It’s an undeniable truth that nothing, absolutely nothing, can deter Spanish citizens from relishing a day at the beach, not even a general election. Even if they have to cast their votes, once they’ve fulfilled their civic duty, they steadfastly make their way to the coast.
In the not-so-distant past, most of us were content to sit under umbrellas on the sand, taking the occasional dip and seeking quick cover. However, over the years, the beaches have evolved into small amusement parks, offering a plethora of tourist activities at varying popular prices. Roller skating, jet skis, inflatables, kayaking, paddle surfing, snorkeling, and even scuba diving have transformed what used to be a leisurely day into a jam-packed program of excitement.
Yet, the most significant transformation of this tradition has been catalyzed by social media. For a considerable part of the population, a day at the beach can never be what it once was. It’s no longer enough to merely enjoy the experience; now, it must be documented and shared with the world.
Consequently, we witness an invasion of enthusiastic documentarians armed with mobile phones, water cameras, and any gadgets they can find, turning a day of disconnection into what could pass as a scene from a science fiction film. The focus has shifted from relaxation and fun to seeking more adrenaline and generating envy among those observing from their virtual perches.
Brands and entrepreneurs are well aware of this phenomenon and invest significant effort every summer to leverage these social showcases. They present their latest and most innovative products, promising to transform ordinary days of sun, sand, and sea into homemade sequels to the best Mission Impossible.
To make your beach days stand out this summer, whether you seek an adrenaline rush or wish to impress your colleagues with your experiences, we have conducted a search and selected three trending gadgets that will make a difference when it comes to enjoying the sand and the sea.
PORTABLE MINI SCUBA TANKS
For a long time, scuba diving has been a pursuit limited to those willing to manage the logistics of carrying bulky equipment. However, the emergence of mini scuba tanks is reshaping this narrative and broadening access to underwater exploration for a larger audience.
What are mini dive tanks? Mini dive tanks are compact cylinders typically crafted from steel, aluminum, or carbon components. They house a mixture of gases, usually compressed air, enabling individuals to breathe underwater. These tanks come in various sizes, with capacities ranging from 0.5 to 15 liters, providing a diverse range of options for different diving experiences.
How do mini scuba tanks work? Mini scuba tanks function by storing compressed air at pressures between 200 and 300 bar. The dive’s duration depends on the tank’s capacity and the pressure at which it’s charged. Air is dispensed through a regulator, reducing the high pressure to a breathable level. Additionally, a pressure gauge allows divers to monitor the remaining air in the tank.
Mini scuba tanks are revolutionizing the way people approach scuba diving, making the activity accessible to a wider audience. Thanks to their compact design, ease of use, and variety of options, these devices are perfect for beginners, recreational divers, and even experienced enthusiasts seeking a lighter option for quick dives. This newfound accessibility is allowing more individuals to discover the captivating beauty of the underwater world in a convenient and approachable manner.
The Lung T-500™ model from Lung has gained significant popularity, especially on platforms like TikTok. With an air duration of 10 minutes, a refined design, and minimal weight, it can be easily recharged anywhere using a hand pump, without the need for an external power source.
While the Lung T-500™ model with its refill pump is priced around 300 Euros, there are numerous other brands and models available in almost any price range, catering to diverse preferences and budgets.
UNDERWATER THRUSTER
The continuous advancements in technology have revolutionized our interactions with the world, and the underwater realm is no exception. Within this context, the underwater thruster has emerged as an indispensable tool, reshaping the experience of diving and other underwater activities.
What is an underwater thruster? Also known as an underwater scooter or DPV (Underwater Propulsion Device), the underwater thruster is a device that empowers divers to navigate underwater with enhanced speed and efficiency. It enables them to cover greater distances and explore wider areas without excessive air consumption or energy depletion.
These devices are typically powered by electricity and are available in various sizes and capacities, ranging from smaller versions suitable for recreational diving to more robust models designed for extensive exploration or technical diving.
How does an underwater thruster work? An underwater thruster operates by generating thrust in the water, propelling the diver forward. An electric motor drives a propeller, creating a water flow directed from the front of the device towards the rear. This movement generates an opposing reaction that propels the diver in the desired direction.
Thrusters come with different speed settings, and some even offer buoyancy control, providing additional maneuverability for the diver. Moreover, most modern models are equipped with long-lasting rechargeable batteries, offering hours of underwater exploration.
Safety considerations As with all diving equipment, using an underwater thruster requires adhering to safety guidelines and understanding associated risks. Divers are strongly advised to avoid solo diving, stay within established depth limits, and undergo specific training to learn the proper operation of these devices.
In popular social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, one frequently encountered underwater thruster is the Glock Water, priced at approximately 400 euros on the official website. Alternatively, Decathlon offers the Jobe Seascooter underwater propulsor, featuring some enhanced features, at an approximate price of 800 euros.
THE WATER BIKE
The Hydrofoil XE-1, a revolutionary vision of futuristic transport, has become a reality through Manta5’s innovative design. This water bike stands apart as the first of its kind, seamlessly blending hydrofoil technology with human power and electricity. While not entirely new, the concept resurfaced and gained popularity once again, largely due to its widespread exposure on social media.
Undoubtedly, it holds the distinction of being the most expensive among the three devices. With a retail price of approximately €5,000 as listed on the brand’s website, it may prove prohibitive for many.
Surfing the waves The Hydrofoil XE-1 isn’t merely meant for moving through the water; it gracefully navigates moderate waves as well. Its front end is adept at breaking and gliding over smaller waves, offering a unique way for water sports enthusiasts to explore the realms of the sea, rivers, and lakes.
The bike attains impressive top speeds of up to 22 km/h (13 mph) and cruises at approximately 11 to 13 km/h (7 and 8 mph), ensuring an exhilarating and thrilling sporting experience.
Design and construction The Hydrofoil XE-1 can be easily disassembled into three parts: the front hydrofoil, rear hydrofoil, and body. This feature facilitates convenient storage and transportation. Its hydrofoil is crafted from reinforced carbon fiber, infused with high-performance epoxy, while the frame is constructed using TIG-welded 606-T6 aluminum.
When fully assembled, the bike, along with its battery and motor, weighs 30.5 kg, with dimensions of 1.4 m in height, 2 m in width, and 2.2 m in length.
Battery and durability Equipped with a lithium-ion battery, the bike delivers up to 4 hours of riding time at the lowest level of demand and 1.5 hours at maximum pedaling power. The battery is designed to withstand both hot and cold conditions, and recharging is a breeze – simply plug it into any standard power socket, and it will be fully charged within 3 hours.