It’s time to start thinking about opening your pool now that summer is here. A slide, on the other hand, is an excellent addition to any swimming pool. If you haven’t got one yet, you must start looking for the best inflatable pool slide. For the young and the old alike, these slides are a great addition not just to your swimming pool but to your entire backyard.
But don’t just pick up your bags and go to the nearest store to buy the slides. There are factors you need to consider first. And we will discuss them all here. If you’re looking for the best inflatable pool slides, check out our list below. We’ll show you how long each one lasts, how easy it is to inflate, how many extra features it comes with, and more. Additionally, a buying guide is provided to assist you in your search.
What You Need to Know About Inflatable Pool Slides
Before you buy an inflatable pool slide, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
Kids Age
The minimum age requirement for using various types of water slides varies depending on the slide type. Some are great for infants, some for toddlers, and some for older kids. Teenagers and adults can enjoy themselves on the offered water slides. Is it going to be a slide that all of the members of the family can use? Take some time to mull that through in advance.
When shopping for a slide, verifying the minimum age requirement is important before purchasing one. This is significant because the slide has a maximum height and weight capacity. If you surpass that capacity, you will notice that the slide begins to tear apart after only a couple of uses.
Available Space
Various sizes are available for inflatable water slides to choose from. However, you will need to select one according to the available space. Do not get carried away. We know that such slides might be attractive, but what good will you have them if you do not have the space in your backyard for them?
One other thing to be aware of is the fact that the space that various types of water slides occupy is distinct. If we compare the space requirements of, say, an adventurous fall slide to those of a square water slide or a lane racer slide, the latter two require much less room. Therefore, when deciding on a specific product, make sure to take into consideration the size.
A WORD OF CAUTION: before putting your brand-new inflatable plaything in your garden, check the area for any pointed items; otherwise, the toy could get punctured.
The Material it is Made Of
Your choice may be significantly impacted by the material utilized in the inflatable water slide production. Why? It will impair not only the durability but also the stability of the slide and, therefore, safety if you use low-cost materials, which is something that we do not advocate.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride), one of the materials with the highest elastic capacity and is the material of choice, is one of the recommended materials.
Nylon of the chemical-grade possesses the qualities of being stretchy, long-lasting, and lightweight.
In general, you should search for a material that is robust yet smooth, elastic, long-lasting and does not easily puncture.
The Cost
As we indicated before, purchasing an inflatable water slide is much more cost-effective than constructing a permanent one. However, you may still come across significant shifts ranging between 200 and 1000 or even 1500 USD.
In all candor, we do not believe it makes much sense to go for a pricey slide, as it would tear after one or two summer seasons, regardless of how durable it promises to be. We think it makes more sense to go for a reasonably priced slide.
Ease of Installation
You should select, from a choice of installations ranging from simple to complex, the one that can be put up in a matter of minutes and contains a motor. To summarize, the optimal item is the one that can be installed with relative ease.
The Slide Design
Inflatables may be found in a wide variety of styles and patterns on the market. These inflatables can have a variety of themes, prints, and energetic slides. Yes, there is a wide variety of slides, and you are free to select one based on your children’s preferences. Nevertheless, you should prioritize selecting a slide that you believe will be safe.
5 Best Inflatable Pool Slides in 2022
The five products below are highly recommended because of their durability and features.
1. SR Smith Cyclone Right Curve Pool Slide
Children will love the Cyclone water slide built by S.R.Smith for your pool! At just 4-Feet 1-Inch tall, the Cyclone has many of the same wonderful features as our Turbo Twister. The slide is available in gray granite, taupe, and sandstone and can accommodate children up to 175 lbs. The product complies with the consumer product safety commission for swimming pool sides.
Enclosed Ladder
Pool slides with enclosed ladders offer a safer climbing surface and stop wet feet from slipping between the steps, a common hazard on these types of slides.
Wide Flume
This pool slide has deep and wide flumes that prevent anyone who slips and slides away from the slide from doing so in an unsafe manner.
Complies with the Safety Standard
This slide is designed to work with in-ground pools and fully satisfies the requirements of the consumer product safety commission’s safety standard for swimming pool slides, which may be found in 16 C.F.R. 1207. Warranty for three years.
Pros
- With molded handrails and an enclosed ladder for optimum safety.
- Includes a 3-year warranty.
- Easy to install.
- Recommended for limited deck space and smaller pools.
Cons
- You might get stuck while sliding as it is not a water slide.
Why Should You Buy This?
It complies with the safety commission safety standard for pool sides, so you are guaranteed that it is safe for your kids.
