Have you ever felt like drifting relaxingly on the water with your legs dangling in a pool but without getting fully drenched? If yes, then a water mat can help. Water mats have become synonymous with visuals of spring break and resort pools.
These innocuous-looking floating mats are essential when it comes to holidaying near water. Today is not just a group of holiday goers; even resorts and beach shacks add floating mats to their inventory. This product is truly ingenious.
It even lets one lay a full picnic spread while sailing on the water. No doubt that water mats have become very popular around the world. The market is full of myriad water mats of various kinds.
However, just because the market is brimming with a product does not mean you should buy any product from any shop. One needs to know many basic things about floating water mats before making any purchase.
Later on, we will explore different things you need to know about this product. But first, let’s talk about the best floating water mats currently available in the market. So without further ado, let’s get started.
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10. SOWKT Floating Water Mat –
Even though it’s cheaper, it has three layers of XPE foam, which is impressive. These layers have an inner net and heat sealing ability that resists them from ripping apart. Each side has an anti-slip treatment that gives a better grip on the water.
You get an instruction manual, a 12-foot bungee tether(with carabiner), and two extra-long Velcro straps with this mat. It’s around 1.3 inches thick and can handle 5-6 people or about 1320 lbs. This mat submerges deeper than other mats, bringing more water to the surface.
While it’s fun, it can also lead to foam breakage here. With more people on top and plenty of water, the pressure increases manifold, which can rip it beyond repair. With this being said, I won’t suggest it to others, but you can give it a try.
Pros
- Triple-layer of XPE foam
- Lot more water on the surface
- Anti-grip material on both sides
- Handy and compact
- 1-year warranty
- Thick, can hold 5-6 people.
Cons
- Pressure can break the foam.
- It doesn’t hold everyone properly
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9. Floating Oasis Water Mat –
Nails, feet, skin, life jacket clips, you name it. This thing makes it a big NO for your dog, which made it this low. Other than that, it has things much better than other water mats like D-ring, length, weight capacity, free items, and softness.
It’s made from multi-layered Polyethylene(PE) foam, making it soft yet sturdy. These foams are joined using a proprietary lamination process that adds strength and durability without adding extra inches to the width.
The thing that impressed me was the metal D-ring system that’s really sturdy and doesn’t budge. The tethering was never more reliable than here. Other than that, the buoyancy is fantastic. You can stand, jump, do cartwheels, etc., but it won’t sink or break. It brings in just enough water to keep you wet and cool.
Pros
- Floats Really well
- Available in five designs
- Longer than other mats at a similar price
- Thin at 1.5 inches, it can hold 1500 lbs.
- The D-ring system is impressive.
- Convenient and compact
Cons
- Damages with anything and everything
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8. iFloats Premium Water Mat –
Made from high flotation closed-cell foam, this mat has a sturdy surface yet. It’s a triple layer mat where the middle one is patented High Tensile Strength Core material, making it strong.
Even though it’s triple-layered, it’s only 1.5 inches thick. I really like its buoyancy, which can easily hold six adults and your dog comfortably. It’s very lightweight and convenient. Each side is equipped with a flush-mounted stainless steel D-ring for reliable anchoring.
You get a free bungee tether that stretches from 7’ to 18’ along with the mat. Once the fun part is over, it packs pretty small while the D-ring straps hold it packed until next used. Once strapped, it hardly takes 2-5 feet of space.
Pros
- Works for Seasons
- Sturdy and comfortable
- Three foam design with a patented core center
- Lightweight, but can hold many adults
- Stainless D-ring on each side
- Packs small
Cons
- The warranty doesn’t work
- It can Tear if heavily used by adults
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7. Big Joe, 2050ABDS Waterpad –
This mat from Big Joe has a unique design, both inside and outside. Unlike other mats, it is filled with beans, making it lighter and providing buoyancy. Think of it as a bean bag floating mat. Each corner has a grommet for easy anchoring.
It is perfect as you can attach multiple cords and use it as a SUP or maybe your cup holder. It’s pretty long; around 5-6 adults can comfortably lay on top. Even though it’s very thin, it can hold up to 1500 lbs, which is amazing.
Personally, I think it’s only good for kids. If anyone over 170 lbs tries to get on, it sinks, and with more adults, it might even tear, so I won’t recommend it for adults. This thing is very light and quick to set up or pack. If you are getting this one, make sure to dry it before rolling and storing it.
Pros
- Four Grommets
- Bean design makes it light.
