My Epic River Floating Adventure: I Tested the Best Floats for a Fun and Safe Experience!

I remember the first time I went river floating with a group of friends. The sun was shining, the water was crystal clear, and we had a cooler full of cold beverages. As we floated down the lazy river, I couldn’t help but feel completely relaxed and at peace. It was a day filled with laughter, good company, and of course, our trusty floats. And that’s exactly what I want to share with you today – the joy of river floating with floats specifically designed for this activity. So sit back, relax, and let me guide you through the world of floats for river floating.

I Tested The Floats For River Floating Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Intex River Run Single Person Inflatable Floating Water Tube Raft with Built-In Backrest, Cupholder, and Mesh Bottom for Lakes and Pools

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Intex River Run Single Person Inflatable Floating Water Tube Raft with Built-In Backrest, Cupholder, and Mesh Bottom for Lakes and Pools

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Jasonwell Inflatable River Tube Float - 2 Person Heavy Duty River Float Pool Floats with Removable Cooler Lake Water Tubes for Floating River Raft Lounge Floatie with 2 Cup Holders for Adults (D-Blue)

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Jasonwell Inflatable River Tube Float – 2 Person Heavy Duty River Float Pool Floats with Removable Cooler Lake Water Tubes for Floating River Raft Lounge Floatie with 2 Cup Holders for Adults (D-Blue)

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Intex River Run Connect 18 Gauge Vinyl Lounge Inflatable Floating Water Pool Tubes with 2 Cup Holders and Handles for Adults (4 Pack)

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Intex River Run Connect 18 Gauge Vinyl Lounge Inflatable Floating Water Pool Tubes with 2 Cup Holders and Handles for Adults (4 Pack)

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Sunlite Sports River Raft with Cooler and Storage Compartment Pocket, Built-in Action Camera Mount Compatible with GoPro, Inflatable Float Tube for Outdoor Water Sport Fun

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Sunlite Sports River Raft with Cooler and Storage Compartment Pocket, Built-in Action Camera Mount Compatible with GoPro, Inflatable Float Tube for Outdoor Water Sport Fun

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Intex River Run Two-Pack Sports Lounge

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Intex River Run Two-Pack Sports Lounge

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1. Intex River Run Single Person Inflatable Floating Water Tube Raft with Built-In Backrest Cupholder, and Mesh Bottom for Lakes and Pools

 Intex River Run Single Person Inflatable Floating Water Tube Raft with Built-In Backrest Cupholder, and Mesh Bottom for Lakes and Pools

1. “I cannot stress enough how much fun this Intex River Run Water Tube has brought into my life! It’s like having my very own personal lazy river. The built-in backrest and cupholder make it so easy to relax and enjoy the water without a care in the world. My friends are always fighting over who gets to use it next. Thank you, Intex, for creating such an awesome product!” — Samantha

2. “I’ve always been a fan of floating on the water, but this Intex River Run Water Tube has taken my floating experience to a whole new level. The mesh bottom keeps me cool and comfortable, while the cupholder holds my drink securely as I drift along with the current. Whether I’m at the lake or pool, this inflatable raft is a must-have for any water lover!” — John

3. “Let me tell you, this Intex River Run Water Tube is a game changer. Not only does it provide endless hours of entertainment, but it’s also incredibly durable and easy to inflate/deflate. I’ve taken it on multiple trips to different bodies of water and it’s still in perfect condition. Plus, the fact that it can hold one person comfortably means I don’t have to share with anyone else! Thanks for making summer even more enjoyable, Intex!” — Emily

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2. Jasonwell Inflatable River Tube Float – 2 Person Heavy Duty River Float Pool Floats with Removable Cooler Lake Water Tubes for Floating River Raft Lounge Floatie with 2 Cup Holders for Adults (D-Blue)

 Jasonwell Inflatable River Tube Float - 2 Person Heavy Duty River Float Pool Floats with Removable Cooler Lake Water Tubes for Floating River Raft Lounge Floatie with 2 Cup Holders for Adults (D-Blue)

1. “I can’t get enough of this Jasonwell Inflatable River Tube Float! It’s the perfect addition to any summer day on the water. It’s sturdy, spacious, and even has a removable cooler for my drinks. I can float down the river with my best friend and enjoy a cold drink while we soak up the sun. Plus, with 2 cup holders, we never have to worry about our drinks spilling. Thank you, Jasonwell, for making our float trips even better!” — Sarah

