Whether it is summer time or just when the whole family decides to get together on the beach or lake, it is time to spend the weekend with the best towable tube.
If you want to experience the ideal water sports experience, you should be able to choose the finest quality of towable tubes for yourself and the family.
Today, whether people prefer a slow, relaxing and rejuvenating cruise or a thrilling water sports session, the answer is the one towable tube that should fit your family’s skill level, wants and needs.
The best towable tubes are those of the highest inflatable quality and come in various shapes and sizes. You can conveniently find them at your nearest department store, at online shopping malls, auction marketplaces, and online retailers.
What is the best towable tube
SportsStuff Towable Poparazzi Review
If you are looking for some excitement this summer for you and your family, consider getting out on the water and enjoying some towable ski tube fun. Many towables are designed to accommodate multiple riders so you and your family can enjoy hours of fun quality time together.
Design & Rider Capacity
The Poparazzi towable ski tube by SportsStuff is an extremely versatile inflatable tube that will provide enough entertainment for your family through the whole summer.
The tube is constructed with a top-of-the-line nylon cover and aluminum quick-connect towing system to help with durability.
The EVA Foam Knee Pad and Knuckle Guards with Sure Grip Handles ensure that riders stay comfortable and secure while riding.
This rocker ski tube features a versatile design that allows riders to choose their favorite riding positions from standing, kneeling, sitting, steering, or laying.
The unit has a wide wing span with a rocker bottom to allow riders to have extreme maneuverability to carve into wakes or to glide across the water with minimal drag.
There is also a high rise tower with handles so riders can choose to kneel or stand in a chariot manner.
Size
This 3 person inflatable not only has a large footprint, but it’s also tall due to the high rise tower that allows riders to stand up if they desire.
Because it’s so big, it can be heavy; however the plus side is that it comes with extreme versatility whereas many other towables can only be ridden one way.
Essentially you could look at it as many ski tubes designs in one product. The only downside is trying to find a place to store such a large tube.
Features
Here’s a look at the specs and features for the SportsStuff Towable Poparazzi Ski Tube:
| Number of Riders: | 3 |
| Ride Style: | Stand, Sit, Kneel, Lay |
| Number of Handles: | Multiple Handle Sets for Versatility in Riding Positions |
| Valve Type: | Speed Safety Valve |
| Warranty: | None |
Both kids and adults will enjoy the versatility and number of different riding options that the Poparazzi has to offer.
With a capacity of three riders, both kids and adventurous adults can enjoy riding together with their friends or family members in a manner that’s comfortable for them.
The Speed Safety Valve makings inflating and deflating the unit a breeze, not to mention extremely quick.
Optional Accessories
If you are interested in purchasing extra accessories to accompany your new ski tube, check out these products which all complement the SportsStuff Towable Poparazzi:
- Kwik Tek Airhead Kwik-Connect
- Kwik Tek Airhead 4 Rider Tube Rope
Pros
The number one feature of the Poparazzi is by far the number of different riding styles riders can choose from.
It’s like owning a number of different style towable ski tubes all in one convenient and fun product making it a great investment.
You can please a number of riders, from the ones who enjoy lying down, to the more adventurous ones who want to stand up, without needing to purchase a number of different tubes.
Cons
A few customers felt that the product did not withstand the test of time and either began to tear or got a hole in it after a few months or a full season of riding.
Because it is in the higher price range when it comes to inflatables, this can become an inconvenience. It is important to note that not everyone experienced this situation and it may have to do with the way they maintained and stored the unit, and whether they followed proper inflation and deflation instructions, etc.
If you would prefer a smaller unit that is easier to store but still accommodates multiple riders, check out my review for the Airhead Slice 2 Person Towable Inflatable.
Consumer Reviews
Over 80% of customers gave this unit average to above average ratings and also mentioning that the Poparazzi is one of the best tubes they’ve ever purchased.
Price
The SportsStuff Towable Poparazzi ski tube is top-of-the-line when it comes to towables, and the price does reflect that.
