Winter is coming. It pays to be prepared, and we don’t mean stockpiling food. We suggest getting ready for winter fun with all the snow that is on its way. Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean we can’t have tons of fun with it. If you’re bored of building snowmen and having snowball fights, find a hill, grab one of these snow tubes and take your winter enjoyment to the next level.
If it’s already winter where you are, then stop wasting time and get the Flexible Flyer Inflatable Sled. The best snow tube on our list, it is the most versatile inner tube as it is durable, fast and can even be used on the water in the summer months. Whichever tube you choose, this is an excellent way for the whole family to get outdoors and savor the crisp fresh air that winter brings.
#1 Editor’s Choice
Flexible Flyer Inflatable Sled
Read Full Review
- PVC material for extreme cold temps
- Can be used on water
- Larger than most for more comfort
#2 Editor’s Choice
Slippery Racer Grande XL Commercial Snow Tube
Read Full Review
- Built for speed
- Made from commercial-grade materials
- Includes sturdy tow cable
Big Mouth Snow Tube Flamingo
Read Full Review
- Bright pink flamingo design
- Great for kids
- Includes patch repair kit
HIWENA Inflatable Snow Tubes
Read Full Review
- Includes two tubes per package
- Fast Inflate/deflate
- Made for water use as well
Bradley Ultimate Towable Snow Tube Sled
Read Full Review
- Great for towing
- Very slick bottom
- Ultra-strong handles
WindRider Snow Tube
Read Full Review
- Polyethylene bottom for top speeds
- Double-stitched handles
- Includes 3-year warranty
Gemini Two-Rider Inflatable Snow Tube
Read Full Review
- Designed for two riders
- Two sets of dependable handles
- Deeper seats
GoFloats Winter Snow Tube
Read Full Review
- Available in 5 different animal shapes
- Treated with cold-weather formula
- Outfitted with rapid inflate valve
Tube In A Box
Read Full Review
- Traditional snow tube design
- Made from durable rubber
- Treated with UV protection
SNOWCANDY Snow Tube
Read Full Review
- Made for two people
- Unique candy design
- Higher seats to protect your rear end
1. Flexible Flyer Inflatable Sled
Editor’s Choice #1: This tube had to be number one because it’s suitable for such a wide range of riders. If you’ve never gone tubing before, this will be just as good a fit for you as it will for a more advanced rider. The quality is here, and you can even use it in the summer. If you’re in a hurry, look no further than this tube.
The Flexible Flyer Inflatable Sled can be enjoyed 12 months a year for the best of both winter and summer. For winter, it’s made with weather-treated PVC to withstand the coldest of temperatures. This design makes it very durable and resistant against sharp ice and any foliage hiding under the snow. The color is great for winter because it stands out against the white snow so vibrantly.
Built For A Comfortable Ride
The sturdy handles on the sides will ensure you stay in the tube for as long as possible. There is a handle on each side of this 39” wide snow tube which is a huge help with keeping you balanced. Sledding can be a bumpy road so having a secure and robust snow tube is a huge help. One of the best snow tubes out there for winter fun, this is also perfect in summer for lounging around in the pool or enjoying a lazy afternoon on the river. You’ll want to save your energy over the summer, so you’re well-rested for the upcoming sledding season.
Pros
- Durable PVC coating
- Weather treated outer layer for cold temperatures
- Robust handles on each side
- Bright and noticeable color
- Great size for a wide range of riders
Cons
- Cannot be towed
2. Slippery Racer Grande XL Commercial Snow Tube
Editor’s Choice #2: We know there are some experienced tubers out there looking for the most speed possible. Isn’t that the point of tubing after all? For the thrill-seekers, we found this gem that’s sure to make your mouth dry and the hairs on your neck stand up. If you want speed, this is one of the very best snow tubes out there.
The best part about snow tubing is going fast: steep hills and running starts can only get you so far. If you want to go fast then you have to get a fast snow tube. The Slippery Racer Grande XL Commercial Snow Tube goes FAST. The bottom is made from a heavy-duty, slick-coated hard shell polyethylene, providing an ultra-smooth sliding surface. Think National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation; that’s how fast this base is.
Tried, Tested And True: These Tubes Are Proven To Last
These are the tubes they use in hotels and resorts, which speaks highly to their durability and performance. The upper part of the tube is impact resistant and coated with IceVex cold-resistant formula. It also comes with a tow cable that is safe for up to 4300lbs weight capacity. It measures 42” in diameter, putting it in the XL category compared to other snow tubes. There are also two double-reinforced nylon webbed grip handles to keep you in place while you’re traveling at high speeds. This tube is perfect for the thrill-seeking family or anyone looking to make the most out of a non-steep hill.
