The Best Pool Floats for Kids

GoFloats ‘Great White Bite’ Inflatable Raft

Step up your family’s poolside fin — er, fun, that is — with this inflatable great white shark. At 8′ long, this enormous pool float is more like a raft, big enough to fit a whole gaggle of kiddos. With a head, tail, and two fins to keep the kids secure, they can float around on this guy all day long. And because it’s made of premium quality, UV-treated raft-grade vinyl, they can float around on it day after bright, sunshiney day. And when they’re done, there’s an easy deflate valve that makes packing it up a breeze.

Pros:

• Weight limit of 500 pounds
• Easy to inflate as well as deflate
• Resists punctures

Cons:

• Doesn’t contain a cup holder
• It’s still best to keep pool floats out of the sun when not in use

Swimline UFO Spaceship Squirter

With this pool float, you can have the fun of a water fight and pool play all in one. With a comfy two-tier float design, a retro style, and a built-in squirter, you and your kiddos can take your warm-weather pool fun to the next level. The entire float is made from a heavy-gauge vinyl that resists punctures and stands up to rough play. Plus, it has a weight capacity of 140 pounds, making it an ideal float for a wide range of kids.

Pros:

• Out-of-this-world design
• The squirt gun is detachable, in case your little one prefers the “we-come-in-peace” variety of extraterrestrial

Cons:

• It can be a bit tricky to inflate
• The hole on the bottom of the float is pretty small

Big Summer Inflatable Pool Float

Made especially with the younger crowd in mind, this sweet little inflatable raft has a smaller seat complete with leg holes for extra safety. Both the fireboat and pirate ship designs are equipped with a detachable water gun that mounts on the front. Bright, colorful, and loads of fun, this is the ultimate pool float for youngsters who want to join in on all the action.

Pros:

• Boat resists flipping for extra safety
• Water gun has far reach
• Easy inflation means more splash-time

Cons:

• Best for lighter-weight children, as the PVC material isn’t strong enough for older kiddos
• Detachable water gun is pump-action, which can be difficult for young children to maneuver

Jasonwell Inflatable Avocado Pool Float

Not only is this float loads of fun, complete with an avocado pit that doubles as a beach ball, but it’s also incredibly comfortable. Its contoured design makes it easy to pop down in the middle for a comfortable, supportive floating experience. Made of extra-thick, premium raft-grade material, this float has a fast valve for both easy inflation and deflation. Large enough for adults as well as kiddos who can swim on their own, this is the ideal float for basking under the sun in comfort.

Pros:

• Two size valves for inflating and deflating
• Beach ball pit is easily stored into the center, just like a real avocado pit
• Fully inflates to 65″ x 49″ x 10″

Cons:

• To keep the avocado from going mushy, you may need to top it off with air periodically
• The hole in the middle is on the larger side

Kelsyus Chaise Lounger

There are a few reasons why we love this chaise-lounge-style pool float. It’s supremely comfortable, featuring a fabric cover that resists sticking to your skin, a mesh seat, and a backrest and ottoman for extra lounge-appeal. An inner spring around the outside edge of the float ensures protection from accidental tipping. Finally, a built in-cup holder holds your beverage of choice so that, even on those extra hot days, you never have to leave your float to stay hydrated.

Pros:

• Built-in side clip for tethering float for maximum relaxation
• Maximum weight limit of 250 pounds
• Handy carrying bag for easy storage and portability

Cons:

• Although handy, there’s only one built-in cupholder
• Do not keep out in the sun when not in use

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need to use a life jacket if you have a pool float?
If you’re relying on a pool float for safety, it’s best to wear a life jacket as well. For children who can’t swim, pool floats can sometimes tip, and without a life jacket, they’re left without any further safety measures. All children, regardless of age, should always be accompanied by an adult when in a pool.

How do you repair a pool float?
With the right product, it’s possible to save your punctured pool float from the dumpster. Once you have a repair kit, fully deflate the float. Smooth out the area around the hole, and then apply the patch as instructed. It’s best to keep your pool float out of the sun when not in use to avoid further damage. Although many are rated with UV protection, the hot sun still wears down the material and can cause floats to become weaker and unexpectedly dangerous.