2. Wow Pool Party Slide
Slide and Smile is a two-lane water slide with a maximum speed of 30mph. It measures almost nine feet long, six feet wide, and four feet high. It can also be utilized as a water slide for your pool. You may build your own WOW Water World playground and rope creation with the Slide N Smile.
Zippered Connection Mechanism
You can connect it to your dock using grommets on the side or to one of its 10’x6′ or 6’x6′ Water Mats or Water Walkways with the zipper connection mechanism.
Inflatable Side Rails
For added protection, the Slide n Smile pool slide has an inflatable side rail to ensure your kids are protected from accidental falls.
Made of Durable PVC
With reinforced seams, this inflatable is built to withstand the test of time. Inflated, the slide is 108 inches long, 84 inches wide, and 50 inches tall, making it large enough for two riders to slide down at once. The maximum weight capacity is 550 pounds, which is more than adequate to accommodate two large individuals.
Pros
- Affordable
- Constructed to endure.
- It is possible to slide down it or use it in open water.
Cons
- There are no sprayers included in it.
Why Should You Buy This?
Aside from its durability, its zippered connection system is a plus as you can build your water world playground in your backyard.
3. Intex 58849EP Kool Splash Inflatable Water Slide
If you are looking for an inexpensive slide that will keep your children entertained throughout the entire summer, the Intex Kool Splash is an excellent option for you to consider. This play center has some valuable and easy-to-understand features at a reasonable price.
High Decked Slide Compatible for In and Above Ground Pools
The slide works wonderfully with most in-ground and above-ground pools that have decks that are high enough to accommodate it. The five independent air chambers contribute to the product’s increased durability and safety.
Made of Durable Vinyl Materials
The water slide is made to survive all your summer adventures with its heavy-duty climbing handles, which are constructed out of super-strong 20 gauge vinyl materials and robust fused seams.
Soft Landing Pad Extension
The soft landing pad extension extends into the pool for an additional layer of protection, and the rear of the structure features inflatable stairs and a stepping mat to make ascending easier.
Pros
- Among the inflatable poolside we reviewed, this is the cheapest.
- Greater stability than the majority of inflatables.
- Equipped with water delivery system
Cons
- The seam is not as durable as others.
Why Should You Buy This?
The most impressive thing about this cheap slide is that it has built-in sprayers that make it much more fun, especially for kids. All you need is a garden hose to turn your backyard into your own waterpark.
4. S.R.Smith heliX2 640-209-58123
So far, we’ve talked about some great slides that can add a lot of fun to your pool. But if you still want more excitement, the S.R. Smith HeliX2 might be the perfect slide for you. This exciting slide has a massive 12’8″ long flume and a corkscrew that goes all the way around it. The HeliX2 is over 7 feet tall and can hold up to 250 pounds, making it perfect for kids and adults.
Impressive Safety Measures
This rotomolded slide has built-in handrails and a non-slip ladder, making it easy to get to the top. The wide flume ensures all riders safely reach the water at the end of their journey. S.R. Smith makes this slide in four different color combinations so that almost anyone can wear it.
Consumer Products Safety Commission Compliance
The United States Consumer Products Safety Commission has established a standard for swimming pool slides, which all S.R.Smith pool slides fully comply.
S.R. Smith Patented Water Delivery System
The HeliX2 also uses S.R. Smith’s proprietary water delivery system, which can either be plumbed into the pool’s return line or linked up to a garden hose for maximum delivery of 20 GPM. This system allows for water distribution in either of these two ways.
Pros
- One of the most entertaining presentations that are currently accessible.
- Upscale appearance.
- Excellent for both children and grownups.
Cons
- A bit pricey but worth it.
- Does not provide as much water as compared to other affordable S.R. Smith slides.
Why Should You Buy This?
Aside from its upscale look, the safety features and water system are reasons you should consider buying the S.R. Smith heliX2 640-209-58123.
5. Bestway H2OGO Inflatable Slides
Bestway has a full package for your kids, making this summer one they will never forget. The plan for the whole building makes sure that it has everything and even a little more. The slide comes with a water park play center that is great for a “more fun” birthday party or for “more fun” in your backyard. It has two slides so that kids can race each other in a friendly way.
Super Durable
This product is made well because it can hold a lot of weight and comes with a one-year warranty. Bestway water slide is made of PVC, so that it can take a lot of abuse. Just don’t leave it out in the sun for too long because it cannot withstand prolonged exposure to UV light. This water slide is very easy to set up. Once it’s flat, it takes only 2 minutes to blow up. One bad thing is that the slide doesn’t go into the pool, so the water runs off onto the ground.
Safety Features
The slide has a platform at the top that is held up by mesh walls so that parents can see and kids can always keep their balance. The climbing wall has safe, cushioned handles and holes for your feet that make going up and down as easy as possible.
