Topic: Best Float Tube: Don’t Just Get on the Water—Get in It (Read 49 times)
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Topic: Best Float Tube: Don’t Just Get on the Water—Get in It (Read 49 times)
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A urethane-coated polyester bottom and PVC inner bladder bolster this round water float with plenty of toughness. Padded handles give you something to cling to when the ride gets exciting, and makes it easy to carry back to the put-in). A D-ring allows you to lash other items to the tube, or tie to another tube. There’s also a mesh floor for extra security.
Bobbing along in tranquil waters, catching some rays or watching the sun set…if that’s your idea of the perfect summer day, look for a lake float. And if you also plan to log pool time this summer, floats for the lake work well in any kind of pool. Since you won’t be dealing with fast-moving water, durability isn’t as important. In fact, you might prefer a lighter tube that’s easier to inflate and deflate for packing.
A note on safety: Not all lakes are created equal. A smaller body of water ringed with cottages is one thing, but Lake Michigan is more inland sea than lake. If you’re planning to hit up the country’s bigger lakes, consider upgrading to a tougher tube, like the river model above.
Why should kids get all the fun? This Loon float stands out at the lake or pool, but its thicker vinyl makes it stronger than your average novelty tube. It’s big enough to hold two adults, and features handles and a loop attachment.
There’s no question that the most devoted float tube enthusiasts of all belong to the under-12 set. Lake floats and pool floats can help beginning swimmers feel more confident in the water, and even the most advanced swimmers appreciate a place to relax in between splashing sessions. Some of the most creative designs are targeted toward kids, from unicorns to flamingos to elephants.
Floating tubes will provide kids with hours of fun, but make sure to use them safely. No inner tube is a proper alternative to a PFD for kids who can’t swim well, and all require constant adult supervision. Most kid-themed tubes tend to be on the lightweight end of the spectrum, and therefore not suitable for river tubing or rougher waters.
Ahoy, matey! Kids can channel their inner pirates with this fun lake gear, which sports a Jolly Roger flag and its own squirt gun. The float is sized for kids 3 to 7,and has leg holes so kids can sit co*fortably while they play.
Float tubes can be surprisingly expensive—you’ll pay hundreds of dollars for the highest-end fishing floaters out there. But if all you want to do is splash around and float a bit on calm waters, there are plenty of options on the shelves that cost $20 or less. Keep in mind that bargain models often keep costs low by using less-durable materials, so they might not last as long as a beefier tube. And that means they’re usually a no-go for wilder waterways.
The best bargain float tubes still offer some useful features, though, such as handles, backrests, and cup holders. If your favorite floating activities involve low-key lounging with a favorite beverage in hand, a cheap float tube might be just the ticket.
You don’t have to sacrifice co*fort in this one-person float tube. A backrest, handles, and mesh bottom make drifting for hours feel great. A pair of cup holders and a grab rope round out the features, and it weighs just 5 pounds for easy transport.
First ask yourself: What do I want to use this float tube for? If you’re looking for something to casually hang out in at the pool or a calm lake, a more affordable, lightweight tube is a great fit. Many of these co*e in fun, colorful shapes. If you want to take the tube on rougher waters, including for river tubing, it’s smart to upgrade to a model that’s shaped like a donut and made of tougher materials. And if you’re serious about fishing in your float tube, you’ll want a fishing-specific design with the shape and accessories for angling. Finally, consider your budget: You can find simple float tubes for well under $50. More durable river tubes will cost a bit more, and the fanciest fishing belly boats will set you back several hundred dollars.
Fishing float tubes are designed with angling in mind. That means a U- or V-shaped design that’s easier to maneuver and offers a higher seat, a place for fishing gear, and helpful accessories such as a stripping apron to hold fishing line. To use one, load up your tackle and rod, then place the tube in shallow water near the shore and sit on the seat. You may want to wear lightweight waders if the water is cold. Flippers will help you move through still water and paddle out deeper.
Yes and no. Yes, in the sense that any craft you use around water can be dangerous if you’re careless, or you can’t swim well, or you push it beyond its intended limits in rough water or bad weather. But when you deploy them the right way, float tubes are safe and fun. Inner tubes are meant for skilled swimmers to use for relaxed fishing, paddling, and lounging in relatively calm water—they’re no substitute for a life jacket, and they’re not supposed to be used to travel any significant distance. Even river tubes should not be used in very swift or very cold water.
The best float tube for you will add a ton of fun to your summer leisure time. When you’re shopping, consider your budget, the bodies of water you visit most often, and the activities you spend the most time doing. Once you’ve narrowed things down, also look at the durability, weight, and features. From lake floaters to river runners, there’s a float tube for every swimmer.
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