Home | Features | Products | Aqua Pals Pool Toy Make a Splash at The Pool & Spa Show
Pool Magazine was in attendance at the recent Pool & Spa Show in Atlantic City where we were delighted with a fun display at the entrance. Ariel, Mickey & Minnie Mouse, and Spiderman were at the door to greet attendees who got their first glance at Wahu’s line of Aqua Pals, a fun new plush toy for the swimming pool. Waste Treatment Plant
Greeted by the familiar faces of beloved Marvel and Disney characters, each showcased in their water-friendly plush form, we took a deeper dive to learn more about Wahu’s latest offering.
Aqua Pals have redefined the concept of water-friendly plush toys with their thoughtful design and practical features. The toys are smartly crafted with a breathable mesh fabric and incorporate AquaDry™ technology which allows the plush toy to dry quickly, eliminating concerns about dampness and making it convenient for children to bring their cherished doll friends back inside the home after their time in the water.
One of the standout features representatives for Wahu spoke of are their toys easy maintenance. Their new plush line of toys are machine washable, providing a hassle-free solution for parents after a day of outdoor play. The convenience of tossing the toy into the washing machine ensures they can be kept clean and ready for the next adventure, maintaining their appeal and functionality over time.
Moreover, Wahu seems to understand the importance of longevity in a child’s playtime companions. The plush toys are UV and fade-resistant, ensuring that the vibrant and joyful appearance of these pool pals remains intact over years of play. This resilience to the elements not only adds to the durability of these toys but also contributes to the lasting memories they’re able to create for children.
Aqua Pals have not only made a splash in the world of water-friendly plush toys but have also made affordability a part of their appeal. Priced at around $25, the reasonable pricing makes the toys a fun pool accessory for kids that won’t break the bank.
For the convenience of online shopping, Aqua Pals can be easily found and purchased on Amazon. This online retail giant provides a seamless platform for parents and gift-givers to explore the diverse range of Aqua Pals characters.
The lineup on Amazon boasts an array of popular characters, ensuring there’s a perfect plush toy for every child’s taste. From the beloved Peppa Pig and Disney’s Ariel, Mickey & Minnie Mouse, and Elsa from the movie Frozen to the action-packed excitement of Spider Man and Transformers’ Optimus Prime & Bumblebee, Aqua Pals caters to boys and girls alike as kids can now bring their favorite characters into the water for imaginative and fun playtime in the pool.
Innovative New Pool Products – PSP Deck Expo Award Winners
Alise Everton has been working in the pool industry for the past decade and is an experienced press correspondent and contributor for numerous trade publications and web portals including PoolMagazine.com and PoolContractor.com among others. Contact her for guest posting opportunities, press releases, and pool equipment related news.
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We got a chance to see the hottest and most innovative new pool products at this year’s PSP Deck Expo. View this year’s award winners.
In November, Pool Magazine had the opportunity to attend one of the most anticipated events in the pool and spa industry – the International Pool & Spa Expo (PSP Deck Expo) in Las Vegas, Nevada. The expo showcased the latest and hottest new pool products and innovations in the pool and spa industry, attracting professionals, manufacturers, and enthusiasts from around the world.
The expo hall was a bustling hub of activity, with exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge products that promised to revolutionize the pool and spa experience. From groundbreaking technologies to innovative materials, the event was a playground for those seeking to stay ahead in this dynamic industry.
A highlight of the expo was the PSP Deck Expo Innovative Product Showcase and Awards Program, a comprehensive awards program dedicated to recognizing excellence and groundbreaking solutions. Two award categories, People’s Choice and Expert’s Choice, celebrated the most innovative products across various segments of the pool and spa industry.
Winner of People’s Choice Award & Experts Choice Award
GPM Manufacturing’s The Shelf Lounger redefines the poolside experience with an ingenious all-in-one tanning ledge. Combining lounging chairs and a spill-over edge, this product introduces an unprecedented level of sophistication and comfort to pool and backyard spaces.
