Inflatable air mattresses started gaining popularity in the mid-20th century, especially after World War II, when new materials like vinyl and rubber-coated fabrics made them easier to produce. By the 1960s, manufacturers were experimenting with both form and function. Some of these products featured built-in pumps, reinforced seams, and printed patterns that ranged from florals to plaids. A few even had clear plastic panels so kids could peek at what was swimming below.
Retailers in the ‘60s offered beach and pool floats in all kinds of shapes and sizes, including heavy-duty vinyl mats with built-in pillows and spring-powered pumps. Others were made with cotton duck cloth for durability and came with ropes and grommets for easy toting and tying down. Some were double-sided with bright contrasting colors, while others boasted bold patterns like mod daisies or faux leopard print.
The ‘70s continued the trend, adding even more creative designs to the mix. Inflatables began to include features like ripple-textured surfaces and reinforced corners to prevent leaks. Kids had smaller, windowed versions made for underwater viewing, while adults relaxed on full-size mattresses that doubled as beach loungers. Many of these products were water- and air-tested to meet rising quality standards, especially as backyard above-ground pools became more common.
We’ve collected a gallery of these vintage pool floats and air mattresses, along with original catalog images and old-school descriptions. If you’re curious about what made summer so memorable back then, take a look at the photos and ads that brought these floaty favorites to life.
Summer inflatables: Pool and beach flotes (from 1969)
Blue one side, red other side with white binding — High count cotton duck drill cloth that’s extra strong and durable; Reinforcing bound edge; White safety rope all around; six rope-holding grommets; Extra heavy inner coating assure airtightness
Soft and cuddly terrycloth surface, luxurious. Dyed color-fast — retains brilliance
Hampshire deluxe cloth surface air mattresses & beach flotes
— Beautiful multicolor floral pattern.
— With exclusive, waterproof “BUILT-IN PUMP” for quick, effortless inflation.
— Special reinforcing surface patch protects pump area, heavy-duty spring assures pump action.
— Exclusive interior construction gives firmness and true sleeping comfort.
— Rust-proof, non-corrosive air-valve
COLORS: Multi-colored floral print both sides. SIZE: 72″ x 34″. Mats feature: Rustproof, non-corrosive air valves. Durable cotton fabric laminated to heavy gauge polymer inner coating — 100% air and water tested.
MORE: Vintage above-ground pools like these made swimming & summer water fun affordable
Bikini babe loves these promotional mats & water flotes
Boat print, daisy print & water babes print
Vintage vinyl beach floats/air mattresses
Super-strength vinyl with attractive ripple-finish surface
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Retro leopard print & wide stripe beach float mattresses
The leopardess vinyl air mattress: Authentic lifelike design and color (leopard print); Built-in pillow with separate air valve
Hy-Line Deluxe pool float mattresses: Wide red or blue stripes on white; Extra heavy-duty vinyl surface; Built-in pillow
Mod daisy print & 4-colored flowered leopard print vintage pool floats
— Strong, heavy-gauge vinyl
— Exciting, colorful designs
— Big 6 ft. x 30″ wide — five tubes — really luxurious looking
— Four-color print. Floral Leopard design
MORE: ’60s swimwear: 8 snazzy swimsuits from 1967
1970’s newest, brightest ideas for “fun in the sun”
Vintage pool floats & patterned beach floats
Handsome Scotch plaid pattern (Green Plaid/Solid Green back, or Red Plaid both sides) and gaily-colored “Rollicking Rhythm” (Multicolor, wavy striped pattern)
— Built-in pillow with separate air valve; Exclusive, waterproof BUILT-IN PUMP for quick, easy inflation
— Special reinforcing patch protects pump area of mat; Heavy-duty spring assures reliable pump action
MORE: Retro pool toys: Inflatable animals, rafts & more vintage water fun from the ’60s
Super-strength beach and pool floats & see-thru flotes
Extra heavy-duty cotton duck fabric, bound edges with white safety rope all around; six reinforced rope-holding grommets. (Specially created for Pools and Rough Usage) — COLOR: Two-tone Red and Blue with White Binding; SIZE: 49″ x 34″
SEE-THRU FLOTE
Ride the waves — See the underwater world
— Big 60″ x 27″ size
— Strong, heavy-duty, tufted vinyl plastic material
— Crystal clear, tough plastic window for underwater viewing
— Gusseted sides with white lead rope
— Exclusive tufted construction for rigidity and comfort
— 100% air and water tested
SEE-THRU JR. WATER FLOTE WITH ROPE
Sturdy, heavy-duty vinyl with tough, crystal-clear plastic “see-thru” window — lets youngsters view underwater
MORE: A Coleco pool for the backyard: Above-ground swimming pools (1970)
Pool floats you can buy today
- Two Pack: One Light Blue & One Navy/White Stripe
- Effortless Use: No need for jumping, ladders, or flopping – simply sit and relax in the water with this easy-to-use pool floatie, and especially ideal for seniors and expectant mothers.
