inflatables Archives

Top Lake Floats for 2022

Posted on June 3, 2022January 22, 2024 Camille Smith

Summer is finally here! If you’re like us, you’ve been waiting for this season all year round. The barbeques, summer sun, and long afternoons on the water capture the epitome of the lake lifestyle. Whether you’re lounging at the pool or relaxing by the dock, there’s nothing like a fun float to get you in the summer mindset. Just like we did in 2020 and 2021, now we’re covering the top lake floats of 2022.

The Loon

You’re probably used to seeing birds on the lake. But what about an inflatable one? This Loon adult swimming float is a charming 1-2 seater inflatable from the FLOAT-EH brand. Composed of thick and durable phthalate-free vinyl, this float is estimated to be 30-40% stronger than the average float. With this float, you’ll be making friends with the local wildlife in no time!

The Golf Cart

Last year, we wrote about this adorable inflatable golf cart from Funboy. However, this year, the company has a new twist on their classic product: a Malibu Barbie theme. It features a bright pink and white aesthetic with daisies as wheels. Additionally, the fringe-lined removable mesh shade adds to the fun look.

The Butterfly

Spread your wings and fly! This butterfly-shaped float from FunBoy is ready for you within just three minutes of using a standard air pump. The material is 100% vinyl which allows for both comfort and fade resistance. The wave-like design featuring multiple shades of blue from turquoise to dark blue is perfect for the lake.

The Fruit

Which is your favorite summer fruit — lime, lemon, or watermelon? The Big Joe Fruit Slice Float, available from Macy’s, offers these three different fruit-shaped selections for your relaxing afternoon on the lake. As for the material, don’t let the upholstery deceive you. It’s waterproof, complete with a bean filling for maximum comfort. As a one-person float, this one’s perfect for me-time on the water.

The Chair

We all have a favorite lazy chair in our lake house. But what if you could bring the comfort of your leather armchair to the lake? Introducing the lazy day pool chair. Made from double-sided mesh fabric, it’s designed for maximum relaxation. Plus, the armrests and back curvature create more body support. This way, you can comfortably read a book on the water.

The Disco

Every day at the lake is a party. But now, you can turn up the fun with this disco dome from Funboy. It’s easy to blow up, and can easily seat a small group of friends for a sunny afternoon on the lake. The circular mesh center keeps your feet cool while you enjoy the summer heat. The disco ball, sold separately, adds a certain pizazz as a finishing touch on this float.

The Moose

We’re ending our recommendations in the same place where we started — a wildlife-themed float! This time, it’s a moose. This moose-shaped inflatable from FLOAT-EH is a one-of-a-kind float crafted with attention to detail. Like the loon, its strong vinyl material makes it considerably stronger than your average float. With this unique product, Maine won’t be the only state with a designated Moosehead Lake.

With these top floats for 2022, you’ll be all set for the summer!

Top Floats for 2021

Posted on July 17, 2021August 11, 2021 Camille Smith

It’s summertime at the lake! During this season, there’s nothing better than relaxing on a float, drifting the day away. Whether you choose a simple raft or a luxurious eight-person inflatable, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy an afternoon on the water. As a lake homeowner, it’s likely you already have a storage shed full of lake toys from 2020 and earlier years. But if you and your family are in the market for some new floats this season, you’re in luck. Today, we’re reviewing some of the top floats for 2021.

Bestway Tropical Breeze III

Looking for an all-inclusive float that the whole family or friend group will love? The Bestway Tropical Breeze III is perfect. There’s plenty of seating for everyone with multiple features such as two detachable rafts, a canopy, and a mesh interior. As a whole, this top float can hold eight people, and it’s complete with six cup holders. If you’re trying to stay close to the dock, it also includes attached ropes for anchoring.

WOW Watersports Floating Island

With this circular inflatable, you and your crew can spend all day chatting on the lake. The WOW Watersports Floating Island can hold up to 10 people on its party-size 12-foot-long surface. Made of heavy-duty PVC plastic, this lake float is meant to last. It also comes with eight cup holders, so there’s plenty of room for beverages. In the center, there’s a mesh area for anyone who wants to be immersed in water while still enjoying the raft.

WOW Parthenon Spa Island

With this top float, you can bring the magic of Ancient Greece to your lake house. But this fun theme is only part of the reason why the Wow Parthenon Spa Island is a great option. Made of PVC plastic, this eight-person float is extremely durable. But its most defining feature is being fully shaded, making this float perfect for a hot day. After all, how else did the ancient Greeks make it through the Mediterranean heat? Also, keep in mind that an electric pump is sold separately to inflate and deflate it.

Funboy Golf Cart Float

Many of us lake-dwellers are fans of golf. But with the Funboy Golf Cart float, you can bring a golf cart directly to the water. In addition to being a fun, two-person float, this inflatable doubles as a convertible with a fringe roof that’s removable. This way, you have the option of basking in the sun or keeping it shady. Additionally, the brand Funboy is donating 20% of all product proceeds to Feeding America, a nonprofit promoting hunger relief in the U.S.

