Waterslide

A waterslide is a slide kept slippery with running water, so you whizz down it on your body or on an inflatable ring. They range from small slides in the garden to long, fast runs down a grassy hill. The water cuts the friction and keeps you cool, which makes a waterslide one of the most joyful ways to spend a hot summer's day.

A slip 'n' slide is a long sheet of smooth plastic laid on the grass and kept wet with water. On a slope, a big one can get surprisingly fast.

An inflatable waterslide has soft, air-filled sides and a sprayed surface, so riders stay in their lane all the way down.

Body slides at water parks send you down on your back, feet first, through open chutes or twisting tubes called flumes.

Ring or tube slides let you ride on an inflatable ring, which is often a bit faster and a lot more spinny.

First, wait at the top until the slide ahead of you is completely clear. Then sit or lie down on your ring or on the slide itself, feet first, with your hands holding on and your elbows tucked in. Push off gently and let the water do the rest. Keep your head up and your arms and legs inside the slide the whole way down.

At the bottom, get up and move out of the way quickly, so the next rider has a clear landing. Never run, stand up or dive head-first onto the slide, as that's how most bumps and knocks happen.

Children love waterslides, and there's lots of laughing, shrieking and cheering at the bottom. It's a brilliant way to cool off on a hot day, and grown-ups tend to find it just as much fun as the kids do. Because a big slide on a hill can be fast, it's a good idea to watch a few rides together first, so younger children know what to expect. Then take turns, cheer each other on and go again.

Swimwear is best, as you're going to get very wet. Take off jewellery and watches and empty your pockets so nothing sharp can scratch you or tear the slide. Bring a towel, a dry change of clothes and sun cream for waiting in the sunshine.

You might also like SPYRA Water Blasters, Grass Sledging and Stand Up Paddleboard.

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