Cool water: nothing goes better with a hot summer than water . So make the most of this year's life aquatic and get yourself one of these water rays before winter rears its ugly head

Men's Fitness, August, 2005 by Les Shu

Kawasaki Jet Ski STX-15F

Based on the Kawasaki Jet Skis used for competitive racing, this three--seat "motorbike on water" features a top-of-the-line four-stroke engine--but is also designed to keep fuel consumption and smoke exhaust to a minimum, making it fast, environmentally friendly, and easy on the lungs. $9,499@ KAWASAKI.COM

West Marine Mini Dinghy

If you're driving and happen upon a lake or river, blew up this inflatable raft for an impromptu cruise. The boat seats two and includes superslick aluminum oars that snap apart and fit neatly into a bag that can be stored in your ride year-round. Too tired to row? An optional electric motor will have you skipping across lakes and ponds like the most well-tossed of stones. $200@westmarine.com

HO Monza Slalom

Carbon fiber is a material used to make laptops lighter. In the case of the Monza Slalom, it's also used to make a water ski that weighs just three pounds. The foam core is wrapped with a carbon-fiber shell, allowing you to ride even the roughest wakes and waves with a bare minimum of energy and effort.

$900@HOSPORTS.COM

Dagger Specter

The Specter is a workhorse of a kayak, suitable for quick river jaunts or multiday tours. The Airalite model is made with a tough and durable Kevlar-like material that resists scrapes and scratches from errant rocks, stones, tree stumps, and logs you might accidentally ram the craft into.

$1,750@DAGGER.COM

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