If you swim in the sea, lakes or other open water, you've probably seen swimmers using bright inflatable floats attached to their waists. These are known as swimming tow floats, and they're a useful accessory for many open-water swimmers.
But do you really need one? What features should you look for, and is it worth choosing a tow float with storage as well as visibility?
In this guide, we'll explain the benefits of using a tow float and the features to consider when choosing one for your next open-water swim.
What is a swimming tow float?
A swimming tow float is a lightweight inflatable float that you attach around your waist using a belt and tether. It travels behind you as you swim, staying out of the way while providing a brightly coloured marker on the water.
Many tow floats also incorporate storage compartments, allowing you to carry small essentials while swimming.
Although a tow float can make you more visible and provide somewhere to store your belongings, it isn't a substitute for appropriate safety equipment, good judgement or careful planning. Always consider the water temperature, weather, currents, your swimming ability and the conditions at your chosen location.
1. Visibility: choose a bright, highly visible colour
One of the main reasons to use a tow float is to make yourself easier to see in open water.
Unlike a swimming pool, open water can be busy with boats, paddleboards, kayaks and other water users. Swimmers can be difficult to spot, particularly when waves, glare or changing light conditions make them less visible.
A brightly coloured tow float provides a more noticeable marker on the surface of the water.
Why choose fluorescent yellow?
Fluorescent yellow is a popular choice because it stands out against many water and landscape backgrounds. Bright orange and other high-visibility colours can also be effective, depending on the surroundings and conditions.
Visibility can vary with light, distance, weather and the colour of the water, so no colour guarantees that you'll always be seen.
When choosing a tow float, prioritise a bright, contrasting colour rather than a subdued shade that blends into the environment.
Our tip: If visibility is your main priority, look for a highly visible tow float in fluorescent yellow and avoid assuming that a float alone makes you safe around boats or other water users.
2. Combined storage: carry your essentials with you
Some tow floats do more than provide a visible marker. Models with integrated storage allow you to carry small personal items while swimming.
Depending on the design, you may be able to store items such as keys, a phone in a suitable waterproof pouch, or other small essentials.
This can be particularly useful if you're swimming from a beach or lake where you don't have a convenient place to leave your belongings.
Before buying, check how the storage compartment is constructed and what it is designed to protect. Not every tow float is fully waterproof, and an ordinary storage compartment should not be assumed to protect valuables from water.
Consider the size of the compartment, how easily it opens and closes, and whether it suits the items you want to carry.
3. Handles: a useful feature for resting and support
Some tow floats include external handles that you can hold while in the water.
These can be useful if you want to steady yourself briefly, adjust your position or hold onto the float while taking a short rest.
Handles can also make the float easier to grasp when you're handling it out of the water.
However, a tow float is not a life-saving flotation device unless it is specifically designed and rated for that purpose. Don't rely on it to support your weight or keep you afloat in an emergency.
If handles are important to you, check that they are securely attached and easy to reach when the float is trailing behind you.
4. Safety features: why an included whistle is useful
A whistle is a simple addition that can be valuable when swimming outdoors.
If you need to attract attention, a whistle can provide an audible signal without requiring you to shout. This may be particularly useful when you're tired, dealing with changing conditions or trying to alert someone nearby.
Some swimming tow floats include a whistle as part of the package, saving you from having to source one separately.
Check where the whistle is attached and whether you can reach it easily when wearing the float.
Remember that an included whistle is an additional safety feature, not a guarantee of rescue. Choose your swimming location carefully, let someone know your plans and follow local safety advice.
5. An external pouch for energy gels and small essentials
For longer swims, having easy access to a small item such as an energy gel can be useful.
A tow float with an external pouch gives you somewhere convenient to carry an energy gel or another small item you may want to access during your swim.
Unlike a main storage compartment, an external pouch can make it easier to reach a frequently used item without opening the entire float.
Look for a pouch that's securely attached and suitably positioned so it doesn't interfere with your stroke or become awkward while you're swimming.
Check its dimensions before buying to ensure it will accommodate the items you intend to carry. An external pouch should not automatically be assumed to be waterproof.
6. Make sure the waist belt fits properly
A tow float is only practical if the waist belt fits comfortably and securely.
