If you want to make the most out of the boating season, a towable water tube isn’t just a want–but a need. While a water tube might qualify as an essential piece of equipment (like a life jacket, fire extinguisher, or throwable flotation device), it’s more than just a “fun accessory.” It’s a gateway to high-action summers you’ll remember for years to come. And you can’t put a price on memorable family fun.
Plus, towable water tubes are designed for just about any passenger on your boat (young and old)–maximizing the fun you can squeeze out of your new investment. Use your water tube at high and low speeds. Tow around your little ones–or grandma and grandpa. The choice is yours!
For a list of the 12 best towable water tubes–across a variety of categories–keep reading. Whether you have solo speed riders or a few little kids who want to jump on together, here are your best options.
Best Water Tubes for Solo Riders
Top Models:
For those solo riders who crave agility and control, the O’Brien Screamer and Airhead G-Force Towable Tube are top contenders. The Screamer’s 60-inch diameter circle and convex bottom are designed to improve maneuverability. These models require very little skill to operate (both on the rider’s and the boat driver’s end)–making them a good boat tube option for new riders.
Image Courtesy of O’Brien (Product pictured: O’Brien Screamer)
Best Tandem Water Tubes
Top models:
With cock-pit style seating and U-shaped designs, these tandem tubes ensure that high-speed skids across waves are both fun and safe. Built into the tandem boat tubes’ design are rolled-up corners, allowing riders to reach higher speeds without getting smacked by the water. These models are also equipped with side bolsters to keep riders on the tube.
Image Courtesy of Radar Edge (Product pictured above: Radar Edge 2)
Best Family-Friendly Water Tubes
Top models:
The WOW Wake-Walker and Radar Edge 3 are favorites among families, thanks to their versatile riding styles and ability to accommodate different age groups.
Family-friendly water tubes like these offer comfort and security; you’ll notice the Sportsstuff Big Mable allows the rider to sit couch-style, prioritizing rider comfort at high and low speeds.
Image Courtesy of Air Head (AirHead Big Mable)
The Best Water Tubes for Large Groups
Top models:
For large groups, the Gladiator Sonix I and HO Neo 3 tubes are worth considering.
Their “ride-in” cockpit seating arrangement is perfect for a sociable tubing experience. Two riders can comfortably sit back, chat, and enjoy the ride!
To keep the party going at the party cove, consider adding a Booster Ball to your towable water tube . This accessory reduces drag, enhances the boat’s fuel economy, and reduces wear and tear on the towable tube itself.
Image Courtesy of Hosports (Product pictured above: HO Neo 3)
The Most Innovative Water Tube
Top models:
Innovative water tubes, like the Airhead Poparazzi tube, support various positions like lying, sitting, kneeling, or standing. With any of these three water tubes, you’ll notice its low-profile design that skips over the water’s surface or its 360-degree tow point for rotation. Fair warning: these water tubes are best for more experienced tubers.
Image Courtesy of Airhead (Product featured above: Airhead Poparazzi Towable)
Choosing the Right Water Tube for You
The right tube facilitates more than just a comfortable ride–but an unforgettable experience. Consider factors like size, ride style, and durability when shopping for a towable water tube of your own.
Size Matters: Single vs. Multi-Rider Options
Whether you prefer to ride solo or with a group, the size of the tube matters. Single-rider options like the O’Brien Screamer promise an intense solo tubing experience.
On the other hand, multi-rider tubes, such as the Airhead Poparazzi, cater to group fun with a capacity for 3 people.
When it comes to multi-rider tubes, safety is a key consideration for multi-rider tubes–especially for younger or nervous riders.
Riding with a sibling or friend can make the experience more enjoyable, but it’s important to remember there’s an increased risk of injury from possible head collisions.
Ride Style: Chariot Mode, Deck, or Donut?
There are three different styles of tubes to consider, each offering a unique riding experience: 1) deck style, 2) donut or high-walled tubes, and 3) chariot style tubes.
When riding on a deck-style tube, you primarily lay on top of the tube. This shape can be great for adults, but kids might struggle to clasp on.
On the other hand, family-friendly tubes like the Super Mable make it easier for people to sit upright and enjoy the ride.
Durability and Safety Features
Another key consideration when selecting a tube is its durability and safety features. The Airhead Mach 2, for instance, is designed with heavy-gauge PVC bladders and an 840 denier nylon cover to withstand intense usage.
Deluxe handles with EVA knuckle guards on tubes like the Airhead Mach 2 provide a strong grip and protection for hands during high-speed rides.
Side stabilizer fins and integral bolsters, as seen in some deck-style tubes and the Airhead G-Force, help maintain rider stability during sharp turns and wakes.
These safety/performance features ensure the rider’s safety (and their enjoyment). The extra durability also ensures you don’t have to replace the tube as frequently.
Boost Your Ride: The Benefits of Adding a Booster Ball
A Booster Ball is a great addition to your tubing gear if you’re seeking an upgrade. This device improves the towing experience by reducing drag rope spray and enhancing safety.
However, it comes with additional cost and setup time, so it’s worth considering whether it’s the right investment for you.
How the Booster Ball Works
The Booster Ball elevates the tow rope above the water, reducing drag and increasing visibility. The main perk of a Booster Ball is that the rope is less likely to get caught in the wake.
Is the Booster Ball Worth the Investment?
Boat owners love the booster ball because it saves some money on fuel and extends the lifespan of your boat tube.
While Booster balls are an additional cost, they reduce the risk of flipping, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable ride.
Summary
Having the right accessories for boating is essential for making memories and getting the most out of your time on the water.
But don’t forget, in between boating excursions (and during the off-season), you’ll need a place to store all of your water toys (and your vessel, too).
Indoor boat storage is the best possible option for the longevity of your vessel and your boat accessories. Given that most boats are under 9 meters in length, if space is limited in your garage, consider renting a 10’ x 30’ storage unit. A 10’x30’ space will leave you plenty of room for your boat and your towable water tube(s).
Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace, provides safe, nearby, and budget-friendly storage units for your boat and boating equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Boats Are Best for Tubing?
You can pull a tube with virtually any kind of boat, including bowriders, deck boats, ski boats, cruisers, and even pontoon boats with little engines. So, you have plenty of options to choose from for your tubing adventure!
What Kind of Tube Is Best for Tubing?
For tubing, the best kind of tube is a banana or hotdog tube, which is long and rocket-shaped, allowing riders to straddle or sit (and reach high speeds).
How Do I Choose the Right Tube?
Unlike wakeboarding, which requires a little more skill, tubing is fun for riders of all skill levels.
What Are the Three Types of Tubing?
There are three main types of towable boat tubes: flat tubes, high-walled tubes, and unique shapes (like hot dog tubes).
What Size Boat Is Best for Tubing?
A boat should have at least 75 horsepower for tubing to ensure it has enough power to pull the tube and make it fun!
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