Swimming accessories that help keep a person's head above water primarily include flotation aids and visibility devices rather than typical swimwear gear. Here are the key types:
- Tow Float / Swim Buoy : A small inflatable buoy attached by a waist leash that swimmers tow behind them. It provides extra visibility in open water and can be held onto for rest, helping keep the head above water. However, unless specifically designed as a buoyancy device (like Restube), it is not a life-saving flotation device
- Swim Snorkel : While not a flotation device, a swim snorkel allows swimmers to keep their face in the water continuously for breathing without lifting their head. This helps maintain a streamlined position and reduces the need to raise the head, indirectly aiding head position above water
- Neoprene Swim Hats / Caps : These do not aid buoyancy but help retain heat and protect ears in cold water, making swimming more comfortable. They can contribute to overall endurance but do not keep the head afloat
- Swim Caps and Goggles : These accessories improve hydrodynamics and visibility but do not provide flotation or keep the head above water
In summary, the main swimming accessory designed to keep a person's head above water by providing buoyancy and visibility is the tow float or swim buoy. Other gear like snorkels help maintain proper head position but do not provide flotation support. Neoprene hats and caps help with warmth but not buoyancy
