Kids love playing in the water and these inflatable toys proved to be wet and wild for our young test crew.

Sportsstuff Liberty Duo
We made the mistake of sitting an adult in this torpedo and taking him on a mini-whip. He got rolled. Then we invited two kids on board and kept the Liberty Duo behind the boat (view photos 1  and 2 in gallery). That's the ticket. Fully inflate the bottom pad to give the riders some spring. Best for: Two youngsters on a mild ride Dumped? A clumsy adult was left at the curb Cost: $274.95 Contact: sportsstuff.com, 888-814-8833

HO Squad Car
Five-year-old Kara Irwin said the Squad Car (view photo 3 in gallery above) was her favorite ride of the tests. It was her only ride of the tests. Just goes to prove that a great design can fire up the young ones about being on the water. Parents take note: There are only two air valves that feed the windshield, doors, wheels and lights — it's easy. Best for: Up-and-coming tubists Dumped? We aren't that cruel Cost: $100 Contact: hosports.com, 800-938-4646

Hydroslide Tornado
Drivers can have a field day with the Tornado (view photo 4 in gallery), but how fair is that when a little girl is trying to ride out the storm? We found a 14-mph boat speed in turns too much action for this little toy. You don't want to launch anyone unless you have the time for retrievals — it's hard to remount. Best for: Young kids directly behind the boat Dumped? Like a plate of spinach Cost: $69.99 Contact: nashmfg.com, 800-433-2901

Stearns Scooby-Doo
Believe it or not, 13-year-old Stacey Brizeno's brave ride on the Scooby-Doo was one of the most entertaining of the tests. Securely seated in the rounded-off triangle, she looked content enough for a Happy Meal. But the tube is deceptively active, as Stacey's ponytail suggested when she lifted three feet off her seat through a series of wakes (view photos 5 and 6 in gallery). Best for: All kids Dumped? Up but not out Cost: $99.99 Contact: stearnsinc.com, 800-697-5801