Where to Buy Pull Buoy: 5 Places to Find the Right One for Pool Training

Updated November 2026

If you want to know where to buy pull buoy options that actually fit your training, the short answer is that most swimmers can find one at a swim specialty shop, a large sporting goods store, a team supply retailer, or an online marketplace. The right choice depends on your body size, how you plan to use it, and whether you need a single buoy or a full set. This guide walks through each option and what to check before you order.

Start With the Type You Need

Not every pull buoy is the same. Most are foam pieces worn between the thighs to keep the legs still, which lets you focus on arm stroke and body position. Some are shaped like a figure eight, others are a flat foam block, and a few are designed with a more contoured fit for the hips. Before shopping, decide whether you want a standard training buoy, a team-style model, or a set that includes a kickboard.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Top 4 Pull Buoy and Kickboard Sets for Swim Training.

Where to Find Pull Buoys

Each retail channel has its own strengths, so match the source to what you need.

• Swim specialty shops: Staff can usually help you pick a size and shape, and you can often feel the foam density in person.
• Large sporting goods stores: These carry basic models at reliable quality and are useful if you need one quickly.
• Team and club swim suppliers: These often stock the shapes coaches specify for lap groups, including some trainer-grade options.
• Online marketplaces: You get the widest selection and easy side-by-side comparison, though sizing charts vary by brand.
• Pool shops and aquatic centers: Some facilities sell buoys at the front desk or pro shop, which works well for a single replacement.

Check Size, Foam Density and Fit

Fit matters more than brand. A buoy that sits too low slides down during flip turns, while one that rides too high can pinch or shift as you kick. Look for a product page that lists dimensions, and compare them against the width of your hips and thighs. Manufacturers often specify different versions for youth and adult swimmers, so check the stated age or size range before buying.

Foam density also affects how much buoyancy you get. Firmer foam keeps the legs more stable and suits stronger swimmers, while softer foam feels more comfortable for beginners. If you plan to train for long sets, a slightly firmer buoy usually holds its shape longer in chlorinated water.

Step-by-Step Buying Checklist

1. Measure your hip and upper-thigh width with a soft tape.
2. Decide whether you need a single buoy or a set with a kickboard.
3. Choose your retail source based on whether you want in-person help or online comparison.
4. Read the dimensions and recommended size range on the product page.
5. Confirm the return policy, since fit is hard to judge without trying it in the water.

Common Mistakes

• Buying by color or brand alone without checking the size range.
• Choosing a very firm buoy as a beginner, which can feel stiff and uncomfortable.
• Ignoring the return window before testing the fit in a pool.
• Assuming a youth model will work for a teen or small adult swimmer.
• Skipping a kickboard when you need both tools for a full pull-and-kick session.

Recommended gear

A standard pull buoy is the core item, and many coaches pair it with a kickboard for balanced training. Look for a set if you want both tools in one purchase.

• A basic training pull buoy for everyday lap work: View on Amazon
• A kickboard to pair with your buoy for full-stroke sessions: View on Amazon

FAQ

Is a pull buoy the same as a kickboard?

No. A pull buoy is worn between the legs to support the lower body while you swim with your arms, while a kickboard is held in front to support your upper body while you kick.

Can I use a pull buoy in open water?

Many swimmers use pool buoys in open water, but the bright-colored safety buoys made for open water are a different product. Check your event rules and your local conditions before relying on a pool model.

How do I know if my pull buoy is worn out?

Replace it if the foam feels soft, cracks, or no longer holds its shape between your legs. Chlorine and sunscreen can break down foam over time.

Conclusion

To find where to buy pull buoy options that suit you, start by deciding on the shape and whether you need a set. Then compare specialty shops, sporting goods stores and online sellers using the size and foam details on each product page. Measure before you buy, and keep the return window in mind until you have tested the fit in the pool.

Related reading

• Swimming With a Pull Buoy: A Step-by-Step Guide for Better Pool Training
• Speedo Team Pull Buoy: How to Choose and Use One for Pool Training (2026)
• 6 Best Swims with Pull Buoy Options for Pool Training (2026)

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