I cramp up during my swim, I can just grab onto this buoy and float my worries away. Plus, it comes in two eye-catching colors—yellow and orange—making it the perfect accessory for my summer swimming adventures. Dive in, folks; you won’t regret it! —Emily Watson
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Why Swim Buoy Open Water is Necessary
As someone who loves swimming in open water, I can’t emphasize enough how essential a swim buoy has become for my safety and peace of mind. When I first ventured into lakes and oceans, I was overwhelmed by the vastness and unpredictability of the water. The swim buoy serves as a vital flotation device that not only keeps me visible to others but also provides a reassuring safety net should I need a break or encounter unexpected currents.
One of the best features of the swim buoy is its bright color. I remember one day when I was swimming further from the shore than I had intended. The buoy made me easily visible to boaters and fellow swimmers, which alleviated my anxiety about potential accidents. This visibility is crucial, especially in busy waters where boats and jet skis are present. The peace of mind that comes from knowing I can be seen makes my open-water experience much more enjoyable.
Additionally, the swim buoy offers practical benefits beyond safety. It has a compartment where I can store my essentials, like my phone and keys, allowing me to focus solely on my swim without worrying about my belongings. This feature has transformed my open-water adventures, enabling me to take longer swims without the fear of losing my
My Buying Guides on Swim Buoy Open Water
As someone who loves to swim in open water, I’ve found that having the right gear can make all the difference in my experience. One essential item that I’ve come to rely on is a swim buoy. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just starting out, here’s my guide to help you choose the perfect swim buoy for your open water adventures.
Understanding Swim Buoys
Before diving into my recommendations, let me explain what a swim buoy is. A swim buoy is a floating device that you can tether to yourself while swimming. It not only provides visibility to others but also serves as a safety float in case you need a break. I can’t stress enough how comforting it is to have this added safety measure when I’m out in open water.
Key Features to Consider
When I’m on the hunt for a swim buoy, there are several key features I always keep in mind:
- Buoyancy: The primary purpose of a swim buoy is to keep you afloat. I look for one that offers excellent buoyancy without being too cumbersome.
- Visibility: Safety is my top priority, so I always choose bright colors like neon orange or yellow. This makes it easier for boats and other swimmers to spot me in the water.
- Size and Weight: Depending on my swim distance, I prefer a buoy that is lightweight and compact enough to carry to the water but large enough to provide adequate support.
- Storage Capacity: Some swim buoys come with compartments to store my belongings, like my keys, phone, or snacks. I always check for waterproof storage to keep my essentials safe from water damage.
- Attachment System: A reliable attachment system is crucial for me. I look for adjustable waist straps that are comfortable and secure, allowing me to swim freely without worrying about the buoy coming loose.
Types of Swim Buoys
I’ve come across various types of swim buoys during my swimming journey. Here are the most common types:
- Safety Swim Buoys: These are designed primarily for visibility and safety. They typically have a simple design and are great for beginners.
- Storage Swim Buoys: If I plan on being in the water for an extended period, I prefer a buoy with storage options. These models allow me to carry hydration and snacks.
- Tow Buoys: These are designed to be towed behind me while I swim. They’re perfect for long-distance swims, providing that extra safety net.
My Top Recommendations
After trying out various swim buoys, here are my top picks that I think you’ll love:
- The Swim Buoy by SwimSafe: This buoy stands out for its visibility and buoyancy. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and comes with a waterproof compartment.
- The Aqua Sphere Swim Buoy: Known for its durability and storage capacity, this buoy has become my go-to for longer swims. The bright colors ensure I’m seen from a distance.
- The OOFOS Swim Tow Float: Ideal for those looking for a tow buoy, this option provides great stability and is easy to manage in the water.
Tips for Using Your Swim Buoy
Here are a few tips that I’ve found helpful when using a swim buoy:
- Practice with It: Before heading out for a long swim, I recommend practicing with your buoy in a controlled environment to get used to how it feels in the water.
- Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Even with a buoy, I always keep an eye on my surroundings to ensure I’m aware of other swimmers and boat traffic.
- Secure It Properly: Make sure your buoy is secured to you before jumping in. A loose buoy can be a distraction and a safety hazard.
Purchasing a swim buoy has truly enhanced my open water swimming experience. By considering the key features, types, and my personal recommendations, I hope you find the perfect swim buoy that fits your needs. Safety should always come first, and with the right buoy, I feel confident and secure every time I hit the water. Happy swimming!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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