Easy to Setup
Setting up is easy. Just roll out the slide on a level surface in your garden, plug in the heavy-duty blower that operates on 110-120 volts, and inflate the park to its full size within two minutes.
Pros
- It has a splash pool, a basketball hoop, a climbing wall, etc.
- Mesh shoe holder.
- A heavy-duty blower takes less than three minutes to blow it up.
Cons
- It is an expensive slide piece, but it is worth it.
Why Should You Buy This?
The design and durability are quite impressive, so you will not regret if you buy this inflatable pool slide.
What is the Weight Limit for a Pool Slide?
Another essential thing to think about is how much weight the slide you choose can hold. This is especially important if you know that adults will also use the slide. If you only want to buy a slide for your kids, you can choose a small one. But, if you want adults to use the slide, you must buy one that can hold at least 250 pounds, if not more. Also, if you know you weigh more than the average adult, you should look for something with a higher capacity. Check how many people can fit on the slide’s ladder and flume before you buy it. Both have to be strong enough to hold the user’s weight.
What is the Best Way to Make a Water Slide Slippery?
Ensuring there is always enough water on the slide is essential for getting enough speed and avoiding friction burns. With the main water source at the top that runs down to the bottom and sprinkles of water along the way, the slide is cool, slippery, and fun.
Which Inflatable Water Slide is the Best?
The best inflatable water slide is the one that can last long, is made of durable material, and does not cost you that much. Based on the list above, we think SR Smith Cyclone Right Curve Pool Slide is a good choice.
Are Inflatable Pool Slides Safe?
Some would say it is not. But, for us, it all depends on picking the right product. Many inflatable pool slides were designed with safety in mind. A handrail is added to help the kids climb the slide safely. There are slides with inflatable side rails on both sides to ensure the safety of your kids from accidental falls. Choosing a slide that complies with the safety standard is better, so you can be assured your kids are safe on the poolside.
Can You Put a Slide on an Intex Pool?
You can add a slide to an Intex pool. Just make sure you consider factors like the durability of your pool, how much weight it can handle, and the size of your Intex pool. If it is for your kids, choose the one with safety features that can stand on an Intex pool.
How Long Do Inflatable Water Slides Last?
What a pool slide is made of affects how good it is. Most of the slides you may have used as a child were made of fiberglass or acrylic, but most slides today are made of polyethylene.
Polyethylene is basically a very strong type of plastic. It can stand up to the sun’s harsh rays, some don’t crack, and it is a very durable product as a whole. As long as your budget isn’t too tight, most pool slides should last for more than one season or four to six years, depending on how well you maintain them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the SR Smith Cyclone Right Curve Pool Slide is the best inflatable water slide we found. This inflatable slide is not only full of fun features, but it is also safe, strong, durable, and meets all safety standards. But if you want a cheaper slide with good features, the Intex 58849EP Kool Splash Inflatable Water Slide is a good choice. Once you’ve picked the best inflatable water slide for your kids and the entire family, get ready to make some unforgettable summer memories!
Frequently Asked Questions – (FAQs)
Can a water slide be used without water?
You can use dry or wet inflatable combos, as long as they don’t use the water weight in the splash area to make them more stable. Even though home slides aren’t as smooth when they aren’t wet, this is easy to fix by sliding in sweatpants and socks.
How do we choose the inflatable pool slides?
We choose the inflatable pool slides on our list using the factors we discussed above, including design, the materials they are made of, ease of installation, and durability. Inflatable pool slides are not created equal, so it is best to consider these factors before deciding.
How do you make a water slide in your backyard?
Here are simple steps on how you can make a water slide in your backyard:
· Look for a nice place to position your slide.
· Choose the right slide material.
· Spread out the slide.
· Add sides to the slide for protection.
· Secure the slide.
· Fix the hose you will use to keep the slide slippery.
How do you connect water to a sliding pool?
You can use a hose to let the water flow into the slide and supply the water the pool needs to keep it slippery and avoid friction. But there are some slides with a water delivery system. Thus you will not have a problem connecting water to a sliding pool.
How do you dry an inflatable water slide?
Put the water slide’s blower into the off position, deflate it, and roll it up. The following day, remove the slide and clean it with a hose or a washcloth. Toweling the areas that contain Velcro and drying any puddles that may have formed. Water drops will air-dry.
How much weight can a pool slide hold?
The slide can fit toddlers and adults weighing up to 175 pounds, and it fully complies with the CPSC safety regulations, so it is risk-free to use. Because of its size, the pool can fit on even a modest-sized deck, which is another advantageous feature of this swimming facility. Some bigger slides can accommodate up to 250 pounds.