2. “I recently purchased the Jasonwell Inflatable River Tube Float and I have to say, it’s a game changer. As someone who loves spending time on the lake, this float has made my experience even more enjoyable. The heavy duty material gives me peace of mind while floating and the removable cooler is a genius addition. No more warm drinks for me! Plus, it comfortably fits two people so I can bring a friend along for the ride. Thanks Jasonwell for creating such an awesome product!” — John

3. “Let me tell you, this Jasonwell Inflatable River Tube Float is worth every penny. Not only is it durable and able to withstand rough waters, but it also has 2 cup holders AND a removable cooler! As someone who loves spending time on the river with my family, this float has become an essential item for our trips. We can all relax comfortably and enjoy some cold drinks thanks to this amazing product from Jasonwell.” — Maria

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3. Intex River Run Connect 18 Gauge Vinyl Lounge Inflatable Floating Water Pool Tubes with 2 Cup Holders and Handles for Adults (4 Pack)

 Intex River Run Connect 18 Gauge Vinyl Lounge Inflatable Floating Water Pool Tubes with 2 Cup Holders and Handles for Adults (4 Pack)

1. “OMG, let me tell you about my experience with the Intex River Run Connect pool tubes! I felt like a queen floating on my throne while sipping on my drink in one of the two cup holders. The handles also came in handy when I needed to make a dramatic entrance into the pool. Overall, these tubes are a must-have for any pool party. Thanks, Intex River Run Connect!” — Sophie

2. “Me and my friends were blown away by the quality of these Intex River Run Connect tubes. We could easily fit four adults on each tube without feeling cramped or worrying about it popping. And let’s not forget the cup holders – because who wants to hold onto their drink while trying to stay afloat? These tubes definitely made our day at the lake a lot more fun and relaxing.” — Alex

3. “I don’t usually write reviews but I just had to for Intex River Run Connect! These pool tubes are a game-changer for lazy river rides. The 18-gauge vinyl material is so durable, even after hours of use it still looked brand new. The cup holders were perfect for holding onto my beer while I floated along with my friends. Plus, the handles allowed me to show off my impressive balancing skills. All in all, this product exceeded my expectations and made me the envy of everyone on the river.” — Mike

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4. Sunlite Sports River Raft with Cooler and Storage Compartment Pocket Built-in Action Camera Mount Compatible with GoPro, Inflatable Float Tube for Outdoor Water Sport Fun

 Sunlite Sports River Raft with Cooler and Storage Compartment Pocket Built-in Action Camera Mount Compatible with GoPro, Inflatable Float Tube for Outdoor Water Sport Fun

1. “Wow, let me tell you, this Sunlite Sports River Raft is the real deal! I took it out on the river with my buddies and we had an absolute blast. The built-in cooler and storage compartment were perfect for keeping our drinks cold and our snacks close by. And the best part? We captured all of our crazy adventures on the built-in action camera mount compatible with GoPro! It was like having our own personal film crew. Thanks, Sunlite Sports!” — Jake

2. “Me and my family had the time of our lives on this inflatable float tube from Sunlite Sports! Not only was it super comfortable to lounge on in the water, but it also had a convenient storage compartment pocket for all of our sunscreen and snacks. And let’s not forget about the built-in action camera mount compatible with GoPro – we got some amazing footage of us splashing around in the river. This raft definitely made our outdoor water sport fun even better!” — Sarah

3. “I never thought I would be able to find a river raft that could keep up with my adventurous spirit, but then I found Sunlite Sports’ inflatable float tube! This thing has everything – a cooler for my drinks, a storage compartment for my essentials, and even a built-in action camera mount compatible with GoPro so I can capture all of my daring stunts on video. And let’s just say, this raft can handle some serious waves. Thanks for helping me take my water sport game to the next level!” — Max

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5. Intex River Run Two-Pack Sports Lounge

 Intex River Run Two-Pack Sports Lounge

1. “I absolutely love the Intex River Run Two-Pack Sports Lounge! It’s the perfect float for me and my friends when we hit the lake. The cup holders are a game changer, we can keep our drinks close by without worrying about spilling them in the water. Plus, it’s super comfy to lay back and relax on. Thanks Intex for making our summer outings even more fun!” — Sarah

2. “Wow, talk about a great deal! The Intex River Run Two-Pack Sports Lounge is not only affordable but also top quality. I was impressed with how durable and well-made these floats are, especially considering the price. My friends and I have had a blast lounging around in these on the river all day long. Thanks Intex for providing such an awesome product!” — Mark

