Bradley 50″ Commercial Duty Snow Tube Deluxe Edition
Yes, this tube costs several times what a basic one from a department store does, but it’s going to outperform and outlive the “El Cheapo” that goes into the landfill after a single season. It’s the difference between six-piston disc brakes on a Ferrari versus drum brakes on a KIA. The Bradley tube is designed for tubing and skiing facilities and will be more than enough for casual recreational use at your local sledding hill.
I landed on this one as a result of my quest for the most durable snow tube on the market that I could tow behind my John Deere Gator side-by-side. In order to minimize their legal liability, the manufacturer is going to state that their product is not intended for towing behind a motorized vehicle. While you should follow their recommendations, I can attest that this tube, especially the sewn-in tow loop, is up to the job. Our kids have a blast getting whipped around our expansive front acreage on this at 30+ mph. Use common sense, a strong rope, and always be cognizant of where the tube is in relation to the tow vehicle and fixed obstacles.
Once it’s inflated, the tube will measure about 43″ across. This is more than enough for any kid and most adults. The deluxe edition (the one that I have linked to) includes the insert for the bottom of the tube so that small children can use it. The company lists a 200-pound limit, but I’m sure they’re being extremely conservative given how overbuilt this tube is. I am 6’1″ and 250 pounds and I fit comfortably in it.
I love that this is manufactured in America. This was my first experience with this company, but they have earned my respect with their commitment to quality and attention to detail.
You will go fast in this tube! I was impressed with how effortlessly this tube slides along the surface of the snow even just on level ground. Don’t worry about trying to wax the bottom to make it go faster – there is hardly any drag at all.
The black plastic/canvas material on the bottom of the cover is tough. We used the tube a couple of times when you could still see the very tips of the grass poking up, so I’m sure we were going over all kinds of sticks and twigs. I even sent my son gliding over the gravel driveway (which, unlike the grass, wasn’t covered by snow) without getting putting even a scratch on the bottom. The company does sell replacement covers separately, but I doubt that you’ll ever need one unless you’re really abusing it.
The tube comes with detailed instructions, even though it’s straightforward how to fit the cover onto the tube. Make sure that you adequately inflate the inner tube. The bottom of the tube should make a drum sound when you tap on it. You will need an air compressor, as the rubber of the tube is truly commercial grade.