All products featured here are independently selected by our editors and writers.If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission.

Grab five friends (or your whole family) and spend an afternoon on your own inflatable island. Be sure to give it a name.

The days of the basic inner tube are over. This year's best pool floats have canopies, cup holders, and plenty of room for friends (and extra drinks).

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.

Features to look for

Not every float has everything, but you can choose features that will suit your needs. Opt for cup holders, for instance, if you think you'll spend long stretches of time on your float — or if margarita consumption is a priority. (Please remember to stay hydrated.) Handles are helpful if you anticipate difficulty climbing aboard. Larger floats tend to have netted portions in the middle, which help with water drainage, or built-in or floating coolers, which you can use to hold the drinks that aren't yet in your cup holder. And, of course, comfort is a priority when you're relaxing: Some floats have more cushioning and back support than others.

SEE ALSO: Why parents should invest in outdoor games for their kids this summer

Finally, consider what you'll be doing on the float. Want to read? Consider something flat and cushioned, perhaps with a headrest. You might find it difficult to read while riding a narwhal (most people do), but it'll probably be great for pool party games — and you won't even notice its lack of cup holder. And if you're spending a day on the lake, it may be worth it to invest in a float with a canopy.

Pool float care

No inflatable float will last forever, especially if it gets lots of regular use. That said, there are a few measures you can take to lengthen your lounger's life.

First, be sure to let the float dry completely before deflating. This will help minimize the risk of mildew. Avoid dragging inflated floats on the ground if you can. And be sure to store floats in a cool, dry area, especially during off-season. Think of it as pool float hibernation — you want them to be in prime condition when it's time to dust them off again. (Seriously, you may need to dust them. It's best to do so with a clean microfiber cloth.)

Most pool floats don't come with an electric air pump, so you might need to pick one up. Alternatively, you can try to inflate yours using a hair dryer on the cool setting, a trick that we have not personally tried but that others swear by.

Decided you want to fit the whole family on a huge inflatable island? Thinking a practical raft is more your speed? Want a beautiful rainbow cloud to take photos on, or perhaps a fan-favorite unicorn float? We've got you covered for all of the above. Here are our picks for the best pool floats.

Best overall Image: Swimline The Good Bright and pretty • Sturdy construction • Comfortable Bright and pretty • Sturdy construction • Comfortable The Bad No handles No handles The Bottom Line This stylish butterfly float works well for drifting around with a drink (or two). This stylish butterfly float works well for drifting around with a drink (or two). Dimensions: 69 x 72 x 12 inches

69 x 72 x 12 inches Features: Drink holders, pillow top $54.94 from Walmart Swimline Giant Monarch Butterfly Pool Float This colorful butterfly float balances sturdiness, features, and visual appeal — not to mention a couple of drinks.

One downside: This float does not have handles, which several reviewers point out means it's unable to be docked.

"Great float, love the bright colors and the cup holders. I wish it had a handle to [sic] I could tie it to my dock but it works great as something to lean against. It’s like a lake table." Still, the float is small and flat enough that you'll likely be able to climb aboard fairly easily. And if you need a dock-able float, there are plenty of other options below.

We were struck by the vivid colors on this butterfly pool float — it's like someone inflated a T-shirt appliqué from 2002. In addition to its visual appeal, this float is blessed with a soft, pillowy top, which means it's a solid option for an afternoon lounge. Also: it's got cup holders, baby. Use one for water (important) and the other for a fun beverage of your choice. Technically, you can fit two people on this float, but we'd suggest lying in the center so that you look like you have wings. (Going solo makes it more of a lounger, anyway.)One downside: This float does not have handles, which several reviewers point out means it's unable to be docked. Writes one Amazon reviewer Still, the float is small and flat enough that you'll likely be able to climb aboard fairly easily. And if you need a dock-able float, there are plenty of other options below.

