Why You'll Want a Tow Float for Open Water Swims

There’s something special about swimming in open water. It’s calming, freeing, and a bit unpredictable too. Whether you’re training through the cooler months or enjoying peaceful solo swims, it’s important to stay safe out there. Winter can creep in quickly, bringing shorter days, colder water, and fewer people around. Having the right gear can make all the difference.

One piece of important kit is a tow float for open water swimming. It's simple but smart. It helps you stay visible, gives you a place to hold on if you need a rest, and lets you bring a few small items along if it has a dry bag compartment. At this time of year, it’s not just handy, it’s a proper boost to safety and peace of mind in and around the water.

Why Visibility Matters in Open Water

It doesn’t take much for conditions to shift. One minute the skies are clear, the next they’re grey and low. In open water, that kind of change can make it hard for others to spot you, especially if you’re far from the shore.

• Many lakes, rivers, and sea spots are naturally murky, and on overcast days, swimmers blend in fast.
• A bright tow float trails behind you, catching the eye of boaters, paddleboarders, or anyone nearby.
• During autumn and early winter, when the water is colder and fewer people are out, being seen easily becomes even more important.
• SwimCell’s 13L tow float is designed in a high-visibility orange or pink, helping you stand out in low light and choppy conditions.

You don’t always necessarily plan to swim far, but when you’re out in the water, having something that makes you visible is a simple way to help avoid accidents.

An Extra Bit of Buoyancy When You Need It

Swimming in open water isn’t the same as doing laps in a heated pool. The cold works on your muscles in different ways, sometimes faster than expected.

• A tow float gently floats behind you, but it’s within reach if you need to pause mid-swim.
• If you get a sudden cramp or just feel a bit off, having something to hold on to keeps you in the water safely until you’re ready to move again.
• For longer swims, or when the water’s particularly chilly, a swimming tow float helps manage energy better by letting you take regular breaks.
• SwimCell’s tow float supports adult weight if you need a short rest, making it ideal for sea swims and winter training.

It doesn’t replace swimming with someone you trust, but it adds another layer of safety you’ll be glad to have.

Keeping Keys, Snacks, and Extras Dry

Some tow floats come with a built-in dry bag section, which opens up a few helpful possibilities during colder months.

• You can bring small dry items with you, like a snack or lip balm, without needing to leave them onshore.
• It's handy to pop in a warm layer or a small towel for when you exit the water and start to cool down.
• Carrying your keys or phone with you safely means you’ve got peace of mind, especially in places where theft or weather might damage items left on land.
• SwimCell’s tow float features an easy-access dry bag compartment, making it practical to keep valuables with you and away from the elements.

It’s one less thing to think about, and the dry bag versions do double duty by keeping your things close while still helping you stay visible.

Peace of Mind for You and Others

Not every swim is a group outing. If you’re training solo or just want a moment of quiet in the water, it helps to know you’ve covered your basics.

• You feel more relaxed knowing there’s a float behind you and your location is easy to track via GPS on your phone.
• Family watching from shore won’t lose sight of you.
• It’s a simple step that can calm nerves, especially when it's cold and the wind picks up or your body starts to feel the chill.

We all enjoy that sense of freedom in wild swimming, but safety should never take a back seat to adventure.

A Smart Step for Cold Water Swims Ahead

Late November brings a shift. Leaves are gone, and the water feels sharper with each swim. Getting into better habits now can help you ease into the colder months with more confidence.

• Practice using your tow float now while conditions are still manageable.
• By winter, it’ll feel like second nature to clip it on and bring it with you.
• Visibility and floating support are always helpful, but they're even more valuable when water temps are at their lowest and you’re wearing more gear.

Open water swimming has grown into a year-round activity in the UK, and having the right tools early on makes those winter dips safer and a lot more enjoyable.

Stay Safe and Enjoy Every Swim

Tow floats are simple, lightweight, and won’t get in the way of your swim. They’re a small addition that adds a big benefit. Whether you’re building up for a cold-water challenge or simply getting a few laps in to clear your head after work, staying visible and having support makes a noticeable difference.

A tow float is as much about peace of mind as it is about safety. Each time you enter the water, you’ll know you’ve taken a step to make your experience safer, warmer, and more enjoyable. It’s a small investment that pays off with every swim.

At SwimCell, we know how important peace of mind is when the water gets colder. A bright, lightweight float keeps you visible, gives support during breaks, and offers space for your essentials. We offer 2 types of tow float, one with and one without a dry bag. The dry bag option has a built in emergency whistle enabling you to signal for help if needed. All our tow floats for open water swimming are made of a strong pvc and have a strap that’s permanently attached so you can’t lose it. A SwimCell tow float will help you feel more confident and comfortable swimming all year round. Take a look at our tow float for open water swimming to see if it suits your routine, and reach out with any questions.

Also in Blog