The Shelf Lounger clinched the Experts Choice Award and the People’s Choice Award for Most Innovative Products for Pool and Backyard Construction Professionals due to its dual focus on entertainment and space optimization. Its unique design allows poolside enthusiasts to enjoy a second body of water without compromising the pool’s primary space, making it a standout for the most innovative new product.
From its minimal installation requirements to its seamless integration into existing pool setups, The Shelf Lounger embodies a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. GPM Manufacturing’s visionary approach has not only earned the accolades of industry peers but has also set a new standard for the evolving landscape of pool and backyard construction.
Filter Preaux System introduces a revolutionary private-label chemical treatment combined with high-pressure water flow. The result? Sparking clean filters achieved in as little as 30 seconds, effectively doubling productivity and increasing profits for service professionals in the pool industry.
Service professionals face the ongoing challenge of maintaining pools efficiently, and the Filter Preaux System addresses this need head-on. By offering a rapid and effective solution, this product not only streamlines the maintenance process but also enhances the overall service quality.
Accoya Color Grey, crafted from FSC® certified softwood, represents a paradigm shift in deck and patio materials. Through acetylation, this product achieves remarkable durability, stability, and a non-toxic, recyclable composition, backed by a 25-year warranty. Its surface-to-core organic pigment coloring adds an aesthetic touch to outdoor environments.
The accolade for Most Innovative Deck or Patio Products affirms Accoya Color Grey‘s standing as a trailblazer in outdoor material technology. Its low maintenance requirements and commitment to sustainability set a new standard for the industry, earning the admiration of professionals and consumers alike.
Chill Springs All-In-One Cold Plunge stands out as a retail innovation that transcends the ordinary. Crafted from stainless steel with a teak top and aluminum surround, this 1.5 HP system is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Its plug-and-play functionality, lightweight construction, and portability redefine the retail landscape for cold plunge systems.
The recognition for Most Innovative Products for Retailers underscores Chill Springs‘ potential to captivate both novice and advanced bathers. Its stylish design, coupled with the ease of use and safety features, positions this product as a must-have for retailers looking to offer a unique and refreshing experience to their customers. An intelligent blend of style, portability, and functionality aligns with the evolving preferences of consumers, making it a standout winner in the retailers category.
The Aiper Surfer M1 is a pioneering solar-powered cordless pool skimmer that redefines the cleaning experience. With up to 10 hours of efficient cleaning, users can choose between automatic or remote cleaning via a mobile app to target debris precisely. Anti-beaching columns add an extra layer of sophistication, preventing the device from getting stuck during operation.
The judging panel recognized the novelty of Aiper Surfer M1 in the solar-powered cleaning market. Solar technology, an evolving frontier, found a trailblazer in this product. The judges highlighted the potential impact, emphasizing the importance of seamless solar integration for successful pool cleaning.
Cordless and Neat: A Unique Advantage
The absence of cords and hoses sets Aiper Surfer M1 apart, earning praise from the judges for its neat and cord-free design. The judges appreciated this innovative approach, deeming it a “neat idea” that contributes to the product’s overall appeal.
Perma-Column® Precast Concrete Deck Posts introduces a game-changing solution for deck foundations. Paired with FootingPad® composite footings, it eliminates the challenges of mixing and pouring concrete. Builders can now commence deck construction immediately, without waiting for concrete trucks or curing periods.
The judging panel hailed Perma-Column® for its impressive approach, describing it as an “awesome” solution that simplifies the traditionally complex process of pouring cement. The time-saving attributes and resistance to rot, mildew, or freeze-thaw cycles resonated with the judges, showcasing the high-quality innovation of Perma-Column®.
The Water Tech Volt Leaf Vac Recharge introduces a breakthrough in skimmer vacuum technology. Cordless, hoseless, and fully rechargeable, this device captures leaves both topside and bottom-dwelling without the need for extension cords or hoses. The SmartWater sensor enhances efficiency by automatically turning the device on and off in water.
