The 16 Best Pool Floats, From Flamingos to Party Cabanas
There’s no denying it: Lying on a pool float is one of summer’s greatest joys. While the simple options you might find at beach kiosks are fine, they probably won’t last very long or have special features, like a cup holder for your beverage or a canopy to keep you safe from the sun. Some allow you to read while you float in a more upright position, and large options let you lounge with friends and family. With a novelty pick, you can live out your dream of bobbing on a flamingo in the deep end.
Before settling on a pool float, consider aspects like price and durability. Options that are built to last more than just one season will undoubtedly cost more but prove to be a good investment summer after summer. It’s also worth noting that while larger inflatables are super roomy, comfortable, and fun, they will take more time to inflate and deflate for storage. Whatever you’re after, we’ve got it on our list below.
Best for Lounging
This convertible pool float from Aqua offers two lounging positions for the price of one. You can fold up the backrest to sit upright or all the way down for tanning. It’s covered in a soft, cooling, and breathable fabric, and it comes with a floating side tray for three drinks and accessories, like a Kindle, phone, or tablet.
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With its plethoric 27-inch folding UPF50+ sun canopy, this float will keep you safe and comfortable, even on the sunniest days. Thanks to its eight-shaped design, you’ll never overheat because your back and legs have direct contact with the water. It can support up to 300 pounds in weight and even has a built-in cup and phone holder.
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This luxury pool float has a supersized 33.5-inch width for comfortable lounging by users up to 220 pounds. It has a built-in head and shoulder rest as well as side handles for getting it in and out of the pool. It’s made from non-toxic and phthalate-free PVC and has a removable fabric cover that’s made special for outdoor use.
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Available in four glittery colors, including this gorgeous ombre, the Funboy Glitter Mesh Lounger inflates in just under a minute. It features a headrest and reinforced cup holder for utmost comfort and convenience. The lounger's inflatable perimeter keeps you afloat while its hammock-style mesh center partially submerges you in the cool pool water.
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Best Chairs
The SwimWays pool chair float allows you to comfortably sit in an upright position while in the pool, so you can easily read, write, or play games. It has its own fold-out canopy to keep the sun out of your face and inflates in just seconds without the need for a pump, thanks to its “Hyper-Flate” valve.
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With an innovative bean-filled construction that floats excellently in water, this pool chair doesn’t need to be inflated or deflated. The hammock seat keeps users afloat up to 300 pounds while partially submerged in the water, and its compact design makes it easy to store. The chair’s durable material is water-, stain-, fade-, and mildew-resistant.
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This super comfy pool float chair from Big Joe has an airless design with a buoyant bean filling and a built-in cupholder for ultimate relaxation. The float’s thick and durable fabric material dries easily and won’t tear, making it a summer staple you can use year after year. It comes in 20 different colorways and designs.
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This Adirondack-style float has a submerged and supportive PVC sling seat and a floating upper half for a refreshing dip in the pool. The BVA foam is water resistant, lightweight, and long lasting. It comes with a repair kit, a nano hand pump, a mesh carry sling, and four dock link connectors for easy setup without additional tools.
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