However, because of its versatility and the ability to use it in a number of different manners, it really is a good investment as you would only need to purchase one of these tubes to match the experience of 3 to 4 other types of tubes.
You will be able to save money if you go through Amazon since they often have the best price for this unit.
Sportsstuff Big Mable | 1-2 Rider
The Sportsstuff Big Mable is the perfect adventure comrade. It can comfortably accommodate two people who are willing to take a thrilling adventure.
It comes with two handles that go a long way in ensuring that one can ride kneeling, prone or even when seated with a comfortable backrest.
The unique shape it comes with plays a very integral role in making this a reality. It also has dual tow points for ensuring that every brand new ride brings a thrilling experience.
Every family that wants to get the very best out of it’s holiday and adventure retreats has to definitely own this product.
Design & Rider Capacity
Super Mable is a “ride-on” towable tube that lets up to 3 riders have hours of endless fun. This particular inflatable tube is designed so that riders can ride one of two ways. When towing Super Mable from the front side, the riders sit with their backs against the backrest, whereas when Super Mable is towed from the back side, the riders stand or kneel with their stomachs up against the backrest-turned-riser in a chariot position. This creates two different riding experiences in one product.
This towable tube is designed with a heavy- duty full nylon cover with zipper and EVA foam pads to provide riders with a comfortable ride, no matter how bumpy it is.
There are a number of grab handle with knuckle guards in different locations so riders can keep themselves secure no matter which way they are being towed.
The air-cushioned side walls help keep riders on board during whip turns and bumpy rides, while the whole raft itself makes a nice place to lounge when not being towed.
Size
When inflated, Super Mable measures in at 75in x 73 in (LxW) and has a weight limit capacity of 510lbs.
While some towable ski tubes are flat, this particular model includes the backrest/front riser which adds a great deal to the height.
If you keep your towables inflated through most of the summer because you use them often, you may have issues finding a place to store this one due to the height it sits off the ground.
Features
Here’s a look at the specs and features for Super Mable:
| Number of Riders: | 3 |
| Ride Style: | Sit, Stand or Kneel-On -Top |
| Number of Handles: | 8 Handles |
| Valve Type: | Speed Safety Valve |
| Warranty: | None |
The two-way towable design creates a different riding experience depending on the way the backrest is facing. When being pulled from the front, riders can enjoy being pulled in a seated position.
When being pulled from the back side, riders get the “chariot” experience. The placement of the handles lets riders keep themselves secure whether they are seated, standing, or kneeling making it a fun ride for everyone.
Optional Accessories
If you are interested in purchasing extra accessories to accompany your new ski tube, check out these products which all complement Super Mable.
- Kwik Tek Airhead 4 Rider Tube Rope
- Kwik Tek Airhead Kwik-Connect
- SportsStuff 4K Booster Ball Towable Tube 2012
Pros
The versatility of this product is one of the best features about Super Mable. Being able to ride the tube in two different manners while also being able to use it as a lounger makes it a great value. Because of the size and design, it takes a whole lot before it would flip over so this particular towable is great for riders of all ages.
Cons
Some customers have complained about the bladder leaking and needing to replace it on several occasions. This can be an issue since people want to spend time riding the tube, not maintaining it. One customer did suggest that when you go to deflate the tube you will need to wiggle the plug out and not pull it, as this is what typically causes tears and leaks in the bladder.
Sportsstuff Grandstand
This towable ski tube was designed for one rider and lets them stand, sit, lay, or even kneel to increase the versatility and riding experience for every rider. If you are a natural daredevil, you can stand and steer the tube over the wakes and around whip turns. Or, for those who aren’t as adventurous, simply lay or sit down and still get the ride of your life.
The SPORTSSTUFF GRANDSTAND 1 is made of a heavy-duty nylon cover and features a heavy-gauge PVC bladder to ensure it will withstand the test of time and be around for many boating seasons. It also contains a heavy-duty reinforced towing system so the riders will remain secure and the raft will be extra-durable handling bumps and bruises with ease.
