If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SPY.com may receive an affiliate commission.
Summer 2022 is nearly here. After the past two years we’ve had, this summer is surely about to be full of all things outdoors and fun, and we can’t wait. The weather is hot, the drinks are cool and we’re dying to spend our days chilling in a swimming pool. If you’re like us, your swimming trunks are on, your sunscreen is applied liberally and your friends are on the way over for an for libations in the backyard. But that leaves just one major question: Where are the pool floats?
In the social media era, pool floats have been reimagined to serve as eye candy on Instagram and TikTok, and we’re living in the golden age of inflatable pool toys. It’s never been easier to find giant avocado pool floats, recliners, massive swans and unicorns, and even gigantic floating cabanas.
What Are the Best Pool Float To Maximize Your Swim Time This Summer?
Well, that depends on a number of factors, ranging from how you prefer to spend your pool time to who’s going to be joining you in the pool. Plus, if you’re hoping to get lots of “hearts” on your Instagram pictures — or if you’re the designated Instagram boyfriend — you’ll want a photogenic pool float that lights up your social media feeds. In addition, the best pool floats are built to support the weight of adults, and thus work well for both kids and grown-ups alike.
If you want only the best pool floats of 2022, then look for inflatables from our favorite pool toy brands:
- Intex
- Funboy
- Frontgate
- SwimWays
- Jasonwell
- JOYIN
Finally, you’ll want to consider price. More expensive pool floats from brands like Intex and Funboy can cost $100 or more, but they’ll last for several years. You can also find cheap pool floats on sites like Amazon, Target and Walmart starting at just $5. Although, some of the lower-priced floats may not last as long as the more durable (and pricier) options.
Keep reading to find the best pool floats for summer 2022, as well as everything you need to know to have a buoyant good time.
1. Aqua Monterey Hammock Inflatable Pool Chair
BEST OVERALL
If relaxation is at the top of your pool float wishlist, then you’ll definitely want the Aqua 4-in-1 Monterey Hammock XL Inflatable Pool Chair under you. This isn’t just one of the top-rated pool floats on Amazon; it’s also one of the best-selling Amazon products, period. This extra-large pool float has an incredible 3,200+ reviews and counting, and it comes in tons of fun colors.
Because it sits slightly in the water, it’s easy to get on and off without any jumping or awkward flip-flopping. The intelligent design also lets you choose between four different arrangements, namely a hammock, chair, drifter and exercise saddle. And, as we’ve chosen the XL model, this pool float is 30% longer and wider than the standard model, which is great for taller and older people, too. Additionally, as the material is thicker than the average float, it’s more durable and feels more comfortable in the water.
Buy: Aqua Monterey Hammock Inflatable Pool Chair $20.00 (orig. $21.99) 9% OFF
2. balnore Kids Pool Float 3-Pack
BEST POOL FLOATS FOR KIDS
This three-pack includes pool floats for kids three and older that come in fun, bright colors and themes. Each float inflates to a size of 29″ long, which is perfect for a small child. The pack comes with orange and watermelon rings as well as a brightly colored float adorned with suns, dolphins, stars and more. All of the floats are lightweight and durable enough to withstand plenty of cannonballs. They’re all double-protected with leakproof nozzles and come with a double safety guarantee.
Read more: The Best Kiddie Pools
Buy: balnore Pool Floats for Kids $15.99 (orig. $21.99) 27% OFF
3. Sun Squad Swim Tube
BEST BUDGET POOL FLOAT
Made of puncture-resistant materials, this Sun Squad Swim Tube is durably constructed. It inflates quickly and features a beautiful mint green and white striped pattern perfect for the summer sun. At $5, this lightweight option is great for any occasion. It can even be packed in a suitcase to travel with you on vacation.
Buy: Sun Squad Swim Tube (Mint) $5.00
4. Intex Inflatable Floating Recliner Lounger Chair
BEST RECLINER
Intex is probably one of the best-known pool float brands, and for good reason. The popular pool float brand’s Inflatable Floating Recliner Lounger Chair makes things simple. With its high-quality, ergonomic design, you’ll be able to spend your days chilling in the sun while enjoying a drink and just letting the world pass you by. It’s made from UV-resistant, 18-gauge vinyl which is fade resistant and durable. You’ll also find two included cup holders, two handles and two separate air chambers which help to give your recliner a fully pumped feel throughout the day. And, the chair also comes with a repair patch for any unforeseen accidents.
