An inflatable floating mat is designed to let you enjoy a day out on the water without any worries. You can easily relax on one of these mats and enjoy a day with your family and friends.
When you’re feeling worn out from swimming, you can easily grab a floating mat to support your body. They are often praised for how much fun they are and how safe they are.
When hunting for a floating mat, you’re likely to come across foam and inflatable mats. Inflatable floating mats make taking and storing the mat with you easy because you can inflate and deflate them when needed.
So, to help you determine if an inflatable floating mat is right for you, we’ve put together this guide to fill you in on the differences between an inflatable mat and a foam mat.
Table of Contents
Why Pick an Inflatable Floating Mat?
The majority of floating mats are flimsy and floppy because they’re made from foam that doesn’t hold its shape and will take on water the moment you step onto it.
That’s why an inflatable floating mat is your best bet when picking out a floating mat. So, what makes them stand apart from the rest of the mats on the market?
Durability
An inflatable floating mat can withstand all kinds of roughhousing and lounging that you might put it through. Most inflatable mats are made from extremely durable plastic, drop-stitch construction and double reinforced seams for extra durability. So, you can feel free to have all the fun you want without worrying about the mat popping.
Rigidity
Inflatable floating mats are designed to be rigid, not floppy. They won’t bend, become submerged in the water, or flip – unless you’re trying to make them do that. Some of the mats you can find on the market are four inches thick, so you can stand, walk and play on the mat all day without worrying about it deflating or sinking.
Versatility
Most inflatable floating mats come in various sizes to fit any pool, river or lake. Whether you’re hoping to play on the water or relax all day in the sun, you’re bound to find an inflatable floating mat that matches your needs.
Tie-Offs
Most inflatable mats come with tie-offs, so you can easily tether the mat to any boat or dock. If you’re tying your mat to an anchor, we recommend using a mushroom-style anchor to avoid puncturing or tearing the inflatable mat.
Inflation and Deflation
Inflation and deflation tend to be rather quick with inflatable mats – especially if you purchase one that uses an air pump to inflate the mat. If you have to use your breath to inflate the mat, then it’s going to take a little more time. Finally, deflation takes just as long as it takes to inflate the mat, if not less time.
As you’re deflating the floating water mat, you can roll it up to easily store it for the next time you plan on using the mat.
Storage
Foam mats only roll up into giant burritos and can take up incredibly valuable space in your boat or home. Inflatable mats can be packed down to a small and compact size and often come with storage bags.
Inflatable Floating Mat vs Foam Mat
Inflatable and foam floating mats have their own strengths and weaknesses.
Foam mats are heavier but tend to be more durable than inflatable mats. However, they tend to be far more expensive than inflatable mats because you don’t need to inflate or deflate them. They also last longer because they’re puncture-resistant.
Inflatable mats are more portable, affordable, and lighter than foam mats. However, some inflatable mats on the market will puncture, tear, and rip easily if you aren’t careful. They also tend to last for less time than a foam mat.
Generally, inflatable mats are used for indoor water sources, while foam mats are used for outdoor water sources.
Recommended Inflatable Floating Mats
In this next section, we’re going to briefly talk about the two best inflatable floating mats on the market today. We’ve researched the best floating mats for you, but here are a couple of notable floats to get you thinking.
World of Watersports Inflatable Floating Walkway
With this inflatable floating mat from Wow World, you can connect as many mats as you want to make an enormous mat that you and your family can all enjoy. This feature makes this one of the most versatile floating mats on the market today because it can meet the needs of several people at one time.
Pros:
- Can fit six adults
- You can connect several mats
Cons:
- Deflation can take some time
Intex Giant Inflatable Floating Mat
The Intex Giant Inflatable Floating Mat is a great, affordable option. While it is a smaller choice that is only meant to fit 3 adults, it comes with connectors to attach it to other mats. It also features a unique dual chamber construction that allows small amounts of water to move onto the floating mat to keep you cool.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Can connect with other mats
Cons:
- Only fits 3 adults
Bottom Line
An inflatable floating mat is one of the best investments you can make for your summer days out on the water. However, it is important to find one that will last you for seasons to come.
The best inflatable mat should be one that’s durable enough to withstand any situation, including a crab puncturing your mat, and it should be able to accommodate all of your family and friends.
Inflatable floating mats are easy to store, affordable and easy to set up – that’s what sets them apart from foam water mats.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you realize how great inflatable floating mats are and why you should consider investing in one instead of a foam mat.
