Best Swim Pull Buoys for Training 2025 (Tested by a World Championship Swimmer)
- Competitive Swimwear
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
I've been swimming competitively since age 8, and the pull buoy is one of the most essential tools in any serious swimmer's training bag. After competing at the 2008 and 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials and winning a silver medal at the 2008 FINA World Championships as part of the U.S. 4x100 Medley Relay team, I can tell you that upper body strength and catch mechanics are what drive elite freestyle performance — and pull buoy work is the most direct way to develop both.
As the current American Record holder in the 100 yard butterfly for ages 35–39 and a member of the Deboer Swim Team Elite, I still incorporate pull buoy sets into every training cycle. In this guide, I've tested and ranked the five best swim pull buoys for 2025 — so you can find the right one for your stroke development and training goals.
FINIS Axis Pull Buoy (~$20)
The FINIS Axis is the most innovative pull buoy on the market, and it's the one I recommend most to technically-minded swimmers. Instead of the classic figure-eight foam shape, the Axis uses a single-point contact design that forces your hips to rotate naturally — which trains your body rotation mechanics simultaneously with your pull. Traditional pull buoys can create artificial hip lift that masks hip-sinking issues; the Axis doesn't cheat for you. The dense EVA foam provides reliable buoyancy without being too rigid, and the compact shape works well for swimmers of all sizes.
Speedo Pull Buoy (~$18)
Speedo's pull buoy is the classic figure-eight design done right — the right density, the right size, and reliable buoyancy that's consistent across thousands of yards of use. It's the pull buoy you'll find in most competitive swimming programs, and for good reason: it does exactly what a pull buoy should do without any complications. The two-chamber foam construction gives you a stable platform between your thighs, and the slightly textured surface helps it grip rather than slide. If you want a no-frills, proven performer that will last for years, this is the one.
TYR Pull Float (~$15)
The TYR Pull Float is the best value option on this list and a great choice for swimmers who are just starting to incorporate dedicated pull work into their training. The EVA foam is firm enough to provide good lift without feeling waterlogged after a long set, and the classic figure-eight shape is intuitive to use. It runs slightly smaller than the Speedo version, which some swimmers actually prefer — particularly those with narrower thighs who find standard pull buoys tend to migrate during long sets. At this price point, it's hard to find a more reliable piece of training equipment.
Train Like an Elite with Deboer Swimwear
Pull buoy sets are where technique becomes muscle memory, and what you wear during that work matters more than most swimmers realize. As a Deboer Swim Team Elite member, I've found that their suits' compression panels and low-drag construction let me focus entirely on my catch and pull mechanics without fighting the suit. When you're doing high-volume pull work to build your freestyle base, a suit that moves with you — not against you — is essential. Use code TE_RANDALL10 to save 10% and train in what elite swimmers actually wear.
Arena Pull Kick (~$25)
The Arena Pull Kick is a 2-in-1 tool that functions as both a pull buoy and a kickboard, making it the most versatile piece of equipment on this list. For pull work, it functions just like a standard figure-eight pull buoy — buoyant, stable, and comfortable between the thighs. For kick sets, flip it horizontally and it works as a compact kickboard. The dual-density foam construction is noticeably more durable than single-density options, and the ergonomic cutout shape means it fits a wide range of body types without slipping. If you're looking to minimize what you carry to the pool, this is the smart choice.
Final Verdict
Every pull buoy here will elevate your training, but the right fit depends on your goals. Here's the breakdown:
Best for Technique: FINIS Axis Pull Buoy — the single-point contact design trains natural hip rotation while you pull, making every set do double duty.
Best Classic Option: Speedo Pull Buoy — the industry standard for a reason; reliable, durable, and the right density for swimmers of all levels.
Best Budget: TYR Pull Float — excellent value, firm foam, and a slightly smaller profile that works well for narrower-built swimmers.
Best Versatility: Arena Pull Kick — doubles as a kickboard, making it the smartest gear investment if you want to travel light to the pool.
Best Suit for Pull Sets: Deboer Swim — low-drag construction and compression panels let you focus on mechanics, not fighting your equipment. Use code TE_RANDALL10 for 10% off.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As a competitive swimmer and Deboer Swim Team Elite member, I only recommend products I personally use and trust.
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