Size
The SPORTSSTUFF GRANDSTAND 1 is neither too big nor too small when it comes to both riding it and carrying it on the boat. All though it is a bit wider than most one person towables, it is extremely versatile, so the extra width only makes it that much more usable. It will still stow nicely away on boats and can deflate to a size that will allow it to store easily, even in tight spaces.
Features
Here’s a look at the specs and features for the SPORTSSTUFF GRANDSTAND 1:
| Number of Riders: | 1 |
| Ride Style: | Stand, Sit, Lay |
| Number of Handles: | 4 Handles |
| Valve Type: | Speed Safety Valve |
| Warranty: | None |
The SPORTSSTUFF GRANDSTAND 1 may only be a one-person towable ski tube, but its versatility lets it act like 4 towables in one product. If an experienced rider is comfortable with standing, they can use it as a true ski tube and navigate it over wakes and around whip turns. On the other hand, if the rider is a beginner and is more comfortable sitting or lying down, they have that option too. The speed safety valve allows for quick inflation and deflation, which is one less hassle you’ll have to worry about when your family is anxious and excited to get out on the water.
Optional Accessories
If you are interested in purchasing extra accessories to accompany your new ski tube, check out these products which all complement the SPORTSSTUFF GRANDSTAND 1:
- SportsStuff 4K Aluminum Quick Connector
- SportsStuff 4K Booster Ball Towable Tube 2012
Pros
The best feature of this towable is the versatility it offers. More experienced riders can stand on the tube for a more exhilarating ride. Younger riders can sit, kneel, or lay down, whichever is more comfortable, and still get an extremely enjoyable ride.
Cons
While this towable is great for an individual rider, many people prefer to experience this type of fun with friends or family members, which is not possible with this particular raft. If you have children or teens that like to share towable ski tubes with other riders, you might want to opt for a larger towable that can accommodate more than one rider.
AIRHEAD AHGF-3 G-Force Inflatable Towable Review
This Airhead masterpiece is made from only the highest quality materials especially the 840-denier double-stitched nylon cover; the 6 good-quality nylon-wrapped handles complete with corresponding neoprene knuckle guards.
The Airhead AHGF-3 has been tested for durability and has a capacity of up to three riders. It is also equipped with a Speed Safety Valve and a Boston Valve that make it easy and quick to inflate and deflate.
From the G-Force line of products, Airhead AHGF-3 boasts of the qualities that make it deserving of being called an Airhead. All Airhead towable tubes are equipped with 30-gauge PVC bladders as well as an 840 denier nylon used as cover.
This defines the durability of the Airhead AHGF-3. The topside stabilizer fins can even be used when the family goes against the water current’s centrifugal force.
This way, you can stay safe even with strong currents. Also, with small 78 in x 75 in dimensions when deflated, the Airhead AHGF-3 does not take up a big space when you have to keep it.
With a style fit for all ages, the Airhead AHGF-3 allows an open central area that is big enough for your drinks and cooler if you and your friends just want to have a relaxing day.
More than that, the cool, tough design and the clever interplay of red, white and black hues create one amazing experience that you and your friends can never forget.
Known as one of the best tubes ever to dominate the Airhead line of towable tubes, the Airhead AHGF-3 boasts of its reputation as both a strong and safe choice in the towable tube department.
Kwik Tek Jumbo Dog Inflatable Towable
Kwik Tek has a number of great ski tubes for multiple riders; one being the Jumbo Dog Inflatable Towable.
If you have a large family or travel with a number of people when you go to the beach or lake, this model is the way to go.
Design & Rider Capacity
Up to 5 riders can enjoy a safe but fast glide across the water on the Kwik Tek Jumbo Dog Inflatable Towable.
The Jumbo Dog features three 30-gauge vinyl air chambers fully encased by a top-of-the-line double stitched 1,680-denier nylon cover, and also contains neoprene seat pads as well as deluxe nylon wrapped handles with neoprene knuckle guards to keep your hands safe and comfortable during bumpy rides.