Buy: Intex Inflatable Floating Recliner Lounger Chair $24.99
5. Inflatables Giant Pool Float Donut
BEST RING
Mmmmm, donuts. And this is a sentiment that seems to be shared by the designer of the Inflatables Giant Pool Float Donut, as someone has taken a large bite out of this donut. This ring-shaped float is ideal for pools of all sizes and users of all ages. It measures over four feet across, providing space for one or more floaters. The design also includes fast valves that let you inflate and deflate your float in a matter of minutes, making this a great choice for home or vacation use.
Buy: Inflatables Giant Pool Float Donut $11.95
6. Funboy Yacht Pool Float
BEST SPLURGE
Funboy is our new favorite brand for luxury pool floats, like this yacht one that costs a pretty penny but will get you legendary IG photos. You may not have access to an actual yacht, but this pool float is the next best thing with a daybed big enough for two, drink holders and a front cooler that’s double reinforced so you can fill it with ice.
Read More: Funboy Just Restocked Its Best Pool Floats!
Buy: Funboy Yacht Pool Float $99.00
7. Sun Squad Sloth Pool Float
BEST NOVELTY
You’ll definitely give off all the laid-back vibes with this sloth pool float. It features a 3D sloth head, arms and legs, and a deep seat so you can float around without getting wet. Designed for single-person use, it measures 72.8 inches long so it makes a huge statement at your next pool party.
Buy: Sun Squad Sloth Pool Float $20.00
8. Jasonwell Giant Inflatable Unicorn Pool Float
MOST MAGICAL POOL FLOAT
If you’ve always dreamed of riding a unicorn, the Jasonwell Giant Inflatable Unicorn Pool Float may be right up your alley. There are a lot of unicorn pool floats on the market, and this Instagram-friendly pool toy is popular with kids, teens and adults alike. This super-sized unicorn-shaped float is big enough for two adults and capable of keeping up to 400 pounds afloat. Great for the pool or the lake, you’ll never want to stop riding this unicorn.
With thousands of rave reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this is one of the most recognizable unicorn pool floats of 2022. Spy editors have personally enjoyed our time on this giant pool float, and we’re confident you will, too.
Buy: Jasonwell Giant Inflatable Unicorn Pool Float $36.99
9. Obuby Inflatable Avocado Pool Float
MILLENNIAL PICK
For a dose of the green stuff while you laze about in the pool, give this Obuby Inflatable Avocado Pool Float a try. It’s a two-piece float in the shape of an avocado and avocado pit, and it’s made from a tough PVC material that won’t leak air. For added fun in the pool, the avocado’s ball-shaped pit can be removed and used for all kinds of games, while the hole it leaves behind offers a number of different sitting possibilities. When deflated, the float folds flat for easy transport, making it a great choice for home and vacation use. Plus, the fast-inflate valves ensure a pain-free experience when it comes to filling the float with air.
Buy: Obuby Inflatable Avocado Pool Float $19.99
10. Intex Suntanner Lounge Set of 2
BEST FOR DUOS
If you’ve got a go-to pool day buddy and need a matching set, this is it. These matching colorful loungers are perfect for duos looking for the perfect, temperature-regulated tanning session. The coil-beam-style mattress is both supportive, buoyant and comfortable. The loungers have an 11-gauge vinyl top and bottom for added durability, and the built-in pockets double as cup holders nicely.
Buy: Intex 18-Pocket Suntanner Pool Lounge (Set of 2) $29.69
11. Jasonwell T-Rex Pool Float
BEST DINOSAUR
Looking for giant pool floats for adults? Then this T-Rex pool float is sure to be a hit at your next pool party. Just look at this big boy. The float is made from super durable raft-grade UV-resistant material that’s phthalates-free. It’s earned more than 2,300 reviews from Amazon customers and a strong 4.5-star rating. It’s also got fast-fill pumps for easier inflation. For just $30, this is one of the best pool floats of 2022.
Buy: Jasonwell T-Rex Giant Pool Float $32.99
12. Sun Squad Towel Top Float
A TOWEL TOP OPTION
This towel top float makes for a comfy landing space at your next pool party. It’s perfect for ages eight and up and has a towel top float with a festive sun print that’s perfect for the sunny days of summer days. it dries quickly and is soft and easy to clean.
Buy: Sun Squad Towel Top Float $40.00
13. Frontgate 2″ Resort Pool Floats
Frontgate has a reputation for creating chic outdoor furniture and home decor, but they’re also one of the best premium pool float brands. While most of their inflatables cost $100 or more, the products are worth the investment if you plan to use them for many summers to come. The 2″ Resort Pool Floats come in all the colors of the rainbow and are designed to keep an adult above the water and in the sun where you belong.
