There's nothing quite like a long Australian summer day on the water — and if you've got kids (or just a bunch of mates who never really grew up), a floating water mat is the ultimate upgrade to your aquatic adventures. Whether you're anchored at a lake, floating in a backyard pool, or set up at a calm beach cove, a quality water mat transforms any body of water into a giant, unsinkable lounge room.
At Crocpad, we know a thing or two about making the most of Australian summers. In this guide, we're breaking down everything you need to know about choosing the best water mats for families — from size and material to safety tips and what to look for when buying in Australia.
What Is a Floating Water Mat?
A floating water mat (also called a foam water mat or floating foam pad) is a large, buoyant platform made from closed-cell XPE foam. Unlike inflatable pool toys that can puncture and deflate, water mats are solid foam — meaning they're virtually indestructible and require zero pumping. You simply unroll them on the water and they're ready to go.
They're designed to support multiple people at once, making them the perfect centrepiece for family days on the water. Kids can jump, wrestle, do cartwheels and cannonball back in — while adults can stretch out, catch some sun, or sip a cold drink without constantly inflating a punctured lilo.
Why Australian Families Love Floating Water Mats
Australia's outdoor lifestyle is practically made for floating water mats. We have world-class lakes, rivers, dams, and beaches, and spending time on the water is a national pastime. Here's why floating water mats in Australia have exploded in popularity:
- No inflation required — Just unroll and float. No pumps, no fuss.
- Built to last — Quality XPE foam handles UV exposure, saltwater, and the relentless Aussie sun far better than inflatable toys.
- Fits the whole crew — A standard 6-metre mat can comfortably hold 6–8 adults or a whole gang of kids.
- Rolls up for easy transport — Takes up less room than you'd think in the car boot, caravan, or boat storage.
- Safe and stable — The low-profile, non-slip surface makes it far more stable than inflatable alternatives.
Whether you're heading to Lake Eildon in Victoria, the Hawkesbury River in NSW, or setting it up in your backyard pool in Queensland, a Crocpad floating mat delivers the goods every single time.
Floating Water Mat for Pool vs. Lake — What's the Difference?
One of the most common questions we get is: "Can I use a floating water mat in my pool?" The short answer is yes — with a few considerations.
Floating Mat for Pool
Using a floating mat for a pool works brilliantly, especially for larger backyard pools (think 8 metres or longer). The mat rests on the surface, the kids pile on, and it becomes the best pool toy you've ever owned. Just make sure:
- Your pool is wide enough that the mat doesn't press against the walls, creating a pinching hazard.
- You anchor one end so it doesn't drift and block pool ladders or steps.
- Supervision is always in place — even though the mat is buoyant, kids can roll off the sides into deeper water.
Water Mat for Lake or Open Water
A water mat for a lake is where these products truly shine. Open water gives you all the space you need, and you can use an anchor kit to keep the mat in place. It becomes a floating island — kids swim out, climb on, jump off, and do it all over again for hours. It's practically a waterpark without the queues or the $40 entry fee.
For lake and open-water use, we recommend choosing a larger mat (5–6 metres) and always pairing it with a rope anchor to prevent drift, especially if there's any current or wind.
How to Choose the Best Water Mat for Your Family
Not all floating mats are created equal. Here's what to look for when shopping for the best water mat in Australia:
1. Size Matters
Think about how many people will be using the mat at once. As a rule of thumb:
- 3m x 1.8m — Great for 2–3 adults or a group of younger children.
- 5m x 1.8m — The sweet spot for families of 4–6 people.
- 6m x 1.8m — For the entertainer who wants the whole extended family on board.
2. Foam Thickness & Density
Thicker foam (3.8cm–5cm) provides better buoyancy and durability. Cheaper mats use thinner foam that compresses quickly under weight or degrades after a season of Aussie sun. Look for high-density XPE foam — it's non-toxic, UV-resistant, and holds its shape season after season.
3. Non-Slip Surface Texture
A textured top surface is a must, especially if you have young children running and jumping on the mat. Smooth foam becomes extremely slippery when wet — a recipe for bumped heads and grazed knees. Crocpad's floating water mats feature a textured, non-slip surface that keeps kids safe while they play.
4. Ease of Storage & Transport
The best mats roll up tightly and come with a carry strap or storage bag. You want something that fits in the back of your car without needing a roof rack. Crocpad mats are designed to roll down to a compact, manageable size — easy to carry from the car to the water's edge.
5. Durability & Warranty
Australia's outdoor conditions are harsh. Intense UV, saltwater, chlorine — your mat needs to handle all of it. Always check the manufacturer's warranty and read product reviews from Australian customers specifically, as conditions here differ from Northern Hemisphere markets.
Floating Water Mat Safety Tips
As fun as they are, water safety should always come first — especially when children are involved. Here are our top floating water mat safety tips:
- Always supervise children. A floating mat is not a substitute for adult supervision. Kids can roll off the edge unexpectedly, particularly during rough play.
- Use an anchor. In open water like a lake or river, always anchor your mat so it doesn't drift. A simple rope tied to a buoy anchor will do the trick.
- Wear life jackets in deep or open water. If your little ones aren't strong swimmers, life jackets are a must when using a floating mat in lakes, rivers, or the ocean.
- Limit the number of people on the mat. Every mat has a recommended weight capacity. Overloading the mat causes instability and increases the risk of falls into the water.
- Check for hazards below. Before setting up in a lake or river, make sure the area beneath is clear of rocks, submerged objects, or strong currents.
- Apply sunscreen generously. Lying on a reflective surface amplifies UV exposure dramatically. In Australia, this is serious business — slip, slop, slap before you jump on the mat.
- No running near the edges. Set clear ground rules with kids before they jump on. The mat can be slippery near the perimeter and an unexpected plunge in deep water isn't fun for anyone.
Why Choose Crocpad Floating Water Mats?
Crocpad is an Australian brand built for Australian conditions. Our floating water mats are crafted from premium high-density XPE foam, UV-stabilised for longevity under the harsh Aussie sun, and finished with a non-slip textured surface for safe, confident play.
We design our mats specifically for the way Australians use them — big families, hot days, lake holidays, backyard pool parties, and everything in between. You won't find a flimsier imported product slapped with a fancy label here. Crocpad mats are the real deal.
Ready to make this your family's best summer yet? Browse our full range of floating water mats at Crocpad and find the perfect size for your crew. And while you're there, check out our inflatable water slides — because why stop at one epic water toy?
Final Thoughts
A floating water mat is one of the best investments you can make for family fun on the water. It's durable, versatile, easy to use, and provides hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike. Whether you're after a floating mat for your pool, planning a weekend on the lake, or just want the ultimate backyard water toy, Crocpad has you covered.
Don't let another Australian summer slip by without one. Shop Crocpad floating water mats today — free shipping available across Australia.