Pros
- Ultra-slick base for maximum speed
- Impact-resistant material
- Quick-release air valve for easy inflation
- Reinforced handles on each side
- Tow cable for up to 4300lbs
Cons
- Heavier than other inflatable versions
3. Big Mouth Snow Tube Flamingo
Snow tubing is supposed to be fun, and no tube is more fun than the Big Mouth Snow Tube Flamingo. Inspired by tropical pool tubes of the same design, this is made for riders who prefer snow over sand. Get ready for lots of attention as you ride a giant, bright pink flamingo down the slopes in style and comfort. The handles are well-positioned to give you stability while cruising downhill. It’s made from ultra-durable vinyl to absorb any unwanted contact.
This Tube Is More Than Just A Flamingo
It fits one adult perfectly or two kids. Its medium size is great for easy inflation and deflation as well. One of the great features of Big Mouth products is that they all come with a patch kit. So even if you’re extra tough on your tube, you will have the tools to fix any run-ins with the bushes. Grab one for each family member and have a flamingo race to see who is the first to the bottom. These tubes are fast, so we’re sure the race will be neck and neck the whole way. Bonus: If you ride it backward, you can use the flamingo’s neck as a backrest to maximize your comfort.
Pros
- Eye-catching flamingo design
- Bright pink color
- Comfortably placed handles
- Medium size is perfect for one adult
- Includes a patch kit for any serious accidents
Cons
- Not weather-treated
4. HIWENA Snow Tubes
If you are a family that loves riding snow tubes, then the HIWENA Snow Tubes might be just the ticket for you and yours. This is a 2 in 1 deal as two different sized snow tubes are included in this package. The blue inner tube is larger and meant for the adults of the family. It measures 48” in diameter and is safe to handle up to 450lbs weight capacity. The yellow inner tube is designed specifically for kids. It’s a little smaller at 37,” but that’s still plenty big for at least one child, maybe two.
Quality And Attention To Detail
Both inner tubes have large and raised handles so that you can get a firm grasp, even with bulky mittens or gloves. Both inflatable snow tubes are made from thickened PVC as well, which is perfect for cold weather. The bottom is super smooth to reduce friction and have you gliding on top of the snow instead of through it. They’re also both outfitted with fast inflation/deflation valves. Air pumps easily attach to these, so there’s no wasted time at the beginning or end of your day on the hill.
Pros
- Two tubes included in the set
- Both made from strong PVC material
- Both have raised handles
- Both can be used in snow and water
- Sizes are designed specifically for adults and kids
Cons
- No tow cable
5. Bradley Ultimate Towable Snow Tube Sled
Everyone knows that to go extra fast, you need to get towed. You won’t need a hill with this technique, and the best part is you don’t have to climb back up the hill afterward. For this, you’ll need a specifically designed tube to withstand the pressures of being towed. The Bradley Ultimate Towable Snow Tube Sled is one of the best snow tubes for getting towed behind your favorite motorized vehicle.
The Design And Construction Will Amaze You
The smooth bottom is made from industrial vinyl, providing the least amount of friction to go fast and avoid bumps and holes along the way. The only rule in snow tubing is to hang on tight, which is easy to do with these sewn-in handles. They have to withstand extra tension because, at these speeds, you’ll be hanging on extra tight. They’re positioned just off-center, so they’re easy to reach for many different sized people. Finally, the tow cable: as heavy-duty as they come, it is rated safe enough to pull 5000lbs. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty snow tube, then call off the search – you found it.
Pros
- Specifically made to be towed
- Ultra-smooth bottom to reduce friction as much as possible
- Super strong pull strap for safe towing
- Made from heavy-duty material
- Sewn-in handles
Cons
- Heavier than other snow tubes
6. WindRider Snow Tube
With many features to ensure a quality ride, this heavy-duty snow tube is all the professional tuber needs to enjoy many seasons of tubing. The first thing you’ll notice once you get your hands on this is the smooth bottom. It’s commercial grade and designed to go as fast as possible, equipped with a solid polyethylene material that is durable and quick. One of the most comfortable snow tubes out there, when fully inflated you can sit back in the lap of luxury as you travel over the snow at break-neck speeds.
Step Up Your Snow Sled Game
If hills aren’t fast enough for you, then use the industrial-strength pull strap – perfect for getting up to top speeds behind a motorized vehicle. You can tell it’s made for this by the handles which are double stitched and positioned just above the halfway point for the most comfortable and secure grip. Even though this is made for heavy-duty wear and tear, it still comes with a 3-year warranty. So no matter what you put this through, WindRider has your back.