- Easy to set up, no pumping and stuff
- Can hold up to 1500 lbs
- Easily rolls up and stores compact
- Long enough
Cons
- Thin than expected
- It sinks when an adult sits
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6. Fun Float Floating Water Mat –
The three foam design has a sturdy core and a soft yet grippy surface. Both sides have a texture that avoids slippage when wet. Made from high-density cell foam, it avoids damage, while the high tensile strength center core material adds durability and strength.
Also, a tear-stop nylon inner rebar matrix is present. This matrix prevents full lacerations in case they begin to rip. It weighs 25 lbs, making it easier to carry or move even after wet. It’s so light that one person can do the rolling and packing.
You’ll really love its clean design and bold color, easily noticeable far away. It has a mooring device for anchoring, which really isn’t that sturdy. After a couple of use, the mooring device popped out, which made the anchor system useless and ripped the mat. That’s why it’s ranked lower.
Pros
- Really long and can handle 1250 lbs.
- Balance the sink
- Sides have a texture for good grip.
- Sturdy, comfortable, and compact
- Clean design and bold color
- Carrying and Transportation are easy.
- Very light(only 24.95 lbs)
Cons
- The anchor system isn’t good
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5. WOW Sports Floating Water Mat –
The best thing here is the connecting zipper system, which allows you to connect as many WOW mats as possible. The grommets on each side can either be used for tethering or attaching another mat.
If you have tons of kids joining, then getting a few of these mats makes a good playing area for them. With this mat, you get two 6-feet ropes for tethering. I love how convenient it is.
It inflates quickly, is accessible to set up/pack, takes lesser space, and is easy to handle. For inflating, I recommend buying an Air Pump, especially if you are getting multiple of these. Currently, it’s available in three designs.
Pros
- Affordable and comfortable
- Sturdy surface and inflate quickly.
- Connecting zipper system
- Dry very quickly and very compact
- Available in three designs
Cons
- Seams can rip after a couple of months of use, but there is a solution
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4. Aqua Lili Maui Mat –
If you have an army of kids and adults ready to blast the warm day, then this mat is for you. It’s 6×14 feet long and can float up to 1000 pounds of everything, which is roughly 9-10 people and your dog.
It’s way longer for everyone to lay on and is perfect for both kids and adults. Made from 2 layers of cross-linked foam material and a patented FlexCore Technology core, it has a soft surface but a durable core.
Even though it’s only 1 3/8 inches thick, it’s sturdy. It’s simple, classy, and doesn’t fade with time, which I love the most. It has a no-roll memory, so it always lays straight no matter how long you keep it fold.
One thing to note is that it doesn’t sink like other mats; hardly does it go ankle-deep. This thing is only 25 pounds, which makes it easy to roll and handle. And using the Hook ‘N Loop straps, it’s pretty easy to transport and store.
Pros
- Longer and sturdy
- Patented FlexCore adds strength and flexibility.
- No Roll memory
- Classic design that doesn’t fade
- Soft yet strong
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- You may not like the simple design
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3. MISSION Boat Gear Reef Mat Inflatable Floating Mat –
It’s among the market’s sturdiest floating water mats with 1000D nylon material, drop-stitch construction, and double-reinforced seams. It’s the same material used in top-grade naval applications. This mat has a sturdy yet soft surface similar to a gymnastics mat.
So, apart from water, people also use it for morning yoga and gymnastic practice. And it withstands all that pressure without any damage. You can use the double action pump for inflating, which will take around 3 minutes. Since it’s 4 inches thick, the surface always remains dry.
The D-ring on the surface makes quick tethering. But there is no tether cable in the package, so you have to get your own. It has four integrated handles that make lifting and carrying a breeze. So, after using it, you can easily carry it back.
The thing that surprised me was how small it packs after deflating. It’s 5-6 times smaller, lighter, and easier to carry than floating mats. And the free storage bag makes transportation a breeze.
You also get a free Repair Kit if it is ever ripped. It has a price higher than others but is worth every penny for all these features. Currently, it’s available in three sizes.
Pros
- Most durable inflatable mat
- Stainless steel D-ring
- 4 inch thick and four sturdy handles
- Easy to carry and handle
- Packs small and neat
- It can be used at home
- Available in three sizes
- Double action pump, storage bag, and repair kit free
Cons
- Costly, but worth every penny
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2. Driftsun Mesa Inflatable Floating Dock –
It’s a mat, a raft, a water lounge, a Yoga seat, a Tanning sheet, etc.; the list goes on. It’s like the previous mat but with a new luxury design. The biggest addition is the water hammock, where four adults or 5-6 kids can comfortably lounge and relax.
It’s a highly durable material that can easily withstand kid jumping. This mat is vast enough to support five adults comfortably. More if other people are relaxing in the hammock. You can sit, stand, lay, fight, bring a tanning chair, etc., without worrying about sinking.