Aqua Beach Wave Floating Party Mat

Although this top float is more on the expensive side, the Aqua Beach Wave Floating Party Mat is undoubtedly worth it. The design looks simple — essentially a massive floating mat — but it’s actually very durable with impressive features. It’s made of cross-linked foam, which will keep this mat both afloat and intact. It also has four cup holders for a small group and hook straps so you don’t float too far from the dock.

Retro Phone Lounger Float

Hello? The lake is calling! If you’re looking for a relatively inexpensive float for one person, look no further than this product from Funboy. This candy-colored retro phone lounger float is cute, simple, and perfect for the lake. Made from 100% PVC vinyl, it’s easy to maintain, wipe, and clean. Plus, its small size makes it easy to transport from the pool to the lake and back.

From our lake house to yours, we hope you enjoy your summer lounging on these top floats!

The Best Lake Toys for 2020

Posted on August 7, 2020July 31, 2020 Camille Smith

Summer at the lake means more time on the water. You can waste away the days enjoying homemade treats on your boat dock, listening to relaxing music, and jumping in the lake. If you’re feeling energetic and excited for an afternoon full of games, there’s plenty of lake toys to choose from. Check out the best lake toys of 2020 to bring more summer fun to your lake home!

Hammacher Schlemmer Inflatable Dartboard

Of all the lake toys out there, this one’s right on target. Get competitive in a pool, shallow slough, or boat dock with this inflatable dartboard. Though it reaches 6 feet tall, it also stays grounded with a water-filled base. Who needs a game of darts in a crowded bar when you can enjoy space and sunshine?

Floating Bluetooth Speaker

When you’re in the water, and the speaker’s on the boat dock, the music can become muffled and inaudible. With this portable, waterproof Bluetooth speaker, you can bring the fun to the water. The clear sound enhanced bass, and loud volume makes for the perfect lake or pool party.

Inflatable Iceberg

Ever wanted to climb Mount Everest without leaving your lake home? Now, you can! This inflatable iceberg is one of the more adventurous lake toys. Towering 14 feet, it features a climbing wall on one side and a slide on the other for maximum fun.

Floating Golf Green

Can you score a hole-in-one? To every golfer who lives on the lake, this one’s for you. Assemble this floating golf green in the pool or lake and test out your skills. Add an extra tee box and floating golf balls for a more comprehensive course.

Yamaha Sea Scooter

This recreational underwater scooter is excellent for the curious lake explorer. At speeds of 2.5 miles per hour, you can chase fish in shallow waters and take photos with the integrated camera. Since it’s designed for an ocean or salt lake, keep in mind it may have less buoyancy in a freshwater lake.

Rubber Dockie

When choosing among lake toys, sometimes simplicity is the best option. These bold colored rubber dockies are highly visible for safety, tear-proof, and scratch and slip-resistant. Perfect for playing sports, lounging, or just messing around on the lake.

Giant Shootball Basketball Toy

For water sports, this lake toy is a slam dunk. Swimline’s inflatable basketball net comes with three balls and multiple ports so you can challenge friends and family. Points are designated on each side so you can keep score!

Airhead Poparazzi 3 Person Tube

Sportstuff Airhead Poparazzi Inflatable Triple Rider

Hold on tight! SportsStuff’s rider towable tube is designed to be pulled behind a boat. The EVA padding ensures a comfortable ride, and the tough nylon cover guarantees durability. With the upper deck, one of the three riders can stand up for a more thrilling ride.

Inflatable Water Trampoline

Get airborne with this inflatable trampoline designed for the lake! Despite its large size, the multiple inflation vales make it easy to set up, so you can start bouncing immediately. It’s also safe and made from environmentally friendly materials. Try out your best dive into the water!

Foam Water Shooters

Lightweight and easy to use, these foam water shooters are perfect for parents, kids, and friends. With a shooting distance of 31 feet, you can easily surprise your opponent. Use in the lake, on your dock, in the yard — wherever you’re ready to start a friendly water war!

We hope you love these lake toys this summer!

Top Lake Floats for Summer 2020

Posted on July 25, 2020July 24, 2020 Camille Smith

Nothing says “summer at the lake” like lounging on a float. Chances are, you already have a few lake floats at your house. Maybe they’re collecting dust in your boat dock shed, and they desperately need cleaning. Or perhaps it’s time to treat yourself by buying a new one this summer. Make sure to consider your budget, the rules of your lake, and ensure you have a working pump. Then — get to shopping! While last year’s list has some great options, here are some of the top lake floats that we love in summer 2020.

Angel Wings (iBase Toy)

This fun, brightly colored inflatable will give you wings — literally! Its long-lasting quality vinyl protects against the sun’s rays so you can enjoy it for years. Whether you take it to a pool or the lake, you’ll love lounging on this vibrant float. Check it out on Amazon.

Giant Swan Light Up Float (Swimline)

Giant Swan Light Up Float – WestMarine.com.

The highly-rated, popular Swimline giant swan float has a new light-up version. You can float on the lake during a cool summer evening while remaining visible to nearby boaters. Plus, the LED lights have a fun flare, as they alternate between white, blue, green, and purple. Learn more on the Swimline website.