Pros
- Polyethylene bottom to reach top speeds
- Made from high-quality material, so it’s scratch resistant
- Commercial grade tow strap
- Comfortable sitting position
- Double-stitched handles
Cons
- Only for use in the snow
7. Gemini Two-Rider Inflatable Snow Tube
Perfect for tandem riding, the Gemini Two-Rider Inflatable Snow Tube is the answer if you want to ride with someone else. Why get two tubes when you can have all the same amount of fun with one huge snow tube? This colossal snow tube measures 61” from front to back, leaving you and your partner plenty of space to get comfortable and hang on tight.
Prepared For Faster Speeds
This inflatable snow tube sled has two sets of handles, one at the front and one at the back for the hanging-on part. They are spread out evenly so each person will have no trouble getting a firm grip. You’ll need it with the speeds you’ll be reaching. With two people, it’s possible to gain more momentum than a one-person inner tube. If that’s not enough, then you should know that the bottom of this inflatable tube is extra smooth so that it can skim the top of the snow with very little friction.
Pros
- Specifically made for two riders
- Super smooth bottom for increased speed
- Two sets of sturdy handles
- Cool shark graphics
- Deep seating when inflated to keep riders in place
Cons
- Takes a little longer to inflate
8. GoFloats Winter Snow Tube
While we are thankful to whoever invented snow tubes, we are more grateful that we can now snow tube on an ice dragon! With multiple options to choose from, the hardest part will be picking which animal you want. They are available in unicorn, flamingo, polar bear, penguin and the scary ice dragon. Each one is treated with a unique cold-weather formula, so no matter how long you spend on the slopes, you know that this tube is made to withstand low temperatures. The material used is also thicker than what’s used in competing snow tubes.
Get To The Slopes Quicker Than Anyone Else
Save tons of time as well with the rapid-inflate valve. No one wants to waste valuable breath blowing up a snow tube for hours before you even get to use it. With this valve, you can inflate your snow tube in seconds. It measures 45” around, which is quite large and will be very comfortable for a wide array of different riders. The seat itself sits a little higher than most as well – your rear end will thank you later.
Pros
- Available in five different cool animal designs
- Super smooth bottom for maximum speed
- Large and rugged handles to stay put
- Higher seat to keep your bottom safe
- Made from thick weather-resistant material
Cons
- No tow strap
9. Tube In A Box
For the traditional riders out there, here’s the one you’re looking for. The classic snow tube design provides speed and comfort all in one. And you can use this for water tubing as well! The deep black color looks great when in contrast with the snow. The materials used are just like the old days with a thick 100% rubber construction. This one has also been treated with a UV protector so the sun won’t fade the color or deflate any air.
There Have Been Some Upgrades
Unlike the old tubes, however, this one has a much different valve. If you have ever used an old one, then you remember the protruding valve that would inevitably poke you something fierce. This new tube has a low-profile valve that is neatly tucked away, making it safer than the old ones. There is no seat in this as it’s a genuine snow tube inflatable so choose your size wisely – you don’t want to be falling through the middle all the time. Not having a seat works well in the summer, though. You can use this to float down a river or even just to have ice cream in your pool. Available in 3 different sizes for all body types, the versatility of this tube is hard to match.
Pros
- Traditional design that’s been used for decades
- Durable rubber to be puncture-resistant
- Not just for the winter season
- Treated with a UV resistant solution
- Available in three different sizes
Cons
- Only available in black
10. SNOWCANDY Snow Tube
With so many options out there, it’s hard to separate yourself from the crowd. If you share that concern with us, then we have a great option here for you. The SNOWCANDY Snow Tube is designed to look just like red and white hard candies that you see at restaurants. It’s so detailed that they even included the twisted cellophane at each end of the tube.
Already Filled With Great Memories
Take a walk down memory lane as you whiz down hills with your partner or child; easy to do since it’s designed to be used by kids and adults alike. This 77” snow tube is the biggest on this list and can easily accommodate more than two people. There are two comfortable seats, each with their own set of securely fastened handles. No matter how many people you can fit, it still comes with a weight capacity of 250lbs.
Pros
- Awesome red and white candy design
- Suitable for two people
- Comfortable seats
- Two sets of handles
- Rated for up to 250lbs weight capacity
Cons
- Not made with heavy-duty material
Buyer’s Guide
Helping you to choose from the best snow tubes out there to find the right one for you. Thinking about making your own skating rink? Check out our review of the Best Synthetic Ice for an in-depth guide.
What To Look For When Choosing Your Snow Tube
Material
There are three main types of material used for snow tubes:
PVC — This is the most resistant to weather and can handle extremely low temperatures.
