The Ultimate Pool Float Buyer's Guide

Whether you're looking to relax under the warm sun or throw the ultimate pool party, finding the perfect pool float is essential for creating your summer oasis. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you? Look no further! In this pool float buyer's guide, we will dive into the world of pool floats to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to make a splash this summer with our comprehensive guide to the best pool floats on the market.

Loungers & Foam Floats

The epitome of relaxation and luxury, loungers and foam floats are always a favorite among pool owners. After all, nothing beats a quiet afternoon, laying under the warm sun in a soft, comfy recliner. Let's take a look at some of the best options in this category.

Loungers

Starting our list is the Swimways Spring Float Recliner, which features a built-in back and foot rest, cup holder, and a handy carrying bag for easy transport. Or, for a more upgraded experience, check out the Swimline Ultimate Pool Lounger. This ultra-plush lounger is tear and puncture-resistant thanks to the durable nylon cover. Not to mention, the deluxe head and arm rests provide optimal comfort and relaxation.

Rounding out our list of luxurious loungers is the indulgent Bestway H2OGO! Comfort Plush Lounger. The deep, mesh-covered bed offers maximum leisure, while the soft, Comfort Plush™ material keeps the surface cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days. Additionally, the included pillow can be used as a headrest, footrest, or wherever you need a little extra support.

Foam Floats

While their basic design may not be as exciting as the more lavish loungers, there's no denying the enjoyment a simple foam float can bring you. Take the Texas Recreation Splash Float for example! The 1 1/4" thick, vibrant blue foam material provides excellent support for your head, neck, and back as you drift around the pool. Plus, the durable vinyl-coated, closed-cell foam means this float will last for multiple swim seasons.

If you're looking for a slightly more elegant foam float, the Big Joe Baja Breeze is the one for you. The plush, quilt-like design traps water on the surface of the float, providing a refreshing experience for its user. And with 2.5" thick, closed-cell foam, this float will withstand the wear and tear brought on by the sun, chemical exposure, and use.

When most people think of a pool float, they imagine something like the two floats described above, but that's not the only type of float out there. Say hello to the Texas Recreation Super Soft Deluxe Saddle float. That's right, a saddle float. This float's unique seat-like design keeps you in an upright position as you float around your pool, making it perfect for chatting with friends or enjoying a cool drink. With no setup or inflation required, all you need to do is put on your cowboy hat and climb aboard!

Fun Inflatables

Relaxing on a foam float is great, but when you want to turn your pool float game up a notch, look no further than the fun inflatables. From giant pineapples to motorized dinosaurs, In The Swim has the best selection of entertaining, eye-catching inflatables.

Turn your backyard into a tropical paradise with the Pinneapple Mesh Hammock Float from Big Mouth. Comfortable and easy to inflate, this 6' long float is the perfect addition to any backyard summer bash. Or, if you're into a more prehistoric vibe, the motorized T-Rex inflatable by Pool Candy is a can't miss choice. Powered by a 66-watt battery, this durable, fearsome float features a 3-blade propeller that can turn the float in any direction.

And finally, we can't forget about the best pool party day of the year — 4th of July! With Pool Candy's Stars and Stripes collection of inflatable floats, you'll be ready to throw an Independence Day to remember. Start the celebrations by stocking your inflatable buffet cooler with ice and everyone's favorite drinks and snacks. Once your guests are hydrated and ready to party, spend the day swimming and hanging out on the inflatable glitter sun chair and tube. Finally, as the day winds down, lay back on the illuminated LED pool raft and watch the fireworks light up the night sky.

Recreation

You don't need to be in a pool to enjoy the entertainment and relaxation of a pool float. Whether you're headed to the lake for the day, or the ocean for a weekend getaway, don't forget to bring your favorite recreation floats!

The Swimline Sofa Island float is perfect for folks who like to spend as much time relaxing on their couch as they do enjoying the great outdoors. At 84" in diameter, this giant floating sofa offers enough room for 4 adults to lounge comfortably, and even features a foot ottoman in the center that can be removed if users want to put their feet in the water. While this over-sized float may be a bit too large for some residential pools, it's ideal for open water adventures!

If you're ready to take your couch surfing up a notch, look no further than the Sun Comfort pool mattress by Airhead. This spacious float is great for soaking up the sun, hanging with friends, or even enjoying a good book on the water. Just remember to put on extra sunscreen in case the soft, velvety material and comfortable pillows lull you to sleep.

And for those craving a bit of alone time, the Siesta floating lounge by Airhead is a perfect match. Complete with 2 cup holders, a fold-out foot rest, and two storage pouches ideal for snacks, sunscreen, and other necessities, this fully-loaded lounge is a top choice.

Kids & Babies

When it comes to pool floats for kids and families, safety and entertainment are top priorities. Here are some pool floats that are perfect for little ones and the whole family to enjoy:

Get ready to be the coolest house on your street with the Swimline Pirate Island Adventure set. This epic, 82" x 62" island comes equipped with three inflatable swords and shields — everything your kids need to defend their nautical fortress. Plus, the inflatable slide provides your swashbuckling youngsters with a fun and easy way to get back in the water.

Have a quacking-good time watching your kiddos splash around on the Bestway H2OGO! Funspeakers Duck float. Complete with realistic duck sounds and a pint-sized seat, this float is perfect for keeping kids safe and entertained.

Need something for the tiny tots in your life? We've got you covered! The Park Play splash pad is a fantastic way to introduce babies and toddlers to the water in a safe, contained space. And once they're ready for the pool, our U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets are the perfect safety aid for kids as they build their confidence in the water.

Beat the heat and have a blast this summer with the help of In The Swim pool floats! Whether you want to kick back and relax, or host a memorable pool party, we can help you find the perfect float. And don't forget to grab an air pump to make inflating your favorite float faster than ever.

In The Swim makes every effort to provide accurate recommendations based upon current ANSI/APSP/ICC-5 2011 (R2022) standards, but codes and regulations change, and In The Swim assumes no liability for any omissions or errors in this article or the outcome of any project. You must always exercise reasonable caution, carefully read the label on all products, follow all product directions, follow any current codes and regulations that may apply, and consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures. In The Swim assumes no legal responsibility for your reliance or interpretation of the data contained herein, and makes no representations or warranties of any kind concerning the quality, safety, or suitability of the information, whether express or implied, including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.