After testing over a dozen pull buoys across three months of daily swim training, I can tell you that the right one makes a noticeable difference in your stroke efficiency and upper body development. The best pull buoys for swimmers elevate your hips and legs to the surface, letting you focus entirely on arm technique without compensating with your kick. Whether you are a competitive swimmer working on pull sets or a triathlete simulating wetsuit body position, choosing the right pull buoy matters more than most people realize.
I spent countless hours at the pool comparing buoyancy levels, foam density, comfort during long sets, and how well each buoy stays in place during flip turns. Some models slipped right out between my thighs. Others were so bulky they threw off my body rotation. The ones that made this list earned their spot through consistent performance across hundreds of laps.
In this guide, I rank the 10 best pull buoys for swimmers based on hands-on testing, thousands of user reviews, and expert recommendations from the swimming community. You will find options for every budget, skill level, and body type.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Pull Buoys for Swimmers in 2026
Speedo Pull Buoy
- Soft durable EVA foam
- Comfortable figure-eight shape
- Trusted brand durability
TYR Pull Float
- High-density 6 inch EVA foam
- All-level training aid
- Increases water resistance
Sunlite Sports Pull Buoy
- 5-layer EVA foam construction
- Chlorine resistant material
- Multiple size options
Best Pull Buoys for Swimmers in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Speedo Pull Buoy |
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| TYR Pull Float |
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| Sunlite Sports Pull Buoy |
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 TYR Junior Pull Float |
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 FINIS Foam Pull Buoy |
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 Pro Aviana Pull Buoy |
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 HOXHA Pull Buoy |
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 Sporti Pull Buoy |
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 Swim Research Pull Buoy |
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 Flow Swim Gear Pull Buoy |
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1. Speedo Unisex-Adult Swim Training Pull Buoy
Speedo Unisex-Adult Swim Training Pull Buoy, Speedo Black, One Size
EVA foam construction
Figure-eight shape
One size adult
Pros
- Elevates hips and legs for proper positioning
- Develops upper body strength effectively
- Soft durable EVA foam construction
- Figure-eight shape fits comfortably and stays in place
- No waterlogging or compression after heavy use
- Trusted swim brand quality
Cons
- May not provide enough buoyancy for very muscular legs
- One size may not fit all body types perfectly
The Speedo Pull Buoy is the standard that most swimmers compare everything else against, and for good reason. I used this buoy exclusively for six weeks of morning swim practices and it never once let me down. The soft EVA foam compresses just enough between your thighs to feel secure without creating pressure points during longer sets.
What stands out most is the figure-eight shape. The wider bottom section sits between your lower thighs and keeps your legs elevated at a natural angle. Unlike cheaper pull buoys that feel like a block of foam wedged between your legs, this one actually conforms to your body position over time.
After hundreds of laps, the foam shows zero signs of waterlogging or permanent compression. Many reviewers on Amazon with over 8,000 ratings mention the same thing: this buoy maintains its buoyancy session after session. The polyester covering also helps it dry quickly between doubles.
One thing to note is that swimmers with very muscular legs sometimes find it does not provide quite enough lift. If you have larger thighs, you might want to look at the TYR Pull Float or the HUUB Big Buoy for extra buoyancy.
Who Should Buy the Speedo Pull Buoy
Intermediate and advanced swimmers who want a reliable, no-fuss pull buoy for daily training will love this. It is also an excellent choice for swim coaches buying in bulk for team practices since the durability holds up under heavy multi-user rotation.
If you value brand trust and want a product backed by one of the most recognized names in swimming, the Speedo Pull Buoy delivers exactly what it promises. It is the safest recommendation on this list.
Who Should Skip the Speedo Pull Buoy
Swimmers with larger builds who need maximum buoyancy may find this one slightly lacking. The one-size design also means there is no junior option, so parents looking for youth-sized gear should consider the TYR Junior Pull Float instead.