The judging panel underscored the industry’s demand for a top-tier, rechargeable skimmer vacuum capable of handling leaves. The cordless feature garnered special recognition, described as “outstanding” and filling a gap in the market for efficient leaf management.
The People’s Choice and Expert’s Choice awards hold paramount importance for pool professionals, serving as prestigious recognitions and validations of excellence within the industry. The People’s Choice award, determined by industry votes, signifies widespread market approval and consumer trust. On the other hand, the Expert’s Choice award, granted by a panel of knowledgeable professionals, establishes a standard for innovation and quality. Both accolades offer valuable marketing opportunities, showcasing winning new pool products as benchmarks for excellence and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement and advancement within the pool and spa industry.
This year’s PSP Deck Expo left an indelible mark on the industry. The new pool products in both the People’s Choice and Experts Choice categories signal a shift toward innovative, efficient, and sustainable solutions. From solar-powered skimmers to revolutionary deck foundations, these innovations represent a collective vision for the future of pool and spa technology. This year’s expo not only celebrated achievements but also set the stage for continued advancements that promise to shape the industry’s landscape for years to come.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) – allows contractors to actually “see” inside pool structures. GPR systems are perfect for locating reinforcing steel and determining the thickness of the concrete. Another helpful aspect of GPR is its use in locating elements inside of framed buildings, pipes, and conduits. Though these systems typically are priced at over $12,000, once prorated across many jobs, the cost is minuscule, while the benefits can be monumental.
Ground Penetrating Radar is a geophysical method that uses radar pulses to image the subsurface of the ground. It is a non-destructive and non-intrusive technique commonly employed in various fields, including archaeology, geology, environmental studies, civil engineering, and utility detection. The primary purpose of GPR is to identify and map subsurface features, anomalies, or objects without the need for excavation.
GPR works by emitting short pulses of electromagnetic waves into the ground. These radar pulses penetrate the subsurface and interact with different materials and structures. As the waves encounter boundaries between materials, some of the energy is reflected back to the surface. The GPR antenna receives these reflections, and the system processes the signals to create a detailed image of the subsurface. GPR is widely used for utility detection, subsurface mapping, and construction applications, providing valuable information without the need for excavation.
Today, construction technology is evolving. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) has become a valuable tool for pool builders and contractors in various aspects of their work. Here are some ways in which GPR can be beneficial for professionals in the pool construction industry:
Today, there are a number of intelligent reasons to be using a ground penetrating radar to scan your pool shells. GPR is a non-destructive method to determine what is actually occurring inside of the concrete, without having to drill cores or demolish concrete. Radar allows experts to see the rebar schedule and depth within concrete. Pool construction professionals have even used them to validate the presence of bonding clamps and wire, when inspections were missed (for other contractors).
For contractors, being able to precisely locate the placement of the reinforcing steel is invaluable. When planning for coring a shell for pool lighting, add plumbing or coring for samples, it is critical to know where the steel is located. Hitting a rebar while coring can easily damage a $500 core bit. Worse yet, a handheld drill binds and kicks back, breaking the user’s thumb.
After stripping the plaster, scanning the shell can definitively determine if there’s sufficient shotcrete coverage over the steel. If it’s insufficient, then the pool can be “flashed” with additional shotcrete (at an additional charge). This will require new coping and tile as well, as the interior dimensions will change. In my own personal firm’s pool remodeling contracts, we have a disclaimer about shotcrete thickness. We will scan the shell for free, but if there is an inadequate amount of coverage, there will be a change order to add shotcrete and adjust the coping, tile and fittings. Think of this as a potential profit center. You can actually show the owners the location and depth of the rebar.
GPR companies charge $500-600 for a 1-hour visit. You can see how quickly owning a GPR unit can pay for itself. After a while, it will actually start earning you money! A Proceq GP8800 can be had for around $12,000 plus the cost of an iPad.
