10 Best Swim Buoy For Open Water 2025 in the United States

This swim buoy is designed to keep you safe and visible during open water swims with its bright neon green/yellow color and reflective strips, making it easier for others to spot you in various conditions. Its buoyancy supports swimmers up to about 190 pounds, so it offers reliable floatation and a sturdy rest handle lets you pause if you need a break.

The 15-liter dry bag inside is roomy enough to hold essentials like keys, phone, and spare clothes, which is handy for longer or one-way swims. Made of tough nylon with PVC coating, the buoy is built to resist holes and leaks, and the fully waterproof lining should keep your belongings dry. The dual-valve system helps prevent leaks and makes inflation easier.

The material and design suggest good durability for regular use, though some might find the size a bit bulky to carry around when not swimming. Also, while the handle is practical, it may add some weight in the water. This swim buoy is a solid choice if you need a safe, spacious, and durable option for open water, especially if visibility and waterproof storage are priorities.

The New Wave Swim Bubble is a brightly colored, lightweight swim buoy designed for open water swimmers and triathletes who want an easy and safe way to increase their visibility and buoyancy without extra bulk. Weighing only about 7-8 ounces and made from durable polyvinyl chloride, it offers solid flotation support if you need to rest or in case of a cramp. Its bright yellow color makes it highly visible in the water, which is particularly helpful since swimmers in dark wetsuits can be hard to spot from a distance. This can help you stay safer by alerting boats and jet skis to your presence.

This model does not include any storage space, so it’s best for swimmers who don’t need to carry keys, phones, or wallets while training or swimming outdoors. The lack of a dry bag compartment makes it simpler and lighter but less versatile for those wanting to bring along personal items. It tows behind you with minimal drag, which helps keep your swim smooth and comfortable.

Enhancing safety by improving visibility and providing flotation, the buoy is not a substitute for a personal flotation device or life vest. The New Wave Swim Bubble suits swimmers who prioritize lightweight gear and visibility over carrying extra items. For those seeking a straightforward, effective safety buoy without added features, this product balances comfort, buoyancy, and durability well.

The New Wave Swim Buoy stands out in several key areas for open water swimming. Its bright neon green color ensures high visibility, making it easy to spot by boaters, paddlers, and other water users. This is crucial for safety, especially in busy or low-visibility waters. The buoy is also designed to serve as a flotation device, providing swimmers a safe place to rest if they need a break or experience cramps. This buoyancy feature adds an extra layer of safety for long swims or triathlon training.

The buoy is lightweight at just 10 ounces, making it easy to bring along without adding significant weight or bulk. It fastens comfortably to the waist with a belt and tether line, which helps with ease of use and ensures it stays securely attached during the swim. The New Wave Swim Buoy also offers practical storage capacity, with a separate compartment for personal items like goggles, sunscreen, or even small electronics in waterproof bags. This feature is particularly useful for point-to-point swims where you need to carry your essentials with you.

Made from durable polyvinyl chloride, the buoy is designed to withstand harsh water conditions and regular use, contributing to its longevity. However, it's important to note that while it provides added buoyancy and visibility, it is not a replacement for a personal flotation device (PFD) or life vest. For those engaged in activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, additional flotation gear should still be used. The New Wave Swim Buoy is a highly visible, practical, and durable option for open water swimmers, triathletes, and other water sports enthusiasts, offering both safety and convenience.