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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Pool Toys

Keep kids entertained for hours in the water. We compared pool toys from dive sticks to basketball hoops, finding what creates summer memories.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

SwimWays

Toypedo Bandits Diving Toys

4.7 (23,456 reviews)

The torpedo that started it all. Throw it, watch it glide, dive to retrieve. Simple? Yes. Endlessly entertaining? Also yes. Three generations of kids have chased these underwater rockets.

Quantity

4 pack

Glide Distance

Up to 40 feet

Material

Plastic

Skill

Ages 5+

Pros

✓ Glides underwater up to 40 feet
✓ Self-propelled after throwing
✓ Durable construction

Cons

✗ Easy to lose in deep pools
✗ Fins can break
✗ Need depth to fully enjoy

$12

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
Toypedo Bandits Diving Toys Best SwimWays	4.7	$12	View
Floating Hoops Basketball Game Value Intex	4.4	$24	View
Bunch O Balloons - Rapid Fill Zuru	4.5	$19	View
Inflatable Pool Volleyball Set Bestway	4.2	$17	View
Shark Bite Game Poolmaster	4.6	$34	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

SwimWays

Toypedo Bandits Diving Toys

4.7 (23,456 reviews)

The torpedo that started it all. Throw it, watch it glide, dive to retrieve. Simple? Yes. Endlessly entertaining? Also yes. Three generations of kids have chased these underwater rockets.

Quantity

4 pack

Glide Distance

Up to 40 feet

Material

Plastic

Skill

Ages 5+

Pros

✓ Glides underwater up to 40 feet
✓ Self-propelled after throwing
✓ Durable construction

Cons

✗ Easy to lose in deep pools
✗ Fins can break
✗ Need depth to fully enjoy

$12

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Best Value

Intex

Floating Hoops Basketball Game

4.4 (8,765 reviews)

Pool basketball that actually stays put. The weighted base keeps the hoop stationary while you practice your water dunks. This is how pool parties go from "nice" to "legendary."

Height

Adjustable

Base

Weighted

Includes

Ball and hoop

Age

Pros

✓ Anchored base for stability
✓ Adjustable height
✓ Ball included

Cons

✗ Takes up pool space
✗ Base can drift
✗ Ball gets slippery

$24

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Zuru

Bunch O Balloons - Rapid Fill

4.5 (45,678 reviews)

Remember filling water balloons one by one? This is the future. 100 balloons, 60 seconds, self-tying. Your childhood would have been completely different with this technology.

Quantity

100+ balloons

Fill Time

60 seconds

Material

Biodegradable rubber

Tie

Self-sealing

Pros

✓ Fill 100 balloons in 60 seconds
✓ Self-tying
✓ Biodegradable

Cons

✗ Single use
✗ Need hose connection
✗ Some don't fill completely

$19

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Budget Pick

Bestway

Inflatable Pool Volleyball Set

4.2 (5,678 reviews)

Turn any pool into volleyball court. The anchored posts stretch across up to 12-foot pools. Will it survive competitive adult play? Maybe not. Will it create summer memories? Definitely.

Net Width

96"

Includes

Net, posts, ball

Age

Pool Type

12' minimum diameter

Pros

✓ Complete set under $20
✓ Net spans pool
✓ Ball included

Cons

✗ Flimsy construction
✗ Net sags over time
✗ Needs wide pool

$17

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Premium Pick

Poolmaster

Shark Bite Game

4.6 (3,456 reviews)

Feed the shark. The giant inflatable mouth opens for ring tossing, creating instant competitive energy at pool parties. Somehow a plastic shark adds drama to everything.

Size

45" shark

Game

Ring toss

Includes

4 rings, 1 shark

Age

Pros

✓ Inflatable shark with bite action
✓ Durable construction
✓ Tossing game included

Cons

✗ Large footprint
✗ Needs inflation
✗ Storage space

$34

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Buying Guide: How to Choose Pool Toys

How to Choose Pool Toys

Pool toys turn your backyard pool into an entertainment destination. The right mix keeps kids occupied for hours and makes adults feel like kids again. Stock strategically.

Pool Toy Categories

Diving Toys
Weighted objects that sink—rings, sticks, gems. Essential for swimmers learning to go underwater. Creates games, builds confidence, kills time.

Sports Equipment
Basketball hoops, volleyball nets, water polo goals. Transform pool time into active play. Great for groups, competitive families, and sneaking in exercise.

Floating Games
Inflatable games that stay on the surface. Cornhole, pong, ring toss. Party-ready entertainment that anyone can play.

Water Blasters
Squirt guns, water cannons, splash balls. Combat toys for water warfare. Every pool needs at least some of these.

### Age-Appropriate Selections

Toddlers: Floating toys, gentle squirters, simple balls. Nothing small enough to swallow.

Kids 5-10: Diving toys, sports equipment, squirt guns. The golden age of pool toy engagement.

Tweens/Teens: Volleyball, basketball, competitive games. They need social activities, not baby toys.

Adults: Giant floats, drinking games, lounging equipment. We've earned it.

### Quality vs. Quantity

Cheap pool toys break fast. Really cheap ones break immediately. You don't need expensive everything, but diving toys and sports equipment should be quality—they take abuse. Novelty items and party supplies can be budget.

### Storage Realities

Pool toys multiply. Plan storage before buying. A deck box or mesh bin keeps things organized and dry. Toys left in the pool fade faster, and toys left scattered become tripping hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Toys

What pool toys help kids learn to swim?

Diving rings and sticks build comfort going underwater. Pool noodles provide flotation support during practice. Kickboards isolate leg movement for stroke development. Goggles aren't toys but make underwater play possible. Note: Toys assist learning but never replace proper instruction.

Are inflatable pool toys safe?

Inflatable toys are recreational, not safety devices. Even "float toys" can flip, deflate, or slip away. Never rely on inflatable toys to keep non-swimmers safe. Proper supervision and Coast Guard-approved flotation devices are the only real water safety measures.

How do I keep pool toys clean?

Rinse with fresh water after use—chlorine and salt degrade materials. Dry completely before storing to prevent mildew. Periodic cleaning with mild soap removes sunscreen residue and body oils. Fabric toys may need machine washing occasionally.

What's the best pool toy for parties?

Floating basketball or volleyball creates instant group activity. Giant floats give photo opportunities. Water balloon battles (use Bunch O Balloons for sanity) get everyone involved. Mix options: some competitive, some relaxing, some ridiculous. Variety keeps all guests engaged.

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