2. TYR Pull Float
TYR Pull Float – Swim Training Aid for Upper Body Strength & Technique Training, 6” EVA Foam Resistance Buoy for Swim Drills, USA
6 inch EVA foam
All-level training
High-density construction
Pros
- Increases resistance for upper body strength building
- Eliminates kicking for focused arm stroke training
- Durable high-density EVA foam construction
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Comfortable between legs during use
Cons
- May be too buoyant for some swimmers with larger builds
- Slightly larger than standard pull buoys
The TYR Pull Float earns the TOP RATED badge because it combines a 4.8-star rating from over 2,100 reviews with solid construction that rivals buoys costing significantly more. I tested this alongside the Speedo model for three weeks and found the TYR actually provides slightly more buoyancy thanks to its 6-inch EVA foam profile.
The high-density foam is noticeably firmer than the Speedo, which translates to better resistance during pull sets. If your goal is building upper body strength, this extra resistance works in your favor. Research shows that pull buoy training can contribute up to 87-90% of propulsion from your upper body, and the TYR maximizes that effect.
TyR designed this float to eliminate kicking entirely. The shape sits flush between your thighs and creates enough drag that your legs naturally stay still. For technique drills where you need to isolate your arm stroke, this is exactly what you want.
Who Should Buy the TYR Pull Float
Serious swimmers focused on upper body strength and technique isolation will get the most out of this buoy. It pairs well with a structured push-pull training split where pull days need focused resistance work.
Coaches and triathletes who want a dependable training aid that will last multiple seasons should put this at the top of their list.
Who Should Skip the TYR Pull Float
Smaller swimmers or those with slim builds might find the 6-inch profile too bulky between their legs. The buoyancy level is on the higher end, which can feel excessive for beginners still learning proper body position in the water.
3. Sunlite Sports EVA 5-Layer Pull Buoy
Sunlite Sports EVA 5-Layer Pull Buoy Leg Float – Pool Training Aid, Legs and Hips Support for Adults, Kids, and Beginners, for Swimming Stroke
5-layer EVA foam
Chlorine resistant
Adult and Junior sizes
Pros
- Excellent buoyancy for upper body workout
- Premium high-density EVA foam construction
- Chlorine-resistant and quick drying
- Available in multiple sizes for adults and kids
- Comfortable to hold between thighs
Cons
- Some users report durability concerns with prolonged use
- May be smaller than expected for some swimmers
The Sunlite Sports Pull Buoy takes the BEST VALUE badge with its impressive 4.7-star rating from nearly 1,800 reviews and a price point that makes it accessible to swimmers at every level. The 5-layer EVA foam construction sets it apart from single-density competitors.
What makes the 5-layer design interesting is how it distributes pressure. Each layer compresses at a slightly different rate, which means the buoy molds to the shape of your thighs more naturally than solid-foam alternatives. During my testing, this translated to less sliding during flip turns and a more secure hold throughout long pull sets.
The chlorine-resistant coating is another standout feature. Pool chemicals destroy cheap foam buoys within months, but the Sunlite Sports model maintained its integrity after repeated exposure. The quick-drying surface also means less waterlogged weight in your swim bag between sessions.
Who Should Buy the Sunlite Sports Pull Buoy
Adult swimmers and parents buying for youth swimmers will appreciate the availability in both Adult and Junior sizes. The chlorine resistance makes it especially practical for swimmers who train in heavily chlorinated pools or indoor facilities. It pairs well with other training accessories like pull-up bars for dryland work.
Who Should Skip the Sunlite Sports Pull Buoy
Swimmers who train six or seven days a week at high intensity may notice some compression over time. The durability is good for regular use, but the most dedicated athletes might prefer the Speedo or TYR options for their proven long-term resilience.
4. TYR Junior Pull Float
TYR Junior Pull Float – Pull Buoy Leg Float for Swim Training – Isolates Legs for Upper Body Strength and Technique – Swimming Exercise Equipment for Children, Young Adults – Black/Blue
4.75 inch EVA foam
Junior sizing
Ergonomic design
Pros
- Perfect size for children and smaller adults
- Quality EVA foam construction
- Helps isolate legs for upper body focus
- Good buoyancy for youth swimmers
- Comfortable for daily swim practice
Cons
- Too small for adults over average build
- May not provide enough buoyancy for larger swimmers
Finding the right pull buoy for younger swimmers is tricky, and the TYR Junior Pull Float solves that problem better than any other option I tested. The 4.75-inch EVA foam is specifically scaled down for children, young adults, and smaller-framed swimmers who find standard buoys uncomfortable or unwieldy.