Best for thrill seekers Image: Intex The Good Durable • Great for keeping older kids occupied Durable • Great for keeping older kids occupied The Bad Requires lots of space Requires lots of space The Bottom Line If you can get past its creepy photorealism, the Inflat-A-Bull is a campy, unique way to have fun in the water. If you can get past its creepy photorealism, the Inflat-A-Bull is a campy, unique way to have fun in the water. Dimensions: 96 x 77 x 32 inches

96 x 77 x 32 inches Weight limit: 220 pounds

220 pounds Features: Pull rope, outer handles, repair patch $59.99 from Amazon Intex Inflat-A-Bull Float If you want a pool float that doubles as a game, this is for you. Just be sure you have plenty of space.

Reviewers tended toward impressed by the Inflat-A-Bull's durability, but a few reported ruptured seams. We also noticed a few close knockoffs out there — if you're not sure whether the one you're buying is real, check it against

Pool floats generally provide a relaxing experience, but what if you want your pool day to be a nonstop adrenaline rush instead? Consider this "mechanical bull" float, which is unnervingly photorealistic and surprisingly hard to hang onto (in a good way), according to reviews. Just be sure you have plenty of room to fall.Reviewers tended toward impressed by the Inflat-A-Bull's durability, but a few reported ruptured seams. We also noticed a few close knockoffs out there — if you're not sure whether the one you're buying is real, check it against these photos from the Intex website

Best for aspiring mermaids Image: Swimline The Good Fits at least two people • Pretty, pearly exterior Fits at least two people • Pretty, pearly exterior The Bad Takes up lots of space in small pools Takes up lots of space in small pools The Bottom Line This seashell float by Swimline is an attention-grabbing way to become a mermaid for a day. Fins not included. This seashell float by Swimline is an attention-grabbing way to become a mermaid for a day. Fins not included. Dimensions: 82 x 83.5 x 13.5 inches

82 x 83.5 x 13.5 inches Features: Built-in cup holders $44.35 from Amazon Swimline Seashell Island Extra Large Pool Float Channel your inner mermaid (or merman) on this pearly white seashell float.

Because of its size, this pool float is probably best-suited for bigger pools if you want to do any significant drifting. A few Amazon reviewers also appear to have used it as

Want to spend your summer days posing on a large shell in the water, Ariel-and-her-sisters style? Here you go. This pearly white seashell float, which is made of PVC, has two drink holders and claims to have plenty of room for two to three adults, though it would probably be more satisfying to lounge on it with just one other person (or solo).Because of its size, this pool float is probably best-suited for bigger pools if you want to do any significant drifting. A few Amazon reviewers also appear to have used it as party décor . We appreciate their innovation.

Best donut alternative Image: BigMouth The Good Probably the coolest-looking float on this list • Tentacles! Probably the coolest-looking float on this list • Tentacles! The Bad Tentacles can snag Tentacles can snag The Bottom Line Just saying: This cool jellyfish inner tube would also make a great Halloween costume come October. Just saying: This cool jellyfish inner tube would also make a great Halloween costume come October. Dimensions: 48 x 49 x 15.5 inches

48 x 49 x 15.5 inches Features: Repair patch included $24.99 from Home Depot BigMouth Jellyfish Pool Float With this whimsical ring float, you aren't just *on* a jellyfish. You *are* the jellyfish.

That said, this is definitely a one-person float — you are only one jellyfish. Additionally, it's probably best to use this one in the pool only: The tentacles, while extremely cool, run the risk of snagging on debris or plants in natural bodies of water.

The donut-shaped float will always be a classic. But if you're looking for a ring pool float that's a little less basic, we recommend this just-weird-enough jellyfish float from BigMouth . We particularly like its delightful "tentacles," which, we are pleased to report, do not actually sting.That said, this is definitely a one-person float — you are only one jellyfish. Additionally, it's probably best to use this one in the pool only: The tentacles, while extremely cool, run the risk of snagging on debris or plants in natural bodies of water.

