Be the talk of the water this summer with an over-the-top pool float
Tired: Swimming in a pool. Wired: Lounging atop a gorgeous inflatable float for hours on end.
Swimming is hard to beat in the summer activity department. But pool floats remain a tried-and-true trend each year, as people search for fun, fanciful, and (fine) Instagram-worthy ways to spend their summer days. This summer, according to Google Trends, they're projected to be more popular than ever, probably because people with access to a swimming pool or lake don't have much else to do.
Not that we'd ever pity people with access to swimming pools and lakes. Y'all are lucky as hell.
Novelty pool floats aren't limited to donut-shaped ring floats, either (though those are very cute). What sets the latest pool floats apart are their features: cup holders, cushions, backrests, handles, canopies, and more. Some are even designed for groups: Two of the options on our list can hold at least four people. Read more...
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BEST OVERALL
Swimline Giant Monarch Butterfly Pool FloatThis colorful butterfly float balances sturdiness, features, and visual appeal — not to mention a couple of drinks.
- Dimensions: 69 x 72 x 12 inches
- Features: Drink holders, pillow top
BEST FOR THRILL SEEKERS
Intex Inflat-A-Bull FloatIf you want a pool float that doubles as a game, this is for you. Just be sure you have plenty of space.
- Dimensions: 96 x 77 x 32 inches
- Weight limit: 220 pounds
- Features: Pull rope, outer handles, repair patch
BEST FOR ASPIRING MERMAIDS
Swimline Seashell Island Extra Large Pool FloatChannel your inner mermaid (or merman) on this pearly white seashell float.
- Dimensions: 82 x 83.5 x 13.5 inches
- Features: Built-in cup holders
BEST DONUT ALTERNATIVE
BigMouth Jellyfish Pool FloatWith this whimsical ring float, you aren't just *on* a jellyfish. You *are* the jellyfish.
- Dimensions: 48 x 49 x 15.5 inches
- Features: Repair patch included
BEST PARTY FLOAT
CoolerZ Tropical Breeze II Inflatable Floating IslandGrab five friends (or your whole family) and spend an afternoon on your own inflatable island. Be sure to give it a name.
- Dimensions: 128 x 114 x 26 inches
- Features: Cup holders (6), pillow backrests (2), removable sun shade, cooler bag
BEST WALLET-FRIENDLY OPTION
Swimline Giant Inflatable Swan Pool FloatA swan float is a classic pick that won't be out of style next year. Plus, it's much friendlier than a real swan.
- Dimensions: 75 x 66 inches
- Weight limit: 315 pounds
- Features: Wings and tail feather can be used as headrests
BEST FOR INSTAGRAM
Funboy Rainbow Cloud DaybedFunboy floats are Instagram classics, and this rainbow cloud float is one of the brand's prettiest options.
- Dimensions: 108 x 72 inches, with a 5 foot (60 inch) tall rainbow
- Features: PVC repair patches
BEST DOG POOL FLOAT
SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring FloatLet your dog enjoy their time in the water while retaining control of your own pool float.
- Dimensions: 64.5 x 23.25 x 9 inches
- Features: "Paw and claw friendly" fabric, spring around the perimeter for stability
BEST FOR READING
Aqua Ultra Comfort Recliner LoungeThis straightforward lounger is great for poolgoers looking for a practical option.
- Dimensions: 64 x 53 inches
- Weight limit: 500 pounds
- Features: Cup holders, cushioning on back, loops for docking
BEST RIDE-ON
Giant Narwhal Inflatable Pool FloatWhen you hop aboard this extremely cute (and larger than you'd expect) narwhal float, you'll likely be the only narwhal in the water.
- Dimensions: 78 x 43 x 40 inches
- Features: Handles, repair patch
BEST FOR GROUP HANGS
Intex Unicorn Party Island Pool LoungerThis four-person unicorn float is almost comically large — which is exactly what makes it so great.
- Dimensions: 198 x 132 x 68 inches
- Weight limit: 880 pounds
- Features: Cup holders (4), handles, built-in cooler, repair patch