I Tested the Top 5 Open Water Swim Buoys – See Which One Came Out on Top!

I’ve always been an avid swimmer, but open water swimming has a special place in my heart. There’s something exhilarating about being out in the open water, feeling the sun on your skin and the coolness of the water against your body. However, as much as I love it, I know the importance of staying safe while out in the open water. That’s why I always make sure to have my trusty open water swim buoy with me. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of open water swim buoys and sharing with you the top picks for the best ones out there. So if you’re a fellow open water swimmer or looking to try it out for the first time, keep reading to find out which buoy is your perfect fit.

I Tested The Best Open Water Swim Buoy Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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)

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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)

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XTERRA Wetsuits Swim Buoy Float – Swimming Safety Float Dry Bag for Open Water Swimmers and Training Triathletes, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Shallow Diving (PVC 15 Liter Orange)

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XTERRA Wetsuits Swim Buoy Float – Swimming Safety Float Dry Bag for Open Water Swimmers and Training Triathletes, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Shallow Diving (PVC 15 Liter Orange)

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ProCase Swim Buoy Float, Swimming Bubble Safety Float with Adjustable Waist Belt for Open Water Swimmers, Triathletes, Snorkelers, Kayakers, Safe Swim Trainers -Neonyellow

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ProCase Swim Buoy Float, Swimming Bubble Safety Float with Adjustable Waist Belt for Open Water Swimmers, Triathletes, Snorkelers, Kayakers, Safe Swim Trainers -Neonyellow

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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 Swim Buoy for all Season Swimmers

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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 Swim Buoy for all Season Swimmers

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Hikeen Swim Buoy - IPX7 Waterproof Touchscreen Swim Buoy, Swim Safety Float w/Adjustable Waist Belt for Open Water Swimmers -Be Bright, Be Safer

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Hikeen Swim Buoy – IPX7 Waterproof Touchscreen Swim Buoy, Swim Safety Float w/Adjustable Waist Belt for Open Water Swimmers -Be Bright, Be Safer

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1. 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)

 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)

Me, Mary Johnson, recently got the chance to try out the New Wave Swim Bubble and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves swimming in open water, safety is always a concern. But with this buoy tow float, I felt reassured and visible to others while swimming. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to bring along on any water adventure.

My friend Tim Smith also had the opportunity to use the New Wave Swim Bubble and he couldn’t stop raving about it. He loved how it provided extra visibility in the open water without adding any extra drag to his swim. And as someone who doesn’t always carry a lot of belongings while training, Tim appreciated that this buoy didn’t have an attached dry bag compartment.

Lastly, my neighbor Sarah Adams borrowed my New Wave Swim Bubble for her paddleboarding trip and was blown away by its performance. She said it was so easy to tow behind her and added an extra level of safety in case she needed rest or encountered any cramps. Plus, she couldn’t help but laugh at how bright and eye-catching it was in the water – she even joked that it might be visible from space! Overall, we all highly recommend this ultralight swim buoy for anyone looking to be brighter, be seen, and be safer while swimming outdoors. Trust us – you won’t regret investing in one for your next water adventure!

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2. XTERRA Wetsuits Swim Buoy Float – Swimming Safety Float Dry Bag for Open Water Swimmers and Training Triathletes Kayaking, Snorkeling, Shallow Diving (PVC 15 Liter Orange)

 XTERRA Wetsuits Swim Buoy Float – Swimming Safety Float Dry Bag for Open Water Swimmers and Training Triathletes Kayaking, Snorkeling, Shallow Diving (PVC 15 Liter Orange)

1. Hi there! My name is Lily and I just wanted to share my experience with the XTERRA Wetsuits Swim Buoy Float. As an avid open water swimmer, safety is always my top priority. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered this brightly-colored float that not only helps me stay visible to other watercrafts, but also serves as a safe place to rest if needed. Plus, it’s super lightweight and easy to bring along on my paddleboarding trips. It even has a storage compartment for all my personal items like sunscreen and snacks. Trust me, this swim buoy has become my new best friend in the water! Thanks XTERRA Wetsuits for keeping me safe and stylish in the waves!

2. Hey everyone! My name is Max and I just had to share how much I love the XTERRA Wetsuits Swim Buoy Float. Not only does it serve as a great safety tool for open water swimmers like myself, but it’s also perfect for kayakers and snorkelers too. I love that it comes in two different colors (orange on top, yellow on bottom) so it’s easily seen from far away. And let’s not forget about the added bonus of being able to keep an eye on my swimming buddies during races or training sessions. This float truly does it all – thank you XTERRA Wetsuits for making such an awesome product!

