Z&M Enterprises

If you're going to get in the pool, you might as well get wet. That's the idea behind a new generation of hammock-style pool floats that keep you partially submersed. They often have some netting at the bottom or an angled design that's partly above and partly below the surface -- letting you lie back and keep cool at the same time. And they generally cost less than $75. Manufacturer SwimWays has expanded its line of hammocks from three versions to more than 20 since 2004, adding models with recliner-style footrests and cup holders. PoolToy.com, an online merchant, says hammock floats are among its biggest sellers, with sales for the category growing at least 20% annually over the past few years.

This called for a strenuous day at the pool. We bought five and took them for a dip with a group of water-lovers aged 8 to 50. The floats all made a big splash with the testers -- and the designs did spare us the unpleasant surprise of getting reacquainted with the water after an afternoon of floating in the sun. But one model stood out: the Kelsyus Deluxe Water Hammock Pool Float, for $29.99 from Alsto's. Its inflatable frame and mesh bottom made us feel as if we were serenely suspended in zero gravity. Just as important, the float could fold up easily for storage -- for those sad days you have to leave the water.
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Deluxe Water Hammock Pool Float
Alsto's
800-447-0048
$29.99; standard shipping adds $9.99
The good: Float -- a "mesh bed" surrounded by inflatable framing -- keeps you positioned gently on the water. "So comfy," said one tester.
The bad: It takes a while to get a feel for how to fold up the product into its flat, circular carrying case, but it's cleverly designed.
The shopping: For a general retailer, Alsto's carries a surprising number of cool water-oriented items, including a floating "snack buoy."

Aqua Hammock Unsinkable Foam Lounge Float
Comfort1st.com (comfortfirst.com)
443-539-1440
$69.95; shipping costs $10.95
The good: Dense foam hammock felt durable and angled shape offered "the preferred amount of wetness," according to one tester.
The bad: As with all but the Best Overall, your legs dangle in the water, which may not be as comfortable for taller people. Its all-foam construction takes up more storage space.
The shopping: Looking for a pricier toy? Company sells a water trampoline for $2,500.

Aloha Mesh Hammock
PoolRafts.com
800-605-8007
$19.95; standard shipping is $6.95
The good: Simple and straightforward. It's a piece of mesh fabric with inflatable tubes at both ends.
The bad: There's so little framing on this hammock that you can end up sinking fairly deep. Plus, the inflatable ends weren't as cushy. A spokeswoman says the float is popular with people who want to get really wet.
The shopping: Site has over 500 pool rafts, from one in the shape of an orange slice to an "air mat" for two.

Mummy Shaped Pool Hammock
PoolToy.com
877-766-5869
$26.95; standard shipping costs $9.33
The good: If you like purely inflatable floats, here's an option -- it's more like an inner tube with some plastic in the middle for support. Testers thought it was a cute idea.
The bad: PVC float wasn't as comfortable as the others; one kid tester said it was too "bouncy."
The shopping: Smooth. Lots of toys and floats here.