Best party float Image: Coolerz The Good Tons of features • Comfortable • Fits six (!) people Tons of features • Comfortable • Fits six (!) people The Bad Pricey • Small canopy Pricey • Small canopy The Bottom Line Six cup holders, a cooler bag, a sun shade, and room for six people? We're never leaving. Six cup holders, a cooler bag, a sun shade, and room for six people? We're never leaving. Dimensions: 128 x 114 x 26 inches

128 x 114 x 26 inches Features: Cup holders (6), pillow backrests (2), removable sun shade, cooler bag $229 from Amazon CoolerZ Tropical Breeze II Inflatable Floating Island Grab five friends (or your whole family) and spend an afternoon on your own inflatable island. Be sure to give it a name. Why stop at a pool float when you can simply buy a large floating island? If that's the route you want to go, you'll want to pick something with lots of features to make everyone's experience as comfortable as possible. This six-person lounger fits the bill: It has six cup holders, cushioned backrests, netting in the center for drainage, and a detachable awning to help protect you from the sun. (Still wear sunscreen, though.) The most common complaint we noticed in reviews was that the canopy wasn't big enough to cover six people, so keep that in mind.

While other options on this list are decidedly pool-only, this one would work well on a lake or even docked or anchored in the ocean. (Please do not set it free in the ocean.)



Best wallet-friendly option Image: Swimline The Good Classic shape • Wallet-friendly Classic shape • Wallet-friendly The Bad Best for short-term use • Not a cup holder in sight Best for short-term use • Not a cup holder in sight The Bottom Line This trend-proof swan float is a solid option and easy on your wallet. This trend-proof swan float is a solid option and easy on your wallet. Dimensions: 75 x 66 inches

75 x 66 inches Weight limit: 315 pounds

315 pounds Features: Wings and tail feather can be used as headrests $31.25 from Amazon Swimline Giant Inflatable Swan Pool Float A swan float is a classic pick that won't be out of style next year. Plus, it's much friendlier than a real swan.

Here are some comments from one Amazon user:

"exactly as pictured, but way more fun! excellent, thick, quality material perfect for kids fighting over it ;) It takes a looooong time to blow up so you probably want to invest in a pump also, but that's to be expected given the size. Worth the time for all the fun and great photos!" The swan is a classic pool float shape, mostly because it brings to mind the swan-shaped pontoons that grace park lakes across the country. This one from Swimline is wallet-friendly, often goes on sale, and fits two people semi-comfortably. (There are three in one of the product photos, but that might be pushing it.) Best of all, it appears to be fairly durable for the price, according to user reviews.Here are some comments from one Amazon user:

Best for Instagram Image: Funboy The Good Highly Instagram-friendly • Bright and colorful Highly Instagram-friendly • Bright and colorful The Bad No cup holders • Some reviewers report leaks No cup holders • Some reviewers report leaks The Bottom Line This Funboy float isn't the most practical option, but we doubt that's what you want from a poofy rainbow cloud. This Funboy float isn't the most practical option, but we doubt that's what you want from a poofy rainbow cloud. Dimensions: 108 x 72 inches, with a 5 foot (60 inch) tall rainbow

108 x 72 inches, with a 5 foot (60 inch) tall rainbow Features: PVC repair patches $139 from Amazon Funboy Rainbow Cloud Daybed Funboy floats are Instagram classics, and this rainbow cloud float is one of the brand's prettiest options.

Note: This float is

Funboy is a behemoth in the pool float space, boasting celebrity fans from Taylor Swift to Kylie Jenner. The company has moved away from its signature swan and unicorn floats in the last few years, focusing instead on slightly off-center objects like pancakes, jets, and this pleasing rainbow cloud. Unsurprisingly, reviewers love its appearance — "It floats in the water like a cloud in the sky," wrote one Amazon user — but a few people reported leaks and fading after some use. All in all, these floats are likely best for people seeking light use and heavy Instagramming — not for hardcore lounging.Note: This float is frequently discounted on the Funboy website , so you may want to check there before buying elsewhere. The company also offers a 10% discount if you sign up for promotional emails.

