This summer your new goal is to make the most of your time on the water and a simple, exciting activity is boat tubing! Towing a tube behind your boat is an activity that the whole family can enjoy at any age. To find the right towable tube for your new or pre-owned boat requires you to think of the needs of the rider. Stability and safety should be top priorities, but manufactures don’t always accommodate these needs. Generally, they base it off of the number of people they can accommodate, brand, price, etc. Here’s how to choose the right towable tube for you and your rider:
1. Consider who will be riding the tube
– Depending on who’s riding will help you determine which tube will suit their needs best. Younger children need tubes that they can sit in, not on. Having a dedicated location for them to sit in and handles to hold on to will allow them to feel more stable and in control. If you have older children, they will begin to set their own set of tube preferences whether they want certain shapes, riding positions and even the ability to go airborne.
2. Determine the number of riders
– Tubes have different capacity limits. Some can carry one rider or you can consider getting a multi-person tube for side-by-side riding, but make sure you are not towing more people than the specified numbers of riders required for your particular tube.
3. Determine your budget and browse different online marine retailers
– There are several different brands of tubes at various prices so do your research to figure out what will suit your budget. Single or two person tubes are more affordable and are lighter, which won’t overwhelm your boat once it’s inflated, but multi-person tubes will have a higher capacity level and are nice for advanced riders. Weigh the pros and cons of the tube you’re eyeing.
4. Research different tube options for maneuverability, shape and riding position
– Choosing design is just as important! Open top tubes are the original donut style tube that are versatile and popular for all rider levels and ages. Deck tubes are similar and offer a quick ride, but require a strong grip and you to lie on your stomach. Ride-in and cockpit style tubes are great for younger kids and those seeking a more relaxed ride. Dual tow point tubes have a comfortable backrest and allow for a stable ride by having two tow points. Banana or toboggan style tubes are designed to be straddled for a sled-like experience. These are created to hold one to six riders, while some can carry up to 10 people. Rocker tubes have a curved surface giving the rider added maneuverability allowing them to shift their weight from side to side. Lastly, there’s unique concept tubes giving adventure seekers everywhere innovative tube designs to help reach the demands of high-performance riders.
5. Watch some of the tubes in action on YouTube and read some reviews
– Having a preview of how they behave on the water via videos help you see how they perform when used as intended and reviews allow people to be honest about their experience with different tube designs and brands.
Towable tubes are the best way to get kids out on the water having fun and are a great gateway to other watersports like wakeboarding or kneeboarding! Don’t forget you may need to upgrade when your kids outgrow them. If you’re looking for a brand new towable tube, stop by our dealership before you hit the water! We have several in stock that range in capacity and shape to make your boating weekend the best!