Looking for a gift idea for the pool owner in your life? Pool Magazine has your covered with our Top 10 Christmas Gifts for Pool Owners.
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to dive into the festive spirit and start thinking about the perfect gifts for your loved ones. If you have a friend or family member who is a proud pool owner or a water enthusiast, why not make a splash with a thoughtful and practical Christmas present? From innovative pool gadgets to luxurious poolside accessories, we’ve curated a list of 10 Christmas Gifts for pool owners that are bound to be at the top of their wish list.
Whether they enjoy lounging by the water, hosting pool parties, or taking a refreshing swim on a sunny day, our gift suggestions cater to a variety of aquatic interests. Forget the standard fare of socks and sweaters—this year, give a gift that adds a touch of excitement to their poolside experience. Join us as we explore the hottest products and propose surefire gift ideas that will make a big splash with the water-loving individuals on your holiday shopping list.
When it comes to elevating the poolside experience, consider the Ledge Signature Chaise Lounge Chairs as the epitome of style and comfort for the discerning pool owner.
These luxurious and meticulously designed loungers not only provide a chic and modern aesthetic to any pool area but also offer unparalleled relaxation. Crafted with premium materials and attention to detail, these loungers boast a signature design that seamlessly blends form and function. No wonder these chairs are one of the top christmas gifts for pool owners this holiday season.
The Signature Chaise Lounge Chairs from Ledge are more than just in-pool furniture; they are a statement piece that transforms the poolside into a resort-worthy oasis. This holiday season, treat your loved one to the pinnacle of poolside luxury with the gift that keeps on giving. It’s not just a gift; it’s an invitation to indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience right in the comfort of their own backyard.
This holiday season, add a touch of enchantment to your loved one’s poolside paradise with the USA Fire Bowls Square Knife-Edge Fire/Water Bowl.
Crafted with care from high-quality aluminum and 312-grade stainless steel, these festive fire bowls are more than just a source of warmth—they’re a dazzling centerpiece that turns any evening into a winter wonderland by the water.
With its sleek and modern silhouette, this fire/water bowl not only adds an extra layer of coziness but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your swimming pool area.
Picture the joy of gathering poolside, creating cherished holiday memories in the comfort of your own backyard. The Knife-Edge square fire/water bowl design brings a contemporary holiday flair to outdoor spaces, casting a warm glow that complements the festive season.
What makes this gift even more special is the opportunity for customization. You can personalize the fire bowl by choosing from different finishes and sizes, allowing you to tailor this holiday centerpiece to match your unique style and preferences. Give the gift of warmth, style, and festive magic with the USA Fire Bowls Square Knife-Edge Fire/Water Bowl—an exquisite addition to their seasonal celebrations.
Create the ultimate poolside paradise with the Tenjams Dash Bench. Ideal for sun shelfs with depths of up to 10 inches, this bench is a game-changer for those seeking both comfort and convenience in their aquatic retreat. Strong and durable, its robust construction easily supports over 500 lbs, offering dependable seating for you and your guests
Can you picture yourself basking in the sun, book in hand, with the Tenjams Dash Bench enhancing your pool experience? Gift Tenjams Dash Bench with Umbrella Hole to the pool enthusiast in your life, and let them experience that level of blissful relaxation in their aquatic retreat.
Crafted with practicality in mind, this bench features convenient handle openings on both ends, making it a breeze to place and retrieve from your pool. The removable cupholders add an extra layer of functionality, ensuring your favorite beverages are always within arm’s reach. Embrace the tranquility of your pool with the knowledge that the bottom openings facilitate water circulation, maintaining a harmonious balance in your aquatic haven.
One of the standout features of the Tenjams Dash Bench is its versatility. Effortlessly change the bench’s direction by pivoting it around an umbrella pole, allowing you to adapt to the changing angles of the sun throughout the day. No need for drain plugs – this bench seamlessly integrates into your poolside oasis, making every moment a celebration of comfort and style.
