Summer is just around the corner and as the temperatures rise, we plan to do what humans have been doing for centuries: hit the water to cool down and chill out with some towable tubes. Whether you plan to zip around behind a speedboat for an exhilarating ride, float down a lazy river, or just take in the rays from the comfort of your own pool or dock, we have just the towable tube for you… though “tube” doesn’t really cover just how epic some of these inflatables are. Whatever your pleasure, these towable tubes are the key to staying cool this summer.
Finally, all our dreams have come true! Hot dogs aren't just for grilling — now you can ride one through the water with two of your best friends! All aboard the "water weenie" (we couldn't resist)!
This tube is a highly rated Amazon best-seller praised by parents who love how easy and secure it is for kids to ride. The cockpit-style seating will keep your kids where they belong — seated in the tube — instead of tossing them overboard. But let's be honest — parents love this tube too because it's roomy enough for the big kids, too!
When you've mastered the seated one-man tube, hop on the Macho for a new challenge. Two people can ride in three different positions — seated, prone, or kneeling. We'd advise trying to match up with an equally weighted partner though, so the tube isn't tipped in any one person's favor.
Grab three amigos, then sit on the outer edge of Big Bertha with your feet inward. Each person gets their own set of non-slip cushioned handles with padded knuckle guards, so you can hold on for dear life as the boat driver tries tirelessly to send you all for a swim.
Sit back and relax in this rocker-style tube that's like a floating sofa. The convex base rolls the tube from edge to edge, while a long backrest and scooped out areas for your bottom help you feel more secure, even if the driver is whipping around recklessly through choppy waters.
Heading out for a chill day at the lake or pool? This tube doesn't connect to a boat, but it will provide for hours of lounging in the water. The built in backrest lets you kick relax-mode into full gear, while the mesh bottom lets water in to keep your tushy cool.
When you're out for a day-long river float, a popped tube can be catastrophic (trust us, we've been there!). Invest in this heavy-duty river tube, equipped with a cupholder and two handles. It's made with 30-gauge PVC vinyl, so you don't have to worry about scraping rocks and springing a leak.
If you’re not casually floating in your own personal inflatable avocado what are you even doing with your life? There’s even places for a drink and a small cooler because, be honest: if you’re in an avocado-shaped floatie, you’re probably drinking. Best suited for pools and lakes, but durable enough for river use.
Among the top-rated towable tubes on Amazon, this model comes in a variety of sizes – from one to four people – and is higher in the front than the back to avoid “submarine effect” (aka you’re not going to get dragged underwater, which is never a fun time).
This behemoth of a floatation device (11.5 x 11.5) seats 8 and is like having your own private island. Just sit back in the mesh bottom, with the included cooler, and relax. Pro-tip: don’t forget to anchor yourself with the (also included) anchor bag. Things could go awry… ask how we know.
If you are looking for a simple, sturdy, affordable tube for the summer look no further than this model. With models that can accommodate up to 4 riders (who hang on to extra-sturdy grips), this tube provides all the good old fashioned tubing fun we associate with summer on the lake.
There’s a lot to love about Big Mable: it’s sturdy, comfortable, highly rated on Amazon, and can accommodate up to two riders. Best of all, you can tow it from either end, so whether you want to ride like it’s a couch or a chariot, it’s the perfect ride!
How often have you dreamed of cruising the waves astride your noble steed… and by “noble steed” we mean “a giant inflatable duck that will make actual docks tremble in fear.” Not only that, there’s even space for two friends to join you, sidecar style. “Obsessed” doesn’t begin to cover how we feel about this one.
Jamie Kenney is a freelance writer for BestProducts.com; Her other work has appeared on Bustle, Parents, Playboy, McSweeny's Internet Tendency, the Takeout, and Romper, where she covers parenting, news, entertainment, and likes to help readers see the ridiculous (and hilarious) side of motherhood.
Andrew has been contributing to the outdoors and fitness content on BestProducts.com since 2017; he's a nature lover, peak-bagger, skier, and general good-time haver who lives in Colorado, knows where all the fresh snow is, and what gear you should be wearing for staying warm or looking fresh.