Buy: Frontgate 2-Inch Resort Pool Floats Starting At $169.00
14. SwimWays Original Spring Float
ANOTHER IN-WATER RECLINER
Some people prefer to float above the water and some people enjoy being in the water. If you fall into the latter category and still want to enjoy a relaxing time floating around your pool, you’ll want the SwimWays Original Spring Float under you. This oval-shaped float features an inflated wall all the way around with a headrest at one end and a cooling mesh bed underneath. This smart design allows you to remain partially submerged with your head above water, enjoying the benefits of floating and being in the water at the same time. Additionally, when deflated, the float folds flat into three compact circles which is ideal for storage or travel.
Buy: SwimWays Original Spring Float $34.88
15. SwimWays Paws Dog Pool Float
BEST POOL FLOAT FOR DOGS
There’s no reason that humans should get to have all the floating fun while your dog remains on the sideline. With this dog-specific pool float from SwimWays, your small-medium dog can lounge on the water alongside you. It’s a small raft that can support dogs up to 65 lbs easily. It’s made with a paw-and-claw-friendly fabric that’s puncture-resistant and the outer edge is durable so your pup stays stably afloat. The float folds up easily into three circles for easy travel and storage and is lightweight so packing it for a road trip is easy.
Buy: SwimWays Paws Dog Pool Float $34.89
16. Aqua Ultra Comfort Pool Lounger
BEST FOR LAID BACK CHILLING
If you like to CHILL in your lounger, rather than simply float, this pool float is a great option. It’s extra-large, heavy-duty and will keep you out of the water and in the sun as much as possible. It’s ergonomically shaped with a headrest pillow and oversized backrest that’s made for comfort. It has boarding handles to make on and off easier, and has a beverage holder so you don’t have to paddle to the side of the pool for a sip. It’s made with 40% thicker material than your average float for added buoyancy and even has an anchor dock point if you’re using it on a lake, ocean or river.
Buy: Aqua Ultra Comfort Pool Lounger $89.99 (orig. $99.99) 10% OFF
17. JOYIN Giant Inflatable Flamingo
BEST FOR THE ‘GRAM
Do it for the gram. This is the perfect pool float for those Instagram-worthy pool pics of just you or a friend, as it’s made to hold up to two people. It’s made of durable, raft material and has five different chambers so it stays afloat. It’s 5′ long, so it’s only suitable for large pools that can fit it. It’s got decorative design elements like multicolor feathers and black twinkling eyes. It’s got an angled head with handles attached so it’s easy to grab onto, and the raft is UV-resistant so the bright pink color will stay pretty for years to come.
Buy: JOYIN Giant Inflatable Flamingo $23.99 (orig. $27.95) 14% OFF
18. Joyin Inflatable Pool Float Set Volleyball Net
BEST GAMES
If you’re less worried about chilling out and more interested in competing and actively having fun, you’re going to want the Joyin Inflatable Pool Float Set Volleyball Net & Basketball Hoop in your pool. This two-game set includes an inflatable basketball and volleyball court with two weighted bags, an inflatable pool basketball hoop and both an inflatable basketball and volleyball. The set is made from high-quality, raft-worthy materials which provide durability and puncture resistance. This float choice is great for get-togethers, and it can be used on any flat water, whether that’s a pool or a lake.
Buy: Joyin Inflatable Pool Float Set Volleyball Net $49.99
19. Intex Inflatable American Flag Pool Float With Cooler
BEST POOL FLOAT WITH COOLER
Spending your time on a float is one thing, but spending your time well is a completely different prospect. With the Intex Inflatable American Flag Pool Tube Float in your pool, you’ll have a comfortable seat, a backrest, an easy-grab handle, a drink holder and a built-in drink cooler at your disposal. In short, it’s harder to have a bad time than a good one. Inside each of the rings in the figure-eight design is a mesh bottom which helps keep you cool. The surrounding grab rope makes it easy to climb aboard, and the American flag appearance will bring out your inner patriot.
Buy: Intex Inflatable American Flag Pool Tube Float $52.99
20. Bestway Rapid Rider Floating Island Raft
BEST FOUR-PERSON POOL FLOAT
Can you imagine a better time than hanging out with three of your friends, floating around and enjoying two coolers full of cold beer? It’s not possible, right? That’s why you need the Bestway Rapid Rider 4-Person Floating Island Raft in your life. This sizable float includes four individual seats for riders, each with its very own cup holder. There are also two built-in coolers and backrests behind each seat to maximize your chilling out potential. To help with climbing on board, you’ll find a grab-rope all the way around. This raft is an ideal choice for large pools, lakes and lazy rivers.