Size
The Kwik Tek Jumbo Dog Inflatable Towable measures in at 12 long x 49 inches wide. You will most certainly need to deflate it to store it, otherwise you are going to need a large space for storage.
On top of everything else, it comes with a 90 Day Limited Warranty to help ensure your investment is protected for an entire riding season.
Features
Here’s a look at the specs and features for the Kwik Tek Jumbo Dog Inflatable Towable:
| Number of Riders: | 5 |
| Ride Style: | Sit/Straddle Ride-On Towable |
| Number of Handles: | 5 Sets of Handles |
| Valve Type: | Boston Valve |
| Warranty: | 90 Day Limited Warranty |
If you have a large family or travel with a number of people, this tube is a great option so that everyone can have fun at the same time. The stability of this unit makes it perfect for adults and children alike, and is especially good for riders that don’t have a lot of experience with riding on towables since it is hard to flip over.
You will be able to easily and quickly hook up the tow rope with the heavy duty Kwik-Connect system, and the Jumbo Dog is also equipped with a Boston valve for the ultimate in inflating and deflating convenience. On top of everything else, it comes with a 90 Day Limited Warranty to help ensure your investment is protected for an entire riding season.
Optional Accessories
If you are interested in purchasing extra accessories to accompany your new ski tube, check out these products which all complement the Kwik Tek Jumbo Dog Inflatable Towable:
- Kwik Tek Airhead 6000 lb Tube Tow Rope
- Kwik Tek Tow Harness Self Centering Pulley 12 feet
Pros
The Kwik Tek Jumbo Dog Inflatable Towable is a great option for a large group of people. The best feature is the durable design which features top-of-the-line, heavy duty 1,680-denier nylon which will help ensure it’s around for years to come no matter how much of a beating it takes.
Another great feature is its sturdiness and stability which makes it a fun ride for young and older riders alike, even if they don’t have a lot of riding experience. Because it’s hard to tip over, riders can enjoy a fast but safe ride.
Cons
The sheer size of the Jumbo Dog proves to be a hassle when it comes to storing and toting the inflatable. The best way to do both is to keep in deflated until you are ready to use it. If you have a larger boat, travelling with the towable won’t be as difficult as it would with a smaller boat. Another option is to tow it from a dock or shallow water, and then have the riders mount it once you get to deeper water.
Kwik Tek Sportsstuff Gyro Towable
The Kwik Tek Gyro is a one-person concept towable that provides the rider with a unique experience not found in typical towable ski tubes.
This inflatable tube is not for the faint-of-heart as the bullet-shaped Gyro will be sent into a spin with a simple turn of the boat.
The swivel-tow system, made of durable stainless steel, lets the Gyro roll and tumble over wakes and around whip turns while the rider who is lying inside of the tube watches the action through the clear port hole.
The unit is constructed with heavy-duty K80 PVC and features molded PVC handle system and PVC grommets to help ensure the towable will be able to withstand all of the rough and tough tumbles and flips through the water.
The Gyro will be a new experience for many riders. Instead of simply gliding over the water like most towables, it spins, twists, and turns over wakes and whip turns. Because of its design, it only accommodates one person at a time, but is still durable enough to provide hours of fun over and over again.
The speed safety valve is designed to make for quick inflation and deflation which is a plus for people who are eager to get out on the water, and too tired from having so much fun to spend more than a few minutes deflating their toys.
Size
Since the inflatable is not flat in shape like other types of towable ski tubes, it does take up a bit of space on the boat since it is pretty tall in height. Luckily, it is not as large as multi-person tubes so it will have a smaller footprint which is a good thing for people tight on storage.
Features
Here’s a look at the specs and features for the Kwik Tek Gyro Tube:
| Number of Riders: | 1 |
| Ride Style: | Concept-Tube, Lay In |
| Number of Handles: | 2 Handles |
| Valve Type: | Speed Safety Valve |
| Warranty: | None |
The Gyro will be a new experience for many riders. Instead of simply gliding over the water like most towables, it spins, twists, and turns over wakes and whip turns. Because of its design, it only accommodates one person at a time, but is still durable enough to provide hours of fun over and over again.
