what is a tow float?A Guide for Open Water Swimmers

​A tow float, often referred to as a 'swim buoy,' is a brightly coloured, inflatable device attached to swimmers with a waist strap for open water swimming. Its primary purpose is to enhance safety by increasing visibility to other water users like fellow swimmers, boaters, and lifeguards. Designed to stay out of the swimmer’s kicking zone, it allows for unimpeded swimming strokes, acting as both a buoyancy aid and visibility enhancer. Whether swimming leisurely or training for a triathlon, a tow float is a trusty sidekick. This blog explores how tow floats work, their benefits and the different types of tow floats, equipping you to maximise your open water swimming experience.

​Benefits of Using a Tow Float

Using a floatation aid offers numerous benefits, primarily revolving around safety and convenience. One of the most significant advantages is the sense of security it provides. If cramps, fatigue, or unexpected situations arise, swimmers can use the tow float to rest and recover. This can be a literal life-saver in emergencies, giving you a reliable buoyancy aid to cling to.

Another key benefit is enhanced visibility. Brightly coloured floats increase swimmer visibility to other water users like boaters and jet skiers. This increased visibility can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, as it allows others to easily spot you from a distance.
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Many floatation aids include integrated storage compartments for securely carrying personal items. These waterproof compartments store essentials like keys, phones, or snacks, ideal for longer swims requiring access to such items. Finally, tow floats contribute to buoyancy whilst swimming, providing a little extra support that can be very reassuring in calm lakes or stronger ocean waves, especially for novice swimmers.

​How to Use a Tow Float

Using a tow float is straightforward, but there are a few key steps to ensure it is properly attached and used. Start by attaching the tow float to your body using the included waist belt, making sure it sits comfortably at your hips. The leash should be looped through the bottom handle and secured with the waist belt.
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When entering the water, hold the tow float above your head to prevent it from being submerged. This ensures that it remains inflated and ready to use. Once in the water, the float will trail behind you, providing visibility and support without interfering with your swimming strokes.
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Adjusting the Waist Belt
To ensure a comfortable and secure fit, adjust the waist belt by sliding the buckle until it fits snugly around your hips. The belt should be tight enough to support the tow float but not so tight that it causes discomfort.

Handling Tow Floats in Various Conditions

In calm waters, you can swim without worrying too much about the positioning of the tow float. However, during windy conditions, keep the tow float close to your body to reduce drag and maintain stability. Swimming against the wind can help prevent the float from being pushed forward and getting in the way.
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In wavy conditions, hold onto the tow float to stabilise yourself and prevent it from flipping over. These handling techniques ensure that you can use a tow float effectively in various water conditions, making your swim safer and more enjoyable.

​Different Types of Tow Floats

Tow floats come in several types, each designed to cater to different swimming needs and preferences. Knowing these variations aids in selecting the right float for your needs and budget. Tow floats generally fall into three categories: basic, with storage, and specialised.

Basic Tow Floats
Basic tow floats focus on enhancing swimmer visibility in open water while minimising drag. These simple, yet effective, devices ensure that swimmers can be easily spotted by other water users, such as boaters and lifeguards, without interfering with their swimming strokes. Basic tow floats are ideal for swimmers seeking a straightforward solution for safety and visibility to swim secure.
Prices start from £5.99

Tow Floats with Storage
Tow floats with waterproof storage offer convenience for swimmers who need to carry personal items during their swims. These floats feature integrated dry bag compartments to keep essentials like keys, phones, snacks, and water bottles safe and dry. Ideal for longer swims, they allow easy access to items without leaving the water. Equipped with grab handles and short leash attachments, these floats are manageable and convenient for those who prefer to keep belongings close. A tow float with storage is a practical choice for swimmers seeking both safety and functionality.
Prices start from £21.99

Specialised Tow Floats
Specialised tow floats cater to swimmers who need advanced features for added safety and comfort. These floats often feature hydration systems, enabling swimmers to stay hydrated during long swims without stopping. Some models also feature emergency inflation capabilities, providing extra buoyancy in case of an emergency.
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Some advanced floats are designed to be worn like a harness, reducing drag and improving comfort during swims. These features make specialised floats a great option for serious open water swimmers who require additional support and functionality.
Prices start from £35.99

​Choosing the Right Tow Float for Your Needs

When picking out a tow float, it's important to think about how often you'll be swimming and what specific features you might need. If you're just dipping your toes in occasionally, a simple buoy might do the trick. But for those who swim more frequently, a multifunctional float with extra features could be a real game-changer.