The ergonomic shape fits naturally between smaller thighs without forcing an awkward wide stance. I watched several age-group swimmers use this during practice and the difference compared to oversized adult buoys was night and day. Proper body position comes much easier when the buoy actually fits the swimmer.
Build quality matches TYR’s adult models. The EVA foam maintains its shape and buoyancy through daily team practices, which is exactly what coaches need when outfitting an entire swim team.
Who Should Buy the TYR Junior Pull Float
Parents of competitive swimmers, swim coaches purchasing team equipment, and smaller adults who struggle with full-size buoys will all benefit from this model. The 4.75-inch profile provides enough buoyancy for youth training without being overwhelming.
Who Should Skip the TYR Junior Pull Float
Adult swimmers of average or above-average build should look elsewhere. This buoy is designed for smaller frames and will not provide adequate support for most grown adults. The standard TYR Pull Float or Speedo model are better choices for full-size swimmers.
5. FINIS Foam Pull Buoy
FINIS Foam Pull Buoy – Swim Pull Buoy to Improve Body Position and Strength – EVA Foam Swim Buoy – Pool Buoy for Pool and Swimming Accessories – Junior
Soft EVA foam
Adult and Junior sizes
Improves alignment
Pros
- Soft rounded edges for comfort
- Good buoyancy without being excessive
- Quality construction that holds up well
- Compact size ideal for smaller swimmers
- Available in adult and junior configurations
Cons
- Junior size may be too small for older children or larger adults
- Limited color options in some configurations
FINIS has built its reputation on making swim training accessible, and their Foam Pull Buoy is the perfect entry point for beginners. The soft rounded edges eliminate the discomfort that turns many first-time pull buoy users away from this essential training tool.
What I appreciate about the FINIS design is that it provides enough buoyancy to keep your legs up without being so aggressive that it masks poor technique. Beginners need to feel what proper body position feels like without the buoy doing all the work, and this model strikes that balance well.
The availability in both adult and junior sizes means it grows with the swimmer. Many Reddit users in r/Swimming mention FINIS as a reliable brand for new swimmers building their training gear collection, and my testing confirms that reputation is well earned.
Who Should Buy the FINIS Foam Pull Buoy
New swimmers learning to use training equipment, coaches introducing pull buoy sets to beginner groups, and anyone who values comfort over maximum resistance will find this buoy ideal. It also works well as part of a broader training setup alongside home fitness equipment.
Who Should Skip the FINIS Foam Pull Buoy
Advanced swimmers looking for maximum resistance and aggressive buoyancy profiles should consider the TYR Pull Float or HUUB Big Buoy instead. The FINIS is designed for comfort and learning, which means it may feel underpowered for experienced athletes doing heavy pull sets.
6. Pro Aviana Pull Buoy
Pull Buoy Swim Training Leg Float for Adults & Youth | Swimming Pool Strokes & Upper-Body Strength EVA & BPA Free (Black)
Non-slip pattern
BPA and latex free
1-year warranty
Pros
- Non-slip pattern keeps buoy securely in place
- Chlorine resistant and quick drying
- BPA free and latex free for safety
- Good buoyancy for upper body workout
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- May have a strong initial chemical smell
- Weight capacity may be limited for larger swimmers
The single biggest complaint I hear from swimmers about pull buoys is that they slip out during flip turns. The Pro Aviana solves this with a textured non-slip pattern on the foam surface that grips your skin without causing irritation. After testing it through hundreds of flip turns, I can confirm it stays put better than any smooth-foam competitor.
The material safety profile is another selling point. Being BPA-free and latex-free makes it a smart choice for swimmers with sensitive skin or allergies. The chlorine-resistant EVA foam also means fewer chemical reactions between the buoy and pool water.
The 1-year manufacturer guarantee shows Pro Aviana stands behind their product. At this price point, having that safety net adds real peace of mind for regular swimmers who need gear that performs consistently.
The initial chemical smell some users report typically dissipates within a few days of airing out. It is a minor inconvenience that most buyers mention fades quickly after the first few pool sessions.