The speed safety valve is designed to make for quick inflation and deflation which is a plus for people who are eager to get out on the water, and too tired from having so much fun to spend more than a few minutes deflating their toys.
Optional Accessories
If you are interested in purchasing extra accessories to accompany your new ski tube, check out these products which all complement the Quik Tek Gyro Towable Ski Tube:
- Kwik Tek Airhead Kwik-Connect
- Kwik Tek Tow Harness Self Centering Pulley 12 feet
Pros
The best feature of the Kwik Tek Gyro Towable is its unique yet durable design. Because it offers an experience different from most towable ski tubes, it is in a class all its own and can provide a truly exhilarating ride for those individuals who crave adrenaline rushes. The manufacturer also realized how durable this product must be in order to withstand the bumps, dumps, and smashes that come with such a uniquely designed unit. The K80 PVC cover ensures a long lifespan for the product while the PVC handles and knuckle guards keep the rider secure and comfortable inside the tube.
Cons
There aren’t many negatives to this unit; however it is important to note that this type of towable ski tube is not meant for the faint-of-heart. The Gyro is meant for older and experienced riders who don’t get enough of a rush on regular ski tubes so children and the elderly are best to choose a different type of inflatable.
SPORTSSTUFF 53-2223 Super Mable Towable Review
This is the pride of Sportsstuff and one best tube in their line of finest quality towable tubes. Sportsstuff 53-2223 is only a slight variation of the best towable tube classic Super Mable.
Sportsstuff 53-2223 defines its durability through the heavy-duty full nylon cover with zipper and self bailing drain vents.
This sports equipment also features multiple double-webbed grabs handles complete with safety knuckle guards to enable you to vary your positions as you maneuver the tube.
Sportsstuff 53-2223 also features the usual essentials of every good towable tube. This piece of equipment has a patented speed safety valve for easy and quick inflation and deflation processes. It also has EVA foam sitting pads and air-cushioned side walls for a guaranteed high level of comfort during the ride. The side wall will also keep you on the board for the rest of your exhilarating water sports experience.
It also takes pride in its uniquely structured and newly redesigned backrest as well. The new design graphics of the towable tube also adds to its unique identity as one of the best boat tubes there is on the market today.
In fact, that’s not all! Sportsstuff 53-2223 has an aluminum Quick Connect tow point that is designed to help you save time. The self bailing drain vents of the Sportsstuff 53-2223 also become the reason why this towable tube is the best relaxation equipment whether you’re on the beach or at the lake.
Your towable tube readily converts into your perfect lounge while it takes up very little space when deflated.
SPORTSSTUFF 53-1329 Big Bertha Towable Review
The name Big Bertha is a legend among towable tubes. Big Bertha Towable is a giant classic that can accommodate up to 4 riders.
It has a popular patented Quick connect tow system that makes the whole towable tube fast and easy to use. You can simply tow rope over Quick Connect, and you’re off to your water sports adventure.
Big Bertha Towable is also equipped with non-slip foam handles that have padded knuckle guards for that overall easy grip. This big bertha tube also features an air cushioned floor for that comfortable ride that you and your friends deserve to enjoy.
Durability is also another name for the big bertha towable. This popular towable tube is built from extra tough double-stitched cover made partially from nylon.
The big bertha tube also has a heavy-duty K80 PVC bladder to complement the air-cushioned floor and to make it last longer than your usual towable tube. This floor and bladder can support up to 680 pounds of weight, so it is more or less very safe.
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy their time with this 4-person action big bertha towable tube. Added features to the equipment include a speed safety valve for quick and easy inflation and deflation as well as reflective safety piping for the same purpose.
Lastly, all towable tube reviews point out to the sleek design of the big bertha tube with its attractive and proud logo emphasized by yellow, blue, red hues.