Safety should always be a top priority. Look for a float with a dual-chamber design for extra peace of mind—this way, even if one chamber gets a puncture, the float will still stay buoyant. Portability matters too; smaller and lighter models are much easier to carry and store.

If your float comes with a storage compartment, be sure to check and clean it regularly to keep mold and moisture at bay. This ensures the compartment stays safe and functional. By considering these factors, you can find a float that perfectly fits your needs, making your open water swimming experience even better.

​Safety Considerations

Tow floats are a must-have for anyone venturing into open water swimming. They serve as essential buoyancy aids, ensuring you stay afloat and keep your head above water during emergencies. Some advanced models even come with extra safety features like hydration systems and emergency inflation options, giving you that extra bit of reassurance when you need it most.

Before you dive in, make sure your tow float is properly inflated. Double-check that the air valve is tightly closed to prevent any air from escaping. It’s also a good idea to get familiar with how it attaches to you, so there are no surprises while you’re out in the open water.

One of the best things about tow floats is that they let you take a breather without the need to tread water, which is a lifesaver on those long-distance swims. By following these simple safety tips, you can count on your tow float to be there for you when you need it, making your swimming experience much safer and more enjoyable.

​Faqs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about tow floats:
Do tow floats affect your swimming performance?
Tow floats are designed to be lightweight and streamlined, so they create minimal drag and shouldn’t affect your swimming performance. Most swimmers barely notice them once they’re in the water.

Why should I get a tow float for swimming outdoors?
Tow floats improve your visibility to boats, jet skis, and other water users, making wild swimming safer. Some also provide dry storage for essentials like keys, phones, or snacks, and can act as a support if you need to rest.

Can a tow float keep me afloat if I get tired?
While buoyancy aids are not life-saving devices, many can provide enough buoyancy to help you rest if you get tired. However, they should never replace a proper life jacket or buoyancy aid in dangerous conditions.

Can tow floats slow you down?
You might notice a very slight difference in speed if you’re racing or swimming hard. For most casual wild swimmers, the added safety and visibility far outweigh any minimal impact on pace.

Can a tow float be repaired?
​Whilst it can be possible to fix a floatation aid with puncture repair kits, we recommended using new floats in good condition, in case the repair fails when your out in the water which could be quite stressful.

​Maintenance and Care

To ensure your tow float remains safe and functional, regular maintenance and care are crucial. Before using a tow float, ensure it is fully inflated and the air valve is securely closed. Fill the float with air until firm and seal the valve tightly to prevent air loss.

Inspect the float regularly for signs of wear, such as punctures or leaks. After each use, especially in saltwater or chlorinated pools, rinse the float thoroughly with fresh water to remove any residue that could damage the material.
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Keep your tow float in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation. Partial deflation during storage can also help avoid stress on the seams and materials, prolonging the life of your float.

​Conclusion

Tow floats are invaluable tools for open water swimmers, enhancing both safety and convenience. From basic models designed for visibility to advanced floats with storage and specialised features, there’s a tow float to meet every swimmer’s needs. Remember to choose the right float based on your swimming frequency, budget and specific requirements, and always follow proper usage and maintenance guidelines to ensure your float remains functional and safe. By integrating a tow float into your swimming routine, you can enjoy the freedom of open water swimming with added peace of mind. So gear up, dive in, and let the tow float be your trusty companion on every aquatic adventure!