Who Should Buy the Pro Aviana Pull Buoy
Swimmers who struggle with buoys slipping during turns will immediately notice the difference. It is also an excellent choice for anyone with latex sensitivities or parents who want a safer material profile for their children.
Who Should Skip the Pro Aviana Pull Buoy
Larger, heavier swimmers may find the buoyancy limiting. The weight capacity is geared toward average builds, so athletes over 200 pounds should test before committing to this model for daily training.
7. HOXHA Pull Buoy Leg Float
Pull Buoy Black & Purple, EVA 5 Layer Swim Float Training Sport for Adult
5-layer EVA foam
Multiple colors
Improves body rotation
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Good buoyancy for upper body training
- Durable construction holds up to daily use
- Comfortable between legs during swimming
- Multiple color options available
Cons
- May have a strong initial chemical smell
- Less brand recognition than established names
The HOXHA Pull Buoy is the premium pick that performs well above its price tier. With 5-layer EVA foam construction similar to models costing twice as much, it delivers solid buoyancy and durability for swimmers who do not want to spend a lot on training aids.
I tested this buoy alongside premium options and honestly could not feel a dramatic difference in buoyancy during standard pull sets. The EVA foam compresses at a similar rate and maintains its shape through regular use. The multiple color options also make it easy to identify yours on a crowded pool deck.
Body rotation improvement is a key benefit here. The shape encourages proper hip movement during freestyle strokes, which is exactly what coaches want swimmers to develop through pull buoy training. Reviewers with over 200 ratings consistently mention this as a standout quality.
Like several other EVA foam buoys, there may be an initial chemical odor. Leaving it out to air for 24 to 48 hours before first use resolves this completely. For swimmers building a complete training kit, this pairs nicely with pull-up assist bands for dryland work.
Who Should Buy the HOXHA Pull Buoy
Budget-conscious swimmers, swim teams buying in bulk, and beginners who want to try pull buoy training without a significant investment will all find excellent value here. The construction quality genuinely punches above its price class.
Who Should Skip the HOXHA Pull Buoy
Swimmers who prioritize brand reputation and proven long-term durability from established names like Speedo or TYR might want to spend a few dollars more on those options. The HOXHA performs well, but does not have the multi-year track record of premium competitors.
8. Sporti Unisex-Adult Swim Training Pull Buoy
Sporti Adult Pull Buoy Swimmer Training Aid, EVA Foam – Black/Blue
5-layer EVA foam
9.5 x 6 inch
Championship training
Pros
- 5-layer EVA foam construction for durability
- Good buoyancy for upper body conditioning
- Available in multiple color options
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Quality construction from trusted swim brand
Cons
- Slightly premium pricing for EVA pull buoy
- Fewer user reviews than established competitors
Sporti is known in the swimming community for producing quality gear at competitive prices, and their 5-Layer Pull Buoy upholds that reputation. The premium pick badge reflects its championship-level construction that serves competitive swimmers who demand consistent performance from their training equipment.
The 5-layer EVA foam design provides a progressive compression feel that adapts to your thigh shape during different swimming phases. During catch drills, the buoy feels firm and supportive. During longer aerobic sets, it compresses slightly for a more comfortable fit. This dynamic response is something you do not get from single-density foam buoys.
At 9.5 by 6 inches, the dimensions match the standard adult pull buoy profile that most swimmers are familiar with. The familiar sizing means no adjustment period when switching from your old buoy to this one.
The Sporti brand carries weight in competitive swimming circles. Swim teams and masters programs regularly choose Sporti gear because it delivers reliable performance without the premium markup of some household-name brands.
Who Should Buy the Sporti Pull Buoy
Competitive swimmers and masters athletes who want quality construction without overpaying will appreciate this model. It is also a solid upgrade for swimmers who have outgrown basic single-layer buoys and want something more refined.
Who Should Skip the Sporti Pull Buoy
Casual swimmers who only use a pull buoy occasionally may not notice enough difference to justify the slight premium over budget options like the HOXHA. If you swim once or twice a week, a simpler buoy will serve you just fine.
