9 Best River Tubes

By Eric McGough
|
December 1, 2022

Paddling, Tubing

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Are you looking for an exciting way to enjoy the water? River tubes are a great addition to your next outdoor adventure. They offer endless fun and exercise, as well as a chance to get away. We put together some of our favorite river tubes that will keep your head above water and provide hours of entertainment on the river.

Intex River Run II Inflatable River Tube

Intex

Build a hangout, anytime, anywhere- Intex River Run II Sports Lounge Inflatable River Tube - Designed with two lounges that are interconnected and a large built-in cooler with a lid, this lounge is perfect to float with a friend. With the five air chambers for added safety, two built-in cup holders to keep drinks nearby as you relax in the water and simple connectors included for fastening it to other Intex River runs - enjoy an afternoon with your kids or friends this summer!

Pros:

Built-In Backrests
Heavy-Duty Grab Handles
Two Built-In Cup Holders

Cons:

Durability Could Be Improved

Key Features:

Two Person Design
Large Built-In Cooler With Lid
Five Air Chambers For Added Safety

Buy from Amazon Buy from Intex

Intex River Run Inflatable Tube 53" Diameter

Intex

Float downstream and enjoy relaxation to the max. Intex River Run Inflatable river tubes are a great way to escape from a busy life because they're lightweight and pack down for easy transport. All around the circumference is a tight-grip grab rope that makes it easier to maneuver your way downstream too— even if you haven't been on this tube before! The product comes with 2 strong handles made out of comfort material for your hands as well as two cup holders so you can enjoy time at the water's edge with cold drinks.

Pros:

2 Heavy Duty Handles
2 Cup Holders
All Around Grab Rope

Cons:

Durability Could Be Improved

Key Features:

Built-In Backrest For Comfort
Easy To Inflate
Comfortable

Buy from Amazon Buy from Intex

Bradley Heavy Duty Rubber Snow and River Tubes

$39.99

Bradley

Prepare for the great outdoors by purchasing this durable Bradley snow and river tube. This super-strong, heavy-duty rubber will keep your guests safe and secure on trips through the rapids! When you need a no-nonsense, convenient option for snow tubing and river tubing, this is it. Make your next rafting excursion worry-free with the dependability of Bradley's snow and river tubes.

Pros:

Short Valve Stem For Safety
Durable Solid Construction

Cons:

Quality Variations

Key Features:

Strong Heavy Duty Rubber Tube
Works Well For Snow, River, Or Pool

Buy from Amazon

09/18/2023 02:20 am GMT

Bestway Hydro-Force Rapid Rider Inflatable River Tube

$29.97

Bestway

The Hydro-Force Rapid Rider Inflatable River Tube is a great choice for summer and swimming outings at the beach, lake, or pool. With its durable, high-gauge PVC construction and comfortable design, it's easy to enjoy floating on top of the water while back resting comfortably and placing your refreshments in the built-in holders. It has an all-around grab rope so you can enjoy it on your own or with friends - plus it comes with two cup holders if you want some iced tea. With all of these features, the price is nominal and reasonable, which makes it worthy of being included in the list of best river tubes.

Pros:

2 Built-In Cup Holders
2 Heavy Duty Handles
All Around Grab Rope

Cons:

Durability

Key Features:

Extra-Wide Backrest
High-Gauge PVC Material

Buy from Amazon Buy from Bestway

09/20/2023 03:07 am GMT

Pafolo Heavy Duty River Tube Headrest 53" Diameter 2 Cup Holders 2 Heavy-Duty Handles

$16.99

Pafolo

The new Pafolo Heavy Duty River Tube Headrest is a heavy-duty option for your river tube. It's 53" diameter and comes with 2 cup holders and 2 heavy-duty handles, to make sure it can hold up under all the extra weight. The PVC used to manufacture the headrest is 0.46mm thick, meaning that if you're on a larger river or some other body of water where there are some bigger waves going on, you don't have as high of a chance as breaking through or tearing into pieces due to rougher waters. If you want some muscle added to your next rafting experience without adding any more passengers, this product will be right up your alley! How about giving our new friend a try?

Pros:

2 Cup Holders
Built-In Backrest
2 Heavy-Duty Handles

Cons:

Durability Could Be Improved

Key Features:

Thick 0.46 mm PVC
All Around Grab Rope
Weight Capacity Up To 300 lbs.

Buy from Amazon

09/21/2023 02:55 am GMT

Tube In a Box the Original Swim Snow and River Tube, 45" XL

$38.99

Tube In a Box

Tube In a Box the Original Swim Snow and River Tube, 45" XL is a durable tube perfect for any season. This old-school inner tube has a unique rubber valve stem that keeps you from being poked with metal from the past. It's also sun-resistant to give your tube an extended life. These river tubes are high quality and perfect for floating down a stream or snow activities alike!

Pros:

Rubber-Coated Safety Valve
Durable And Sturdy

Cons:

Slower In Snow Compared WIth Vinyl Tubes
Inner Hole A Little Big For Some People

Key Features:

Heavy Duty Commercial Grade Latex Free Rubber
Perfect For Winter Or Summer Tubing
Good Old Fashion Rubber Tube

Buy from Amazon Buy from Tube In A Box

09/22/2023 03:04 am GMT

Intex 4-Pack River Rat 48-Inch Inflatable River Tubes

$43.09

Intex

Intex 4 Pack River Rat Inflatable Tubes are designed to stand out anywhere you use them. These 48-inch tubes feature a cool rat image that looks great floating in the water. Made of durable vinyl, these inflatable tubes can handle anything you throw at them and comes with an all-around grab line for easy handling while you're out on the lake or other body of water. Designed for ages 9 and up, these inflatable river rats make for a fantastic way to enjoy summer activities like pool floats, trips to the beach, sunbathing on lazy days at the pool, or fun family adventures by the lake - plus they look super

