8 Best Inflatable Water Slides for Kids

Let's face it: Between virtual learning and many extracurricular activities put on hold, you've probably spent a lot more time inside with your kids this past year than you ever expected to. That's why with summer just around the corner, it's the perfect time to invest in backyard essentials to set them up with some screen-free fun — and score yourself some time in the sunshine.

While kiddie pools are a classic, why not shake up your DIY oasis with something a little more exciting — like, say, an inflatable water slide? Not only are they less work than above-ground pools, but with so many options only a click away, there's an option out there to turn any size backyard into your kiddo's very own personal water park.

That said, there are some things you might want to keep in mind while searching for the best inflatable water slide for your space — aside from ensuring the dimensions actually fit. First and foremost, you'll want to keep in mind the recommended age range of the slide to ensure it's appropriate for use and will hold up for summers to come. Also, if you'd prefer not to make a separate purchase for a blower to inflate the slide, opting for one that comes included may be more cost-efficient.

As is the case with pools or splash pads, following water safety recommendations is key when it comes to setting up an inflatable water slide in your own yard. You'll also want to make sure you closely follow the specific setup instructions that come with your slide, ensuring that it's safely tethered or staked into the ground and on a flat surface.

Now onto the fun stuff! These days, inflatable water slides are not one size fits all. From water soakers, jets, climbing walls, and built-in bouncy houses, there's an array of fun features to choose from when selecting your perfect inflatable water slide. As fun as it is to pursue the options, it can also be overwhelming. That's why we've done the footwork for you by rounding up the best inflatable water slides and water parks you can get right now, according to Amazon reviewers and the parents who've already bought them.

These are the 8 best inflatable water slides:

So, whether you're a city dweller with minimal green space or have a backyard big enough to build an actual park, these are the eight best water slides you'll want to consider adding to your yard before summer weather makes its long-anticipated arrival.