This thing is like 6 inches wide and durable, so it’s always up and dry. Even though it’s sturdy, it’s very comfy to walk on. It is made from UV-resistant Military-grade PVC material using MLS drop stitch technology, making the surface as rigid as an EPS(Expanded Polystyrene) core.
It’s the same material used to make a whitewater raft. Since it’s huge, you got two high-pressure valves for quick inflation. The pressure pump that came along takes around 10 minutes to inflate, but only 1-2 minutes with an automatic pump.
The four metal D-rings on each corner make tethering easy, while the neoprene handle makes carrying a breeze. It offers around ten handles for the purpose. Once deflated, it packs to a 33” x 16” x 16” size. Overall, it’s a stunning product, and I’ll recommend it to anyone.
Pros
- Sturdy, comfortable, and compact
- Ten neoprene handles for easy carrying
- 4 D-rings for tethering
- A lot of space can hold 1100 lbs.
- Separate Lounge and surface
- Six inches wide
- UV resistant material
- Two high-pressure valves
Cons
- Costly, but worth the price
- It takes 6-10 minutes to inflate with a manual pump
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1. Rubber Dockie 18×6-Feet Floating Mat –
Made from High grade, two-ply closed cell 1 3/8 inch foam, it’s a soft yet sturdy mat. Its surface has a Tuff-Hide treatment that gives it a rugged-like smooth texture on the skin.
The texture ensures a tight grip in the water while automatically cleaning any dirt or grime off the surface. I love the material as it didn’t even scratch after enjoying a day with a dozen naughty kids and my dog.
Plus, it has a tear-stop inner matrix, which prevents full laceration. So, if it ever came apart, it won’t rip the whole mat. The 12 feet’ elastic bungee tether and a carabiner offer strong anchoring.
Its anchoring system is robust and doesn’t break like other mats. Currently, it’s available in two size options and is highly visible in color. Overall, I love it, and you’ll too.
Pros
- Sturdy yet comfortable
- Value for money
- Tuff-Hide treatment for Texture
- 12 Feet Elastic Bungee Tether
- Tear, dirt, and grime resistant
- Tear-stop inner matrix
- Highly visible color
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Nothing
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A Case In Favor Of Floating Water Mats –
Many people think that a floating water mat is a trivial thing that is only suitable for a quick holiday. However, the new age water mats are being made for many reasons.
People are using this product throughout the year and in many creative ways. These days a water mat is not just a beach staple but an object of frequent use.
Here are a few ways in which water mats are being used around the world:
1. Swimming:
It goes without saying that Floating Water Mats are used by people who are in some way involved in swimming. Many people like to use these water mats as a way to place a safe island.
These can be used by people who like to relax in the middle of the pool. It also allows people a space to take a break without reaching for the poolside or the shore.
This way, water mats have made swimming relaxing and secure for many people.
2. Relaxing Collectively:
While water boats are available in the market for solo use, most water mats are made for multiple users. Hence, one can say that water mats are primarily an object that is to be used collectively.
Many water mat users swear by the fact that this object automatically makes bonding easy. It helps you relax and enjoy water activities with friends and family easily.
Sharing a water mat with a bunch of people is a great experience. You can simply throw a water floating mat in a pool or attach it behind a yacht as you use it with a group of people.
3. Safety:
The floating mats are also beneficial for use for safety purposes. Many safety instructors use water mats to aid young swimmers.
They also attach it to the back of their boats and yachts. Sometimes big pools also have water mats placed in the middle of the pool.
4. Balance Practice:
Using water mats for balancing is probably one of the most innovative uses of this product. A unique genre of water yoga often uses this product to strengthen the posture of yoga practitioners.
Most water mats are not as grounded as solid surfaces. They are wobbly, so people learn to maintain their balance by practicing on them. Many water yoga classes use water mats as a regular class requirement.
The flexibility with which floating water mats have been used shows the universal need and appeal of the product. If you buy it, you will surely get a chance to use it in many ways.
Water Mats Are For Everyone –
One may think that water boats are only to be used by frequent swimmers who go in groups. However, as we have discussed above, several people can use this product.
If you like to spend your time on the beach or at a lake, then a water mat can instantly elevate your experience. You can simply bask in the water without necessarily getting wet.
You can use the water mat as a beach chair and get tanned while floating on the water. Water mats are something that lasts for a long time. You don’t have to buy a water mat every season. Once you buy it, you can use it for many vacations.
If you have a motorboat, you can attach it with a water mat on which several people can sit and relax. If you have a pool in your house or in your locality, you can also use this product.
