Originally Posted By: hikermor
For what it is worth, I have had experience with a similar inflatable "pool toy" within Grand Canyon. We needed something light because we had to backpack them down to Thunder River and Tapeats Caves, both of which contained significant streams.

We used them satisfactorily in both caves. They definitely kept us out of the water and much warmer. We probably paddled each craft about a mile in total, dragging them on and off rocks and sandbars within the caves, over a total of four days. We did experience leaks, which were easily repaired. I would use them again, unless I could find something just as light, but sturdier.


Good to hear some real experience with pool toy. Was it raft or something else, like a ring? I don't suppose you know how much the one you used weighed? Assuming it was a raft, was it a child's, one person, or two person? Just your standard vinyl you would pick up in the kids section of the store, or something else. Any details would help me better picture what you had. Do you remember cost? Less than $10? Less than $25? Less than $50?

You peak my interest!