Boat Tubing: Best Tubes of 2023

Boat Tubing: Best Tubes of 2023

Boat tubing is a fun and exciting water sport that involves being towed behind a boat on an inflatable tube. It is a popular activity for families and friends to enjoy together during the summer months. The tube can accommodate one or multiple riders, depending on its size and shape.

The boat driver controls the speed and direction of the tube, providing a thrilling ride for the passengers. Boat tubing can be done on calm lakes or in the open ocean, and there are various types of tubes available, including ones designed for tricks and stunts. Safety is important when participating in boat tubing, and riders should always wear a life jacket and follow the instructions of the boat driver, and there should be a spotter on the boat to watch the tube, while the driver watches where they’re going.

Table of Contents

    1. AIRHEAD G-Force
    2. Sportsstuff Poparazzi
    3. Airhead Hotdog Towable Tube
    4. Airhead Super Mable Tube
    5. Swonder 3 Person Towable Tube

Top 5 Boat Tubes of 2023

I’ve chosen a selection of tubes from flat and racy to backstopped and comfy, some of which I’ve used, and some that are similar. A new tube will likely only last you 2-3 years as they will mold if left with any moisture at all in the folds, and they do take quite a beating getting pulled around, at least the way we do it! You’ll probably get to experience a few too.

AIRHEAD G-Force, 1-4 Rider Towable Tube for Boating, Multiple Size Options Available


The AIRHEAD G-Force is a fantastic towable tube for boating enthusiasts. It can accommodate up to four riders, making it perfect for families or groups of friends. The tube is made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of being towed behind a boat. The G-Force features a unique design that allows it to glide smoothly over the water, providing an exhilarating ride for everyone on board. The tube also has multiple handles that make it easy for riders to hold on, even when the ride gets bumpy.

One of the best things about the AIRHEAD G-Force is that it comes in multiple size options. This means that you can choose the perfect size for your needs, whether you’re looking for a smaller tube for just a few riders or a larger one for a bigger group. The G-Force is also incredibly easy to inflate and deflate, so you can get it set up quickly and easily. Overall, the AIRHEAD G-Force is a great choice for anyone who loves boating and wants to add some excitement to their time on the water.



I’ve had one of these too. Lying down and hanging on tight is the name of this game. Perfect for when you want to try to get your friends off the tube. Keep your toes out of the water, or you’ll get pulled in hard!

Sportsstuff Poparazzi | Towable Tube for Boating with 1, 2 and 3 Rider Options

The Sportsstuff Poparazzi Towable Tube is a great addition to any boating trip. With options for1,2, or3 riders, this tube is perfect for families or groups of friends. The unique design of the Poparazzi allows for multiple riding positions, including sitting, kneeling, and lying down. This means that riders can switch up their position and experience different levels of excitement throughout their ride. The tube also features a high backrest and front riser construction, providing a comfortable and secure ride for all riders

In addition to its versatile riding positions, the Sportsstuff Poparazzi Towable Tube is also incredibly durable. Made with heavy-duty full nylon covers and multiple grab handles, this tube can withstand rough waters and intense rides. The tube also features a speed safety valve for quick and easy inflation and deflation. Overall, the Sportsstuff Poparazzi Towable Tube is a great investment for anyone looking to add some fun and excitement to their boating trips.

I haven’t used this one myself but standing up on a tube sure would be exhilarating!

Airhead Hot Dog Towable | 1-3 Rider Tube

The Airhead Hot Dog Towable is an excellent choice for those who love to have fun on the water. This towable tube can accommodate up to three riders, making it perfect for families or groups of friends. The hot dog design is not only fun and unique, but it also provides a stable and comfortable ride. The tube is made with heavy-duty PVC material, ensuring that it can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. The handles are also reinforced with neoprene knuckle guards, providing a comfortable grip for riders. The Airhead Hot Dog Towable is easy to inflate and deflate, making it convenient to store and transport. Overall, this towable tube is a great addition to any boating trip and is sure to provide hours of fun for everyone on board

One of the best things about the Airhead Hot Dog Towable is its versatility. It can be towed in multiple positions, allowing riders to experience different levels of excitement. The tube can be towed in a seated position for a more relaxed ride, or it can be towed in a kneeling or prone position for a more thrilling experience. The hot dog design also adds an element of fun to the ride, making it a great choice for families with children. The Airhead Hot Dog Towable is also durable and built to last, ensuring that it will provide years of enjoyment for boating enthusiasts. Overall, this towable tube is an excellent investment for anyone who loves to have fun on the water.

I’ve used this one before too, and would recommend it for children, for the novelty of riding a hotdog, but also because it’s not the kind of tube you’ll be pulling fast around corners, this is more of a leisurely straight tow around the lake. Goes great with a pontoon boat!

