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
- Inflatable Recliner Adult Float: This colorful, roomy inflatable pool float features a patented inner spring for stability, a built-in headrest, back rest, foot rest, and cupholder for comfortable and...
- Inflate and Deflate 3 Times Faster: Our innovative Hyper-Flate Valve takes the stress of setting up and putting away your floatie faster than ever - no pump needed, so there's more time to relax and...
- Designed for Comfort: Each float is made with fabric-covered inflation and a soft cooling mesh bed that cradles your body just below the surface of the water, with a foldable build that allows for...
- Two Pack: One Navy & One Burgundy/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.
- Super Value Pack - 2 pcs pool floats. 1 Inflatable Unicorn and 1 Flamingo pool float tube, allowing you to comfortably float with families and friends for hours of fun and relaxation in hot summer...
- Super Cute Design - The super cute flamingo float and unicorn float are perfect additions to your flock of pool toys! Perfect pool floaties for pool parties, pool decorations, luau or summer...
- Pool Float Adult Size - The pool floaty measures about 42" in diameter with good buoyancy, big enough for kid teens and adults to comfortably float the day off.
- Ultimate Comfort Tanning Pool Floats: This 2 pack luxury pool float lounger makes you feel like lying on a soft bed in the pool, sunbathing, the ultimate in comfort and enjoyment this summer. Perfect...
- Oversized and Heavy Duty Pool Floaties: The size of the pool floaties for adults is 73" x 33"(Fully inflated), Weight capacity of the rafts for pool adults is up to 250 lbs, it is comfortable...
- Muti-Hole Design: The pool hammock is covered with lots of hole, which allows water to flow through the internal holes to keep you cool, making adult pool float lounger great for sun tanning.
- Luxurious Thick Foam Lounger: Experience total relaxation with this premium vinyl-coated closed-cell foam float, offering superior buoyancy and long-lasting durability for all-day poolside comfort.
- Built-In Pillow for Head Support: Relax in style with the integrated roll pillow that cradles your head and neck, providing extra comfort and support for a great floating experience.
- Maintenance Made Easy: Enjoy simple cleanup with the sleek, easy-clean waterproof vinyl coating. For longer life, store flat and dry, avoiding extreme temperatures. Clean thoroughly with soap and...
- Premium Support, Zero Discomfort: The adult pool float features a headrest, footrest, and net fabric, providing excellent support and comfort; Designed for stability, it is easy to control...
- Summer-Proof Durability: Made from durable, thick PVC, the water hammocks offer high buoyancy and exceptional softness for long-lasting comfort; Enjoy hours of fun without worrying about wear; Also...
- Suitable for Group Use: Our 5-pack pool float set includes: blue, green, pink,deep blue, yellow; Each float measures 115 x 70 cm and can be used as a hammock, lounge chair, drifter, or...
- Ultra Comfortable Pool Float Lounger: A set of 2 inflatable pool floats designed to provide adults with a totally relaxing and comfortable experience. With a soft mesh seat, soft backrest and open...
- Adult Size Heavy Duty Pool Float: The Pool Float (XL) is designed to be 65" X 42" (fully inflatable) for adult use. Extended pool floats are suitable for adults and teens of all sizes. Weight...
- Built-in Phone & Drink Holder: The pool floater comes with a mobile phone holder and a drink holder, so you can easily hydrate and reach for your mobile phone for entertainment while floating in the...
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.