A strong choice for a backyard slip and slide is a purpose-made water slide with enough length for a run-up and a slick, durable surface; it suits families and groups planning outdoor water play. This roundup compares dedicated slides from 32.8 to 50 feet long with general-purpose tarps that may suit improvised setups but lack slide-specific features. The dedicated models include PVC or plastic surfaces, and some add bodyboards or stakes.
Width also varies substantially, from 6 feet on a 50-foot slide to 9.8 feet on a 32.8-foot slide. The longer tarp options are not automatically better: some are only 3 to 5 feet wide, and their listed uses do not establish that they are designed for sliding.
Match both dimensions and intended use to your space.
For a purpose-made long slide, Make-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water Slide is the leading pick: it is a 50-foot slide, includes Hold Tight stakes, and is described as commercial-grade UV-protected plastic 7.5 mil thick. Its listed length leads the dedicated options with stated dimensions, though the supplied details do not specify its width. If width and included boards matter more, Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC Slide is 50 by 6 feet and includes two bodyboards.
Compare the available space and surface type before choosing.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallMake-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water Slide
Its dedicated 50-foot slide format is the longest listed, with Hold Tight stakes included and commercial-grade UV-protected plastic stated at 7.5 mil thick.
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Best 50-Foot PVCThis purpose-made PVC slide measures 50 by 6 feet and includes two bodyboards; its safety information also says to keep clear space around the slide.
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Wide PVC SlideThe 40-by-7.2-foot PVC slide pairs a long run with three inflatable bodyboards and eight plastic stakes for setting it up.
View on Amazon- Widest Slide KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot Slide
Compare Long Slides and Tarp Options
| # | Product | Material | Size | Dimensions | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Make-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water SlideBest Overall | — | 50 FOOT SLIDE | — | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC SlideBest 50-Foot PVC | PVC | 50ft x 6ft with 2 Bodyboards | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Ahpuhtan 40-Foot PVC SlideWide PVC Slide | Polyvinyl Chloride | — | 480"L x 86"W x 0.08"Th | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. iGeeKid 40-Foot SlideForty-foot family slide kit | Plastic | 40 feet x 7 feet | — | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot SlideWidest Slide | Polypropylene | 32.8ft x 9.8ft | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Shade&Beyond 5-by-45-Foot TarpLong sealed-seam tarp lane | Polyethylene (PE) | 5' X 45' Customized Size | 540"L x 60"W | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. MVPNET 6-by-20-Foot TarpCompact tarp for short lanes | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) | 6×20 | 240"L x 72"W | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Xpose Safety 4-by-20-Foot TarpNarrow heavy-duty tarp lane | Polyethylene (PE) | 4' X 20' | 240"L x 48"W | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. TARPAL 4-by-20-Foot TarpThick tarp for short lanes | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) | 4×20 Feet-Finished size | — | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. TARPAL 3-by-200-Foot RollCustom-length tarp roll users | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) | 3×200 Feet Tarp Roll-Finished size | 2400"L | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Long Tarp For Slip And Slide

#1 · Best Overall
1. Make-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water Slide
- Size: 50 FOOT SLIDE
Best for: Fifty-foot plastic slide roll.
Why it ranks #1: Its dedicated 50-foot slide format is the longest listed, with Hold Tight stakes included and commercial-grade UV-protected plastic stated at 7.5 mil thick.
A 50-foot sheet length makes the SZP Make-A-Slide a strong fit for buyers prioritizing a long, uninterrupted run. The product specifies commercial-grade UV-protected plastic at 7.5 mil thick and includes Hold Tight stakes, combining a long surface with named anchoring pieces for outdoor setup.
The 50-foot format gives a long lane for block parties, barbecues, and other large-group summer activities. Its 7.5-mil plastic sheet is described as commercial-grade and UV protected, a useful specification for an outdoor slide surface. Hold Tight stakes are included to help secure the sheet. The maximum weight recommendation is 250 pounds, an important operating boundary for users; the listing does not specify bodyboards, so this is a sheet-and-stakes option rather than a board bundle.
- 50-foot-long slide sheet
- 7.5-mil commercial-grade plastic
- UV protection specified
- Hold Tight stakes included
- Maximum weight recommendation is 250 pounds.
Skip it if you need a wider lane; KEOHOLI's 32.8 x 9.8-foot slide is substantially wider than this sheet.