This holiday season, elevate outdoor relaxation to new heights with the Suncrown Daybed featuring a Retractable Canopy—an innovative blend of comfort and style that brings the luxury of a resort or day spa right to your loved one’s patio. As a thoughtful and indulgent gift, this outdoor wicker sofa daybed offers a premium retreat for moments of leisure and tranquility.
What sets this daybed apart is its versatility. The multiple staging options allow for a standard clam-shell design, creating an intimate oasis, or it can be separated into four chairs and a table for entertaining guests. The flexibility of this patio furniture set ensures that every gathering can be tailored to the occasion.
Experience the joy of outdoor living with the Retractable Canopy feature, providing adjustable light-blocking comfort to suit any mood or weather condition. Thick cushions with removable covers add an extra layer of convenience, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance. Whether it’s basking in the sunlight or seeking shade, this daybed adapts to your every need.
Crafted for outdoor use, the all-weather wicker construction ensures durability against rain and wind, making it suitable for year-round enjoyment. While the cushion is water-resistant, it’s advisable to provide waterproof protection in rainy weather to prolong its lifespan. This holiday, give the gift of an outdoor sanctuary with the Suncrown Daybed—a perfect blend of sophistication, comfort, and adaptability for the ultimate patio retreat.
This Christmas, gift the magic of ultimate relaxation with the Laze Pillow from Ledge, voted Best Pool Float by Pool Magazine, and a present that turns poolside lounging into a festive experience. Unbox the joy of leisure with this pool pillow float, offering a hassle-free alternative to traditional inflatable cushions and bringing a touch of holiday bliss to your loved one’s aquatic retreat.
Indulge in the spirit of comfort and relaxation with the Laze Pillow, filled with buoyant beads nestled in a breathable mesh layer. Let it absorb the gentle impact of water, allowing for carefree moments of serenity amidst the holiday hustle.
Made from easy-to-clean, high-quality materials, this pillow withstands the elements, making it the perfect companion for festive pool parties, lakeside celebrations, or beachside relaxation. Resisting mold, mildew, and fading, this holiday float ensures your loved one’s relaxation remains festive and worry-free. As a gift of convenience, this pool accessory arrives fully assembled, ready to be unboxed and tossed into the pool for instant holiday relaxation.
This holiday season, make a splash with the gift of ultimate aquatic convenience—the Cuddy Pool Coolers. Transform any water adventure into a festive celebration with this amphibious floating cooler that seamlessly transitions from land to sea, promising endless holiday cheer.
Whether boating, kayaking, camping, rafting, tubing, or simply soaking up the sun by the pool, this cooler keeps the festivities afloat. With easy towability in water and the capability to serve as a traditional cooler on land, the Cuddy ensures that cold drinks or gear are always within reach.
Picture the joy of social floating with the Cuddy—a floating hub for merriment on the water. Equipped with two large lids, four built-in cup holders, and a robust 40 qt capacity, this cooler brings convenience and style to every aquatic gathering. Tow it behind a kayak, SUP, or hand-pulled vessel for non-powered towing, or anchor it to a fixed point for a stationary setup.
Transform every pool gathering into a festive celebration with the Gemini Sound Splash Floating Pool Speaker—the ultimate gift for those who love to take their parties to the next level. Unveil the magic of the Gemini Sound Splash, a large portable speaker designed for outdoor events, ensuring your loved ones can experience the ultimate entertainment with this bluetooth compatible floating speaker.
Immerse your pool parties, beach outings, and outdoor events in the holiday spirit with beat-synced Multi-Color LED Woofer lights and a center strobe light.
Light up the night and create the perfect vibe, turning every gathering into a holiday extravaganza. These speakers, boasting 400 Watts of Peak Power, deliver a full range of sound, ensuring booming bass and clear treble that keep the festivities going for hours without compromising on quality.