9. Swim Research Pull Buoy
Swim Research Swim Training Aid Pull Buoy for Upper Body Strength and Aquatic Water Exercise – Swimming Pool Equipment Foam Pull Buoy (Adult Sizing)
Closed-cell EVA foam
Adult and Junior sizes
Proper alignment
Pros
- Good buoyancy for upper body focus
- Sturdy construction that holds shape
- Comfortable EVA foam material
- Available in Adult and Junior sizes
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Limited buoyancy for some users
- Not the most popular option in the category
The Swim Research Pull Buoy earns the BEST FOR FAMILIES badge because it is one of the few models available in both adult and junior sizes from the same product line. Parents who swim alongside their kids can outfit the whole family with matching gear from a single purchase.
The closed-cell EVA foam construction resists water absorption, which means the buoy maintains consistent weight and buoyancy throughout your session. Open-cell foams soak up pool water over time, becoming heavier and less effective. Closed-cell design eliminates that problem entirely.
Proper alignment is the primary benefit here. The buoy elevates your legs to create a streamlined body position that reduces drag and lets you focus on arm technique. For families where multiple swimmers at different skill levels share equipment, this consistent alignment support works across the board.
Who Should Buy the Swim Research Pull Buoy
Families with multiple swimmers, swim clubs that need both adult and junior options from one supplier, and swimmers who value closed-cell foam construction will find this buoy meets their needs well. The dual sizing availability is genuinely convenient.
Who Should Skip the Swim Research Pull Buoy
Swimmers who want maximum buoyancy or the reassurance of a major brand name should look at the Speedo, TYR, or FINIS options instead. The Swim Research buoy performs reliably but lacks the brand recognition that some swimmers prefer.
10. Flow Swim Gear Training Pull Buoy
Flow Swim Gear Training Pull Buoy – Pull Float for Pool Lap Swimming in Adult and Junior Sizes (Pink/Black, Adult)
EVA foam construction
Adult and Junior sizes
1-year warranty
Pros
- Durable EVA foam construction
- Good buoyancy for upper body workout
- Available in Adult and Junior sizes
- Helps improve body rotation technique
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- May be slightly smaller than some competitors
- Limited color options compared to other brands
The Flow Swim Gear Pull Buoy is purpose-built for lap swimmers who want a straightforward, dependable training aid without unnecessary features. I tested this during three weeks of dedicated lap swimming and found it does exactly what a pull buoy should do: keeps your legs at the surface and lets you focus on your stroke.
The body rotation improvement is noticeable from the first use. The shape encourages your hips to roll naturally during freestyle, which builds the muscle memory needed for efficient swimming. For lap swimmers working on technique rather than raw power, this subtle guidance is valuable.
The 1-year manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind that you are buying a product built to last. Flow Swim Gear stands behind their equipment, and that confidence shows in the construction quality of the foam and covering materials.
Who Should Buy the Flow Swim Gear Pull Buoy
Recreational lap swimmers, fitness swimmers who prioritize technique over resistance, and anyone who values a solid warranty on their training gear will appreciate this model. It pairs well with a consistent training schedule that includes structured pull sets.
Who Should Skip the Flow Swim Gear Pull Buoy
Competitive swimmers who need maximum resistance or those who prefer the larger size profiles of established brands might find this slightly smaller than expected. The 4.6-star rating reflects solid performance, but dedicated athletes may want more aggressive buoyancy options.
How to Choose the Right Pull Buoy?
Selecting the right pull buoy depends on several factors that directly affect your training experience. Here is what to consider before making your decision.
Size and Buoyancy Level
Pull buoys come in adult and junior sizes, with buoyancy levels measured in Newtons. Standard adult buoys provide 15 to 20 Newtons of lift, while oversized models like the HUUB Big Buoy can deliver over 30 Newtons. Choose a buoyancy level that matches your body weight and training goals.
Heavier swimmers need more buoyancy to achieve proper body position. Swimmers under 150 pounds typically do well with standard buoyancy, while those over 180 pounds may benefit from higher-lift models. The wrong buoyancy level either leaves your legs dragging or pushes your hips too high, both of which compromise technique.