Select the SZP slide for a long run at block parties or backyard events where the 50-foot length matters. Keep its 250-pound maximum weight recommendation in mind, and plan around a plastic sheet rather than listed bodyboards.
Full product details
| Brand | SZP |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue |
| Manufacturer | SZP |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 250 pounds |
| Model Number | MAS100 |
| Size | 50 FOOT SLIDE |
Listed on Amazon as: Make-A-Slide. Giant Blue Plastic Water Slides for Adults – 100, 75, 50 Feet Long Heavy-Duty Slip and Slides Water Tarps (50 Foot Slide)
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#2 · Best 50-Foot PVC
2. Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC Slide
- Material: PVC
- Size: 50ft x 6ft with 2 Bodyboards
Best for: Fifty-foot slide with two boards.
Why it ranks #2: This purpose-made PVC slide measures 50 by 6 feet and includes two bodyboards; its safety information also says to keep clear space around the slide.
Gnimihz offers a 50-by-6-foot PVC slide with two bodyboards, pairing a long run with included equipment for sliding. Its listed 12-years-and-up recommendation helps set expectations for the intended users, while the safety information calls for open space around the slide, especially at its endpoint.
The 50-foot length supports an extended backyard run, while the 6-foot width creates a defined lane that needs suitable yard space. PVC is the listed material, and two bodyboards are included for play. Setup is described as easy, but the supplied specifications identify manual operation and do not list stakes as included. Safety guidance specifically says to keep the slide away from obstacles and leave enough room around it, especially at the end.
- 50-foot length for a long run
- 6-foot-wide playing surface
- Two bodyboards included
- PVC material specified
- No stakes are listed among the included components.
Skip it if you want included stakes for setup; KEOHOLI's 32.8 x 9.8-foot slide lists 22 metal stakes.
Gnimihz fits buyers seeking a 50-foot slide with two bodyboards and a listed age recommendation of 12 years and up. Reserve a clear runout area, and plan separately for anchoring since stakes are not listed.
Full product details
| Brand | Gnimihz |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue |
| Included Components | Slip and Slide |
| Item Dimensions | 600 x 72 x 0.1 inches |
| Item Weight | 16 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Gnimihz |
| Part Number | 008SHD50FT |
| Manufacturer recommended age | 12 years and up |
| Material | PVC |
| Operation Mode | Manual |
| Size | 50ft x 6ft with 2 Bodyboards |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information Use this product away from obstacles. Make sure that there is enough space left around the slide, especially at the end of the slide. |
Listed on Amazon as: Slip and Slide 50ft X 6ft Heavy Duty with 2 Bodyboards, Thicker Lawn Water Slide, Tear-Resistant Design, Easy to Set-Up, Backyard Summer Outdoor Water Play for Adults and Teens, 2025New
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#3 · Wide PVC Slide
3. Ahpuhtan 40-Foot PVC Slide
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride
- Dimensions: 480"L x 86"W x 0.08"Th
Best for: Long slide with three boards.
Why it ranks #3: The 40-by-7.2-foot PVC slide pairs a long run with three inflatable bodyboards and eight plastic stakes for setting it up.
A 40-foot length paired with three inflatable bodyboards gives the Ahpuhtan slide room for an extended backyard run and boards for shared play. Its 7.2-foot width creates a broad lane, while the heavy-duty 0.5 mm PVC is described as smoother and more tear-resistant than PE.
The package lists eight plastic stakes and a storage bag alongside the 40-by-7.2-foot slide and three inflatable bodyboards, so buyers have key setup and play pieces together. Unfold the slide, insert the stakes, then add water or soapy water to the surface; the instructions say it does not need continuous water application. PVC construction and hand-wash care make material upkeep a consideration after outdoor use.
- 40 x 7.2-foot playing surface
- Three inflatable bodyboards included
- Eight plastic stakes and a storage bag included
- 0.5 mm PVC is described as smooth and tear-resistant
- Hand-wash-only care requires manual cleaning after use.
Skip it if you need a 50-foot lane; SZP Make-A-Slide 50 Foot Slide offers more length, though it is a plastic sheet roll.
Pick Ahpuhtan for group backyard play when three boards, stakes, and storage in one package matter. The 40-foot lane is shorter than 50-foot options, and hand washing is the listed care method.
