Slides
Make a Splash with Watersports Slides
There's no better way to turn a lazy day on the lake into a full-blown aquatic adventure than with a watersports slide. Whether you're anchored in a quiet cove, tied up at your dock, or cruising on a pontoon, a water slide transforms your vessel into the ultimate summer destination for kids and adults alike. Boat and dock slides have become one of the most sought-after accessories in the marine watersports world — and it's easy to see why.
Types of Watersports Slides
Watersports slides come in several configurations, each suited to a different setup on the water:
- Inflatable Dock Slides – These portable slides attach directly to your dock, typically requiring a dock height of 12 to 30 inches above the water surface. They inflate quickly, provide a smooth sliding surface, and deflate for compact storage when the day is done.
- Pontoon Boat Slides – Designed to mount to the rear or side of a pontoon boat, these slides let passengers glide from the deck directly into the water. Many inflatable pontoon slides feature centering air chambers, molded footsteps, and assist handles for safe boarding at the top.
- Boat Slides – More versatile options can mount to a variety of boat types — from deck boats to ski boats — and often double as floating water mats when not in slide mode.
What to Look for When Shopping Watersports Slides
Choosing the right slide involves more than just picking the most colorful option on the shelf. Here are the key factors to consider:
- Mounting Compatibility – Always verify whether a slide is designed for a dock, pontoon, or open-hull boat, and confirm your vessel meets the required height and clearance specifications.
- Water Depth Requirements – Safety guidelines typically specify minimum water depths depending on the height of your dock or deck above the water. Always review these specs carefully before use.
- Construction Materials – Look for heavy-gauge PVC, reinforced seams, and commercial-grade construction for durability through repeated seasons of use.
- Ease of Setup & Storage – The best inflatable slides set up in minutes and roll or fold down to a compact size, making them easy to stow aboard or in a storage locker.
- Safety Features – Assist handles, non-slip footsteps, and secure attachment straps are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Top Brands in Watersports Slides
RAVE Sports is one of the most recognized names in lake and dock water slides. Known as "an innovative and high-quality water sports manufacturer," RAVE produces inflatable dock slides and pontoon slides built around features like slick 9-foot sliding surfaces, centering air chambers, and molded vinyl footsteps — all designed for quick setup and easy storage.
Kimpex is a leading North American distributor of marine parts and accessories, offering a broad selection of watersports products through its extensive dealer network. Kimpex's marine catalog spans everything from water sports gear to trailer hardware, making them a reliable one-stop resource for boating and marine slide accessories.
Garland rounds out the lineup with marine-focused slide solutions. Garland's presence in the marine accessories space ensures that shoppers can find dependable hardware and slide options suited to their specific boating setup.