Pros:

2 Air Chambers
Double Valves
Smooth Inner Seam

Cons:

Durability Could Be Better

Key Features:

4-Pack
Heavy-Duty Vinyl Construction
Comfortable

Buy from Amazon Buy from Walmart

09/21/2023 02:55 am GMT

Sunlite Sports Junior Compact River Tube Grip Handles Cup Holder Grab Rope 42 Inch

Sunlite Sports

The Sunlite Sports Junior River Tubes are the perfect summer accessory for kids. The mesh bottom offers maximum air flow so there's no need to worry about overheating. For safety, each tube includes 2 heavy-duty grip handles, a grab rope for easy retrieval from that deep spot you can't quite reach, and an easy-to-use buckle that connects with other Sunlite Sports river tubes. And don't forget to drink plenty of water while you're having fun! Keep your drinks cool in your tube's handy drink holder.

Pros:

Built-in Drink Holder
The inflation And Deflation Process Is Quick and Easy
Two Grip Handles

Cons:

Quality and Durable Could Be Improved

Key Features:

Kids Sized
Comfortable
Good Price

Buy from Amazon Buy from Walmart

Hydro-Force River Tube with Cup Holder and Backrest

$40.29

Hydro-Force

Stay cool and hydrated on rivers with this Hydro-Force River Tube! Its durable PVC material is puncture-resistant, so go ahead and take down some rapids without worrying about flattening it. The Clasp-N-Go design lets you easily link multiple tubes together as you float down river rapids. The backrest offers great support, while the mesh seat will keep you nice and cool as you float downstream. With a convenient cup holder built-in, don't forget to bring your drink of choice along with you - it'll be secure and upright until you're ready to enjoy!

Pros:

Built In Cup Holder And Backrest
Wraparound Grab Rope
Cool Mesh Bottom

Cons:

Durability Could Be Better

Key Features:

Clasp-N-Go Design Easily Links Multiple Tubes Together
Removable Cooler

Buy from Amazon Buy from Walmart

09/22/2023 03:07 am GMT

FAQs:

What tubes are the best for river tubing?

There is no definitive answer to this question as different people have different preferences. Some people prefer tubes that are more comfortable, while others prefer ones that are more durable. In general, however, the best tubes for river tubing are those that are made from durable materials and that have several air chambers. This ensures that the tube will not puncture easily and that it will provide a comfortable ride.

What factors should I consider before buying a river tube?

1. Comfort – Look for a tube that is comfortable to sit in for long periods of time.
2. Durability – Choose a tube made from durable materials that can withstand being punctured or damaged.
3. Air Chambers – Select a tube with several air chambers to prevent punctures and provide a smooth ride.
4. Inflatable Seat – Some tubes come with an inflatable seat for added comfort while floating downstream.
5. Tube Length – Consider the length of the tube when making your selection. Some people prefer longer tubes, while others find them more difficult to control.
6. Tube Width – Wider tubes are usually more stable in the water than narrower ones.
7. Handling Straps – Many tubes come with handles or straps to help you keep your grip while floating.
8. Storage Straps – Some tubes have storage straps on them so you can bring along snacks or drinks.
9. Cup Holders – Many tubes come with cup holders so you can enjoy a cold beverage while floating downstream.
10. Price – Choose a tube that fits your budget. Higher-priced tubes usually offer more comfort and features than lower-priced ones.

How do you carry drinks while river tubing?

There are a few ways that you can carry drinks while river-tubing. You can either use a float tube, which has a built-in cooler, or you can use a separate cooler that you strap to the back of your tube. You can also bring along a small inflatable raft to put your drinks in. Whatever method you choose, make sure that you have enough ice or cold packs to keep your drinks chilled throughout the day.

Is river tubing safe?

Yes, river tubing is generally safe when done with caution and in moderation. However, there are some dangers to be aware of, such as drowning and hypothermia. Drowning can occur if a tuber gets caught in a strong current or if they fall out of their tube and are unable to get back to it. Hypothermia can occur if a tuber spends too long in cold water, which can lead to loss of consciousness and even death.

Safety tips for river tubing?

1. Always wear a life jacket while river tubing.
2. Check the weather forecast before heading out, and be aware of conditions such as thunderstorms that could create dangerous waves or currents.
3. Choose a section of the river with milder conditions for tubing, and avoid areas with rapids or other hazards.
4. Don’t drink alcohol while river tubing.
5. Stay with your group and don’t go off on your own.
6. Get out of the water if you start to feel cold or exhausted.
7. Follow the instructions of the river tubing company or park ranger, and be sure to ask any questions before getting in the water.
8. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and keep an eye out for obstacles in the water.
9. If you fall out of your tube, try to get to the shore as quickly as possible.
10. Never river tube alone – always have a buddy with you!

Videos:

River Floating Essentials

Tubing On The Comal River In New Braunfels, Texas

How To Stay Safe During Summer Tubing

9 Best River Tubes

Intex River Run II Inflatable River Tube

Intex River Run Inflatable Tube 53" Diameter

Bradley Heavy Duty Rubber Snow and River Tubes

Bestway Hydro-Force Rapid Rider Inflatable River Tube

Pafolo Heavy Duty River Tube Headrest 53" Diameter 2 Cup Holders 2 Heavy-Duty Handles

Tube In a Box the Original Swim Snow and River Tube, 45" XL

Intex 4-Pack River Rat 48-Inch Inflatable River Tubes

Sunlite Sports Junior Compact River Tube Grip Handles Cup Holder Grab Rope 42 Inch

Hydro-Force River Tube with Cup Holder and Backrest

FAQs:

Videos:

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