Lounge Chair

Summer's here and there's a bumper crop of new beach gear to go along with it. Reading on the beach can be problematic because, let's face it, most beach chairs just aren't that comfortable. Confused Direction's solution is a collapsible, roll-up convertible lounger that's as stylish as it is comfortable. Made from lightweight, durable wood, it can be rolled and stowed to take up no more room than a yoga mat. It even looks good enough to put in your living room (approx. $1380).
 
 
 

Shade

No matter how much you pay, most beach gear looks like circus leftovers: garish colors and shiny surfaces. Design Within Reach's Tuuci Hexagon and Razor Shade Platforms (please don't call them beach umbrellas) combine form and function in one sleek, minimalist package. Designed by a sailor and inspired by racing boats, both canopies are made with aluminum poles, which keep them light and extremely easy to operate. The Hexagon's straightforward design makes it easy to keep an eye on the kids, while the Razor's tilted shade can move with you, keeping you safely shaded, no matter which way the sun is facing. (Shade platforms: $1250; stationary stands: $500.)
 
 
 

The Beach Bag

Summer's here and that means a new wave of cool beach gear is upon us, starting with beach bags.The proper beach bag is big enough to hold towels, sunscreen and reading material; strong enough that it doesn't rip; and waterproof for the inevitable slips and spills. On the practical side, there's the Juice Bag Solar Beach Tote ($249.99). Equipped with a solar panel, it'll keep your camera and cellphone fully charged while you—and it—soak up the rays. On the less practical side, there's the Jimmy Choo silver paillette mesh bucket bag ($995). It won't charge your phone and you definitely don't want to spill your Coppertone on it—but you'll look good.
 
 
 

Surfboard

When NYC-based graphic designer James Victore went shopping for a surfboard a few years back, he couldn't find one that wasn't ugly. Then he found Mike Becker of Nature's Shapes on Long Island, and commissioned blank boards that he could paint himself. And so The American Badass Collection ($2,500-$3,000) was born. You won't find airbrushed waves or Hawaiian-inspired floral designs on these boards; instead you'll find the stark black and white graffiti-stylings that are way more Motorhead than Beach Boys.
 
 
 

Sounds

When it's just you and the sound of waves crashing, nature's soundtrack is more than enough. But how often are you the only person on the beach? Drowning out other beachgoers' conversations is reason enough to crank up the Coldplay. Unfortunately, scampering through the surf and sand with electronic devices is begging for trouble. Unless you've encased your iPod in H2O's new waterproof case—it fits the Shuffle, the Nano and the Classic and is waterproof (in up to 10 feet of water). While you're at it, trade out the useless stock white earbuds for a pair of H3 Waterproof headphones. (Cases from $39.99-$99.99; headphones $49.99.)
 
 
 

Beach computer

Sometimes the office refuses to be left behind. The Panasonic Toughbook 19 features a sealed keyboard and ports so you won't worry about sand and water; and the anti-glare, anti-reflective screen is readable even in bright sunlight. It may be a tad clunkier than your Vaio, but it won't konk out if someone dumps a bucket of seawater nearby. On the upside, you can check your email as you help your kids make sandcastles. And on the downside…you can check your email as you help your kids make sandcastles. (Starting at $3199.)
 
 
 

Swimwear

With so many shark attacks happening lately, the last thing you want is a swimsuit that slows you down. Speedo's new LZR Racer is crafted from a super lightweight high-tech fabric and sewn together with bonded seams to help you whip through the water. The US Olympic Swim Team will be wearing the Comme des Garçon-emblazoned LZR at Beijing and you can preorder your own at prices ranging from $290-$550. Europeans only, please.
 
 
 

Keeping Time

Unless your umbrella makes an accurate sundial, you'll eventually need to know the time. Originally designed in 1954 for the French Navy, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms watch ($9,400) is not only exquisite to look at, it's extremely rugged and won't let you down—whether you're on a dive or just need to know if it's cocktail time yet. The luminous hands and numbers make it a breeze to read underwater, and the screw-down crown and pushers help it withstand pressure up to 300 meters below sea level, depending on the model.
 
 
 

Waterproof camera

Certain locations—such as the beach—call for a more rugged camera. The Olympus Stylus 1030 SW ($449) is the camera to throw in your bag without a worry. You can drop it, freeze it, even sit on it—and it'll still take great photos in up to 33 feet of water. Equipped with 10.1 megapixels and a 5x zoom, it's no Leica—but then again, it is nearly indestructible.
 
 
 

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