- Exceptional Durability: Crafted from our patented non-stick PVC, this hammock is 50%-70% thicker than typical "sticky PVC" hammock pool floats. Comprising a blend of 50% soft vinyl and 50% soft mesh.
- 🌊【Premium Materials】 This pool float consists of 50% soft vinyl and 50% soft net with a maximum load capacity of 242 pounds.
- 🌊【4-in-1 Multifunctional Pool Float Toys】 With this pool float, you can enjoy four different floating toys. (saddle, lounge Chair, hammock,drifter) This makes it an incredibly versatile and...
- 🌊【Foldable for easy carrying】You can fold the floating row, it is as convenient to carry as a book, put it in your backpack, luggage, etc., convenient for your travel.
- .Experience three ways to lounge! Quickly convert your float between a relaxing reclining hammock, a stable sit-up lounge chair, and a secure "hands-free" saddle seat. One float fits all your water...
- .Get incredible value with two floats in one set! Includes one calming Pink and one Navy Blue hammock. Ideal for sharing—bring a partner, friend, or kid for double the relaxation and fun.
- .Crafted from rugged, eco-friendly PVC with reinforced seams and a professional Boston valve. Holds air securely and supports up to 220 lbs per float. Your go-to companion for seasons of pool days...
- Complete 2-Pack for Shared Fun.SLOOSH pool floats package includes two premium adult pool floats chair, providing immediate value for couples, friends, or families. Each noodle...
- Engineered for All-Day Comfort & Coolness.Designed as the ultimate pool floats for adults, these chairs combine high-buoyancy air tubes with a breathable mesh sling seat. This innovative structure...
- Remarkably Stable & Effortless to Use.Experience secure relaxation with these stable inflatable pool lounge chairs. Their sturdy tubular construction and low center of gravity make them easy to get on...
- Don't sacrifice comfort out on the water!
- Full armrests and headrest
- Cup holder provides a place for your favorite beverage
- 4-in-1 Multi-Use Pool Hammock (4-Pack): Our 3-tube inflatable pool floats for adults work as a chair, hammock, mat, or saddle. Ideal floating lounge rafts for pools, beaches, lakes, and summer fun...
- Heavy-Duty Durable Design: Made with thick, high-quality PVC. The stable 3-tube structure supports up to 300 lbs, keeping you safe and secure in pools, lakes, and open water.
- All-Day Cooling Comfort: Measuring 43.31" x 38.58", this pool hammock features a soft, breathable mesh bottom, padded headrest, and armrests. Enjoy long hours of sunbathing in comfort without fatigue...
- 【Extra-Large Ergonomic Lounger for Ultimate Relaxation】Stretch out and unwind in total comfort with our oversized 64”x 37” pool float lounger, designed for full-body relaxation. The integrated...
- 【Stay-Cool Mesh Seat & Open Foot Area】Keep cool while you float in total comfort. The breathable mesh seat keeps you partially submerged in the water for a refreshing, cooling effect, while the...
- 【Bonus Detachable Floating Cup Holders Included】Keep everything within arm’s reach while you relax. Each set includes a detachable 13” x 13” floating caddy equipped with dual cup holders and...
- 2 Matts
- 72 In, 27 in
- Assorted colors
One Response
These devices worked pretty well as pool floats, but they were lousy as air mattresses. Anyone who took one of these on a camping trip had a devil of a time inflating it, and they almost always deflated overnight. Plus, they were heavy, making them difficult to take along on a hike.