Rubber — Also very durable, this is the original material used in early models. It still holds up well in weather as long as it has a cold-resistant treatment but is slightly less reliable than PVC.
Vinyl — This is the least expensive and is commonly used for kids’ snow sleds as they will not be so hard on the material.
Weight
Weight is essential depending on how steep the hills are that you’ll be on. If you’re on a steep hill, you may want a lighter tube to make it easier to climb back up. Lighter material makes an excellent sled for kids as well.
Heavier tubes are meant for serious tubers. If you intend on getting pulled via a tow cable, then a heavier tube will be required.
Shape
Even though these are described as “tubes,” the name can be misleading. You can find a different attractive design based on your needs. Tubes that are meant for more than one person have a figure 8 shape to accommodate another rider. The traditional tube shape will provide the most stability as there is less chance of tipping over or injury.
Capacity
To get the best results, it’s advisable to ride solo. However, there are tubes explicitly made for two people. There are two seats and two sets of handles so each rider can stabilize themselves. We recommend not riding with more than two people for safety reasons but also for protecting your tube. They come with a weight capacity, so you risk popping your tube if you add many people.
Cost
There is a wide range of prices within the snow tube market. For the most part, this is directly related to the material used. The more costly the inner tube is, the more durable and thick the material is.
If it’s your first time riding, we suggest getting an inexpensive one and riding it on a less steep hill.
Durability
The durability of your snow tube will also greatly depend on the material used. For those looking to hit high speeds from the best snow tubes, opt for something with a solid polyethylene base. You’ll have this for years, and it can withstand the temperatures as well. For the casual rider, durability is not that important. You can focus more on the design you want, or if you’re going to ride with a partner.
Portability
All snow tubes are portable, but some more than others. If you have one that has a thick base, then transporting it will require a bit more space. All of the above inner tubes are inflatable, so they can be deflated and stored in an area that is a fraction of their size when inflated. The stronger materials will also weigh more. Even in its deflated state, carrying an all rubber tube can still be quite heavy if you’re traveling far.
Top Tips For Using A Snow Tube
- Dress appropriately, ensuring you dress in layers so you can remove or add clothing as needed
- Never stand at the bottom of the hill – after your run, move either left or right so other riders won’t hit you as there is no steering wheel or brakes on a snow tube
- Ensure you are seated properly and have a firm grip on the handles before pushing off – your tube will have a mind of its own as it’s sailing down the hill, so you don’t want to have to make adjustments along the way
- Choose a safe place to go sledding that isn’t close to any roads and has plenty of run-out space at the bottom – also, the fewer trees around, the better
To check out the best equipment and gear for figure skating, read our reviews of the Best Figure Skates. If you enjoy playing hockey and would like to get the hockey gear and equipment, you will find the following articles useful: Best Hockey Skates For Beginners, Hockey Helmets, Best Hockey Gloves, Best Hockey Sticks, Hockey Pucks and Best Hockey Rebounders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Snow Tubes Or Sleds Better?
Snow tubes are better since they can reach the same speeds as sleds but are much more convenient. You can inflate and deflate your tube and bring it anywhere in the world with you. Some tubes can also be used on the water so you can enjoy it 12 months a year.
What Size Snow Tube Should I Get?
The size of snow tube you should get is based both on your size and how many people. There are tubes specifically designed for kids and adults, respectively. You can also get tubes made for more than one person. You want to make sure that the tube you choose will support your weight or that of all your riders.
Can I Use A Snow Tube On Water?
Yes, you can use specific tubes on both snow and water. If you plan to use them on the water, choose a tube designed to do so. Some snow tubes come with materials that won’t be suited for water use. Typically, the inexpensive tubes are the ones that can be used for both snow and water.
What Is The Best Snow Tube?
The best snow tube is the Flexible Flyer Inflatable Sled. It’s the perfect combination of durability and versatility. This snow sled tube can be used by the whole family and will last throughout many winters. One of the best snow tubes, and also versatile, you can also use it in the summer on the water as well.
How Do You Make Snow Tubes Go Faster?
To make snow tubes go faster you will want the bottom to be as smooth as possible. This will reduce friction so you can ride on top of the snow and not through it. Try searching for a steeper hill which will provide more momentum right from the start so by the time you reach the bottom you will still be going fast.
Conclusion
The best snow tubes will be the ones that suit your needs and usage the best. The Flexible Flyer Inflatable Sled is a great place to start as it outshines most of the best snow tubes. Its versatility is perfect for all levels of riders and is a great place to start if you have never bought a tube before. This is a great activity to pass the cold months and it requires no practice or lessons. After you have read our guide and found the best snow tube for you – be safe out there and above all, ENJOY!