Best dog pool float Image: Swimways The Good Sturdy material • Helps dogs balance on the water Sturdy material • Helps dogs balance on the water The Bad Hard to inflate Hard to inflate The Bottom Line Getting your dog their own pool float might seem extra (and it is), but this one really is sturdier than the version for humans. Getting your dog their own pool float might seem extra (and it is), but this one really is sturdier than the version for humans. Dimensions: 64.5 x 23.25 x 9 inches

64.5 x 23.25 x 9 inches Features: "Paw and claw friendly" fabric, spring around the perimeter for stability $56.99 from Amazon SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float Let your dog enjoy their time in the water while retaining control of your own pool float.

Writes

"Prior to purchasing this dog raft we were buying him the regular Swimways rafts (made for people). Because they aren't as durable we had to buy new ones every few weeks because he would put holes in them with his paws. I finally spent the extra money and got this one and I am very pleased with how durable it is." A few reviews reported that this float, perhaps due to its sturdy material, is difficult to inflate. It does, however, appear to be easy to store — it folds into a fairly flat circle.

Even if you're not in the market for a dog pool float, we highly recommend looking at the reviews for this one. Many adorable dog pics await you.

If you want your dog to use a pool float (please get their permission first), it's best to buy them their own. This dog float from SwimWays, which is designed for large dogs, is made of a thicker-than-standard fabric that reviewers say holds up well under even very excited pups.Writes one Amazon reviewer A few reviews reported that this float, perhaps due to its sturdy material, is difficult to inflate. It does, however, appear to be easy to store — it folds into a fairly flat circle.Even if you're not in the market for a dog pool float, we highly recommend looking at the reviews for this one. Many adorable dog pics await you.

Best for reading Image: AQua The Good Great for couples • Extra cushioning Great for couples • Extra cushioning The Bad Less showy than other options Less showy than other options The Bottom Line This floating lounger — complete with backrest — is great for pool or lake leisure. This floating lounger — complete with backrest — is great for pool or lake leisure. Dimensions: 64 x 53 inches

64 x 53 inches Weight limit: 500 pounds

500 pounds Features: Cup holders, cushioning on back, loops for docking $109.99 from Amazon Aqua Ultra Comfort Recliner Lounge This straightforward lounger is great for poolgoers looking for a practical option. Sometimes comfort is more important than whimsy — you just want to lounge as hard as you can without dropping your book in the pool. In that case, consider a sturdy pool lounger like this one from Aqua. It may not be super Instagram-friendly, but it will keep you comfortable, cushioned, and above water. Reviewers also appreciate the fabric on the top of many Aqua products, which doesn't cause your legs and back to stick to the float in the moisture and heat.

Remember: If you're taking a nap on the water, be sure to reapply that sunscreen.



Best ride-on Image: Kololo The Good Cute, unique shape • Sturdy • Easy to inflate Cute, unique shape • Sturdy • Easy to inflate The Bad No cup holders No cup holders The Bottom Line The narwhal is a fun option for people looking for a sturdy ride-on pool float. The narwhal is a fun option for people looking for a sturdy ride-on pool float. Dimensions: 78 x 43 x 40 inches

78 x 43 x 40 inches Features: Handles, repair patch $59.99 from Amazon Giant Narwhal Inflatable Pool Float When you hop aboard this extremely cute (and larger than you'd expect) narwhal float, you'll likely be the only narwhal in the water.

If it's uniqueness you're after, the narwhal is a good choice, too — while you might see a few other donuts and flamingos in the swimming pool, the narwhal is a far more esoteric choice. (At least for now. We're sorry if we inadvertently bring about the narwhal pool float boom.)

Prepare your arsenal of Elf jokes. This large narwhal pool float is not only very cute, it's also quite sturdy and easy to inflate, according to reviewers. "The plastic feels thicker than other pool floats," writes one reviewer , "and has already stood up to one party unscathed." Plus, it'll work for both kids and adults — provided you're able to find your balance.If it's uniqueness you're after, the narwhal is a good choice, too — while you might see a few other donuts and flamingos in the swimming pool, the narwhal is a far more esoteric choice. (At least for now. We're sorry if we inadvertently bring about the narwhal pool float boom.)

Source: Mashable

Powered by NewsAPI.org