Gear to get you out on the water

Plus, the top swimwears sales from our favourite brands [View in browser]( [IndyBest]( [Annabel Grossman]( Annabel Grossman, [Associate editor]( July 22, 2022 Like pretty much all of the UK, here at IndyBest we’ve spent a good chunk of the past week trying to stay cool as temperatures soared to record breaking levels across the country. We’ve been ordering [fans with next day delivery](, picking up [pet cooling mats]( for our four-legged friends, and have even considered investing in [portable air conditioners](. Our team found the [MeacoCool MC 14000 air conditioner]( to be chunky and a little pricey, yet blissfully cooling, and we’ve also got our eye on [Lidl’s portable aircon unit]( that costs less than £170 and is proving to be a bit of an heatwave hero. But if, like us, you’re slightly troubled by the concept of using a ton more electricity in a climate change-induced heatwave – or are concerned about eye-wateringly high energy prices – you may want to consider the [Tado smart AC control](. Our tech writer [Steve Hogarty]( tested the gadget in the sweltering temperatures this week and found it to be “a simple and straightforward way to make most dumb air conditioners a fully integrated part of an energy-efficient home”. Although the worst of the heat may be over (we’re hoping so anyway!) it looks like there are still plenty of balmy days ahead. So with many schools breaking up for summer holiday this week, we’ve been looking at family-friendly ways to get out on the water. Whether it’s a beach day with the kids, adventure activities on a lake, or taking a dip at one of the UK’s beautiful [wild swimming spots](, IndyBest has the gear to keep you cool and comfortable in the outdoors.   Our pick of paddleboards It can take a little time to master, but once you've got your balance, stand up paddleboarding is one of the best ways to explore [lakes, coastlines and waterways]( – not to mention it's pretty great for core strength. [Best stand up paddleboards]( If you want the freedom to explore as and when you please, buying a board and [wetsuit]( of your own could be a good investment. And in our round-up of the best boards there are a number of reasonably priced options that rank highly for stability, speed and manoeuvrability. We love all outdoor watersports at IndyBest so we've also pulled together our favourite [inflatable kayaks]( for adventures on the water this summer. [Read more](   Swimwear savings Swimwear tends to be a very personal choice, whether you’re looking for [pieces for larger busts](, [sporty styles]( or brands that focus on [sustainability](. [Swimwear sales top picks]( But we also know that swimwear can be expensive, so to help you get more for your money this summer we’ve brought together the best sales on bikinis, one pieces and swim trunks. Savings include a Figleaves fuller bust strapless twist detail swimsuit that has been reduced by half to just £20 and several flattering options from the Boden sale. If the kids also need kitting out for the beach or pool, we’ve got you covered. Our round-up of the best [children’s swimming costumes]( features cute and practical options for girls, boys and babies, and we also have a list of tried and tested [swimming aids]( to help them feel confident in the water. [Read more](   Don't stop the music Just because you're in the water, there's no need to forgo your tunes. With the impressive range of [waterproof headphones]( that can be submerged to significant depths, you can enjoy a soundtrack to your watersports while you swim, surf or simply splash around. Our round-up includes a range of styles that are either Bluetooth compatible or have an inbuilt MP3 player, and all have a minimum IPX7 waterproof rating (meaning they can withstand being submerged in water up to 1m deep for 30 minutes). [Best waterproof headphones]( Alternatively, if you prefer a calm and quiet swim, it's worth checking out our list of high-performing [swimming earplugs]( that help to tune out background noise while also preventing water and bacteria from entering the ear canal. [Read more](   Make a splash [Aldi pool]( If your local lido has been heaving over the past few days and you prefer the comfort of a private pool, you might be interested in this offering from Aldi. Sure, [paddling pools]( are great for a quick splash about, but with weather like this we think it’s worth going one step further. The Summer waves 10ft quick up pool costs just £34.99 yet can fit a family of four, and it takes just 10 minutes to put up. Then all you need is some [summer cocktails]( – or perhaps some tantalisingly tart [sour beers]( – and it will almost feel like you’re on holiday in the Med. [Read more](     Deals of the week The Independent’s journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our newsletter, we may earn commission. [Deals on summer duvets]( Struggling to sleep in the heat? These [summer duvets](will help keep you comfy and cool on balmy nights – and they’re up to 50 per cent off. [Get deal](   [The PS5 version of God of War Ragnarok ]( Pre-orders for the PS5 version of [God of War Ragnarok]( have been selling fast – and you can now save £10 on the game ahead of its release when shopping on Amazon. 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