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You are here: Home / Outdoors / Best River Tubes for Rafting

Best River Tubes for Rafting

January 25, 2022 By Jessica

Best River Floats Tubes Mommyhighfive

I don’t know about you, but I don’t think anything screams summer like floating down a river. There’s something about the combination of the sun on your shoulders, your toes dipped in the water, and the laughter of your friends or family. I find it so relaxing to just lay back and take in the sights along the river’s edge. My whole family, even our youngest child, loves it when we announce plans to float down a river. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommending going!

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s that you need to plan ahead for these type of adventures. Because once mid-summer hits, most retailers are sold out of river floats and you’ll have a hard time finding one. Keep reading to learn all about what to look for in river floats and which ones are the best. These inflatable river floats are really a great purchase; they’ll pay themselves off quickly and add so much excitement to your family’s summer!

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Essential Features in River Floats
  • Great Tubes for River Running
    • Intex River Run II Sport Lounge
    • Intex River Run I Sport Lounge
    • Bradley Rubber River Tube
    • River Run Lounge Raft
    • Intex River Run Connecting Tubes
    • Solstice Super Chill River Raft
    • Airhead Bimini Lounger II
    • Airhead River Otter Deluxe
    • Intex Color Whirl Floating Tube
    • SportsStuff Trek N Tube
    • River Rat Tube
  • FAQs
      • What makes a good river float?
      • How can parents keep kids safe on a river outing?
      • Is a pump needed to inflate a river float tube?

Essential Features in River Floats

While there are many great options out there, you should consider what you want in a river float before selecting one. Here are some questions to ask yourself to make sure you get a float that will meet your needs.

1. Float size

Do you want a tube that holds more than one person? If this is something you’re interested in, there are several excellent options for double tubes. But if you don’t foresee the need for two passengers, then it may not be necessary. Some tubes come with a grab rope so you can connect to other tubers that way.

2. Opening size

How big is the person who intends to use it? Kids may slip through tubes with extra large openings while an adult wouldn’t be properly supported on a smaller tube. Take note of how big the tube is you’re looking at.

3. Portability

How easy is it to carry the tube? It may be a good idea to look for a tube with heavy duty handles so you can transport it easily.

4. Inflation

Does it require a pump? Most of the floats on this list can be pumped up manually, but for larger floats, you might want a pump for quicker inflation.

5. Extras

Do you want a mesh bottom? Some people love this feature but others find it unnecessary. It won’t keep you from getting wet, but it will prevent items (or small children) from falling into the river. Would you like a cup holder on your tube? Several river floats come with cup holders which is a nice feature to help keep you hydrated. However, you may pay a little extra for this.

Great Tubes for River Running

ProductFeatures
Intex River Run II
Intex River Run II Sports Lounge


  • Holds 2 people
  • Built in cooler
  • Cup holders
  • Mesh bottoms
  • Durable
  • Handles & grab rope
  • Intex River Run I
    Intex River Run I Sports Lounge



  • Mesh bottom
  • Back rest
  • Durable
  • Great value
  • Handles & grab rope
  • Bradley Rubber River Tube
    Bradley Rubber River Tube



  • Multiple sizes
  • Rugged
  • Easy deflation
  • Water or snow
  • River Run Lounge Raft
    River Run Lounge Raft


  • Set of 2 tubes
  • Backrest
  • Cupholders
  • Durable
  • Intex River Run Connecting Tubes

    Intex River Run Connecting Tubes


  • Mesh bottom
  • Backrest
  • Cup holder
  • Connects to other tubes
  • Quick deflation
  • Solstice Super Chill

    Solstice Super Chill River Raft


  • 5 sizes
  • Built-in cooler
  • Cup holders
  • Mesh seats
  • Thick vinyl
  • Airhead Bimini Lounger II
    AIRHEAD BIMINI LOUNGER II



  • 1 person
  • Backrest
  • Footrest
  • Storage compartment
  • Cup holder
  • Airhead River Otter Deluxe
    Airhead River Otter Deluxe


  • Backrest
  • Molded handles
  • Cup holder
  • Heavy duty
  • Intex Color Whirl
    Intex Color Whirl Tubes



