First Impressions of WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway
The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway promises to be a portable, expandable platform for fun on the water. This 6 ft. x 10 ft. inflatable walkway, manufactured by WOW Watersports, seemed like the perfect solution for creating a comfortable, stable area for lounging or playing on the lake. Its promise of heavy-duty construction and easy connectivity intrigued me, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a portable, versatile platform for enjoying the water. Existing options were either too bulky, too unstable, or too expensive. The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway seemed to strike a good balance between portability, stability, and affordability.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was positive; the yellow PVC material felt thick and durable. The included grommets seemed well-placed for secure tie-offs. It felt substantial, though uninflated, it was manageable enough to transport.
Compared to other inflatable platforms I’ve considered – like the more expensive inflatable docks or less-durable pool floats – the WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway stood out due to its expandable design and price point. Competitors often lacked the ability to easily connect multiple units or came with a significantly higher price tag. I chose this one primarily for its potential to create a larger custom water space.
Initially, I was excited about the possibilities this walkway presented for creating a unique recreational space on the water. I hoped it would be a stable and enjoyable platform for everyone in my family to enjoy.
Real-World Testing: Putting WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway was at a local lake on a sunny afternoon. We inflated it using an electric pump (not included), which took about 10 minutes. Anchoring it to the shore using ropes through the grommets was simple and straightforward.
The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway performed reasonably well, even with moderate waves from passing boats. The bright yellow color was highly visible, enhancing safety. While stable enough for lounging, I did notice some flex when walking on it, particularly for heavier individuals.
A minor annoyance after the first use was the lingering smell of PVC. It was also slightly challenging to deflate completely for compact storage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway has held up remarkably well. The PVC material has proven to be resistant to punctures and abrasions, despite being dragged across rocky shores. The color has remained vibrant and has resisted fading due to exposure to sunlight.
There have been no significant signs of wear and tear beyond minor scuffs. Cleaning is a breeze, a simple rinse with fresh water does the trick. Storing it, however, still requires some effort to ensure all the air is expelled.
Compared to previous, cheaper inflatable floats I’ve used, the WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway far outperforms them in terms of durability and stability. It’s definitely a worthwhile investment for long-term water recreation.
Breaking Down the Features of WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway
Specifications
- The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway measures 6 ft. x 10 ft., providing a reasonable amount of space for multiple users. This size is large enough for lounging, but still portable enough to handle.
- It’s constructed from 100% heavy-duty 30-gauge PVC, which contributes to its durability and resistance to punctures. The 30-gauge PVC construction is critical for withstanding the rigors of outdoor use.
- The walkway features grommets on each end, allowing for easy tie-off to boats, docks, or anchors. These grommets provide versatility in how you secure the walkway.
- The walkway’s bright yellow color enhances visibility on the water, improving safety. This high-visibility yellow is especially important in crowded waterways.
Performance & Functionality
The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway performs its primary function of providing a floating platform reasonably well. It offers sufficient stability for lounging and light activity.
While not as rigid as a solid platform, it provides a much more stable surface than individual floats or rafts. A minor drawback is that the 6ft x 10ft size could be too small for large groups; connecting multiple units is almost a necessity.
It meets expectations for recreational use, but those seeking a truly solid, rigid surface might be disappointed.
Design & Ergonomics
The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway features a simple, functional design. The heavy-duty PVC construction feels robust, although the initial PVC smell is noticeable.
It’s relatively lightweight when deflated, making it easy to transport and store. Inflation requires a separate pump, which adds to the setup time.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its heavy-duty PVC construction, the WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway appears built to last several seasons with proper care. The material is resistant to punctures and abrasions.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water. Proper storage – deflated and dry – is essential to prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway doesn’t come with many accessories. The key customization option is connecting multiple units together using the grommets to create a larger platform.
While not specifically designed for compatibility with other brands, generic anchors and tie-down ropes work well. Connecting multiple units significantly enhances the versatility of this product.
Pros and Cons of WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water WalkwayPros
- Durable 30-gauge PVC Construction: Built to withstand regular use and resist punctures.
- Expandable Design: Grommets allow for easy connection of multiple units to create a larger platform.
- Portable and Lightweight (Deflated): Easy to transport and store when not in use.
- Easy to Clean: Simple to maintain with soap and water.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers good value compared to more expensive inflatable docks.
Cons
- Noticeable PVC Smell: The initial odor can be off-putting.
- Requires Separate Pump: Inflation requires an electric or manual pump (not included).
Who Should Buy WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway?
Pros
- Durable 30-gauge PVC Construction: Built to withstand regular use and resist punctures.
- Expandable Design: Grommets allow for easy connection of multiple units to create a larger platform.
- Portable and Lightweight (Deflated): Easy to transport and store when not in use.
- Easy to Clean: Simple to maintain with soap and water.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers good value compared to more expensive inflatable docks.
Cons
- Noticeable PVC Smell: The initial odor can be off-putting.
- Requires Separate Pump: Inflation requires an electric or manual pump (not included).
The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway is perfect for families and recreational water enthusiasts looking for an affordable and portable floating platform. It’s ideal for those who enjoy lounging on the lake, sunbathing, or creating a play area for kids. Cottage owners, boaters, and anyone with easy access to water will find this product particularly useful.
Those seeking a completely rigid, dock-like experience should skip this product. Also, individuals who dislike inflatable products or are sensitive to PVC odors might want to consider alternative options.
A must-have accessory is a high-volume electric air pump for quick and easy inflation. Adding a comfortable floating chair or lounger would enhance the relaxation experience.
Conclusion on WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway
The WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway is a solid, budget-friendly option for creating a portable floating platform. Its durability and expandable design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their water recreation experience.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and the versatility of the product. While it has minor drawbacks like the PVC smell and the need for a separate pump, these are outweighed by its benefits.
I would definitely recommend the WOW Watersports 12-2050 Water Walkway to anyone seeking an affordable, portable, and durable floating platform for enjoying the water. Get yours today and start creating your own personal water oasis!