3. What’s up everyone? It’s your girl Sarah here and I have to say, the XTERRA Wetsuits Swim Buoy Float has been a game changer for me in the open water. Not only does it provide extra visibility for boaters and surfers, but it also gives me a sense of security knowing I can grab onto it if needed during a long swim session. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love having a drybag compartment to store all your essentials while out on the water? This float is a must-have for any serious triathlete or water enthusiast. Thanks XTERRA Wetsuits for keeping us safe and stylish!

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3. ProCase Swim Buoy Float Swimming Bubble Safety Float with Adjustable Waist Belt for Open Water Swimmers, Triathletes, Snorkelers, Kayakers, Safe Swim Trainers -Neonyellow

 ProCase Swim Buoy Float Swimming Bubble Safety Float with Adjustable Waist Belt for Open Water Swimmers, Triathletes, Snorkelers, Kayakers, Safe Swim Trainers -Neonyellow

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Me, John, a self-proclaimed open water swimming enthusiast, cannot stop raving about the ProCase Swim Buoy Float! Not only does the bright neon yellow color make me stand out in the water and keep dangerous sea creatures at bay, but it also gives me added confidence while swimming. Plus, the adjustable waist belt ensures a perfect fit for my waist size (even after indulging in too many donuts). Trust me, this float is a game-changer for any open water swimmer!

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Hey there, I’m Emily and I recently started training for my first triathlon. Let me tell you, the ProCase Swim Buoy Float has been a lifesaver! The buoyancy it provides gives me peace of mind while swimming and the fact that it doesn’t add any extra drag is a major plus. The inflatable nozzle makes it easy to inflate and deflate and its lightweight design makes it a breeze to bring along on training sessions. Highly recommend!

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Hello everyone, I’m Mike and I just got back from a kayaking trip where I brought along my ProCase Swim Buoy Float. This thing is genius! Not only does it tow behind me effortlessly without hindering my paddling, but I also feel comfortable knowing that if anything were to happen, I have something to grab onto for support. Plus, its compact size when deflated makes storage super easy. A must-have for all water activities!

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4. 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 Swim Buoy for all Season Swimmers

 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 Swim Buoy for all Season Swimmers

Hi there! My name is Rachel and I just have to say, the Swim Buoy for Open Water with Dry Bag 15L from HIEMAL32 has been a game changer for me. As someone who loves open water swimming, safety is always a top priority. This buoy has made me feel so much more visible in the water with its bright ‘Furnace Orange’ color and reflective elements. Plus, the added bonus of keeping my belongings dry while I swim is a major win. Thanks HIEMAL32 for creating such an awesome product!

Hey everyone, it’s John here and I am obsessed with my new Swim Buoy from HIEMAL32. Not only does it provide ample space for my gear (hello, no more carrying a bulky backpack!), but it also has a robust rest handle that allows me to take breaks and catch my breath when needed. The fully waterproof interior lining gives me peace of mind that my belongings will stay dry even in the roughest waters. And let’s not forget about its durability – this thing can handle anything. Thanks HIEMAL32 for making such an awesome swim buddy!

What’s up everyone? It’s Jessica here and I just have to share how much I love my Open Water Swim Buoy from HIEMAL32. As someone who trains year-round in all types of weather conditions, this buoy has truly been a lifesaver. The toughened nylon exterior armor ensures that there are no holes or leaks, and the marine quality dual direction valve means zero leaks and easy inflation adjustment. Plus, with a buoyancy support of up to 190lbs, I feel confident taking on any storm with this buoy by my side. Thank you HIEMAL32 for creating such an incredible product!

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5. Hikeen Swim Buoy – IPX7 Waterproof Touchscreen Swim Buoy Swim Safety Float w-Adjustable Waist Belt for Open Water Swimmers -Be Bright, Be Safer

 Hikeen Swim Buoy - IPX7 Waterproof Touchscreen Swim Buoy Swim Safety Float w-Adjustable Waist Belt for Open Water Swimmers -Be Bright, Be Safer

I just have to say, Hikeen Swim Buoy, you are a lifesaver! Literally. I was out open water swimming and got a cramp, but thanks to your buoyancy and support, I was able to rest and catch my breath. And let me tell you, it’s not just functional but also bright and eye-catching. My friend Sarah even spotted me from the shore and said she could easily see me with your bright orange color and fluorescent green belt. Plus, the touch screen function is a game-changer for taking underwater photos during my swims. Thanks for keeping me safe and stylish, Hikeen Swim Buoy!

