10 Best Swim Buoy For Open Water 2026 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 is a bright yellow inflatable float designed to improve your safety and visibility during open water swimming. Its standout feature is high visibility that helps you stay noticeable to boaters, jet skis, and others, which can be especially reassuring in murky or busy water. The buoy offers 15 liters of storage space, allowing you to keep small personal items like keys or a phone dry. While it’s not a life jacket, it provides enough buoyancy to rest on if you get tired or cramp up, adding a layer of security.

Weighing just under 10 ounces, it’s lightweight and easy to carry along with your swimming or kayaking gear. The material is PVC, which is durable enough for usual open water conditions, but like most inflatables, it needs care to avoid punctures. Users can also use apps like MapMyRun with their phone inside a waterproof bag in the buoy’s compartment to share their location, which is great for monitoring swims.

It is important to remember that while it adds safety, it’s not a substitute for a personal flotation device, especially for non-swimmers. The size and comfort are decent for most adults, but if you want longer swims or larger storage, you might look at other sizes or models. This swim buoy is a good choice for open water swimmers who want to increase their visibility and carry essentials safely, while having a handy flotation aid to rest on during their swims.