Here are some cool facts about pool floats that you might not know:
1. First Pool Floats Were Made of Rubber
- The original pool floats in the early 20th century were made of rubber. The inflatable versions we use today didn’t appear until later, around the 1940s, when vinyl became widely available.
2. Giant Floats Can Be Huge!
- Some of the biggest floats can be over 10 feet long—enough for multiple people to lounge or party on at once! Think giant floating islands or even huge inflatable yachts!
3. Inflatable Furniture for the Pool
- It’s not just tubes anymore. There are now inflatable lounges, chairs, and even couches designed for ultimate poolside comfort. Some of them even have built-in coolers for drinks.
4. Floats Are Made of Special Materials
- Most modern pool floats are made of PVC or vinyl, both of which are lightweight, waterproof, and durable. Some are even UV-resistant to prevent the sun from causing them to fade or degrade.
5. Pool Floats Aren’t Just for Pools
- People take their pool floats to beaches, lakes, and even rivers. Some are designed specifically for calmer waters, but there are even inflatable kayaks and boats now that can float you down streams!
6. The Giant Flamingo Craze
- The giant flamingo float went viral in the mid-2010s, and now it’s one of the most popular designs. But did you know it was first introduced in 2013? It quickly became a staple in Instagram photos and pool parties.
7. Pool Floats Have Their Own Day
- There’s a National Pool Float Day! It’s celebrated on July 19th every year. If you love your float, now you have a special day to enjoy it even more.
8. They Can Help With Physical Therapy
- Some floats, especially those designed with supportive cushions, are used in physical therapy and rehabilitation. They help patients relax in the water, providing buoyancy that eases joint pain and helps with movement.
9. Floating Wine Glasses
- There are even inflatable wine glasses and floating trays for holding drinks and snacks while you relax in the pool. Some are even designed to hold your phone!
10. A Multi-Billion Dollar Industry
- Pool floats have turned into a multi-billion dollar industry. Every year, new designs, materials, and shapes flood the market, and some of the most popular floats can cost up to $100 or more!
Pool floats have come a long way from those simple rubber tubes. They’ve turned into a fun, stylish, and sometimes functional way to enjoy the water!