Table of Contents
Best Inner Tube Float Reviews 2020
The weather reports this Friday will be in the high 80’s and your friends invited you to go along on a river ride on inner tubes. You tell them, yes, but now you require an inner tube. There is a difference between regular pool floating device and those you take on down a river. In this review, we will explain the difference between these two floating tubes, give an overview of five fabulous products, and provide a few tips to look for when choosing an inner tube float.
Best Seller: Tube in a Box the Original Swim and Snow Tube
- Safety valve stem: No more being poked with one of those long metal stems from the old days
- UV protected/tear resistant: These inner tubes are UV protected so the sun won't harm the tube and cause it to deflate prematurely
- Proper inflation: be sure to properly inflate this inner tube to the full 40" outside diameter for best results
Last update on 2020-08-26 at 04:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Tube in a Box is designed with a safety valve stem that will not poke you and not one of those old metal ones either this one is made out of rubber. This inner tube is made out of durable 100 percent commercial grade rubber and is great for a combination tube for floating and sledding.
This combination tube is strong enough to withstand going down a rough river with strong rapids and the smooth, even keel of the lake. It is also durable enough to sled down a mountainside or hillside in the wintery snow without puncturing the inner tube. This tube is large enough for two young children as well as a large teen or an adult to enjoy, but it’s best for those who are below 195 pounds and no taller than 5 feet, 7 inches.
This lightweight design is not a skinny style inner tube; its inflatable capacity reaches 40 inches, so be sure to fill it full of air for best results. The design is controlled in the same manner with or without a cover, which is pretty much a free for all when going down a snow-filled hilly slope.
Features:
- Rubber coated safety valve
- Made out of 100 percent commercial grade rubber
- UV protected and tear-resistant
Verdict: The Tube in a Box versatile design is great for water warriors, river rats, snow bunnies, and thrill-seekers. The amazing durability design keeps the inner tube full of air during the roughest adventures and is the best seller in the inner tube industry.
Pros:
- It only weighs six pounds
- Is durable and strong
- Good to be used in the water or on the snow
Cons:
- No handles to grab onto
Top Pick: Trans American Swim and Snow Adventure Tube
- 100% COMMERCIAL GRADE RUBBER (latex free) INFLATE TO AN OD OF 45"
- SAFETY VALVE STEM: No more being poked with one of those long metal stems from the old days. Our original rubber valve stem & cap is...
- UV PROTECTED / TEAR RESISTANT: These inner tubes are UV protected so the sun won't harm the tube and cause it to deflate prematurely. The...
Last update on 2020-08-26 at 04:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Swim and Snow Adventure tube is made out of 100 percent commercial grade rubber and is latex-free, which is great for those who are allergic. The valve stem is designed with an original rubber valve and cap that is engineered with a user’s safety in mind. The inner tube lining is UV protected to keep the sun from deflating it too early.
This Trans American design is not like the vinyl tubes; instead, the rubber is tough and tear-resistant. These tubes all come in black, but can easily be decorated with a simple design by using plastic paint. When using stenciling to make a design have the tube un-inflated for best results. The 45-inch extra-large inner tube provides the best result in the water and snow when fully inflated.
Features:
- 100 percent commercial grade rubber (latex-free)
- Safety rubber valve stem
- UV protected and tear-resistant
- Dimensions 13.7 x 9 x 5.3 inches
Verdict: The Trans American 45-inch tube is suitable for those who weigh up to 280 pounds and is our top pick in this review. This tube great to go flying down a snowy hillside, but also great to relax in the lake as you soak up the sun. Overall this Swim and Snow Adventure Tube is great for thrill-seekers that like to go fast down the hillside and water warriors. Also, for those who are highly allergic to latex, this inner tube has got you covered.
Pros:
- It is latex-free
- It has a safety valve stem
- Inner tubes are UV protected
- They are easy to decorate
Cons:
- There is always a slim chance that the tube could get a pinhole in it
Best Value: Hornet Sport Tube
- The popular Hornet 40" sport tube for swim and snow fun
- SAFETY VALVE STEM: No more being poked with one of those long metal stems from the old days. Our original rubber valve stem & cap is...