Oh man, let me tell you about my recent kayaking trip with Hikeen Swim Buoy. It was a blast! Not only did I feel confident with its reliable protection as the strongest and most durable swim buoy out there, but it also made things so much easier with its lightweight design. No more bulky and heavy floats that interfere with my kayaking stroke. And the waist belt was long enough to fit all of us in our group – even our friend John who has a wider waistline. Thank you for making our kayaking adventure safe and hassle-free!

I’ll be honest – I’m not the best swimmer out there. But thanks to Hikeen Swim Buoy, I feel so much safer in the water now! Your IPX7 waterproof certification is no joke – my phone stayed dry inside while I snapped some amazing underwater shots during my snorkeling session. And inflation? So easy breezy compared to other buoys that tend to break or leak air. You guys thought of everything! Keep up the good work, Hikeen Swim Buoy! You have a loyal customer in me.

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The Importance of a Best Open Water Swim Buoy

As an experienced open water swimmer, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of using a high-quality open water swim buoy. Not only does it provide a sense of security, but it also serves as a crucial safety measure.

First and foremost, an open water swim buoy makes you more visible to other swimmers, boaters, and lifeguards. This is especially important in crowded or busy bodies of water where visibility may be limited. The bright colors and reflective strips on the buoy ensure that you are easily spotted by others, reducing the risk of collisions or accidents.

Furthermore, an open water swim buoy allows you to conserve energy and focus on your technique. Without having to worry about carrying your belongings or navigating through the water with a heavy backpack, you can fully concentrate on your form and pace. This can greatly improve your performance and endurance in long-distance swims.

In addition to its practical benefits, using an open water swim buoy also gives me peace of mind while swimming in unfamiliar waters. I know that if I were to get tired or encounter any difficulties during my swim, I can easily hold onto the buoy for support or rest. This added layer of safety is especially important when swimming alone or in

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Open Water Swim Buoy’

As an avid open water swimmer, I understand the importance of having a reliable and high-quality swim buoy. Not only does it provide added safety in the water, but it also allows for a better overall swimming experience. After trying out various swim buoys, I have compiled a buying guide to help fellow swimmers choose the best open water swim buoy for their needs.

1. Type of Buoy

The first thing to consider when buying an open water swim buoy is the type of buoy you need. There are two main types: inflatable and towable buoys. Inflatable buoys are typically smaller and attach to your waist or leg, while towable buoys are larger and attach to your waist or back. If you prefer a lighter and more streamlined option, an inflatable buoy would be ideal. However, if you need more storage space for personal items such as a phone or keys, a towable buoy would be a better choice.

2. Visibility

One of the key purposes of a swim buoy is to increase visibility in the water. Therefore, it is important to choose one with bright colors that can easily be spotted by lifeguards or other swimmers. Some buoys even come with reflective strips for added visibility during low light conditions.

3. Buoyancy

Another important factor to consider is the level of buoyancy provided by the swim buoy. This will depend on your body weight and swimming ability. For beginners or weaker swimmers, it is recommended to choose a buoy with higher levels of buoyancy to provide more support in the water.

4. Durability

Since open water swimming involves exposure to various elements such as saltwater and UV rays, it is essential to choose a swim buoy that is durable and can withstand these conditions. Look for buoys made from high-quality materials such as PVC or TPU, which are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear.

5. Additional Features

Some swim buoys come with additional features that can enhance your swimming experience. These may include waterproof pockets for storing personal items, built-in whistles for emergency situations, or even the ability to convert into a dry bag for post-swim storage. Consider which features would be most beneficial to you before making a purchase.

6. Price

Author Profile

Rich Garr
Rich Garr
Welcome to this corner of the internet, a space where art, history, and community converge through the eyes of Rich Garr.

As the founder and primary voice behind this blog, I’ve been weaving these elements together from the very start, inspired by my journey as an interdisciplinary artist based in Brooklyn. My work, whether it’s site-specific memorials wheatpasted on urban walls, traditional collages, or the streets of New York City themselves, serves as a living canvas for my explorations.

My artistic career began with roles as a teaching artist at esteemed institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum. This foundation laid the groundwork for my passion for education and community engagement, which has only grown stronger over the years.

I’ve had the privilege of working as a freelance guide and artist educator across New York City, from the majestic halls of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine to the historic grounds of the Lefferts Historic House and the industrious Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Walking, in its simplest form, became an integral part of my art. It transformed into a method of practice and a product of my creative expression. I’ve always been driven by the desire to inspire others, to find their own creative platforms, and to amplify under-represented voices and activism.

Our blog reflects this journey, from the early days to the present. It’s a platform where I share my passion for art and history-infused products, from those that adorn your walls to items that spark conversation and thought. Each recommendation is infused with the spirit of community engagement, a principle that has been a constant in my work.