  • Set of 2 tubes
  • Warranty
  • 2 air chambers
  • Molded handles
  • Great value
  • SportsStuff Trek N Tube

    SportsStuff Trek N Tube


  • Built-in coolers
  • 2 cup holders
  • Includes backpack
  • Handles
  • Easy inflation/deflation
  • River Rat Tube

    River Rat Tube


  • Double chambers
  • Double valves
  • Grab rope
  • Durable
  • Slow deflation
  • Intex River Run II Sport Lounge

    Intex River Run II Sport Lounge e1615506287757

    You can trust the River Run II tube to get you through rough rivers when trees and rocks are in your path. Not only is it durable, but also very comfortable. You’ll feel like you’re lounging by the pool thanks to the back rests and spacious seats. Plus it makes it so much more fun to float down a river when you’re sharing the experience with a friend!

    Pros:

    • Two connected seats
    • There’s a built-in cooler and cup holders
    • Designed for comfort with backrests and a mesh bottom
    • You can tether other tubes to it

    Cons:

    • It is big and cumbersome to move around
    • You need a special pump to blow it up
    • Make sure to test it before taking it out to ensure that it holds air

    Intex River Run I Sport Lounge

    Intex River Run I Sport Lounge e1615506674264

    Also made by Intex, the River Run I is just as comfortable as the River Run II. The only difference is that it’s made for one person and doesn’t come with a cooler. You really can’t go wrong with either of these options since Intex is known for their top-notch products and even experienced river guides recommend these tubes. It just depends on what you want in an inflatable tube.

    Pros:

    • Built-in backrest and mesh bottom
    • Equipped with two cup holders
    • Comes with handles and a grab rope
    • Great value for the price

    Cons:

    • Too big for a small child
    • The cup holders are a bit flimsy but if you put sleeve over your drink it should stay put

    Bradley Rubber River Tube

    Bradley Rubber River Tube

    Here’s the reason why a lot of people love these heavy Bradley rubber inner tubes: they are rugged enough to withstand rocky rivers. Also, their short valve stem makes deflation quick and easy. Just make sure to get the right size for whoever plans on using it. And don’t be alarmed if it is uneven when inflated because it will still work just fine. This heavy duty tube from Bradley will be perfect for your next river tubing adventure!

    Pros:

    • Comes in a variety of sizes with diameters ranging from 32-72″
    • Can also be used for snow tubing
    • Made of thick and durable material

    Cons:

    • To get it big enough you have to inflate it for a long time
    • Not as visually attractive as other option

    River Run Lounge Raft

    River Run Lounge Raft

    This is one of the most comfortable tubes I’ve come across. I love the back rest which is a part of the tube. It lets me sit upright and grab the handles over the bumpy parts of a river but I can also lean back and relax at the lake. It is also one of the most durable tubes there is; in fact,  it is made out of 18 gauge vinyl. It is a little pricey, but you get 2 tubes and I think they are worth the price.

    Pros:

    • Set of 2 tubes
    • Built in back rest
    • Cup holders
    • Sturdy handles
    • All around grab rope
    • Inflates and deflates quickly

    Con:

    • More expensive than other options

    Intex River Run Connecting Tubes

    Intex River Run Connecting Tubes

    While these connecting tubes from Intex are a little bit expensive, they are worth every dollar! Once you see how easy it is to connect to other tubes you’ll be so glad you picked it. You can even connect an Intex cooler to your tube. You can easy socialize with the rest of your group with these tubes. It does work as a single tube as well if that’s what you’d prefer. But everything is more fun with friends, right?

    Pros:

    • Made in the USA
    • Deflates in 60 seconds
    • Won’t capsize larger framed individuals

    Cons:

    • Prone to losing air
    • Sometimes the connectors rip off on rough water

    Solstice Super Chill River Raft

    Solstice Super Chill River RaftFor the ultimate aquatic lounge, check out the Solstice Super Chill River Raft. This six person tube has got everything you’ll need for a fun day on the water from comfortable chairs to cup holders to a built-in ice chest within reach of everyone. Keep in mind that if you don’t want one this big, Solstice also sells one-, two-, and three-person floats.