Full product details
| Brand | Ahpuhtan |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue |
| Included Components | Slip Lawn Water Slide |
| Item Dimensions L x W x Thickness | 480"L x 86"W x 0.08"Th |
| Item Weight | 6 kg |
| Manufacturer | Ahpuhtan |
| Material | Polyvinyl Chloride |
| Model Number | pl-9 |
| Care Instructions | Hand Wash Only |
| Dimensions | 480"L x 86"W x 0.08"Th |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information no |
Listed on Amazon as: 40 x 7.2Ft Slip Lawn Water Slide for Adults with 3 Bodyboards
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#4
4. iGeeKid 40-Foot Slide
- Material: Plastic
- Size: 40 feet x 7 feet
Best for: Forty-foot family slide kit.
Why it ranks #4: This dedicated 40-by-7-foot slide includes three bodyboards and six stakes, making it a well-equipped option for backyard water play.
The iGeeKid slide combines a 40-by-7-foot surface with three bodyboards, making it a ready-to-assemble option for family or party play. Its listed setup uses ground stakes to secure the unrolled slide, while the extra-long format provides a substantial run for kids, teens, and adults.
The 40-foot length gives this slide room for an extended backyard run, and the 7-foot width defines a substantial lane. Three bodyboards are included, so a group has boards available without adding them separately. Setup involves carefully unrolling the slide and securing it with ground stakes. The listed included components mention a sprinkler, but the key features also refer to stakes; the product information does not specify a stake count, so check the package details for the exact setup pieces.
- 40-foot-long playing surface
- 7-foot width
- Three bodyboards included
- Listed for kids, teens, and adults
- The provided details do not specify the number of included stakes.
Skip it if you need an explicitly listed stake count; Ahpuhtan's 40 x 7.2-foot slide specifies eight plastic stakes.
Choose iGeeKid for a 40-foot backyard slide with three bodyboards, especially for family gatherings or parties. Its 7-foot width defines the lane, and the supplied information does not give a specific number of stakes.
Full product details
| Brand | iGeeKid |
|---|---|
| Color | Multicolor (Red, Orange, Yellow) |
| Included Components | Extra Long 40*7FT Slip Water Slide with Sprinkler |
| Manufacturer | iGeekid |
| Part Number | POL-26SHD40-US7-1 |
| Manufacturer recommended age | 36 months – 10 years |
| Material | Plastic |
| Size | 40 feet x 7 feet |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information Not Warning Applicable |

#5 · Widest Slide
5. KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot Slide
- Material: Polypropylene
- Size: 32.8ft x 9.8ft
Best for: Wide lane with metal stakes.
Why it ranks #5: Its 32.8-by-9.8-foot dedicated slide has the greatest stated width among the purpose-made options and includes 22 metal stakes.
KEOHOLI pairs a 32.8-foot length with a notably wide 9.8-foot surface, giving backyard players a broad lane without moving to a 40-foot slide. Its included 22 metal stakes help secure the setup, and the waterproof-coated PE tarp is described as scratch-resistant and resistant to tearing.
The 9.8-foot width gives this slide more side-to-side room than narrower options, while its 32.8-foot length suits buyers balancing a substantial run against yard space. Twenty-two metal stakes are included to anchor the tarp, reducing the need to source separate fastening pieces. The supplied details suggest adding soapy water for a more slippery surface. Its PE material and waterproof coating support wet play, though no bodyboards are listed among included components.
- 32.8-foot length for an extended run
- 9.8-foot width offers a broad play surface
- 22 metal stakes included
- Waterproof-coated PE is described as scratch-resistant and tear-resistant
- No bodyboards are listed as included.
Skip it if you want included boards for sliding; Ahpuhtan's 40 x 7.2-foot slide includes three inflatable bodyboards.
Choose KEOHOLI when a broad backyard lane and included metal anchoring stakes are priorities. Its 32.8-foot length is shorter than 40- and 50-foot choices, and buyers seeking bodyboards should account for that missing listed accessory.
