Innovative gear for aquatic sports

1. Helixot XO 6.2 Backpack ($169)

"Essentially the submarine of backpacks," this airtight waterproof bag is made in France from a durable marine canvas. Because the only opening is a broad plastic screw cap, the bag can "go anywhere and do anything." Buy it at Helixot.

2. Mako Slingshot Jetboard ($9,800)

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Surfers don't need waves to ride Mako's jet-powered carbon fiber shortboard, which can reach speeds of up to 30 mph. The rider controls the throttle with a handheld remote, and a full tank allows for 40 minutes of fun. Buy it at Mako Board Sports.

3. SwimEars ($60)

Protecting your ears is crucial if you're a serious swimmer or surfer or otherwise spend a lot of time in the water. These revolutionary earplugs keep water out while letting sound in, allowing you to hear a coach or carry on a conversation with another swimmer. Buy them at SwimEars.

4. Zapata Flyride ($6,000)

Ever wanted to fly 15 feet above the water on a jet ski and do barrel rolls in the air? This craft can do those tricks, provided you have another jet ski that it can draw its hydropower from. Gyroscopic balance assistance ensures you won't fall off. Find a seller at Zapata.

5. Aquabionic Aquatic Binding System ($299)

"No more waddling to the dive site like a penguin." Aquabionic's latest innovation combines a sneaker-like shoe with fins that clip to the toe, allowing you to get in and out of the water more easily. The product ships in November. Preorder at Cetatek.

Editor's note: Every week The Week's editors survey product reviews and articles in websites, newspapers, and magazines, to find cool and useful new items we think you'll like. We're now making it easier to purchase these selections through affiliate partnerships with certain retailers. The Week may get a share of the revenue from these purchases.