This is especially important if you wear a wetsuit. A belt that fits comfortably over swimwear may feel too tight when worn over a thicker wetsuit, while a belt that's too loose may shift around during your swim.
Before buying, check the belt's adjustment range and compare it with your waist measurement. If you swim in a wetsuit, measure around your waist with the suit on, or allow for the additional thickness of the material.
Look for a belt that can be adjusted easily and stays secure without restricting your movement or breathing.
Our tip: Don't assume that a standard adjustable belt will fit everyone. Check the manufacturer's stated belt range and make sure it accommodates your waist and wetsuit combination.
7. Two chambers: an extra practical feature
Some tow floats have a two-chamber design, with separate inflatable compartments.
Having two chambers can offer an additional level of practical resilience: if one chamber develops a problem, the other may remain inflated. However, this depends on the design, and you should never assume the float will remain fully functional if one chamber fails.
Separate chambers also need to be easy to use. Look for clearly accessible valves that make inflation straightforward and deflation quick when you're packing your float away after a swim.
Easy-to-use valves can make a difference if you swim frequently, especially when you're packing up in cold or wet conditions.
Before each swim, check the float for damage, ensure both chambers inflate properly and follow the manufacturer's instructions for closing the valves securely.
8. Easy inflation and quick deflation
A tow float should be straightforward to prepare before a swim and pack away afterwards.
Consider how the inflation valves work, how easily you can inflate the chambers and whether the float deflates quickly enough for convenient storage.
Valves that are awkward to reach or operate can make setup more frustrating than it needs to be.
When comparing models, look for a design that makes inflation and deflation simple without compromising the security of the closures.
So, should you buy a tow float for open-water swimming?
For many open-water swimmers, a tow float is a worthwhile addition to their swimming kit. It can make you more visible on the water and provide convenient storage for small essentials.
When choosing one, consider these key features:
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High visibility: A bright colour, such as fluorescent yellow, helps you stand out against the water.
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Combined storage: Useful for carrying small personal items.
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Handles: Convenient for holding or steadying yourself briefly.
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An included whistle: A practical additional way to attract attention.
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An external pouch: Handy for an energy gel or another small item you want to access easily.
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An adjustable waist belt: Check that it fits comfortably over your swimwear or wetsuit.
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Two separate chambers: An additional design feature worth considering.
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Easy-to-use valves: Make inflation and deflation less of a chore.
The right choice depends on where you swim, how long you swim for and what you want to carry. Prioritise visibility, a secure and comfortable fit, and practical features that suit your swimming routine.
A tow float should form part of a sensible approach to open-water safety, alongside checking conditions, swimming within your ability and following local guidance.
Discover the Fetch 50 Swimming Tow Float
The Fetch 50 Swimming Tow Float combines a bright yellow design with practical features for open-water swimmers.
Designed with two inflatable chambers, adjustable waist belt, handles, a whistle, an external pouch and storage for small essentials, it brings together visibility and convenience in one piece of swimming kit.
Before choosing your float, check the product specifications and belt adjustment range to ensure it suits your needs.
Ready to prepare for your next swim? Explore the Fetch 50 Swimming Tow Float and see whether its features are right for you.
Frequently asked questions
Is a tow float necessary for open-water swimming?
It isn't compulsory everywhere, but it can be a useful addition to your kit. A bright tow float can improve your visibility and some models provide storage for small essentials.
What colour tow float is best?
Fluorescent yellow and bright orange are popular high-visibility choices. The most effective colour depends on the light, water and surrounding environment.
Can I rest on a swimming tow float?
Some floats have handles that are useful to hold briefly. However, unless the product is specifically designed and rated as a flotation aid, don't rely on it to support your body weight or keep you afloat.
Can I put my phone and keys inside a tow float?
Some models have storage compartments suitable for small personal items. Check the manufacturer's guidance and use appropriate waterproof protection for valuables.
Will a tow float fit over my wetsuit?
That depends on the waist belt's adjustment range. Check the manufacturer's measurements and allow for the additional thickness of your wetsuit.
What is the advantage of a two-chamber tow float?
Two separate chambers provide an additional layer of practical resilience if one chamber loses air, although performance depends on the design. Check both chambers before every swim and never rely on a tow float as a substitute for appropriate safety equipment.