Best Inner Tube Float Review 2021
Last update on 2023-09-25 at 04:28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Few summer activities are as fun or relaxing as floating down a lazy river in the perfect inner tube. However, figuring out which one is right for you can be a tricky challenge– especially if you want to do more than just float.
Aside from any extra features, sizing the river tube is vital for both comfort and safety. That is why this list examines the 5 best inner tube floats, breaking down what each does best and who it’s for.
You can feel confident choosing one of these float tubes thanks to the buyer’s guide and FAQ. That way, you can find the best river float tube to suit your needs for your next river trip.
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 2023-09-25 at 04:28 / 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 inflatable tube for river tubing 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 float 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 of river 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 free for 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
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
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 river float tube full of air during the roughest adventures and is the best seller in the inner tube industry.
Top Pick: Trans American Swim and Snow Adventure Tube
- 100% COMMERCIAL GRADE HEAVY DUTY RUBBER (Latex free)
- 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 2023-09-25 at 04:28 / 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 float 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 river 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 river float 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
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
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 floating tube is 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.
Best Value: Bradley Heavy Duty Rubber Snow Tube | River Tube, Sledding Float | Pool Closing Inner Tube | Truck Inner Tubes
- ONE (1) Bradley butyl rubber inner tube. Part #85146. No colorful designs or fancy shelf box. Just heavy rubber inner tubes.
- SIZE: 40"-44" inflated diameter at full inflation. Tube becomes firm at 40". Continue to add air until tube has fully inflated (like a...
- FEATURES: Short valve stem for safety. Valve cap includes a valve stem removal tool for faster deflation.
Last update on 2023-09-25 at 04:28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Bradley heavy duty river tube is easily one of the best options for adults– especially those who are big and tall. With a maximum river tube size of 72”, you should have no trouble fitting even the biggest people for your next river tubing float trip. Thankfully, the Bradley float tube also comes in smaller sizes for kids, teens, and other adults.
Like many float tubes, the Bradley does not come with too many bells or whistles like handles, cup holder, or a backrest. However, the use of 100% butyl rubber means you shouldn’t have to worry too much about durability either. That said, the Bradley float tube employs a short safety valve for inflation and a valve cap to prevent getting poked.
Features:
- Comes in sizes 32” to 72”
- Made of durable 100% butyl rubber
- Has a safety valve and valve cover
Pros:
- Can accommodate larger people
- Features a durable build
- The safety valve won’t poke
Cons:
- No handles for control
Verdict: The Bradley float tube is fairly basic like much of the competition but sets itself apart with the widest range of different sizes reviewed. This is one of the few river tubes that can handle the size and weight of a larger adult man. It also doesn’t hurt that the butyl rubber tubing is durable and the safety valve comfortable and convenient.
Runner Up: Raftoob Commando Series River Tube | Heavy Duty Inflatable Water Tube for Kids and Adults – Naked Inner Tube – 43 inches inflated with Accessories Included
- SUMMER ESSENTIAL - It’s not summer without an afternoon in the water! Spend endless hours floating down the river in this tube that is...
- SAFETY AND DURABILITY DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR - our "commando series" naked inner tube features a hemisphere cap design to eliminates pokes...
- RAPID DEFLATION TOOL INCLUDED - included standard with every water tube is a rapid deflation tool that will help to quickly release air...
Last update on 2023-09-25 at 04:28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Raftoob Commando river float tube is a great option for both adults and children. However, this rubber inner tube is especially good for people worried about an inflation valve stem ruining their lazy river tubing. This comes down to the combination use of a safety valve with a hemisphere valve cover for complete protection.
The Raftoob Commando floating tube also goes the extra mile in terms of value with plenty of accessories. For instance, you won’t have to worry about waiting to leave when you’re done thanks to the included deflation tool. Raftoob also helps keep your face cool with an included neck gaiter that can also be used as a face mask.
Features:
- Made of six lbs of butyl rubber
- Deflation tool included for quicker storage
- Comes with a hemisphere valve cap
- Can be improved with accessories
Pros:
- Is fairly durable
- Has a comfortable valve
- Comes with a face covering
Cons:
- Not for the biggest riders
Verdict: The Raftoob Commando river float follows a pretty familiar design but goes the extra mile with comfort and kits. The included rapid deflation device makes it much easier to pack up when you’re done with your float trip. This river float also features one of the best safety valve designs thanks to the hemisphere valve cap.
Also Consider: Intex River Run I 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 2023-09-25 at 04:10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The River Run tube carries the ideal combination of features such as good durability, plenty of room, and dual cup holders.
The maneuverability of this fishing 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 floor 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 grab rope to connect a Mega chill floating cooler for extra beverages or a sealed picnic lunch. The link can also be used to connect other sports lounge inner tubes together to make a towable tube.
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 heavy-duty 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
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
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.
Best Inner Tube Float Buying Guide 2021
Safety Rubber Valve Stem and Cap
The valve stem and cap are very important in keeping the inner tube full of air. The valve stems that are used today are much safer and don’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 blend into the color of the tube.
Handle
Having a handle on your inner tube is great for those times when you run into 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 a headrest built-in for comfort. 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 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.
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.
Conclusion
When you get right down to it, the best inner tube float will heavily depend on the person using it. On top of that, it is also important to consider whether your float is only for the summer or if winter weather permits it being used for sledding down a snow-covered hill.
Either way, most of the best inner tubes come naked and are made of 100% butyl rubber for increased durability. However, this also means that you will not be afforded the luxury of cup holders, backrests, and most other conveniences.
That said, the Trans American Swim and Snow Adventure Tube not only features a durable design but is treated to be UV and tear-resistant. Of course, if you do want a bunch of bells and whistles, then check out the Intex River Run fishing float tube.