Airhead Super Mable, 1-3 Rider Towable Tube

The Airhead Super Mable is a fantastic towable tube for boating that can accommodate up to three riders. This tube is designed with a unique backrest and front riser construction that provides a comfortable and secure ride for all riders. The backrests are made of heavy-duty nylon and have multiple grab handles, making it easy for riders to hold on tight during high-speed rides. The front riser construction allows riders to lean forward and enjoy a more thrilling ride, while the neoprene padding on the seats and knuckle guards provide additional comfort and protection. The Airhead Super Mable also features a patented speed safety valve that allows for quick and easy inflation and deflation, making it easy to get on and off the water

One of the best things about the Airhead Super Mable is its versatility. You can tow a loner, a couple or three party animals at once, comfortably and safely. The tube can also come with a towable booster ball system that helps to keep the tow rope out of the water, reducing drag and increasing speed. The Airhead Super Mable is made of high-quality materials that are built to last, and it comes with a one-year warranty for added peace of mind. Overall, the Airhead Super Mable is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fun and exciting towable tube for boating.


I have personally used this one and enjoy it very much. The kids feel safe in it with the high back and comfortable handles, but you can still launch it over the wake for some excitement if that’s what you’re up for.

Swonder 3 Person Towable Tube for Boating with Sit & Kneel Positions

The Swonder 3 Person Towable Tube for Boating with Sit is an excellent choice for those who love to spend time on the water. This towable tube is designed to accommodate up to three people, making it perfect for families or groups of friends. The tube is made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting, ensuring that it will provide years of fun on the water

One of the best things about the Swonder 3 Person Towable Tube is its comfortable seating. The tube features a sit-in design that allows riders to sit comfortably while they are being towed. The seats are also padded, providing extra comfort and support. The tube also features multiple handles, making it easy for riders to hold on and stay secure while they are being towed. Overall, the Swonder3 Person Towable Tube is an excellent choice for anyone who loves to spend time on the water and wants to enjoy a fun and comfortable ride.


I’ve ridden on this one too and it’s great. You feel well protected from knocking your buddy with the big dividers between you. And you can climb over the back for a kneeling position too. This will bring big smiles to anyone that rides it!

Benefits of Boat Tubing

Boat tubing is a fun and exciting water activity that offers numerous benefits. First, it provides a thrilling experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great way to spend time with family and friends, creating lasting memories. Second, boat tubing is a great stress reliever, as it allows individuals to let go of their worries and enjoy the rush of adrenaline. Finally, boat tubing is a great way to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature, as it takes place in open waters surrounded by scenic views. Overall, boat tubing is a fun and beneficial activity that everyone should try at least once.

Safety Tips for Boat Tubing

While boat tubing is a fun and exhilarating activity, but it is important to prioritize safety while enjoying the ride.

  • It is crucial to wear a properly fitting life jacket at all times, regardless of swimming ability.
  • The boat operator should always maintain a safe speed and distance from other boats on the lake, wood, and shorelines.
  • You should have a spotter watching the tube so they can communicate between the riders and the drivers, and see if the riders are still on the tube.
  • All riders should be seated properly and hold on tightly to the grips on the tube.
  • It is recommended to avoid sharp turns or sudden stops, as these can cause sudden pulls that can damage the tube or cause the riders to lose their balance and fall off the tube.
  • It is important to communicate clearly with the boat operator and other riders, using hand signals or a predetermined system to indicate when to speed up, slow down, or stop.

By following these safety tips, boat tubing can be a fun and safe activity for everyone involved.

Adrenalin Tips for Boat Tubing

Some tweens may really enjoy taking turns driving the boat and trying to wipe out the riders. This is dangerous, but is also a lot of fun. If you’re going to try this make sure everyone agrees to it, there is risk involved.

Taking fast sharp turns can really accelerate the tube in a wide arc, basically going sideways. Changing it into a figure 8 can then bring the tube across the wake, you might catch some air here, which might just do the trick.  The lie down tubes are the best for this as there is very little protection and at high speed even if only your foot touches the water it can tear you off the tube.

I’ve had fun wipe-outs where I have somersaulted across the top of the water until I slowed down, and painful wipeouts where I’ve just hit the water hard-stop. Take care of your friends, know your limits, and make sure everyone is on the same page.

Final Word

You can’t go wrong with any of the tubes above, or maybe even two.

Important Tip: Be sure to completely dry tubes out before putting them away. They will mold and come apart faster if put away wet.

Tubing is a whole lotta fun for those on the boat and those on the tube. Get out there and get those tubes on the lake for some fun this summer!

David on the lake

David James

I grew up spending my summers with my family on various lakes, and now that I have my own family, I take them with me too. I'm a little less active than I used to be. I drive the boat more than get pulled behind it. But at 50 years old I did just learn to boat surf. It's great fun and good for your core. Let's have some fun on the lake!


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