Buy: Bestway Rapid Rider Floating Island Raft $93.99
21. Chicken Fight Inflatable Pool Floats
BEST FOR COMPETITION
Chicken fight, anyone? Instead of hopping on someone’s shoulders (and risking injury for all parties involved) opt for these fun pool floats instead. They come in the shape of chickens and you can still duke it out on them if you like. This set comes with two matching ones, each equipped to support up to 250 pounds. They’re made of heavy-duty PVC plastic that’s resistant to tears and punctures and made to be fun for all adults and children aged seven and up.
Buy: Chicken Fight Inflatable Game Set $69.99
22. Inflatable Pineapple Pool Float Raft
HUGE SURFACE AREA
This pineapple pool float has a huge surface area for laying, tanning and relaxing on — 76″ to be exact. It’s got bright, beautiful colors that look great in the pool, and it’s super easy to inflate and deflate as needed. It’s made of thick, durable raft-like material and is perfect for one to two people.
Buy: Inflatable Pineapple Pool Float $25.99
23. GoFloats ‘Great White Bite’ Shark Inflatable Raft
BEST ANIMAL
Normally, seeing a shark in the water would cause panic. This shark, though, is about to become your new pool day companion. It’s an inner tube/ animal float that creates the perfect float for tanning, sunbathing and floating all day long. The float measures 4 ft. long by 2.5ft wide and is ideal for most swimmers. It’s made of UV raft-grade vinyl that’s 25% thicker than your average pool float and therefore resistant to tears, rips and holes. It also has a rapid valve system built in that allows for 10x faster inflation and deflation so pool day setup is a breeze.
Buy: GoFloats 'Great White Bite' Shark Tube $22.99
24. Big Joe Captain’s Float
BEST UPRIGHT
Sometimes you want to sit upright while still relaxing poolside. We get that, which is why we included this perfect mesh chair pool float that sits upright rather than lies flat. It’s filled with lightweight and buoyant Megha beans and upholstered with UV-resistant, durable sunmax fabric. It’s got a carrying handle so you can easily transport it from one body of water to the next, and it’s available in a variety of bright, fun, summery colors.
Buy: Big Joe Captain's Float $79.89
25. Funboy Giant Cabana Dayclub
MEGA SPLURGE
Okay, we know this is a ridiculous purchase and is likely way too big for use in most pools, but we couldn’t help but include it. This giant mega pool float/ dayclub from Funboy is perfect for relaxing with your crew this summer. It’s made of super thick material that’s got reinforced seams and super comfortable seats for everyone inside. It’s got a mesh carry bag, a mesh shade and dual mesh footbaths for temperature regulation on the hottest days. It’s got a water entry pad so loading and unloading is easy, and it comes with side grab ropes and a tether tie so you can keep it from drifting.
Buy: Funboy Giant Cabana Dayclub $399.00
Also Consider: Intex Quick-Fill Air Pump
Don’t waste your breath trying to pump up pool floats the old-fashioned way. This summer, buy this Quick-Fill Air Pump from Intex, one of the best pool float brands of 2022. This electric air pump is super affordable and comes with three different size nozzles.
ON SALE!
Buy: Intex Quick-Fill Air Pump $8.99 (orig. $19.99) 55% OFF
How To Choose the Best Pool Floats
Unsurprisingly, pool floats come in a range of shapes and sizes, from giant oversized unicorn floats to luxury pool floats and even the miniature kid’s pool float. Questions to ask yourself when it comes to choosing the right pool float for your afternoon of fun in the sun include:
What is the pool float’s main function?
One person’s idea of the best pool float may look very different from their friends’. For this reason, it’s important to ask yourself what you intend to use your float for. Lots of people love to use their pool float as a tool for in-pool water fights or races across the water, while others may prefer made-for-purpose floats that can be used for in-pool games, like basketball or volleyball. Additionally, on the other end of the scale, many pool-goers just love to relax and take in the sun, which is why the best pool floats for tanning tend to look more like conventional beds or chairs on the water.
Who is going to use it?
While this may, in part, be a consideration about whether you’re looking for the best pool float for kids or the best pool floats for adults, the slightly more important question is exactly how heavy individual users are. More specifically, if you are too heavy for the recommended weight limit of your float, it’s going to be less of a float and more of a sink. So, it’s worth checking weight limits or considering floats built for two or more adults if you’re looking for the best pool floats for heavy adults or groups.
Where are you going to use it?
The final consideration worth thinking about is where you will use your float. In general, your pool isn’t likely to be full of rocks or sharper surfaces that may puncture your float. However, trips to lakes and the beach open up these dangers, meaning it may be worth investing more money to ensure your float is made from tougher materials that won’t puncture should they contact a stick or rock’s edge.
After considering these factors, pick your favorite pool toy from our collection above of the best pool floats for summer 2022.
You Can Pay a Ton For Someone to Install a Pool, Or Hack it With These Above-Ground Pools Instead