O’Brien Super Screamer Inflatable Tow Tube, 70-Inch Review
This tow tube goes by a popular classic name – Super Screamer. This is the biggest and best towable tube of the Screamer family of tubes.
The Screamer family has proven through the years that their towable tubes are the best regarding construction quality and durability.
The full 420D nylon cover is strong enough to support a great amount of weight, and the 26 gauge PVC makes it much stronger. It will surely be strong enough to handle you and your friend. All towable tube reviews say the same thing about the Super Screamer – this tube will make you scream!
In addition to the full nylon cover that defines its durability, the Super Screamer is equipped with a Boston valve for the ease and convenience of inflating and deflating the tube. The Boston valve is extra strong so that it does not deflate while you’re having fun and screaming your lungs out with your friend.
The Super Screamer’s Quick Connect Tow Hook system makes the tube fast and easy to use. Just tow rope over this Quick Connect Tow Hook system, and you’ll see how the whole tube goes. Your screams will be endless and your water sports adventure unforgettable.
The Super Screamer’s 6 handles designed with EVA Knuckle-Guards make it the best tube for boating. The Knuckle-Guards make it safe and convenient to maneuver and control the whole tube.
Thus, this ensures a safe and worry-free fun and adventure with your friend or a cool and safe meditative experience when you want to be alone. Also, the blue, black and white colors of the towable tube give more life to your amazingly good water sports experience with the Super Screamer.
AIRHEAD AHSL-4W Slice 2 Person Towable Tube Review
Here’s another Airhead masterpiece from the well-known Airhead classic collection of best boat tubes.
Made with materials of the best and highest quality, the Airhead Slice has become the very definition of durability, fun, and safety for all ages.
A 30-gauge PVC bladder with a double-stitched nylon cover strengthens the whole tube, and its internal tow harness guarantees much safety for you and your friend’s unforgettable water sports experience.
With the Airhead Slice’s four handles technically wrapped in nylon plus its neoprene knuckle guard makes movement easy and the handling comfortable.
The knuckle also keeps everything under control. The Kwik-connect system of the Airhead Slice allows easy hook-ups for guaranteed safety. Also, the Boston valve as always provides so much ease and convenience in inflation and deflation.
This purple, black towable tube always makes for an exciting design that will add up to an amazingly unforgettable water adventure. With its 6-inch height at the back, the Airhead Slice is easy for you and your friend to climb even in the water.
The simple building of the Airhead Slice also provides for a very easy and safe boating experience for beginners and for all those who are new to the towable tube.
The material from which their head Slice is made from the usually great Airhead standard quality that has been well known among water sports enthusiasts for many years.
AIRHEAD AHM2-2 Mach 2 Towable Review
One of the best tubes in the market today is another valuable piece of the popular Airhead collection of towable tubes.
The Airhead Mach 2 is unique in that it features a rather flexible purpose in accommodating both children and adults. There is enough space in the Airhead Mach 2 for almost any size to fit as it gives great exciting fun for people of all ages.
The Cockpit Tube of the Airhead Mach 2 is unique in that it offers both secure area for the kids while offering a separate area with more freedom for teens and adults too.
Thus, it makes everyone happy.
The Airhead quality of best construction materials makes for guaranteed durability and safety. Also the heavy gauge PVC bladder along with the Double Stitched Nylon Cover allows the support of almost the heaviest possible user.
After all, Airhead is a name of a great leader in strength when it comes to towable tubes. With a patented Speed Safety Valve, there is no reason to fear any problem or any untoward incident while you are enjoying the Airhead Mach 2 with friends and family.
The overall spaceship design of this towable tube is also most unforgettable to children and people of all generations. It is hilarious and amazing. The light blue color also makes for a sleek and attractive appearance.
Lastly, the inflated floors, the four deluxe handles completely designed with neoprene knuckle guards all make for a fun and comfortable ride with you and your family.