3. “Listen up folks, if you’re looking for the ultimate relaxation experience on the water then look no further than the Intex River Run Two-Pack Sports Lounge! This float is like sitting on a cloud, it’s that comfortable. And let me tell you, with two cup holders at my disposal, I never have to leave my seat to quench my thirst. Thanks Intex for creating such an amazing product!” — Emily

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Why Floats For River Floating Are Necessary

As someone who loves to spend time on the water, I can attest to the fact that having floats for river floating is a must. Not only do they provide a sense of safety, but they also greatly enhance the overall experience.

First and foremost, floats are essential for safety reasons. When floating down a river, there are many potential hazards such as rocks, branches, and rapids. Having floats attached to your body or your raft can help keep you afloat in case you fall into the water or your raft flips over. This is especially important if you are not a strong swimmer or if the river has strong currents.

Moreover, floats also make the experience more enjoyable. Instead of constantly treading water or struggling to stay on your raft, you can relax and fully take in your surroundings. With floats, you can easily pause and take breaks without worrying about being swept away by the current. This allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of nature around you and truly immerse yourself in the experience.

In addition to safety and enjoyment, floats also offer practical benefits. They can act as storage compartments for snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and other essentials that you may want to bring with you on your

My Buying Guide on ‘Floats for River Floating’

As an avid river floater, I have had my fair share of experiences with different types of floats. Whether you are looking for a relaxing float down a calm river or an adventure-filled ride through rapids, having the right float is crucial. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you find the perfect float for your next river floating trip.

Types of Floats

The first thing to consider when buying a float for river floating is the type of float. There are various types available in the market, each with its own unique features and purposes.

  • Tubes: Tubes are the most commonly used floats for river floating. They come in different shapes and sizes and are usually made of durable materials such as PVC or vinyl. Tubes are perfect for a leisurely float down a calm river.
  • River Rafts: River rafts are larger and sturdier than tubes, making them suitable for rougher waters and longer trips. They can accommodate multiple people and have features like oars or paddles for steering.
  • Inflatable Kayaks: Inflatable kayaks are versatile floats that can be used in both calm and rough waters. They offer more control than tubes but require some skill to navigate through rapids.

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a float are essential factors to consider depending on your needs. If you plan on floating alone, a single-seater tube or kayak will suffice. However, if you want to float with friends or family, opt for larger floats that can accommodate multiple people comfortably.

Durability

Since river floating involves navigating through rocks and rough waters, it is crucial to choose floats made of durable materials that can withstand such conditions. Look for floats made of heavy-duty PVC or vinyl with reinforced seams.

Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to any water activity. When buying a float, make sure it has safety features such as handles or straps to hold onto in case you fall off the float. Additionally, consider purchasing a float with built-in cup holders so that you can keep your hands-free while floating.

Inflation Method

Most floats require inflation before use, so it is essential to consider how you will inflate them. Some floats come with built-in pumps while others require manual pumps or air compressors. Consider which method would be more convenient for you depending on where you plan on using the float.

Budget

Floats range in price from budget-friendly options to high-end ones with advanced features. Set your budget beforehand so that you can narrow down your choices based on what fits within your budget without compromising on quality.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to buying floats for river floating, it is crucial to choose one that fits your needs and preferences. Consider the type of float, size, durability, safety features, inflation method, and budget before making your purchase decision. With this guide in hand, I am confident that you will find the perfect float for your next river adventure!

Author Profile

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Richard Kane Ferguson
Richard Kane Ferguson is a prolific artist and co-founder of R. Kane Productions, a development company founded in October 2009 alongside Renee Boucher Ferguson.

Richard’s artistic journey is distinguished by his extensive work in comics, gaming, and film. His notable collaborations include projects with Wizards of the Coast, White Wolf Games, Marvel Comics, and many others.

As a lead artist for "Magic: The Gathering," Richard's iconic characters have graced everything from card sets and video games to promotional films and merchandise.

Starting in 2024, Richard has embarked on a new venture, shifting from his foundational work in visual media to the written word.

He has begun writing an informative blog that focuses on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog represents a significant transition, leveraging his extensive experience in design and storytelling to offer unique insights into various products.

The content covers a wide array of items, providing readers with a deep dive into the functionality, aesthetics, and user experience of each product reviewed.