If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what the best river tube is, then we recommend the Bestway Coolerz luxury ring lounger as the best one.
Tubing can be a fun and adventurous experience! It’s a great activity for families to do together and doesn’t require a huge amount of skill! However, what does require some skill, is finding the right river tube. With a multitude of companies jumping at the chance to provide the paying public with a good time, it’s hard to know which tube is right for you.
- Bestway Coolerz Luxury Ring Lounger.
- Intex River Run 1.
- Intex Recreation 48″ Color Whirl Tube
- Bestway 47 Inches High Velocity Tyre Tube Inflatable.
- Intex River Rat.
What is a river tube?
A river tube is a durable, usually donut-shaped inflatable representing the design hof an inner tube. The inflatable inner ring of the tube is often covered in fabric, and it comes in a variety of variations. Some have seats for more peaceful excursions, others have handles on each side for when you pick up the pace when using it. They can be used for relaxing at the sea, as well as a rapid mode of transport down a river or stream.
Is using a river tube dangerous?
It really depends on the context in which you are using the tube. If you are floating about on your tube at the seaside, then the inherent dangers of the ocean apply. For this reason, you need to make sure you are not drifting too far out and that the lifeguard can see you. There are dangers tubing down rivers too. It is very easy to forget that the water you’re on isn’t very deep, or moves extremely fast. So make yourself aware of that before you think about pursuing a good time tubing.
What skills are required when using a river tube?
The most obvious one is that you need to know how to swim, without a knowledge of how to swim you’re going to find it quite difficult if your river tube takes you somewhere you didn’t expect to go. It’s very hard to direct yourself when on a river tube, so sometimes getting off it and swimming somewhere is essential. Other than that, you just float and relax, but be watchful you aren’t straying into unknown waters, relax as much as you like but always be aware.
What is a self-bailing raft?
There are quite a lot of different variations on the classic tube design, and one of these is known as the self-bailing raft. These rafts have a thin mesh floor to the ring. This is so that when water comes into the hole, it seeps out and the raft is able to float leisurely upon the water. These rafts give more support to the person sitting inside, allowing them to sit more comfortably and feel a bit safer too.
What gear should I bring with me to improve my safety?
Well, being that tubes are sometimes prone to air leakages, some sort of repair kit would probably be quite a good idea. That way, you can patch up any hole or leakage as quickly as possible, so as to carry on having fun.
A great piece of equipment to bring with you if you’re feeling a bit worried about your safety, or if you have young kids you want to ensure have a good and secure time, is a life vest. A buoyancy vest can act as a lifesaver if you fall from your river tube, or find yourself straying into rougher waters. It can also reassure younger tubers that they are going to be fine.
Can you tie two rings together?
You sure can! A lot of people like to tie their river tubes together as it gives them more buoyancy and allows them to have a good time with their friends as well! All you need is a bit of rope that is going to withstand a lot of water and moving around, wrap it round both tubes and tie it very tightly. After this, the two rings should form a strong bond to each other, and you should be ready to set sail! You and a friend, or just you alone!
Best River Tubes Reviews.
There are lots of river tubes could possibly choose from but we have done an expansive research to reduce the stress of choosing the best one available. We will be mentioning some of them in subsequent paragraphs.
Bestway Coolerz Luxury Ring Lounger.
This stylish ring has a lot of great features, including two handles on either side, which can be great for kids feeling a bit shaky on the tube, or if you start to pick up the pace on the river or the sea! Next to those handles are also two cup-holders, perfect for that person looking for a relaxing float on the waters!
Pros:
- Unique inflata-shield, puncture resistant material ensures safety.
- Features a grab rope for any emergencies.
- Small back-rest to help the buyer truly relax!.
Cons:
- Quite a uniquely sized blow-up hole, making for difficult inflation.
- Doesn’t come with any sort of puncture repair kit.
Intex River Run 1
This river tube has a 135cm diameter, meaning it could be great for a wide range of people. Adults will find it spacious and supportive, where as children can fit right into it allowing parents to keep them secure.
The mesh seat on the bottom provides a great support for the rider, and the durable handles on either side provide a safety that not a lot of other brands can compete with.
Pros:
- Very durable, even after multiple uses.
- Mesh bottom helps to improve comfort and provide support.
- Comes in many iterations, including octagonal group chair, and red design.
Cons:
- Seat can feel a bit flimsy.
Intex Recreation 48″ Color Whirl Tube
This tube may not have a seat or mesh undercover, but it’s wide diameter can make it the perfect ring for anyone looking for a cheaper option! Two heavy duty handles and a thick vinyl material make it a durable option. As well as coming with a heavy duty repair patch, which can be a godsend for those that are using it for a few rougher excursions.
Pros:
- Really good value for money.
- Heavy duty repair patch to avoid breakage.
- Comes well packaged to avoid any damage when delivering.
Cons:
- No extra features such as a chair or mesh seating.
- Not the widest river tube on the market.
Intex Recreation 48″ Color Whirl Tube
Bestway present a tyre that has High Velocity written all over it, seriously! This durable tube is great for those that are looking for a first time experience for not too much money.
It’s a reasonably sized tyre, which is great for those that might be looking to accommodate adults and children. The product is light when deflated, which can be great for those looking to take it on holiday.
Pros:
- Made from heavy duty vinyl to avoid air leaks.
- Heavy duty patches protect against multiple breakages.
- Humorous design makes it look like an actual tyre!.
Cons:
- Some find it easily breakable.
- Puncture patch sometimes doesn’t stick.
Intex River Rat.
Intex bring a tube to the market that is a bit more colourful, with the eye-catching rat design, this could be great for kids looking to stand out and remain safe on the water. Two air chambers provide the ring with more durability, which is a good feature for those looking to use it for a long time. Can be blown up by a pump or mouth alike!
Pros:
- Simple structure and design.
- Vibrant and eye-catching design sure to make it a hit with the kids.
- Outer rope to help with safety.
Cons:
- No seat, handles or mesh layering.
- Safety doesn’t seem to be main concern.
Conclusion.
The Bestway Coolerz luxury ring lounger stands out from the rest in this one. Providing the user with a small back rest, but also allowing them to take on tougher and rougher environments with its puncture resistant design.
The grab rope included helps to ensure safety, and it seems to sit in the sweet spot between cheaper models that don’t provide safety, and more expensive models that burn through your pocket.