    Pros:

    • Easy to socialize
    • Nylon mesh insert seats
    • Equipped with an ice chest and drink holders
    • Made of thick, sturdy vinyl
    • 5 size options

    Cons:

    • Big and bulky, may not fit on all rivers
    • The ice chest won’t keep your drinks cold for more than a few hours
    • Large size difficult to maneuver

    Airhead Bimini Lounger II

    AIRHEAD BIMINI LOUNGER II

    For those of you who don’t mind spending close to $100 on a river float tube, the Airhead Lounger III may be for you. With a backrest, leg rest, and cup holder, it doesn’t get more luxurious than this! The best part is that it comes with a storage compartment which you can zip shut to keep your gear protected. Overall, this is a great purchase which will last for a long time.

    Pros:

    • Zippered storage compartment
    • Has a built-in leg rest
    • The cup holder holds drinks securely so they won’t tip over
    • Holds air well

    Cons:

    • The storage compartment is not waterproof
    • Expensive
    • May not withstand a rough river

    Airhead River Otter Deluxe

    AIRHEAD RIVER OTTER DELUXE

    You won’t regret buying the Airhead River Otter! It is exactly what you want in a river float that you’ll be spending hours sitting in: it is well-built with heavy duty materials and ultra comfortable with a cushioned backrest. This tube even has a drink holder! Plus it has a speed safety valve making it quick to inflate and deflate. Put on a life jacket and enjoy the ride!

    Pros:

    • Drink holder
    • Backrest
    • Molded handles

    Cons:

    • A bit small, not ideal for tall or large adults
    • Rope is not included to tether to other tubes

    Intex Color Whirl Floating Tube

    Intex Color Whirl Floating TubeI know I’ve already reviewed a few other tubes from Intex, but this list isn’t complete without the Color Whirl also from Intex. They offer a 30 day warranty to cover any defects in their tubes, which is a big deal in my opinion. This set of two tubes comes in bright, fun colors you will love. My favorite feature is the two air chambers because if one gets popped the other will keep you afloat. This is another great option!

    Pros:

    • Great value
    • Easy to carry with sturdy handles
    • 30 day warranty

    Cons:

    • No backrest, cup holder, or mesh netting
    • Some people don’t like all the warning labels on the front of the tube

    SportsStuff Trek N Tube

    SPORTSSTUFF TREK N TUBE

    SportsStuff thought of everything when they designed the Trek n’Tube! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the built-in coolers/gear pockets and cup holders. Without them, I wouldn’t have anywhere to put my sunscreen lotion and keys while floating down the river. And it’s always nice when cup holders are included so you can stay hydrated. You won’t regret this purchase!

    Pros:

    • Plenty of storage space for your accessories
    • Provides a stable ride
    • Includes a backpack to store and transport the tube

    Cons:

    • The backrest is quite big and uncomfortable to some
    • Difficult to patch leaks since vinyl covers the tube

    River Rat Tube

    Intex River Rat Tube

    As you know, we love Intex tubes, and this River Rat Tube is no different. It is a great tube to have around for summer fun. Durable enough to withstand river runs and comfortable enough for some relaxation on the lake, it’s a great choice for an adventure.

    I really like the grab line; it comes in very handy when you need to grab the tube before it floats out across the lake.  I like the double chamber tubes. It just adds a measure of security knowing I will stay afloat if one of the chambers deflates.

    Pros:

    • Includes a repair patch
    • Double chamber with double valves
    • All around grab line

    Cons:

    • Slow to deflate
    • The black part of tube can get hot

    FAQs

    What makes a good river float?

    When floating down the river, you want a tube that can withstand the bumps, rocks, and whatever else it might encounter. A heavy duty vinyl or plastic is good. If you want to ride with more than one person, look for a larger float with a bigger capacity.

    How can parents keep kids safe on a river outing?

    First of all, parents should make sure each child has a good quality, well fitting life jacket. Keep an adult with young children at all times and don’t ride the river if the water is too fast or the water level is too high. Apply waterproof sunscreen often and keep well hydrated.

    Is a pump needed to inflate a river float tube?

    Most floats can be inflated either with a pump or manually. However, if you have a larger float you will likely want to use a pump as it will take a lot of time and energy to blow up a large tube manually. A basic, inexpensive pump is all you need.

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