- Perfect for use in snow tube covers.
Last update on 2020-08-26 at 04:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Hornet Sports 40-inch tube design is not intended for those who weigh 200 pounds or more as the tube may become too low in the water, but for lighter users, it works great. The KL053 valve steam and cap is engineered for safety; it protects against scratches, bruises, or cuts to the skin.
Furthermore, the cap is made out of smooth, durable plastic that covers the valve well enough so you will not even see it; in fact, you may even forget it’s part of the inner tube unless it loses some air which very unlikely. This inner tube has three distinctive standard aspects such as maneuverability, durability, and a relaxing amount of room.
The Hornet inner tube has a UV protective layer of commercial-grade rubber to help keep the inner tube from deflating. There is also a tear-resistant feature that protects the tube from pointy rocks and twigs that may be sticking up out of the water or snowy hillside. These styles of inner tubes all come in black, but can easily have a colorful cover over it to give it more protection and flare.
Features:
- Safety rubber valve stem and cap
- Made out of commercial-grade rubber
- UV protected and tear-resistant
- Dimensions 14 X 9 X 4 inches
Verdict: The Hornet Sport Tube is an excellent floating device for relaxing on the river or lake, but also strong and durable enough to slide down a snow-filled mountain or hillside. Overall, it is the best for the money for its versatile tube design.
Pros:
- The rubber valve will not puncture your skin
- It is UV protected
- Durable and tear-resistant
Cons:
- Not made for someone that is over 200 pounds
Runner Up: Bradley River Tube with Patented Heavy Duty Cover
- Cover measures 42" diameter when deflated (36" diameter when inflated). Ideal for kids up to 100 lbs.
- Heavy Duty 1100 denier plastic coated canvas top,
- 1000 denier micro mesh bottom lets water pass through while providing superior protection against abrasion by rocks, tree branches, and...
Last update on 2020-08-26 at 04:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Bradley River Tube is designed with a tight mesh bottom, which helps the tube to keep moving and glide over low rocks without getting stuck. This American tube is made with an 1100 denier plastic coated top that is highly protected by a patented heavy-duty cover. These covers are available in green, blue, and red. These covers also come with two link loops to interconnect to other Bradley inner tubes for a group adventure.
When you’re going through the river rapids, don’t forget to hold on to one of the handles that are connected to the side of the cover. The River Tube also comes with a micro-mesh bottom which is made out of 1000 denier mesh fabric. It allows the water to flow through the center of the inner tube while protecting the tube from debris that can be found flowing in the river or near the embankment.
Features:
- Heavy Duty 1100 denier has a plastic-coated canvas top
- 1000 denier micro-mesh bottom lets water pass-through
- Comes with a cover that measures 42 inches in diameter when deflated (36 inches when inflated)
- One five-inch aluminum quick link and two link loops
- Made in the USA
- Safety rubber valve stem and cap
Verdict: This linking heavy-duty river tube is the just the thing for tubing enthusiast and the top pick in the tubing industry. This American made tube is ideal for kids up to 100 pounds and is not intended for pulling behind a motorized vehicle.
Pros:
- The mesh bottom protects against abrasions by tree branches, rocks, and other debris
- Made with a heavy-duty canvas top
- Covers come in four different colors
Cons:
- The cover may not last as long as the inner tube
Also Consider: Intex River Run 1 Sport Lounge, Inflatable Water Float, 53″ Diameter
- Have fun floating in the pool or at the lake with the Index River run I
- Designed with a built-in backrest for easy cruising and a mesh bottom that keeps you cool
- An all around grab rope is included for ease of use
Last update on 2020-08-26 at 03:33 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The River Run tube carries the ideal combination of three different criteria aspects such as good durability, plenty of room, and dual cup holders. The maneuverability of this water float tube allows you to navigate around rocks and other obstacles along the river or lake pathway. However, against the wind, this floating tube may be slightly more difficult to travel through your intended course.