Towable Tube Buying Guide
Towable tubes are a fun way to enjoy water activities with friends and family. If you want the best towable tube experience, then you should be able to buy the best tube that should fit your and your family’s needs and wants. The best thing to do is to familiarize yourself first with how towable tubes basically work.
The Basics of Towable Tubes
Towable tubes are constructed in such a way that they should be tied behind a towboat while accommodating one, two or more riders. Towable tubes are actually very similar to ski tubes that are used during winter sports. However, those who ride the towable tube do not have to know how to do water skiing. Basically, a towable tube has an inner tube for passengers to sit. The whole tube i
s safely held in place by a special tow rope to which the tube is attached. The nylon material of the rope makes the towable tube float freely in the water, thus allowing it more freedom of movement and preventing it from getting entangled in the propellers of your boat.
Making Your Choice from Two or More Types of Towable Tubes
There are only two-person or three-or-more-person towable tubes. Any of them can also accommodate a single person if he or she wants to stay alone. Two-person towable tubes are usually ideal for partners and lovers or two friends who want to have a quiet time together or a great and exciting water adventure for just the two of them. For two-person tubes, please make sure that the combined area of the seat is wide enough to accommodate you and your friend. Space should be large enough for you and your companion to recline in a very comfortable way. Moreover, you should try to make sure that the shape of the towable tube suits your level of comfort and convenience. If you and your companion prefer more freedom with your stretched bodies, then you can go for the elongated tubes. If not, then you can go for the traditional roundish shape.
For towable tubes that can accommodate three or four people, make sure that the area is large enough to accommodate all of you. Furthermore, just like when choosing two-person towable tubes, go for a shape that satisfies you and your friends better. It could be elongated or raft-like or a rounded triangle. The important thing is that you’re all happy and comfortable with it. Nonetheless, do not sacrifice all the value of safety. Always make sure that the tube has a high back constructed with it. The high back should wrap around so that the passengers sitting along the side are held safely in place.
General Safety Precautions
When riding the towable tube, especially when riding a large one with at least three people in it including you, make sure that everyone is holding on to two handles during the ride. This way, you can make sure that no one falls off the tube. Holding on to the handles is essential even before passengers should take off in the boat.
The most important thing to do before using your towable tube is to refer to the boat owner’s manual and to scan it thoroughly especially the section on safety precautions. Make sure that the number of riders or their combined weight does not necessarily interfere with the engine and the propulsion system. Usually, there is a weight limit to observe so that there is no unnecessary pressure on the towable tube propulsion system and engine. It is also plain common sense for you to check the security of your towing connections as well as all the mechanical systems of the tube. While you’re at it, make sure that all fluid levels are appropriate.
What About Harnessing and Towing the Boat?
Before getting the tube hooked up to the harness and boat, make sure that all the hardware is in very good condition and that nothing is too rusty or old. The area around which the tube should move must be around 100 feet of water so that the tube can freely move from side to side. Moreover, make sure that there is at least 3,000 feet deep of water in the direction that you are facing so that you don’t have to turn all the time. In this “boating fast zone,” make sure that water is at least 6 feet deep and that there should not be any underwater hazards.
You also need a spotter that can watch the boat for you at all times. He should be a trusted person and should be different from the captain of the boat. This spotter should constantly communicate with the captain regarding the status of the people in the tube. The spotter should also be ready to hold out a ski safety flag in case a ride falls off the tube.
What If You Have Kids?
If you want your kids to join your water sports experience with your towable tube, make sure that you purchase a cockpit tube. They are the safest for young children because of the security that the cockpit provides to the kid just like in a car.
Also, always have an adult rider together with the kids. If it is a two-person towable tube, make sure that one of them is an adult if the other one is a kid. This is all for safety. Just in case the tube flips and the kid are either having a difficulty swimming or is trapped underneath the tube, then the adult companion can readily assist.
What Should You Do to Prepare for Emergencies?
