Things at a Pool to Help You Float

Whether you are learning to swim, a poor swimmer, or just looking to relax in the pool, using a float can make for a fun and, in some instances, safe swimming experience. Floats can consist of a variety of different buoyant materials, and many have specific functions that go beyond keeping you above water. If you are thinking of purchasing a float for a pool, consider the following options.

  1. Inner Tubes

    • Inner tubes are round, doughnut-shaped floats that you can either sit on top of or slide your body through and rest in the middle of. The latter option allows you to hold on to the sides of the tube while you kick with your feet. The tubes come in a variety of sizes and colors, and most consist of the synthetic resin vinyl.

    Rafts

    • Vinyl rafts are one of the most basic styles of float, and come in several different shapes, sizes and colors. One of the most standard options for floating in a pool is using a rectangular raft, which works as a floating mattress or lounge chair. Some are even equipped with luxury features like built-in cup holders, head pillows and arm rests.

    Noodles

    • According to Pool Center, pool noodles, also known as water logs, consists of closed cell foam. (See Reference 1) The flexible material allows you to bend the noodles into a variety of different shapes, without ripping or snapping them. Also, unlike several other float styles, such as inner tubes and rafts, noodles cannot pop, as they store air inside an array of pores, as opposed to single or dual-chambers. The noodles come in several different colors, as well as different lengths and thicknesses.

    Life Jackets

    • Life jackets are great options for children who are just learning to swim. In her article "Test the Waters" that appeared in Parents Magazine, Julie Halpert recommends using only coast guard-approved life jackets that are properly fitted to the size of the swimming child. (See Reference 2) In addition to keeping swimmers buoyant, life jackets can help keep their faces out of the water.

    Floaties

    • Floaties, also known as water wings and swimmies, are essentially miniature inner tubes that fit around the upper arms of beginner swimmers. As Julie Halpert points out, there are also specialized swim suits available that have floaties built into them. Unlike life jackets, floaties are not safety devices, and beginner swimmers who are using them should be under constant supervision.

    Kick Boards

    • Kick boards come in a variety of different ergonomic shapes, but most feature a basic rectangular design, only with rounded as opposed to sharp corners. Consisting of incredibly buoyant expanded foam, the boards are great tools for beginner swimmers, weak swimmers and people completing physical therapy.