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.
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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
- INCLUDES. Sloosh Inflatable Pool Float Chairs Package includes 2 Packs 30”x16”x24” Floating Noodle Chair with Soft Fabric Covered and Mesh Sling.
- BUILT FOR COMFORT. Our pool float chairs covered with comfortable fabric and multiple high buoyancy tubes that allow you to comfortably float for hours of fun and relaxation on hot summer days.
- EASY TO USE. Simply inflate our floating chair, adjust back and arm rest to your comfortable position, then lounge and relax in your pool. Features lightweight, easy carry and storage.
- ULTRA FAST INFLATION: Pool toys with Hyper-Flate Valve maximize airflow for easy inflation in a fraction of the time, and the pump-free design prevents air from escaping for our fastest inflation ever
- MULTI-USE: The perfect sit-up style pool lounger is great for relaxing and socializing with friends, this recliner is ideal for floating at the lake or in the pool
- PATENTED INNER SPRING DESIGN: Inner spring sewn around the outside edge of this adult pool float offers greater comfort and stability in the water
- Comfortable Design: The pool float comes with a comfortable headrest and ribbed base that offers excellent support for your neck and body. It provides comfort for long periods of lying down and allows...
- Convenient Drink Holder and Ice Bar: Built-in drink holder keeps cool drink within reach and the ice bar holds your favourite fruit and snacks. No need to get up to get your food, just relish your...
- Large Size for Roomy Space: Made of soft PVC, the floating bed is comfortable and skin-friendly. It is tear-resistant and can withstand long term use in the water. 82 x 50 inches/210 x 128 cm large...
- SPRING FLOAT POOL LOUNGER: These pool floats feature a soft cooling mesh that keeps your body just below the water's surface to keep you comfortably cool for hours of relaxation and fun on hot summer...
- INFLATABLE HEAD PILLOW: Oversized inflatable pillow on this pool hammock supports your head so you can keep it above the water and mostly dry while the cares of everyday life drift away
- PATENTED INNER SPRING DESIGN: Inner spring sewn around the outside edge of this adult pool float offers greater comfort and stability in the water
- Multiple Usage: Dive into versatility with JUXIAO pool floats. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just floating around, it serves a multi-functional purpose for all your pool activities.
- Lightweight and Portable: The pool floaties are easy to inflate, deflate, and transport. This makes them an ideal companion for beach trips, pool parties, or lake excursions.
- Ergonomic Design: Our pool float is designed according to the natural shape of the human body, providing optimal support and comfort while keeping you floating for hours.
- High-buoyancy ultra-comfortable loungers: 2 pack inflatable pool loungers with comfortable ergonomic headrest; You can sunbathe comfortably on the pool floats, the unique design makes you cooler and...
- Oversized pool floats for adults: Inflatable pool floats size is 75" X 34" inches, suitable for adults; With a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs, the lengthened and widen pool lounges are suitable...
- Fantastic Pool Floats: The pool floats are made of premium high-quality vinyl materials, superior support force and better quality give you a good summertime; When deflated, easy to roll up and fold...
- Comfortable Adjustable Backrest --- Comfortable Recliner Position - This pool float lounger features with adjustable backrest, providing different people with their own perfect relaxation postures,...
- Tanner Position --- Release the air of the back supportive roll. Lay out and tan on the sun tanning float without getting overheated. Enjoy sunbathing and relax.
- Drink float with 2 Built in Cup Holders Included --- The inflatable lounger floatie is equipped with drink float w built-in cup holders. You can always have your beverage as you enjoy time on the...
- SUPER VALUE PACK. Our Inflatable Fruit Pool Float Set includes Inflatable Fruit Pool Tubes: Watermelon, Kiwi, Pineapple, and Orange
- EASY TO SET UP. Our Inflatable Fruit Floats has thicker material than most other pool floats; Comfortably suspends you in the water and contours comfortably to your desired floating position. You can...
- ENDLESS FUN. This Pool Floats Fruit allows your body to be partly submerged in the water while keeping your head and knee afloat. This is perfect for swimming pool games, pool floats, pool toys,...
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.