First Tube Recommendations?

[4michael]

Buying our first towable tube today. Considering the O'Brien Screeners. Not sure if we should buy a larger three-person tube or two person.

I have two kids 11 + 14. While we know all tubes can flip over, we would like one that's more stable and less prone to flipping when going over wakes. Does anybody know if the larger or the smaller tube would be better. We think most often we will have one rider at a time. But sometimes may have 2.

 

[Julian]

My experience is that I end up using the bigger tube whenever my daughter can convince me to bring it (huge 4 person bandwagon 2+2). Its like another boat but the kids love all going out there together.

I own 4 tubes, and the 2 person one is the one I take most often as its manageable.

 

[Julian]

This thread has a bunch of good info

https://jetboaters.net/threads/best-towable-tube-in-your-opinion.668/

 

[F.M.]

I agree with @Julian, my kids prefer our largest tube because they can ride with friends or move around if they're alone. I prefer the 2 person because it's easier to pack, inflate and deflate. And we have 4 tubes also. 1 of which is new for this season, and I hope they like it because it's going very small and easy to pack.

Sumo & Splash Guard Combo

 

[scokill]

We've had every tube imaginable over 12 seasons and kids from 5 to now 25. This is our favorite. Large, stable, can ride 1 or 3, or more. Can go fast or slow, sling it around.....Can't sit in it, but sit in tubes were our kids least favorite by far. O'Brien Ultra Screamer Towable Tube 80" 3 Rider

 

[4michael]

That O'Brien looks pretty sweet. Cound a copy cat at Academy for $130. Going to give it a try. If it bites, then will return and get the O'Brien. $200 + is pretty steep for an inflatable.

 

[4michael]

Thank you all for your thoughts. Definitely helped me make the decision. Since it's our only to buy went with the three person, since it's more stable for the ones you want more stability and we could always speed up for the ones who want to go a little Wilder

 

[PJ73]

I use a Costco Hi-output, 4 person. Also use a 60' with a ball and have thrust vector wakes with the ladder deflector. Works great, no spray. If you use a shorter rope without all the "fancy stuff", I just put goggles on my kids and problem of spray is done. Oh, and...

 

[Ronnie]

My recommendation any tube that Costco sells because their return and exchange policy can’t be beat and most of their tubes come bundled with a tow rope and electric pump.
Here a pic of what they currently offer online.

 

[tabbibus]

return policy is key! I bought a cheapo one last season and it died. bad return policy.... likely going costco this time

 

[OCMD]

Just remember. No tube is stable.......here is an oldie but goodie from about ten year ago.

 

[gthh]

While we are on the subject .
Consider bringing your Bicycle helmets (they float). You just need riders in the middle to have a helmet on.
I cringe every time I remember my son and his friend bashing thier heads together during a rough ride.
All my kids and friends wear jackets also