
You wouldn’t want to take them out on the open ocean or a whitewater river, of course, but float tubes are a popular choice for many more relaxing waterways. Casting for fish while floating down a slowly flowing stream, cruising down a river, and simply bobbing around a pond or pool are all classic float tube activities. Best Budget: Intex River Run I Sport LoungeĪ float tube is the ideal vessel for exploring calm to moderately choppy waters.


The best float tube for you depends on whether you want to fish, drift calmly, tackle river rapids, or just hang out in the pool. Today’s float tubes are optimized for different activities, with features such as seats, abrasion-resistant coverings, tow ropes, cup holders, and storage compartments.

We’re not talking about those old rubber inner tube floats that smell funny and get super-hot in the sun. Whether your favorite water is a riffly river, a placid lake, or a local swimming hole, a float tube-also known as a belly boat-always adds to the experience.