Equipped with Dual 8” Woofers for smooth low-end bass, three 1” High-Frequency Tweeters with Intelligent Stereo Orientation, and a Class D amplifier, these speakers provide a worry-free party experience that make it one of the best christmas gifts for pool owners.
This holiday season, give the gift of sparkling pool perfection with the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus robotic pool vacuum cleaner—a high-tech marvel that brings the magic of Wi-Fi connectivity to your pool maintenance routine.
With the Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi, you can schedule pool cleanings from anywhere, ensuring your pool is always ready for festive gatherings with family and friends.
Experience the joy of a spotless pool with the Nautilus CC Plus’s powerful wall climbing capabilities, effortlessly scrubbing both the floor and walls of your pool. The fine filters, easily accessible from the top, work tirelessly to remove the smallest debris, leaving your pool water crystal clear and inviting for holiday celebrations.
Cleaning your pool has never been simpler than with the Dolphin’s plug-and-play system. Just plug the robot in, drop it into the pool, and turn on the power supply for a sparkling clean pool in just 2 hours. The Dolphin’s Smart Navigation Technology remains one of the top christmas gifts for pool owners because it ensures efficiency by strategically scanning your pool to determine the most effective cleaning path, adapting to any pool shape or surface type.
Create a haven of safety around your inground pool this holiday season with the GLI Protect-A-Pool Fence System—a guardian against unwanted intrusion from children, pets, or stray animals. Crafted with meticulous attention to safety and ease of installation, this 5′ high x 10′ wide panel, in a sleek black finish, ensures a secure environment for your loved ones.
Installing in mere minutes with an ordinary hammer drill, the fence becomes an impenetrable barrier that brings peace of mind to your holiday gatherings.
Each 10′ pre-assembled section is designed to fit seamlessly into any area, providing a customizable safety solution tailored to your pool’s unique layout. Transparent panels deliver a climb-resistant surface, eliminating toeholds and fingerholds that might tempt little explorers. This holiday season, gift the joy of worry-free poolside celebrations with the GLI Protect-A-Pool Fence System—an investment in safety that exceeds OSHA test standards and reflects your commitment to the well-being of those you cherish.
This holiday season, give the gift of unparalleled pool safety with the Loop-Loc Pool Cover, now upgraded to the legendary “Loop-Loc II Super Dense Mesh.” This cutting-edge technology takes pool safety to new heights, offering an ultra-strong mesh with a denser weave that goes above and beyond in providing top-tier protection for your loved one’s aquatic haven.
Imagine a pool cover that not only shields against leaves and debris but also enhances the overall aesthetics of the pool area. The “Loop-Loc II Super Dense Mesh” takes the iconic Loop-Loc durability to the next level by blocking virtually all sunlight while still allowing rain and melting snow to effortlessly drain through.
What sets Loop-Loc apart is its unrivaled strength, famously demonstrated by supporting the weight of an elephant. This isn’t just a pool cover; it’s a testament to security and peace of mind. Your gift ensures that your loved one’s pool is safeguarded year-round, providing them with the confidence to enjoy their pool area without worry.
This Christmas, make a lasting impact by giving the gift of safety with the Loop-Loc Pool Cover. It’s the perfect choice for those who value both the aesthetic and protective aspects of maintaining a pristine pool environment.
From pool furniture that exudes luxury to cutting-edge pool cleaners and safety equipment that prioritizes peace of mind, we’ve curated a wish list of items that any pool owner would joyously put at the top of their Christmas wish list. From pool parties to cozy evenings by the water, our wish list caters to the diverse needs and desires of pool enthusiasts. This holiday season, consider turning your loved one’s poolside dreams into reality by gifting them one of these carefully curated items. Because, after all, there’s no better way to spread holiday cheer than by making a splash with the perfect pool-centric present. Here’s to a season filled with warmth, joy, and unforgettable moments by the pool.
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