Go pro, go fast or even design your own underwater robot – swimming has never been so much fun. These impressive gadgets for the pool and sea will keep you and your kids entertained for hours this summer.
THE WHITE SHARK MIX
Sublue’s new White Shark Mix is a compact and extremely capable underwater scooter that can drag you through the depths at 5.6kph. Lightweight at only 2.8kg, it can run for up to 60 minutes per charge and dive to depths of 40 metres, making it an ideal accessory for swimmers or inexperienced divers looking to get the most from their oxygen tanks. Cleverly, the Mix also comes with a universal GoPro mount on the underside, so you can record your deep sea adventures. Operation is both safe and simple, requiring the swimmer to grip the bars, press both triggers to start the propellers, and then just hanging on, steering as you might do a bicycle. The motor will cut out if you release either hand – and if you let go completely, its zero buoyancy means the MIX won’t sink like a stone, or shoot back to the surface. Parent company Sublue is able to tailor-make special underwater robots (like AUV) according to the needs of the customers so if you have got the bucks get in touch to create your own personalised aquatic ride!
GO PRO HERO 5
With its 4K video, user-friendly touchscreen interface, and built-in waterproofing (up to 33 feet/10 meters without housing), the new Go Pro Hero 5 is without a doubt one of the best underwater cameras out there. This new model is packed with tons of innovative features including voice control, electronic image stabilisation and with a simple one button control – making it perfect for your next snorkeling or scuba diving adventure.
FLITEBOARD
Graceful and virtually silent as it skims across the water, this elegant electric hydrofoil is a smart reworking of the jet ski. It’s made from strong-yet-light Paulownia wood, stainless steel, aluminium and carbon, and its uni-body design doesn’t generate a wake, so you can ride without disrupting other humans or wildlife. A high-torque brushless electric motor has a top speed of 36kph with a running time of around an hour before recharging. Velocity control comes via a waterproof Bluetooth remote with a colour screen, but direction control is down to the rider. Instructional videos on Fliteboard’s YouTube channel suggest you’ll need surfing skills to get standing up, and a snowboarding brain to remain there. Get yours now at www.fliteboard.com.
POOL FOUNTAIN
This floating fountain, by tech brand Hammacher, turns a pool into an effervescent light and water display. An integrated pump draws in water, sending the unit into a leisurely spin while it sprays vibrant, twirling plumes up to 31/2′ in the air. Ten upward-firing LEDs create red, green, blue, and yellow-hued spouts while 15 downward-firing LEDs simultaneously project a kaleidoscope of symmetrical, alternating coloured images on the pool floor. The fountain and lights can be used individually or together. A sealed rechargeable battery powers the fountain for five hours and the lights for 15 hours on a 6-8 hour charge via the included AC adapter. Includes a 50′ range remote control so you can operate the fountain from nearby.