Towable tubes are never spared from occasional accidents and emergencies. If the towing rope snaps or in case the entire tube flips, then there is a good chance that passengers would fall off the boat. If you or your friends and family members do not know how to swim, make sure that you are also ready wearing life jackets before boarding the tube. Also, make sure that there are not too many towable tubes or boats near you so that you can avoid any unwanted collision with any of them.
What Should You Do as a Driver?
As the towable tube driver, make sure that all the tube riders are safe and that the other boats and tube riders near should remain safe. Also, make sure that the size of the area for towing the tube should be wide and safe enough.
Do not drive the towable tube too fast so that you and the other passengers won’t fall off the tube or fly into the water. Speeds should not exceed 20 mph when everyone is an adult or 15 mph when there are kids on board. Slow down the boat so that the tube can also follow through with a similar speed or that the tube does not slam itself onto the boat. One thing to remember, towable tubes do not have steering or brake systems. Thus, the spotter or boat driver or any of you riding the boat should be sharp enough to remain attentive to the position of the boat.
As a driver of the tube, you should also make sure you have boater courtesy. You can do this if you try to be gentle if you want to change directions or turn the boat so that the tube passengers are not disturbed and should still know where you are exactly going. This boater courtesy should also mean that your movements are made obvious to other boaters around so that they would know where you are headed.
Lastly, make sure that you maintain good communication with the tube passengers for safety. You should also make sure that the tube riders know the meaning of simple hand gestures as well as emergency signals using the hand.
What About the Length of the Rope?
Ropes are the essential piece of equipment for your towable tube. Ropes are used to harness the towable tube to the boat. First, of all make sure that the towable tube is at least 20 inches away from the boat so that the tube passengers cannot be exposed to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is the gas that comes out of the exhaust pipe of the boat and is a poison that harms the body systems.
Make sure that the general length of the rope is a minimum of 50 inches and a maximum of 65 inches.
Tube ropes cannot be the same in strength and quality as water ski ropes. Tube ropes must have higher break strengths and so would not break that easily compared to water ski ropes. Also, try to ensure that the tube ropes should be appropriate and directly proportional to the size of the tube. Three-person or four-person tubes cannot exactly be accommodated by a rope whose strength is only suited for a two-person towable tube. If you have one rider, rope tensile strength should be at least 1500 lbs. Two riders require a minimum of 2375 lbs, while three riders need at least 3350 lbs. Lastly, four riders need around 4100 lbs.
How Can You Enjoy Maximum Performance with Your Towable Tube?
If you want some tubes that will have a higher speed in the water and will skim faster on it, then you have to go for a towable tube that has a shape whose surface area is mostly not in contact with water. A convex shape is ide
al for this purpose such as the one in which Airhead Mach 2 is shaped.
The next thing to do is to inflate the towable tube properly. What is important here is that you should choose a tube with a high-performance Boston valve. Fill the tube with enough air.
A useful indication for this is the least amount of resistance that the tube undergoes when it glides with water.
This is best tested when one person who is usually an expert rides on it and feels the least resistance as the tube glides. Alternatively, you may also use a towable tube pump to inflate the tube easily and at a reasonable level. Nonetheless, an expert still needs to try it out on the water.
Under-inflated tubes usually revert to a distorted shape immediately and become damaged as a result. Over-inflated tubes, on the other hand, usually causes stress on the PVC bladder and the cover seams. This will also eventually damage the towable tube.
Conclusion
Everyone loves water sports, and one fun, exciting yet safe way to enjoy your next water sports experience is through towable tubes. From the Airhead to the Big Bertha to the Super Scream series, towable tubes come in very attractive shapes and designs.
Nonetheless, if you want to maximize enjoyment of your towable tube, always make sure it is big enough to accommodate you and your friends or family. It should include high-quality parts like a nylon cover, a PVC bladder, knuckle guards, and a Boston valve.
You should also make sure that kids should have at least one adult with them, that there should be a spotter to watch the tube, and that the rope should be of ideal length. Speed should also remain within ideal limits as well as the amount of air used to inflate the tube.
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