Full product details
| Brand | KEOHOLI |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue |
| Included Components | slip slide |
| Item Weight | 4.05 kg |
| Manufacturer | KEOHOLI |
| Part Number | cphht001 |
| Manufacturer recommended age | 0 months and up |
| Material | Polypropylene |
| Model Number | cphht001 |
| Size | 32.8ft x 9.8ft |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information 1 |
Listed on Amazon as: 32.8ft x 9.8ft Slip Lawn Water and Slide Tarp with 22 pcs Metal Stakes for Adults and Teens Lawn Water Slide Heavy Duty Waterproof for Summer Outdoor Fun Water Slip Play
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#6
6. Shade&Beyond 5-by-45-Foot Tarp
- Material: Polyethylene (PE)
- Size: 5' X 45' Customized Size
- Dimensions: 540"L x 60"W
Best for: Long sealed-seam tarp lane.
Why it ranks #6: The 45-foot length is substantial, but its 5-foot width and multipurpose tarp description make it less purpose-built for sliding than the dedicated models.
At 45 feet long and 5 feet wide, the Shade&Beyond tarp supplies a long, narrow surface for buyers adapting a multipurpose cover into a slip-and-slide lane. Its 12-mil woven PE fabric has heat-sealed seams without pinholes, a construction detail that supports a continuous moisture barrier.
The 45-foot length offers a substantial run, while the 5-foot width keeps the lane narrower than many dedicated water slides. Heat-sealed seams are specified as pinhole-free to help block moisture, and reinforced corners with metal grommets allow firm fastening. The 12-mil woven PE fabric is intended for daily outdoor storage and general outdoor applications. No extra accessories are included, so setup hardware beyond the listed grommets and play boards are not part of the package.
- 45-foot length for an extended lane
- 5-foot width
- 12-mil woven PE fabric
- Heat-sealed seams and reinforced corners with metal grommets
- No extra accessories are included.
Skip it if you need bodyboards and stakes in one package; Ahpuhtan's 40 x 7.2-foot slide lists three boards and eight stakes.
Choose Shade&Beyond for a long tarp lane when sealed seams and reinforced fastening points matter. Its 5-foot width is narrower than dedicated slide kits, and the listing includes no extra accessories such as boards or stakes.
Full product details
| Brand | Shade&Beyond |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 540"L x 60"W |
| Manufacturer | Shade&Beyond |
| Part Number | CMTP0545A0-BM-2 |
| Material | Polyethylene (PE) |
| Model Number | CMTP0545A0-BM-2 |
| Dimensions | 540"L x 60"W |
| Size | 5' X 45' Customized Size |
Listed on Amazon as: Shade&Beyond Tarp 5×45 FT Multipurpose 12 Mil Heavy Duty Waterproof Tarps
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#7
7. MVPNET 6-by-20-Foot Tarp
- Material: High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Size: 6×20
- Dimensions: 240"L x 72"W
Best for: Compact tarp for short lanes.
Why it ranks #7: This waterproof HDPE tarp offers a 6-by-20-foot surface, but its stated recommended uses are boating, camping, and emergency preparedness rather than sliding.
At 20 feet long and 6 feet wide, the MVPNET tarp offers a compact, fixed-size surface for a short backyard slip-and-slide lane. Its 12-mil HDPE construction is waterproof, giving water a barrier beneath play, while the manageable dimensions suit buyers who do not need a full-length slide.
The 240-by-72-inch format defines a modest lane that is easier to place in a smaller yard than an extra-long slide. Its 12-mil HDPE construction is specified as waterproof and UV resistant, so the material can serve outdoors in sun and water. The listed recommended uses also include boating, camping, and emergency preparedness, making this a general-purpose tarp rather than a dedicated slide kit. No stakes or bodyboards are listed, so setup and play accessories are separate considerations.
- 20-foot length suits a shorter slip-and-slide run
- 6-foot width provides a defined play lane
- 12-mil HDPE construction
- Waterproof and UV-resistant properties are listed
- No stakes or bodyboards are listed as included.
Skip it if you want a ready-to-play slide with boards and stakes; Ahpuhtan's 40 x 7.2-foot slide lists both accessories.
Choose this MVPNET tarp for a compact, simple water-play lane or a general-purpose outdoor cover. Its 20-foot length and 6-foot width set a clear size boundary, and you will need to arrange any stakes or boards separately.
