The Ultimate Guide to Tow Floats: Your Questions Answered
The Ultimate Guide to Tow Floats for Open Water Swimming
Last updated: January 2026
If you are considering purchasing a tow float for open water swimming, you may well have some questions about their purpose, their benefits, and how to choose the right one. In this blog, we will address the most frequently asked questions about tow floats to help you make a confident and informed decision.
What Is a Tow Float?
A tow float is a brightly coloured flotation device that you tow behind you while swimming. Its primary function is to increase your visibility, both from shore and to other water users. It acts as a safety ‘device’, allowing others to easily spot you while swimming.
Additionally, tow floats can provide support if you become tired or experience cramps. Many modern tow floats also offer the option to store essential items like water bottles, keys, snacks, inhalers or even a phone – perfect for longer swims or that all important selfie.
Do I Need a Tow Float for Open Water Swimming?
Swimming outdoors can take you to a number of beautiful locations and although going for a swim in cold, open water can be exhilarating, it’s not without risk and it is important to enjoy the activity safely. Hazards can come in the form of other traffic in the water or even strong currents and streams. If you are new to open water swimming or you plan on swimming in an unsupervised location, it is highly recommended to use a tow float to keep you safe and seen. In fact, many open water venues now require swimmers to use one as a condition of entry.
How Does a Tow Float Work?
A tow float is designed to float behind you while swimming, keeping you safe and seen. Once inflated it attaches to your waist with a waist belt & leash staying out of range of arms and kick zone. A waist belt & leash is included with every tow float purchased, but replacements are available on the Outdoor Swimmer Shop and can be used as an extension belt if required, or as a replacement if you’ve been unlucky enough to misplace your original one.
Do Tow Floats Slow You Down?
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, minimising drag. Additionally, the short leash ensures the tow float remains out of the way of your arm stroke and kick.
Tow Floats vs Buoyancy Aids
While a tow float can offer support and act as a temporary buoyancy aid if you need to take a breather, it is not designed to replace a dedicated buoyancy aid or life jacket. Its primary purpose remains increasing visibility and ensuring your safety in the water.
A tow float is not intended to keep you afloat indefinitely. However, it can provide valuable temporary support when you need to rest during your swim. Think of it as a confidence-boosting safety companion rather than a lifesaving device.
Can You Use a Dry Bag as a Tow Float?
Absolutely! All the dry bags in the Swim Safety collection on the Outdoor Swimmer Shop are designed to function as tow floats. With the same key safety features as a standard tow float – including high-visibility to keep you safe and seen – a dry bag offers the added advantage of securely storing your kit.
With a waist belt & leash included, you can easily tow the dry bag behind you. The water's buoyancy minimises drag, ensuring it doesn't slow you down. Dry bags can also support an adult’s weight, making them ideal for rest stops during longer swims.
In open water, where waves, currents and wind come into play – and there’s no pool wall to cling to – fatigue can set in much sooner than expected. Having something reliable to rest on can make a real difference.
How to Choose the Right Tow Float
The ideal tow float for you will depend on budget, specific needs and personal preferences. With so many variations available, consider factors such as visibility, storage capacity and intended use when making your choice.
For most open water swimmers the most important feature is high visibility and if that's your main priority, you are spoiled for choice. All tow floats on the Outdoor Swimmer Shop are designed with visibility in mind, leaving you free to choose based on budget and style. Bright green, yellow, pink or orange? Dual colour or even camo? We’ve got you covered!
If you are new to open water swimming – and you’re likely to fatigue more quickly – or if you know you will be swimming extended distances or at higher intensity, a larger tow float or dry bag provides better support when you need a rest.
If you do want some storage, but you’re not planning to take your entire kit and caboodle, you may want to consider a tow donut. It works just like a standard tow float, but has a nifty little integrated dry bag pouch, which sits neatly in the centre and is perfect for storing small items or valuables. The little dry bag is easily accessible from the water (we would still recommend using a waterproof phone case if you intend to take your phone) and if you are swimming early or late in the day during the darker months, it's perfect for carrying a torch.
If hydration is important, check out the hydration float. Ideal for longer swims, warm conditions or salt-water swimming, it provides easy access to a drinks bottle of up to 750ml without interrupting your swim.
For those who love to combine swimming with hiking or cycling, the Shore2Sea 28L rucksack version is a brilliant all-rounder. Designed as a backpack, you simply pack your kit, head out on your adventure, and when it’s time to swim, remove the shoulder straps to reveal a fully-functional tow float/dry bag.
In Summary
A tow float, in whatever shape or design, is an essential accessory for open water swimmers, providing increased visibility, added safety, and valuable support during your swims. Whether you opt for a simple tow float or a dry bag that keeps your belongings secure, this small piece of equipment can significantly enhance your confidence and enjoyment in the water.
Dive into open water swimming feeling safer, more visible and ready for whatever your swim brings.