The unique mesh seat design allows your body to be cradled in the inner tube and keep you cool all day. The mesh design also can handle the weight of a good amount of drinks and other supplies that you may need on your journey. Use the interlocking link to connect a Mega chill cooler for extra beverages or a sealed picnic lunch. The link can also be used to connect other sport lounge inner tubes together to help keep your friends close.
This 53-inch in diameter water float features two air chambers for the user’s safety; if one should break, you still will be able to float to make it to shore. Each River Run has two durable grab handles to help keep you secure and safe when you come across some river rapids. It comes with a comfortable built-in backrest that provides back support, added comfort, and helps to keep you centered in the inner tube.
Features:
- Comfortable mesh bottom
- Two built-in cup holders for beverages
- Two air chambers for added safety
- Two durable grab handles
- Connect and float system
- Built-in backrest for comfortability
Verdict: The River Run Sports Lounge is a more relaxed design than other floating devices and is great to float around at the lake. However, floating in the river is fine, but you will need to be careful not to snag it on any rocks as it may puncture a hole. Overall this floating device is great for a group of floaters.
Pros:
- Comfortable enough to spend the whole afternoon in
- Double cup holders
- Maneuverability is easy
Cons:
- Difficult to paddle against the wind
- Can easily be punctured
Best Inner Tube Float Buying Guide 2019
Features
Safety Rubber Valve Stem and Cap
The valve stem and cap is very important in keeping the inner tube full of air. The valve stems that are used today are much safer and doesn’t cause bruising, cuts, or scratches like the old metal ones. Covers are placed over these valves to help to prevent air from leaking out of the tube. These caps are made out of smooth, durable plastic and blends into the color of the tube.
Handle
Having a handle on your inner tube is great for those times when you run into fast and swift rapids or sledding down a steep hill. Some inner tubes don’t have this luxury, but some covers can be purchased to place around the inner tube that has handles built-in.
Comfort Features
Some inner tubes have headrest built-in for more comfortability. The mesh or canvas bottoms also add comfort to these styles of inner tubes. To provide you with the best possible comfort, be sure to put in the full amount of air in that it requires.
Canvas Bottom
A canvas bottom is just as strong and durable as a mesh bottom. In fact, the only difference between the two features is that the canvas bottom doesn’t allow water to flow through; which means, your beverages will need a small cooler to stay cool.
Mesh Bottom
A mesh bottom is a great feature to have in an inner tube. The mesh design supports your body in the best position for comfort. The durability and strength of the mesh can handle a good bit of weight, such as your favorite sealed beverage or other supplies. It also allows water to flow through to keep you and your beverages cool.
Connecters
Some styles of inner tubes have connectors that interconnect with each other to help to keep a whole group together. These connectors are great for when you have small children along for the ride; it also ensures that everybody gets there safely.
Durability
A user has a better chance of holes not developing when the inner tube is durable and strong. Many inner tubes in this review are built with 100 percent commercial rubber to give the best possible protection against debris and the best safety possible on the water.
Cup Holders
When you’re out on the water on a hot summer day, you should stay dehydrated, and having cup holders helps make that happen. Some inner tubes offer one or two cup holders; however, some don’t provide any at all. In that case, connect your inner tube to a Mega Chill Cooler by Intex.
Things Look for in Best Inner Tubes for River Floating and Sledding in the Snow
Inner Tube Maneuverability
Inner tubes or inflatable river floats are more desirable for those who wish to stay afloat on the river and are way better than pool floats. These styles can easily be guided down a river better than a big inflatable flamingo. These floatation devices are strong and durable enough to withstand a few bumps along the way. In fact, inner tubes can be easily maneuvered in the snow as well.
Inflation
This is one aspect that many people forget about, only to remember when you pull it out of the trunk of your car that you forgot to inflate it. The quickest way and best way to inflate these inner tubes are by using a pump. Trying to blow up these tubes by mouth could become exhausting and possibly making you tired before it is fully inflated. Believe me, spending the extra money for a pump will be well worth it.
Durability
You will want to look at what the inner tube is engineered to do and how the strength of the rubber. To be certain it can withstand those unexpected tiny sharp edges you may want to consider a canvas or mesh bottom. If you’re looking for an inner tube that is also great in the snow, be sure that it is made out of strong, durable commercial rubber.