Full product details
| Brand | MVPNET |
|---|---|
| Color | White |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 240"L x 72"W |
| Manufacturer | MVPNET |
| Material | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
| Model Number | 12Mil |
| Dimensions | 240"L x 72"W |
| Recommended Uses | Boating, Camping, Emergency Preparedness |
| Size | 6×20 |
Listed on Amazon as: 6×20 Feet 12mil Waterproof Tarp Heavy Duty UV Resistant White
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#8
8. Xpose Safety 4-by-20-Foot Tarp
- Material: Polyethylene (PE)
- Size: 4' X 20'
- Dimensions: 240"L x 48"W
Best for: Narrow heavy-duty tarp lane.
Why it ranks #8: The 20-foot polyethylene tarp is 16 mil thick and has grommets, but its 4-foot width and protective-cover design are poor matches for a long slide.
A 16-mil thickness is the defining feature of this 4-by-20-foot Xpose Safety tarp, offering a thick waterproof surface for a short slip-and-slide setup. Its 18-inch-spaced metal grommets and reinforced edges provide defined tie-down points, useful when securing the tarp on a smooth outdoor area.
At 20 feet long and 4 feet wide, this tarp fits buyers who want a narrow, short lane rather than a wide group slide. The 16-mil polyethylene construction is listed as waterproof and UV resistant, supporting outdoor use in changing weather. Metal grommets every 18 inches and reinforced edges help with fastening, but this is a cover tarp, not a bundled play set: no boards or stakes are listed as included.
- 16-mil polyethylene construction
- Waterproof and UV-resistant features listed
- Metal grommets spaced every 18 inches
- Reinforced edges provide tie-down support
- At 4 feet wide, its lane is narrower than dedicated water slides.
Skip it if you need a wide play lane with boards; Ahpuhtan's 40 x 7.2-foot slide includes three inflatable boards.
This Xpose Safety tarp suits buyers who value thick material and frequent tie-down points for a short, narrow water-play lane. Its 4-foot width limits side-by-side room, and play accessories are not listed as included.
Full product details
| Brand | Xpose Safety |
|---|---|
| Color | Silver/Brown |
| Included Components | Tarp |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 240"L x 48"W |
| Item Weight | 2.37 kg |
| Manufacturer | Xpose Safety |
| Part Number | SBHD-420-X |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Conditionally required. |
| Material | Polyethylene (PE) |
| Model Number | SBHD-420-X |
| Dimensions | 240"L x 48"W |
| Recommended Uses | Camping, Emergency Preparedness, Painting, Picnic, Sporting Events |
| Size | 4' X 20' |
Listed on Amazon as: 4' x 20' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Silver/Brown Poly Tarp Cover – Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and Tear Proof Tarpaulin with Grommets and Reinforced Edges – by Xpose Safety
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#9
9. TARPAL 4-by-20-Foot Tarp
- Material: High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Size: 4×20 Feet-Finished size
Best for: Thick tarp for short lanes.
Why it ranks #9: Its 10 mil HDPE construction is listed as waterproof and tear-resistant, though the 4-by-20-foot dimensions are short and narrow for this use.
TARPAL’s 10-mil HDPE tarp comes in a finished 4-by-20-foot size, giving buyers a thicker, compact surface for a short slip-and-slide lane. The brand also lists anti-aging and tear-resistant materials, connecting the tarp’s construction to outdoor handling and repeated general-purpose use.
The 20-foot length and 4-foot width make this a limited-size lane for smaller spaces rather than a group-scale slide. Its 10-mil HDPE construction is described as waterproof, while added anti-aging and tear-resistant materials are intended to help it withstand outdoor exposure. Listed uses include beach, camping, emergency preparedness, and gardening, so it can serve beyond water play. The supplied details do not list stakes or bodyboards, which buyers must factor into setup.
- Finished 4-by-20-foot size
- 10-mil HDPE material
- Waterproof construction described
- Anti-aging and tear-resistant materials listed
- At 4 feet wide, it offers limited room for multiple sliders.
Skip it if you want a 5-foot-wide tarp lane; Shade&Beyond's 5 x 45-foot tarp provides more width and length.
Pick this TARPAL tarp for a short, narrow water-play lane that can also serve the listed camping, beach, or garden uses. Its 4-foot width and 20-foot length set a compact limit, with accessories not listed.
