Pool Side Splash

Time at the pool is a cherished summer ritual. Splash and swim with friends. Lounge on a patio chair. Float on the water and spend the day in the sunshine. Before you head out, gather these essentials to look stylish, to stay comfortable, and to maximize your poolside fun.

by Heather Baver

July 28, 2021

7:00 AM

1. Fanciful Float.

Glide on a graceful swan. At 76 inches in diameter, this giant float has room for two adults to stretch out and enjoy a relaxing conversation on the water. Swimline Giant Inflatable Mega 76-inch Ride-on Swan Swimming Pool Water Float Raft, $73.99, Target

2. Undersea Optics.

Show off your underwater moves. With a vibrant tie-dye pattern and anti-fog coating, these goggles help kids see clearly. Adjust the quick-release button to achieve a perfect fit. TYR Kids Swimple Tie-Dye Goggles, $11.99, Dick’s Sporting Goods

3. Sensational Sunnies.

Vintage glamour meets modern-day eye protection. Rock a pair of these retro-inspired shades to exude cool even on the hottest day. Show off your personality and celebrate the sunshine. Retro Sunglasses, various styles, $20, Be Mine Boutique

4. Slam Dunk.

Make jump, hook and bank shots in the water. With a weighted base and backboard, this hoop takes court action into the pool. Catch and shoot for endless entertainment. GoSports Splash Hoop Pro Basketball Hoop, $119.99, Dick’s Sporting Goods

5. Beverage Bestie.

Made of stainless steel, this 12-ounce can insulator keeps sparkling water, soda or beer icy cold from the first sip to the last. No Sweat™ tech inhibits condensation. YETI Rambler® 12-ounce Colster Can Insulator, $24.99, Weaver’s Ace Hardware

6. Sustainable Style.

Waterproof and lightly scented with lemon, these vegan slides are pool and planet-friendly. Choose from cheerful hues, classic neutrals and shiny metallics. Step with joy on the cushy insoles. Lemon Jelly Slides, $58, Charlotte Shoppe

7. Page-Turner.

Jeanette Singleton protects her loved ones — even if it means disposing of her neighbors. Take a thrilling journey where good and evil blur and people aren’t who they seem. Decompose, paperback: $12.99, e-book: $3.99, Layne Deemer (a local author)

8. Fantastic Fit.

Vibrant flowers and jewel tones create an eye-catching tropical print. Full cups and adjustable straps ensure a great fit with this bra-sized bikini. Enjoy the ultimate in chic support. Fantasie Monteverde Bikini, top: $76, bottom: $46, LiliBea’s

9. Party Animal.

Make it a piñata pool party with this cute inflatable. This brightly-colored beverage boat holds up to five cups so you and your crew can stay refreshed in the water. BigMouth Inc. Inflatable Piñata 5-cup Beverage Boat, $19.99, Kohl’s

10. Carry-all Combo.

With eight interior pockets, this spacious bag organizes everything from sunscreen to snacks. Slide your phone into the clip pouch for secure, touch-free use through the clear front pocket. Everyday Essentials Tote in Patchwork Stripe with Personalization, $48, Clear Clip Pouch in Finny Fish, $14, Thirty-One Gifts

11. Banish Sweat.

Stay cool with a handheld misting station. This sleek, battery-powered fan includes a pump trigger for a blast of deliciously cool mist. Add ice for an extra-refreshing experience.O2Cool Elite Handheld Misting Fan, $8.99, Target

12. Superb SPF.

This sheer, tinted sunscreen has a matte finish to keep your face looking flawless. The mineral-based formula goes on like a primer for acne-safe, reef-friendly and cruelty-free sun protection. Matte Tint SPF 40, $65, Pure Skin Makeup & Skincare Studio

13. Seaside Sophistication.

Channel a beach vibe poolside with this elegant hat. The wide brim’s built-in shade keeps you cool and sun-protected. The natural golden hue complements all colors of swimwear. Women’s Madd Hatter Straw Beach Visor Hat, $24, sale price $5.99, Boscov’s

14. Classy Cover-Up.

Black and white creates a striking pattern on this breezy kimono and pairs with all kinds of bathing suits. Add fringed denim shorts for a casual and trendy look. Black and White Kimono, $38, Denim Shorts, $32, Joyful Roots

15. Convenient Clean-up.

Eliminate leaves and debris with the push of a button. This cordless pool vacuum utilizes powerful suction, a rechargeable battery and a reusable filter bag for crystal clear water. Water Tech Volt FX-4Li Cordless Pool & Spa Vacuum, $179.99, Apollo Pools and Spas

16. Creative Tie-In.

One vibrant piece of fabric equals countless styling options. The colorful, cheerful patterns are made using traditional Indian block printing. Wear this sarong as a skirt, dress, scarf or shawl. Sarongs, $48 each, Allison Clothing Company

17. Water Wings.

Add fierce sharks or seahorse unicorns to your kids’ summer gear. Made of phthalate-free PVC, these inflatable arm floats are fun for relaxing in the pool with family. Sunnylife Buddy Float Bands, $12, Kohl’s

18. Music to Go.

Experience brilliant sound at the water’s edge. Weatherproof and drop resistant, this portable speaker streams your favorite tunes with voice control so you don’t have to leave the water. Sonos Move Smart Speaker, $399, Stereo Barn

19. Butterfly Bliss.

Dry off in style. Made of 100-percent combed cotton, this plush, generously-sized Vera Bradley beach towel features a vivid butterfly pattern. Wrap up cozy and snug after a dip. Vera Bradley Beach Towel, $40, Baldwin Brass Center

Sources

Allison Clothing Company & Boutique

522 Penn Avenue, West Reading

484.709.2563

allisonclothingshop.com

Apollo Pools and Spas

3711 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading

610.779.1228

apollo-pools.com

Baldwin Brass Center

623 Penn Avenue, West Reading

610.373.1040