The Advantages of Having a Floating Inner Tube
River inner tube floating can be done alone or with a group of friends; either way, you will be able to enjoy the fresh summer air breeze and the nature that surrounds the riverbed. It also keeps you cool on a hot summer day as you float downstream. There is no chlorine smell like a pool would have; in fact, all you will smell is the freshness of the outdoors. Another advantage would be that you could develop a strong connection with others that joined you on the river floating adventure.
The Advantages of Having a Snow Tube
Having a snow tube gives you the advantage over those who use a sled; this is because tubes go much faster across the packed snow. If you angle the tube just right, you may win all the snow races in your neighborhood. A snow tube also keeps you secure in the center of the tube; whereas, sleds may throw you off when you pop over hills.
Things to Remember When Using an Inner Tube on a River or a Snowy Hillside
One very important aspect when you’re out on the water is to protect your cell phone with a waterproof bag or leave it at home to be sure it will not get ruined. It may be awesome to post a selfie of yourself floating down the river, but it won’t be fun if it falls into the water. If the picture is that important to you, have a friend stand on a bridge that you will be going under or another safe area nearby to take the picture for you.
If you’re using the inner tube to sled down a hillside, be sure your cell phone is tucked far into your inside pocket for added protection. However, if you don’t want to take the chance of your cell falling out of your pocket and cracking the screen, keep it at home. Maritime laws may not apply on the river, but it’s always important to help those in need. Not everyone thinks ahead and may have hit the rapids to hard and flipped out of their inner tube, causing an injury.
As fast as these tubes go across packed snow, injuries could happen to anyone if it slides the wrong way. Always lend a hand out on the water or on those snow-packed hills you never know it maybe you next time. If you’re floating or sledding in a group, be sure to connect the tubes, so nobody gets left behind; this is especially important if there are small children along.
Don’t underestimate the river while you’re floating where river rapids are bound to be. If you’re floating in a lazy river, you should be aware that debris can show up quickly and can pop an inner tube that is not durable enough to take the hit. Miscalculations can happen quickly, so always be aware of your surroundings while sledding in the wintery snow. If you always plan ahead for something to potentially happen, then you’ll be ready for any given situation.
Things to Remember Before Going River Tubing
Pick Your Favorite River
One of the most significant aspects that determine the capability of a river tube is the water level and flow of the river. For instance, if the river’s water level is high, the current will be moving fast, which will not be the best condition for tubing. On the other hand, if the water level is low, you would not be able to drift or float down the river. The best way to determine the best flow rate for your inner tube is to read the guidelines as each inner tube may vary from one another.
Know the Rules
Are alcoholic drinks allowed on the river? Typically, it is safer to not to mix drinking with doing activities on the water. Are water and soda allowed on the river? Yes, but typically the rules indicate no glass or Styrofoam containers. Always look up the rules of the river’s location, so you’re not breaking any laws because they are likely to vary based on their location.
Check the Conditions
Before river tubing, always check the conditions of the water as the condition are never the same from one day to the next. Water conditions change every time it rains; which means, the nature in and around the river could change for the worse. If you are planning a trip with a group and you’re the leader, don’t have the group show up to a river that is unsafe to go river-tubing. Instead, check it out a few hours before the event.
Eat a Full Meal
Okay, I am sure you heard of the old wise tale, “don’t eat before swimming or jumping in the water” in this case, don’t listen to it. In fact, eating a full course meal will give you the energy that is necessary to complete several hours of a downstream trip. If you intend to be out on the water for more than three hours, you may want to bring a bag of healthy snacks in a waterproof bag or cooler.
Have an Exit Plan
There are several ways to have an exit plan. One way would have a second vehicle with one park at the endpoint and the other at the starting point. If you’re stuck with only one vehicle per group, go where a company offers to shuttle you to your starting point and have your vehicle at the end of the course. The hardest way to have an exit plan is by parking your car at the endpoint and maneuvering yourself upstream until you either get too tired or make it to the starting point before floating downstream.