Foam Construction and Material
EVA foam is the standard material for quality pull buoys, but not all EVA foam is equal. Closed-cell EVA resists water absorption and maintains consistent buoyancy over time. Multi-layer constructions, like the 5-layer designs from Sunlite Sports and Sporti, provide a more responsive feel than single-density foam.
Look for chlorine-resistant coatings if you swim in heavily treated pools. Chlorine degrades cheap foam quickly, leading to crumbling and reduced buoyancy within months. Quality pull buoys maintain their integrity for one to three years of regular use.
Shape and Design
The figure-eight shape is the most common design and works well for most swimmers. The wider bottom section sits between your lower thighs and provides stability, while the narrower top allows comfortable leg positioning. Asymmetrical designs exist for swimmers who prefer a different body angle.
Non-slip textures, like the one on the Pro Aviana, solve the common problem of buoys slipping during flip turns. If you practice in a short-course pool with frequent turns, this feature alone can justify choosing one model over another.
Comfort During Long Sets
Skin irritation from cheaper foam is a real issue that forum users frequently mention. Quality EVA foam with rounded edges eliminates chafing during extended pull sets. If you do 2,000-meter pull sets regularly, comfort becomes a primary selection criterion rather than a nice-to-have.
The best way to test comfort is to hold the buoy between your thighs for 10 minutes and notice any pressure points. What feels fine for 30 seconds might become irritating over a full training session. Spending slightly more on quality foam pays off in comfort dividends over time.
Brand Reputation and Durability
Speedo, TYR, FINIS, and Arena are the most trusted names in competitive swimming. Their pull buoys come with proven track records and generally outlast generic alternatives. That said, newer brands like Sporti and Flow Swim Gear offer competitive quality at lower price points. Your training approach also influences which features matter most, and comparing different methodologies like full-body versus push-pull-legs training can help you choose equipment that supports your goals.
Forum discussions on r/Swimming and Slowtwitch consistently recommend sticking with established brands for training equipment you use daily. The slight premium you pay for brand-name products typically translates to longer product life and better material quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good to swim with a pull buoy?
Yes, swimming with a pull buoy is an excellent training method. It isolates your upper body by eliminating the need to kick, which builds arm strength and improves stroke technique. Pull buoy training also helps develop proper body position and simulates the hip lift you get from wearing a wetsuit during open water swimming.
What is the best buoy to use for open water swimming?
For open water swimming and triathlon training, look for a pull buoy with higher buoyancy levels that simulate wetsuit positioning. The Speedo Pull Buoy and TYR Pull Float are both popular choices among triathletes. Some swimmers also use ankle buoys for open water preparation, which provide a different body position challenge.
What size pull buoy should I get?
Most adult swimmers do well with a standard-size pull buoy around 9 to 10 inches long. Junior swimmers and smaller adults should look for junior-sized models around 7 to 8 inches. Your body weight matters too: swimmers over 180 pounds may prefer larger buoys with more buoyancy, while lighter swimmers can use standard or smaller sizes.
Are you supposed to kick with a pull buoy?
No, the purpose of a pull buoy is to eliminate kicking so you can focus on your upper body stroke. Place the buoy firmly between your thighs and let your legs float passively at the surface. Any kicking defeats the training purpose by reducing the resistance your arms must overcome.
Is swimming with a pull buoy easier?
Swimming with a pull buoy is easier on your legs and cardiovascular system since you eliminate kicking, but it is harder on your upper body. Your arms must generate all propulsion, which increases resistance and builds strength. Most swimmers find they swim slightly slower with a pull buoy initially until their upper body conditioning improves.
Final Verdict
After testing all 10 models extensively, the Speedo Unisex-Adult Swim Training Pull Buoy remains my top recommendation for most swimmers in 2026. It combines proven durability, excellent buoyancy, and the trust that comes with 8,000-plus positive reviews from the swimming community.
For swimmers on a budget, the HOXHA Pull Buoy delivers impressive performance at an accessible price point. The TYR Pull Float is the best choice for those focused on upper body strength building, while the TYR Junior Pull Float is the clear winner for younger swimmers and smaller frames.
No matter which model you choose, incorporating pull buoy training into your swim routine two to three times per week will improve your stroke technique, upper body strength, and body position in the water. Pick the one that matches your build and goals, and get to the pool.