1 - The removable storage bags
Removable gear bags are one of the best developments in float tubes. This makes it easy to prepare them in advance at home for a session.
There is no more need to put your equipment in an intermediate bag and then install it in your float-tube when you get there, and to do the same thing at the end of the session. This type of bag represents a significant saving of time, greatly facilitates the preparation of the float-tube at the water's edge and avoids the loss of equipment.
2 - Carrying handles and straps
The transportability of a float-tube is very important, whether it is for 20 meters or 500 meters. The presence of carrying handles, with at least one handle on each side of the seat, and a third handle at the V-shaped end is necessary. This allows the float-tube to be handled easily, without the risk of dropping it.
In addition, it is necessary to verify the possibility of attaching straps to carry it on the back, as well as the presence of these straps. This becomes essential when there is no possibility of parking near the launch.
Another point, which is also part of the transportability of a float-tube, not always easy to determine before the purchase, is the size and quality of the transport bag.
Some manufacturers take the trouble to provide a cover adjusted to the size of the float-tube, which is perfect to store and transport it. Others, provide an oversized bag, really not practical to carry, and of poor quality that tears easily. Taking the time to ask to see this storage bag allows you to make a better choice.
3 - An inflatable seat
In addition to taking up less space when deflated, an inflatable seat is more comfortable than a Styrofoam seat. This is because the edge under the legs, near the knees, is softer than the square edge of the Styrofoam. In addition, the inflatable seat takes the shape of the body and provides additional flotation.
4 - Beware of packs
Packages, including a pump and a pair of fins, may seem interesting, as they allow you to get everything you need in one purchase. But often it is a marketing ploy rather than a good deal! Indeed, when you look at it closely, the pump and the fins provided are of poor quality, and do not allow you to fully enjoy the float-tube. It is therefore better to buy a pump and a pair of efficient fins separately.
5 - A quality after-sales service
Finally, a criterion that is not easy to determine is the quality of the after-sales service of the desired brand. In the case of a float-tube, this is something important, because manufacturing defects are unfortunately not rare. To help you, you can ask your retailer for advice, who, before answering you, will certainly advise you such or such brand, because of his own experience.
Indeed, when a defective object is dropped off at his place, he is the one who must then manage the return with the distributor. His interest is therefore to sell a reliable product, with a good guarantee, with a trusted distributor.
To guide your choice, you can also consult social networks, but you have to know how to balance the two, because one unhappy customer often makes more noise than a hundred satisfied customers.