Things to Remember Before Going Snow Tubing
Dress for the Weather
The secret to staying warm is wearing the right clothing for outdoor winter sports. Snow tubing is an activity that the whole family can enjoy, but if you’re not dressed properly, you could develop hypothermia. So, be sure to have waterproof boots, warm heavy socks, a snowsuit, and bring along some long underwear. Also, don’t forget, goggles, sunglasses, hat, and gloves.
Have a Designated Meeting Place
If you’re snow tubing with a group of people or other family members, have a meeting place set. If there is no meeting place, you would never know that something is wrong. Remember ski resort or mountain areas don’t always have service; so, don’t rely on your cell phone for communication because there are a lot of dead spots in those areas. If someone doesn’t show up to the meeting place, you could at least send out a search party to be sure that no one got hurt.
Bring a Change of Clothes
Staying dry is important to prevent hypothermia. It always makes sense to bring a change of clothes along even if you never use them. You will be using a lot of exertion while your snow tubing, which may cause you to sweat in your warm clothes. Having sticky, smelly clothes on the way home is no fun, but a dry clean set of clothes would make you feel refreshed.
Frequent Asked Questions
Are inner tubes strong enough to take sledding?
Yes, inner tubes made out of commercial rubber are the best for sledding. Be sure not to take a river inner tube or pool float to go sledding because the durability is not strong enough to withstand the rough texture of snow.
How do you inflate an inner tube?
Blowing up an inner tube by using your own breath can be time consuming and exhausting. The best way to inflate an inner tube is by using a pump, so you’re sure to have it at its full capacity.
What size inner tube is best for kids?
If a child is between 50 to 90 pounds, it’s best to have an inner tube that is 32 inches in diameter. If your child weighs 120 pounds or less, a 36-inch tube will work as well.
What size inner tube is best for adults?
An adult that weighs 120 to 175 pounds would be best suited to use a 40-inch tube. For those who weigh over 280 pounds would do better using a 45-inch tube. On the other hand, if you’re lucky enough to weigh only 120 pounds, you could easily get away with using a 36-inch tube.
Do inner tubes have covers to protect the rubber?
Yes, there are covers for inner tubes. In fact, some covers have handles and connectors to give you more accessories.
Is there a difference between a floating river tube and a snow tube?
River tubes are designed with welded seams, heavy-duty, hypoallergenic materials, and occasionally have cup holders and handles. These tubes are often open in the center or have mesh bottoms to help keep you cool.
Snow tubes are designed for snow and are typically made out of PVC fabrics that resist punctures, cuts, and tears. The seams are double welded to withstand downward impacts. These tubes look like big round donuts with handles and come in an assortment of colors.
How do you maneuver an inner tube around in the river?
Many floaters start upstream and float downstream; however, if you’re running into something debris, rock, or the embankment, then use your arms to maneuver yourself in the right direction.
Is it safe to wear flip flops in the river?
No, flip flops could fall off leaving with no protection for your feet against rocks and other debris. It is best to wear a pair of old sneakers that still have a good rubber sole.
On a cool day, is it okay to wear my sweats to float down the river?
Do not ever wear cotton on cool days. Cotton takes the body heat away when it gets wet and can cause hypothermia.
Would it be a safe idea if I floated down the river alone?
Doing things by yourself is great, but in this case, it is much safer if you go with at least one other person. If something goes wrong with someone or a group, then there is always someone to go for help if something unexpected happens.
Conclusion
That concludes our top five inner tubes for 2019. We decided on a variety of inner tubes that met different types of criteria so that you can have a well-rounded perspective. We also explained the main difference between a snow tube and a river tube. Keep in mind, when you’re purchasing an inner tube float, always take into account what you will use it for.
Whatever style you choose, be sure that the material is strong enough to withstand what you have in store for your inner tube. If you are looking for a dual inner tube that is great in the snow and water, consider our top pick, the Tran American Swim and Snow Adventure inner tube. Another impressive option for river use only is our runner up, the Bradley River Tube. If you want to go down the river without having to worry about getting defalted then you may want to look at a heavy-duty river tube option.