Full product details
| Brand | TARPAL |
|---|---|
| Color | Brown/Black |
| Item Weight | 2.9 pounds |
| Manufacturer | TARPAL |
| Part Number | KH00002 |
| Material | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
| Model Number | KH00002 |
| Recommended Uses | Beach, Camping, Emergency Preparedness, Gardening |
| Size | 4×20 Feet-Finished size |
Listed on Amazon as: TARPAL Tarp 4×20 Feet Tarps Heavy Duty Waterproof 10mil Multipurpose
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#10
10. TARPAL 3-by-200-Foot Roll
- Material: High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Size: 3×200 Feet Tarp Roll-Finished size
- Dimensions: 2400"L
Best for: Custom-length tarp roll users.
Why it ranks #10: The 200-foot HDPE roll can be cut to length, but its 3-foot width and multipurpose tarp description make it the least suitable ready-to-use slide.
The TARPAL roll stretches 200 feet at 3 feet wide, letting buyers cut a chosen length for a narrow, custom slip-and-slide lane. Its HDPE material is 5 mil thick, waterproof, and described as reusable, while the two-sided green-and-blue finish gives a choice of visible surface color.
A roll format allows a buyer to make a lane of a chosen length rather than being limited to a pre-cut tarp size; at 3 feet wide, the finished strip remains narrow. The listing identifies 5-mil HDPE and waterproof construction, supporting wet outdoor use, and says the tarp can be used on either side. Anti-aging material and UV resistance are also stated. No stakes or bodyboards are listed, so fastening and play accessories require separate planning.
- 200-foot roll can be cut to a chosen length
- 3-foot width suits a narrow lane
- 5-mil HDPE construction
- Waterproof, reusable, and UV-resistant details are listed
- The 3-foot width is narrow for a shared slip-and-slide lane.
Skip it if you want a wide, ready-sized slide with boards; iGeeKid's 40 x 7-foot slide includes three bodyboards.
Choose TARPAL when adjustable length matters more than width and you want a reusable waterproof roll for a narrow lane. Its 3-foot width limits play space, and you will need to arrange stakes or boards separately.
Full product details
| Brand | TARPAL |
|---|---|
| Color | Green/Blue Tarp Roll |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 2400"L |
| Manufacturer | TARPAL |
| Part Number | TPJLG0680001 |
| Material | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
| Model Number | TPJLG0680001 |
| Dimensions | 2400"L |
| Recommended Uses | Painting, Decoration |
| Size | 3×200 Feet Tarp Roll-Finished size |
Listed on Amazon as: TARPAL 3×200 Feet Tarp Roll 5mil Waterproof Tarps polyethylene Multipurpose
View on AmazonWhy tarp width can matter more than extra length
A longer sheet is not necessarily a better slide if its width is too limiting for your intended play. The dedicated options show the trade-off clearly: Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC Slide is 50 by 6 feet, while KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot Slide is 9.8 feet wide. The latter sacrifices length but offers substantially more width.
General-purpose options narrow further: Shade&Beyond 5-by-45-Foot Tarp is 5 feet wide, and TARPAL 3-by-200-Foot Roll is only 3 feet wide. Check the full usable width against the space and type of play you have in mind, rather than treating a high length number as sufficient.
Also measure the available lawn before ordering; the stated product dimensions do not tell you how much clear area you will need for setup, run-up, or stopping. Keep those spaces in mind when comparing the listed lengths.
A tarp is not automatically a water-slide surface
A general-purpose waterproof tarp is not the same as a slide designed for water play. Dedicated options explicitly identify themselves as lawn water slides and list features such as PVC or plastic construction, bodyboards, or stakes. By contrast, the MVPNET and TARPAL tarps are presented for uses including camping, boating, gardening, and other protection tasks.
Their waterproof descriptions do not establish that they will provide a suitable sliding surface or stay in place during play. Construction details also vary: Ahpuhtan 40-Foot PVC Slide lists 0.5 mm PVC, while Make-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water Slide lists 7.5 mil plastic.
These figures describe different materials and should not be treated as a direct durability comparison. If adapting a tarp, account for the uncertainty around surface feel, securing it, and safe use; a purpose-made slide is the more direct match to the search.
How to choose a long slip-and-slide
Length and width
Look for a length and width that fit both your lawn and the kind of play you want. Dedicated options span 32.8 feet on KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot Slide to 50 feet on Make-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water Slide and Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC Slide. Width ranges from 6 feet on Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC Slide to 9.8 feet on KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot Slide; Ahpuhtan 40-Foot PVC Slide measures 7.2 feet wide.
