Technically, the Rave Aqua Jump is a towable inflatable water toy. However, it's not quite what you think when someone mentions a towable tube.

What it is, in fact, is the coolest swim platform/raft we've come across. A giant tube mated with a trampoline, the Aqua Jump comes in three sizes (10, 15 and 20 foot diameters) and offers the fun of a trampoline without the concerns for safety. The soft tube and surrounding water cushion any errant jumps.

The Aqua Jump is light enough to be towed at slow speeds by a boat or personal watercraft to a secluded bay or beach, and anchoring it is a breeze. Set up takes just under an hour, the bulk of which comes from inflating the giant tube, which can be done with the average shop vac.

One of the nicest things about the Aqua Jump is that it's a social magnet. We had an Aqua Jump set up on a small lake in northwest Wisconsin and probably half the lake residents stopped by during the course of the summer to inquire about the Aqua Jump and ask if they could try it out.

Our only complaint with the Aqua Jump was with the boarding ladder, which is awkward and difficult to use. Rave replaced the original cargo net that came with the jump with a wood and rope ladder midway through the season, but it provided only a slight improvement.

The suggested retail price on the Rave is also a bit steep (The 10-foot model retails for $1,995, the 15-footer is $3,495 and the 20 footer is $4,995.) However, the quality of the construction is very good and should hold up for years.

For more information contact Rave Sports, 3065 Spruce Street, St. Paul, Minnesota 5517, (800) 659-0790