As we have figured it out, this product can be used in many ways. It can provide fun to many people in many different circumstances.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Floating Water Mat –
Until now, we have discussed the benefits of having a floating mat. If you are still reading this article, then there are high chances that you are interested in buying a water mat.
Today you will find hundreds of water floats being sold online. It can be confusing to pick the best-suited product out of all available options.
There are a couple of factors that one must consider before buying a floating water mat. You must take those into account as you finalize your purchase. Some of those factors are:
1. Weight Capacity:
The weight holding capacity of every water mat must be the most crucial factor to consider. If you buy a solo occupancy water mat, it should hold at least 100 kgs of weight.
If you buy a water boat made for more than four people, its capacity should be around 1100 lbs.
2. Material and Quality:
If you buy a water mat made with substandard material, you risk the users’ safety. Hence, it is of utmost need that you should buy water mats made with high-quality material.
Some suitable materials to look for are 1000D Nylon. Another great material is cell form, which ensures that your water mat does not suffer rapid wear and tear.
Before making a purchase, you should also look for reviews and feedback on the product online. Often, very sturdy water mats give skin rashes because of harmful paint or rough surfaces they have.
Additionally, the material should be UV resistant and heavy-duty. A water mat should be at least 4 inches thick. This thickness provides stability, so you can easily move around on the water mat.
3. Warranty:
A warranty is a sign of a company’s trust in its product. Whenever you get a water mat that comes with a warranty, it means the product is reliable. Besides, warranty coverage allows you to be relaxed about the repairs you might encounter due to the product’s bad quality.
You don’t have to worry about paying for repairs caused due to manufacturing defects or design flaws if you have warranty coverage. On a floating mat, the warranty coverage of 6 months to 12 months is a reasonable period.
4. Portability:
Floating water mats are supposed to be used at different locations. Hence, portability is an essential consideration for them. One should buy a mat that can be packed compactly.
It should not take too much space in your car or luggage. It should be lightweight and travel-friendly.
5. Easy To Use:
The sign of every good product is its user-friendliness, which goes for floating water mats. Your water mat should be easy to inflate and deflate.
If you take too much time inflating and then packing your water mat, it will ruin your experience. The water mat should come with reliable pressure values.
Its design should be uncomplicated and universally understandable. One does not have to be especially skilled or strong to use one of the floating water mats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) –
How Much Weight Should A Water Mat Hold?
A solo floating water mat should hold at least 100 kgs. If you select a water mat that can hold four to five people, then its holding capacity should be at least 1100 lbs.
The weight holding capacity of a water mat depends on many different factors, and one such factor is the area. If your water mat is more than 90 square feet wide, it should have a weight holding capacity of at least 1000 lbs.
What Are Some Features Of A Good Water Mat?
A safe and robust water mat is made up of many different factors. It should offer the user stability to function without losing balance. The mat must be user-friendly.
It should not be too complex to inflate and deflate. Other than that, the floating mat should be made of a durable material and ensures safety for the users.
These are some of the features that collectively make a dependable water mat.
Are Water Mats Safe For Kids? As In Can It Be Used Without Parental Supervision?
There is no direct answer to this question. When it comes to safety regarding the water mats, every case differs from product to product. Usually, water mats are child friendly.
In most cases, kids over the age of 8 years can use water mats without parental supervision. Water mats are generally considered safe for kids.
The safety factor also depends on the water body on which the floating mat is being used. If you are using it in a shallow pool, then the mat is safer than using it in a choppy lake.
What Is The Difference Between A Pool Ring And A Water Mat?
The fundamental difference between a pool float and a water mat is the size. Pool floats are inflated devices that are made primarily for a single person.
While multiple people can use water mats, pool rings are also used as emergency tools to prevent drowning. Another difference is that water mats are flat in shape.
Other than a few design changes, the fundamental design of a water mat remains the same.
Can One Put A Picnic Basket And Chairs On A Floating Water Mat?
Yes, one can put a picnic basket and chairs on a floating water mat. However, it mostly depends on the weight retention capacity of the floating water mat and its material.
Chairs have pointed legs that can tear a weak material. Floating water mats made out of sturdy industry-grade material and having drop stitches can allow the chairs on their surface.
Stability is also necessary for water mats for allowing things like mini chairs. If a water mat does not allow peace, it is not a good idea to put picnic baskets or chairs on it as it can be dangerous.
Conclusion: Float Your Worries Away With Lily Pads!
Water mats are commonly called water islands, lily pads, and floating docks. Kids like to plunge into the water, while adults like to read a book in the sun and sip cool drinks. To ensure everything goes right, I talked about the best floating water mats you can find in the market. If you like the article, share it with others, so they have a good summer.