Longer models suit buyers prioritizing a longer run, while the wider option may appeal where sideways room matters more. Measure the site first, and remember that the listed product length does not include extra room for setup or a clear area beyond the end.
Surface material and thickness
Check the listed surface material and thickness, but do not compare thickness figures across different materials as if they guarantee equal performance. Ahpuhtan 40-Foot PVC Slide lists 0.5 mm PVC, while Make-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water Slide specifies 7.5 mil plastic; Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC Slide lists PVC without a thickness. KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot Slide is described as PE with a waterproof coating.
These purpose-made choices differ from multipurpose tarps such as the 12 mil HDPE MVPNET 6-by-20-Foot Tarp. Buyers who want a product explicitly intended for water sliding should favour the dedicated slides; those considering an improvised tarp should weigh the limited slide-specific information.
Included setup and play accessories
Choose based on which setup pieces and play accessories are actually listed, since packages vary. Make-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water Slide includes Hold Tight stakes; KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot Slide includes 22 metal stakes; Ahpuhtan 40-Foot PVC Slide includes eight plastic stakes and three inflatable bodyboards. Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC Slide includes two bodyboards, while iGeeKid 40-Foot Slide lists three bodyboards and six stakes.
Some tarp listings specify no included accessories or do not state them, so do not assume a package contains fastening equipment. Buyers seeking boards for multiple participants may prefer the models listing three, while shoppers who already have accessories may focus more on dimensions and surface material.
Which long slip-and-slide should you choose?
For the longest clearly stated dedicated slide, choose Make-A-Slide Giant Plastic Water Slide: it measures 50 feet and includes Hold Tight stakes, though its width is not provided. If you want a 50-foot PVC option with stated dimensions and boards, Gnimihz 50-Foot PVC Slide measures 50 by 6 feet and includes two bodyboards. For a wider 40-foot PVC model with three boards and eight stakes, pick Ahpuhtan 40-Foot PVC Slide.
Choose KEOHOLI 32.8-Foot Slide if width is the priority: it is 9.8 feet wide and includes 22 metal stakes. The tarp-only options are less direct choices; consider them only if you specifically want a multipurpose sheet and accept that the listing does not establish it as a purpose-made slide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much clear, level lawn should I leave beyond the end of a slip and slide?
Leave a generous, unobstructed runout beyond the slide so users can slow down without reaching a fence, tree, pool edge, or other obstacle. The right amount depends on the slide, slope, and how people use it; inspect the whole path and follow the product’s setup guidance rather than assuming the tarp’s length is enough.
Should I use plain water or soapy water on a backyard slide?
Start with plain water unless the slide’s instructions specifically recommend another approach. Soap can change how slippery the surface becomes and may leave residue on the slide or lawn. Keep water use controlled, supervise users, and stop if the surface or runout becomes difficult to navigate safely.
What ground preparation helps prevent a tarp or slide from shifting or snagging?
Choose a level area and remove stones, sticks, toys, and other debris before laying anything down. Check the full slide path and runout for uneven spots or hazards, then secure the product according to its instructions. Stakes are included with some listed slides, but not all options have stated anchoring details.
How should I compare slide width when the listed dimensions vary?
Measure the usable lawn across the planned path and compare it with each product’s stated width. Gnimihz is listed as 50 by 6 feet, Ahpuhtan as 40 by 7 feet, and KEOHOLI as 32.8 by 9.8 feet; Make-A-Slide’s supplied details state its length but not its width.
When is a multipurpose tarp a suitable alternative to a purpose-made slide?
A multipurpose tarp may suit someone who specifically wants a sheet for other uses, but its listing does not establish it as a purpose-made slide. For a dedicated slide, compare the stated slide dimensions and included accessories instead. Check the product instructions and surface before using any tarp for water play.
Final Words
For a dedicated long slide, Make-A-Slide is the leading choice in the supplied details: it is 50 feet long and includes Hold Tight stakes, though its width is not stated. Choose Gnimihz if you prefer stated 50-by-6-foot dimensions and two bodyboards; Ahpuhtan or KEOHOLI may better match other width and accessory priorities. Measure your available space and check the surface before deciding.
Treat the tarp-only listings as multipurpose sheets, not established slide products.
