How to Choose an Inflatable Pool Slide
The single most common reason an inflatable pool slide disappoints is that it was never going to fit the pool it was bought for. Five minutes with a tape measure now saves a return later.
Start with water depth, not slide size
Depth is the safety constraint, and it is not negotiable. A bigger slide drops a rider from higher, so it needs more water underneath.
- Minima — minimum water depth 4 ft
- Mikros — minimum water depth 6 ft
- Megalo — minimum water depth 6 ft
If your pool is a uniform 4 ft, the Minima is the honest answer regardless of how much you like the look of the Megalo.
Then check the deck space
| Slide | Footprint (L × W × H) | Weight | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minima | 5.9 × 3.6 × 3.4 ft | 35 lb | Kids, shallower pools, easy handling |
| Mikros | 6.9 × 4.9 × 3.6 ft | 46 lb | Mixed ages, standard backyard pools |
| Megalo | 9.8 × 6.6 × 4.9 ft | 73 lb | Bigger pools, teens and adults, commercial use |
Remember the stepping pad extends the footprint on the deck side. The Megalo's pad alone is 8.5 ft long.
Who is going to move it?
A 73 lb Megalo is a two-person lift when packed. If the slide will come out for parties and go away afterwards, the Mikros at 46 lb is a lot easier to live with. If it stays out all summer, weight matters less.
Pool edge or in-pool?
The Megalo can be used at the edge of the pool or inside it, which gives you more options for awkward pool shapes. The smaller slides sit at the edge with the stepping pad on the deck.
Boats and docks are a different product
If you are sliding off a pontoon rather than into a pool, the Boat Pontoon Waterfall Slide is the one — 10.8 ft long, 6.6 ft high, six climbing handles and a safety falling wall, and it does not need a sprinkler to run wet.
What comes with it
All of them include the 500 W two-in-one electric pump, repair kit, storage bag, straps and manual, and the Minima, Mikros and Megalo include a stepping pad. Full specifications are in our FAQs.
FLOATING WATER MATS
- Determine the size and location of the damage.
- If the damage is at the edge of the mat, we recommend cutting out the damaged section to prevent it from being a weak point.
- For small tears, use spray foam glue.
- For larger tears, we suggest using a leather PVC patch and following the video instructions.
Please follow the instructions in page 3 of the water mat manual.
INFLATABLE PRODUCTS
Inflatable slides, Dog ramps, etc.- To easily deflate the slide, use the 500W E-pump in deflate mode.
- Before deflating the stepping pad, ensure there is no water remaining in it.
- After deflating the pad, roll the slide tightly until it fits into the storage bag.
- Use the straps to secure the rolled-up slide.
All Crocpad inflatable products come with a repair kit that includes PVC patches and glue. Follow these steps to repair a leak or hole:
- Locate the leak or hole.
- Cut a patch that is at least ½ inch larger than the tear.
- Apply a small amount of glue to the patch.
- Place the patch over the tear, ensuring it is well-covered.
- Place a heavy and flat object over the patch.
- Allow the glue to dry for at least 12 hours.
All Crocpad inflatable products come with a repair kit that includes glue. Follow these steps to repair a seam:
- Locate the leak
- Clean the area
- Apply a small amount of glue
- Place a heavy and flat object over the patch.
- Allow the glue to dry for at least 6-12 hours.
More details in this link.
All Crocpad inflatable products come with a repair kit that includes PVC patches and glue. To repair or add a D ring patch, follow these steps:
- Prepare the D ring patch, which can be purchased from Crocpad.
- Locate the new patch position near the existing D ring, ensuring it is close enough to anchor effectively.
- Apply a small amount of glue to the patch.
- Place the patch near the defective one.
- Allow the glue to dry for at least 24 hours.
To protect your Crocpad slide from rough surfaces like tiles or pavers, follow these tips:
1. Use a Protective Mat:
- Place a durable, non-slip mat or tarp under the slide to create a buffer between the surface and the slide.
2. Inflate Properly:
- Ensure the slide is fully inflated to reduce friction and prevent sagging that can cause unnecessary contact with rough surfaces.
3. Avoid Dragging:
- When moving the slide, lift it completely instead of dragging it across the ground.
4. Inspect the Surface:
- Clear the area of sharp objects, debris, or anything that could puncture or scratch the material.
5. Store Safely:
- When not in use, deflate and store the slide in a clean, dry area away from sharp or abrasive surfaces.
These steps will keep your slide in top condition and extend its lifespan!
We suggest starting with a vinegar and water solution, or simply soap and water. If that doesn’t remove the mould, you can try a small amount of diluted methylated spirits on a soft cloth.
Test it on a small area first, then rinse thoroughly with water afterwards.
Please note
- Methylated spirits can weaken PVC, so use the least amount possible and always follow up with a water clean.
- Always rinse and air-dry fully in the sun before packing away
How to Set Up an Ice Bath at Home
Everything You Need for a Safe and Effective Recovery PlungePick a container that fits your body comfortably:
- Bathtub, stock tank, portable ice bath, or a professional plunge like Crocpad.
- Ensure it’s deep enough to submerge your shoulders.
Indoors: bathroom, laundry, or garage (with drainage).
Outdoors: backyard, patio, or balcony (on a flat, shaded surface).
Start with cold tap water.
Target 10–15°C (50–59°F) for recovery. Beginners can start slightly warmer.
Add 20–40kg of ice or reusable frozen bottles.
For hassle-free daily plunges, use a chiller system like Crocpad that maintains water temperature.
- Rinse off before plunging.
- Drain and refill small tubs every 2–3 uses.
- For bigger tubs, use a filter or sanitizing agent.
- Cover when not in use to keep debris out.
- Start with 2–3 minutes and progress to 5–10 minutes.
- Breathe calmly, never force it.
- Keep your head above water at all times.
- Always have a towel and warm clothes ready for after.
- Dry off and warm up slowly.
- Plunge 3–4 times per week for best results.
WATERPROOF STORAGE BAGS
Dry bag or water mat storage bag- Place the water mat or your staff into the bag, align the top edges of the bag, and squeeze them together.
- Tightly roll down the top of the bag at least three times. For a better seal, roll it down all the way until you reach the water mat or staff, increasing the tension on the closure.
- Clip the two middle buckles together.
- Bend the ends in the opposite direction towards the back, away from the side where you rolled the top down. This puts more tension on the fold and enhances the seal.
- Buckle the ends together, and you're done.