Inflatable Pizza Slice Float (Joyin)

Your favorite food is about to become your ideal inflatable. This pizza-shaped float is fun and playful, perfect for any lake or pool party. You can even buy eight “slices” of lake floats to tie together for a family or friend group. And although you can easily tear a real piece of pizza, this high-quality product is tear-resistant. Take a look at Amazon.

Splash ‘N Chill Inflatable Relaxation Island (Intex)

Splash ‘N Chill Inflatable – Amazon.com.

This massive inflatable, aptly called Splash ‘n Chill, is like bringing your own floating boat dock to the water. It comfortably seats up to 7 people, with the added bonus of cupholders and a built-in cooler. Take a look at all the amazing features on Amazon. Then grab a beer, some friends, and relax.

American Flag Inflatable (Intex)

Did someone say, “4th of July?” With this American flag inflatable, you can relax on the lake while expressing your patriotic spirit. It inflates within minutes so you can get on the “sea to shining sea” faster. Plus, the extra-strength vinyl material will keep you afloat for as long as you’d like. Check it out!

Giant Inflatable Derby Duck (GAME)

Giant Inflatable Derby Duck – Pinterest.

What’s better than a rubber duck in the bathtub? This giant inflatable duck with sunglasses in a pool or lake. No doubt about it, this inflatable from GAME is the coolest of all the lake floats. Use one of the five handles to climb on board and enjoy the day.

Flamingo Party Island (Intex)

With this top inflatable, you can float like a flamingo this summer. The four cup holders and built-in cooler will keep your crew hydrated, and the mesh floor will keep your feet cool all day. No need for anyone to balance on one foot either– this float comfortably seats four people with plenty of legroom.

Dragon Float (GoFloats)

If summer wasn’t already hot enough, it’s time to add some fire! This dragon float is made to last from premium UV-protectant vinyl. It even includes a bonus dragon drink float to hold your magical goblet of choice.

Inflatable Rainbow Cloud Drink Holder (Jasonwell)

Even though you can’t float on this inflatable, your drinks can! This Rainbow Cloud Drink Holder from Jasonwell will bring the snack bar to you. Add some ice in the middle to keep snacks and other beverages cold. Perfect for a pool or shallow lake water.

With these top lake floats, you won’t want to leave the lake!

Choosing the Right Life Jacket

Posted on July 21, 2015August 29, 2019 Glenn S. Phillips

One half of fatalities from recreational boating happen on the calm water, often even close to the shore.

In most cases life jackets are on board, but either go unworn or are not worn properly.

Activities that calls for life jackets are:

Cruising
Paddling
Angling
Waterskiing
Racing
Swimming
Being Next to the Water

All people, from adult males to young children and pets, should wear the life jackets. Here are ways to ensure you have the right one.

Checking the Size

The size and weight information for each jacket can be found on the label. This will tell the range of weight the floatation device can support as well as the recommend height range of users.

Make sure that the jacket is fastened in the right fashion.

To do this, hold your arms over your head. If the tops of the arm openings can be pulled up past your chin, then the jacket is too big. It needs to be able to hold your head out of the water.

Auto Inflatable Life Jackets

This type of life jacket will automatically inflate upon immersion or from manual activation.

If a person wearing an inflatable jacket is in an accident and rendered unconscious, the device will turn the wearer face upwards.

These life jackets are not meant to be worn by children 16 years of age and younger. Additionally, this floatation device is not suitable for use in water sports.

Manual Inflatable Life Jackets

These jackets inflate only when wearers manually trigger the inflation device.

Manually inflatable jackets are cool and comfortable to wear since they are not bulky like most other life jackets.

This kind of jacket will also turn the wearer face up should they be rendered unconscious; however, it has to be inflated before their accident.

These do require some regular maintenance to insure inflation devices and pull cords are in working order and that there are no holes in the jacket itself. Jackets of this kind should not be worn by children 16 or younger.

They are not recommended for water sports either.

Belt Pack Inflatable

This life preserver will also inflate automatically if it is submerged or it can be manually inflated.

Very easy to wear, this device wraps around and is secured to the wearer’s waist.

It should be placed over the head after it has been inflated and also requires regular maintenance.

Belt packs are not meant for water sports or children 16 and younger.

Vest Life Jackets

This is the most seen life jacket. They are typically orange.

The vest can turn an unconscious person face up and requires very little maintenance.

This is a great life jacket for those who do not know how to swim. It is also versatile as it is great for using as a flotation device. It is normally less bulky than other off-shore vests.

Children’s Hybrid Inflatable

These types of life jackets offer automatic inflation, but it can also be inflated manually.

These do require regular maintenance, and will turn an unconscious person upward like others mention previously.

It is not meant to wear during water sports.

Children’s Life Jacket

These types of life jackets are designed for possible immersion.

It may not turn a person face up, but requires little maintenance.

Most types of life jackets typically includes safety features for your child.

For more information check out the How to Choose the Right Life Jacket brochure from the United States Coast Guard found here.