Why do open water swimmers have floats?
The number one reason is visibility. While we always advise wearing a bright swim cap, a tow float gives you an important extra bit of visibility and it means you can easily spot the rest of your mates if you’re swimming in a group. Will a tow float keep you afloat? While a tow float is not intended to keep you afloat indefinitely, it can provide temporary support when you need to rest during your swim. Remember, its main function is to enhance visibility rather than serve as a lifesaving aid.Contrary to what you might expect, swimming with a tow float does not significantly impact your speed. The bow wave created by your upper body actually pushes the buoy forward, minimizing any drag.You will feel as if you are gliding through the water and you will swim faster because of it. Swimming with the pull-buoy encourages you to complete the pull-through and push completely out the back of the stroke which is good technique and faster swimming.Contrary to what you might expect, swimming with a tow float does not significantly impact your speed. The bow wave created by your upper body actually pushes the buoy forward, minimizing any drag.
Can a swim buoy save you?
The buoy will protect you very well if you overestimate your strength and also if you get cramps. A swimming buoy is great so it’s an increasingly popular aid in open water, long-distance swimming or ice-cold water swimming. A Swim Buoy is a must-have safety tool for open water swimmers of all levels. It enhances visibility, provides buoyancy, serves as a backup flotation device, and even offers convenient storage for essentials.Larger, high-buoyancy pull buoys: These provide more lift to the legs, helping beginners focus on upper body technique without worrying about body position. The extra buoyancy can help improve balance and streamline form. Best for: New swimmers or those working on stroke mechanics, balance, and body positioning.
Do open water swim buoys slow you down?
Will a Swim Buoy make me slower? Nope, it might seem odd, but the drag from a Swim Buoy is pretty much unnoticed. Your own bow wave creates an eddy that actually nudges the buoy along. Plus, it’s positioned so it doesn’t mess with your arm strokes or kicking. A Swim Buoy is a must-have safety tool for open water swimmers of all levels. It enhances visibility, provides buoyancy, serves as a backup flotation device, and even offers convenient storage for essentials.
Do I need a swim buoy for open water swimming?
A Swim Buoy is a must-have safety tool for open water swimmers of all levels. It enhances visibility, provides buoyancy, serves as a backup flotation device, and even offers convenient storage for essentials. Floating is an essential swimming skill that everyone can master. One of the very first things every learn-to-swim student practices is basic floating.Choose a tow float that is vibrant and increases your overall visibility. High Viz Yellow, Pink and Orange are the most popular and practical Tow Float colours for wild swimmers.Visibility: Look for a swim buoy that is brightly colored, such as neon orange or pink. This ensures high visibility in different water conditions. Reflective elements on the buoy can further enhance its visibility. Storage Options: Many open water swimming buoys come with built-in storage compartments.The main thing to note is that, from experience, we know that small tow-floats really do not slow you down or get in the way – they float along behind you minding their own business and keeping you safe while you swim. If you have any questions about tow-floats, pop them in the comments below.