Towable Tube Buyer's Guide

Whether you're chasing adrenaline or cruising with the kids, nothing brings more fun to the water than a good towable tube. But with so many shapes, sizes, and styles out there, how do you choose the right one?

This buyer’s guide breaks it all down—so you can pick the perfect towable for your boat, crew, and style of fun.

Types of Towable Tubes

Towables come in a few basic styles, each offering a different ride experience:

1. Deck Tubes

• Shape: Flat and wide (like a flying saucer)

• Ride Style: Fast and thrilling—riders lie on their stomachs

• Best For: Teens, adults, and thrill-seekers

• Pros: Speed, maneuverability, quick turns

• Cons: Less back support, more tiring

2. Sit-On/Chariot-Style Tubes

• Shape: Inflated seats with backrests, often side-by-side

• Ride Style: Upright sitting—stable and comfortable

• Best For: Kids, families, or chill rides

• Pros: Easy to ride, less intense, great for beginners

• Cons: Slower, more drag

3. Donut Tubes

• Shape: Classic round “inner tube” with open center

• Ride Style: Straddle or lounge inside the hole

• Best For: All-around fun, solo riders

• Pros: Affordable, compact, versatile

• Cons: Can flip easily with aggressive driving

4. Ride-In Tubes (Cockpit Style)

• Shape: Deep seating, enclosed sides

• Ride Style: Secure and low center of gravity

• Best For: Young kids, nervous riders

• Pros: Very stable, hard to fall out

• Cons: Not ideal for fast spins or jumps

5. Banana Tubes & Multi-Riders

• Shape: Long and narrow, designed for 3–6 riders

• Ride Style: Riders straddle in a line like a banana boat

• Best For: Big groups, lake tours, camp fun

• Pros: Lots of capacity, great group activity

• Cons: Requires a larger boat to tow safely

What Size Tube Should You Buy?

• 1 Rider: Compact and light, good for solo thrill rides

• 2 Riders: Most versatile size, great balance of fun and stability

• 3+ Riders: Family fun, but requires more power to tow safely

🎯 Tip: Always check your boat’s HP rating and towing capacity before pulling large multi-rider tubes.

Key Features To Look For

✅ Quick-Connect Tow Hook

Makes hookup fast and easy—no knots, no hassle.

✅ Durable Nylon Cover

Look for 420D to 840D nylon. The higher the denier, the tougher it is.

✅ Multiple Handles with Neoprene Knuckle Guards

Comfort counts when you're holding on at 25 mph.

✅ Boston Valve or Speed Valve

Speeds up inflation and deflation so you can hit the water faster.

✅ Heavy-Duty PVC Bladder

This is the inflatable core—go for 24–30 gauge PVC for long life.

What You’ll Need to Tow It

• Tow Rope: Make sure it matches the rider capacity (check the label)

• Towable Tube Pump: High-volume air pump (electric or hand) with multiple nozzles

• Tow Harness or Y-Adapter: If your boat doesn’t have a center tow point

• Life Jackets: Coast Guard-approved, one for each rider—no exceptions

Safety First: Towing Tips

• Always use a spotter

• Stick to safe speeds (15–25 mph depending on tube type)

• Keep clear of obstacles and other boats

• Make wide, gradual turns—not whip-style unless riders want it!

• Never exceed manufacturer’s weight or rider limits

Top Brands to Consider

• Airhead

• WOW Watersports

• O’Brien

• SportsStuff

• HO Sports

Boat Suppliers carries a full line of high-quality towables from all the top brands—whether you're after a wild ride or a smooth cruise.

Final Thoughts

The best towable tube for your boat depends on how you ride, who you ride with, and how much thrill you’re after. Whether you're buying your first tube or upgrading for summer fun, choosing the right style and size makes all the difference.

Ready to ride?
Browse our full collection of towable tubes, tow ropes, and accessories at Boat Suppliers and get the whole crew smiling from wake to wake.