What you would like to know? Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
… there are two Possibilities
 1. There are not enough questions and answers,
which means we have done a good job, allowing you to use the site intuitively
 
 2. There are too many questions and answers,
which means we haven't done a good job in designing this site for you. 
 
In any case: We encourage you to talk to us – in particular – about what you did not like when using the site the, by contacting us

We endeavour to make shopping at Discount ski tubes and gear a positive and memorable experience for you.

Is Discount ski tubes and gear safe to shop?
Safe implies security... and yes, it is safe to shop with Discount ski tubes and gear. We have been scrutinised in regard to company credentials, company registration, Internet security, Computer Systems security, amongst others.
Your personal data is safe and not accessible via our web server.

Is it safe to use my Credit Card?
Yes!, it is safe for you to shop with your Credit Card online with us, as you bear no risks or consequences whatsoever, e.g. in case your card has been used without your authorisation.
This is a completely different story for us as merchants (or any other online merchant) who is – in contrast – fully liable in case of fraudulent use of a credit card.

Is is safe for Discount ski tubes and gear to accept Credit Cards?
Card-Not-Present merchants are perfect targets for bankcard fraud. Scamsters are taking advantage of the fact that they can operate anonymously. They know that many of the credit card features that prevent fraud in the physical world do not apply in the card-not-present environment.
This is one of the reasons, why you as a customer are asked to put in all these accurate details in regard to card holder address, and phone number. The latter is of particular interest to us, as we can verify – by actually calling you –, whether you really made this purchase.
While you may find this a bit annoying, it is currently the only way to protect you – and of course us – from fulfilling an unauthorised order request.

How do I shop with Discount ski tubes and gear?
Shopping at Discount ski tubes and gear has been made easy, at least we believe so, and would love to hear from you in case you feel otherwise. We encourage you to "talk to us" by simply contacting us.

To answer the question though: There are various menu items and links that lead to specific products and product groups. The article is the displayed with (in most cases) with an image, the name of the item and a quick description. More details are available on an extended product page, when clicking on the image or the "+ More Information" link.

The extended product page, will repeat the previous information, but with a larger image and with additional, more detailed product information, which may contain features, system requirements, and most importantly: this page will also show products that "go" with the product shown.
We will list the most relevant products, in order to avoid cluttering the page with obvious articles that complement the product shown.
All prices are in Australian Dollars and include GST (where applicable).

Life jackets – who must carry them?

Vessels operating in unprotected waters (outside the waters contained by any breakwater or in any lake, river or estuary other than the waters of Cambridge Gulf or Lake Argyle) must carry an approved life jacket for each person on board. Each life jacket must suit the weight of the person for whom it is intended, be maintained in good condition and kept in an easily accessible place.

Types of life jackets

• Life jackets and other buoyancy garments are called PFDs – personal flotation devices.
• Only the PFD Type 1 is acceptable as a life jacket – Types 2 and 3 are buoyancy vests and are intended for sports such as sailing and water skiing.
• You will recognise a Type 1 by its orange, yellow or red colour, flotation collar, and reflective tape.
• Type 1 life jackets are bulkier and are designed to keep the body afloat for long periods of time. 
• Self inflatable PFD Type 1 Jackets are considerably less bulky than the traditional style of jacket.
• All PFD Type 1 jackets must display a label with the Australian Standards brand and the number AS 1512

There are three types of lifejackets or Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs). PFD Type 1 (AS1512) This type of lifejacket is required on all boats operating in unprotected waters and is your primary life support device if your boat sinks. They make it very easy to keep your head above water. PFD Type 1 features a buoyancy collar and is designed to keep you in a safe floating position, i.e. with the body inclined back from the vertical, with nose and mouth clear of the water.

Emergency Contact Numbers for Sydney Area

Emergency Contact Numbers for Sydney Area

Environment complaints or questions
Call Environmental Services on 02 9563 8591 or 02 9563 8592.

NSW Fisheries - Sydney
Phone:  02 9527 8411
Illegal fishing activity should be reported to your local fisheries office. If they are not available, phone 24 hour fisherman's watch.
Phone: 1800 043 536

Sydney Ferries
Phone: 131 500

Sydney Water
Service difficulties and emergencies (24 hours)
Phone: 132 090

Water Police
Operation Neptune is a 24hr tollfree number. Marine crime and information can be reported (anonymously if requested).
Phone: 1800 658 784

What are the top reasons to get involved in Boating

With the majority of Australians residing along our beautiful coastline, it’s time to get off the highway and out onto the water and try boating!  Boating is an activity which can be taken up regardless of experience, age or gender and is a great way to relax, rejuvenate and blow those cobwebs away.  

Here’s a list of just a few of the ways boating can benefit you and help you win back your work/life balance:

1. Boating is great exercise.  Exercise releases endorphins and is one of best ways to help manage stress.   Whether you’re manning the sails, swimming, rowing, scuba diving, or exploring new beachfronts – there’s something for every age and every fitness level.
2. Boating is a great way to bond with family and friends.  One of the best ways to maintain a proper work/life balance is by making sure you spend quality time with friends and family. Switch off the TV and start reconnecting with those who are most important to you by enjoying a day or weekend on the water together.
3. Boating is affordable. One of the biggest misconceptions about boating is that it is expensive.  But what most people don’t know is that you can hire a motorboat for less than what it costs to take a family of four to the movies for the afternoon! Otherwise, if you’re looking to make a purchase, there are financing options available.
4. Boating is relaxing.  There’s something incredibly freeing about cruising on the open water; breathing in the fresh air, feeling the wind in your hair and the ocean beneath – leave all your worries back on the shore and escape for the day.
5. Boating is convenient.  Another common misconception about boating is that it is not easily accessible.  However even if you don’t live near the ocean, Australia has on offer many waterways to explore - from bays, rivers, to lakes and even ponds.  Call your local council or do a quick Google search on water access points for local information.
6. Boating gets you back in touch with nature. Jump into a sailboat and use nature’s power to travel.  What better way to reconnect than spending time outside in the natural environment!  Quality time away from noisy buses and trains and high-rise buildings is a perfect way to unwind.
7. Boating is a rewarding activity. Whether you’re practicing the perfect cast, learning how to tack in a sailboat, or are exploring the amazing marine life with a snorkel and fins; boating provides a platform for a variety of activities and interests.
8. Boating is a great alternative. If you’re tired of the same old weekend activities, try something new in the water!  Perhaps you’ve never been deep-sea fishing or you want to try your hand at water-skiing – there is something for everyone.
9. Boating is easy to learn. There are boating and water safety courses everywhere these days. There are classes for sailing, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and even water-skiing.  No matter what you’re interested in, there’s a wide array of information available to the interested boater.
10. Best of all, boating is just FUN – all you need to do is remember to stick to the simple safety guidelines.

Where can I find out more info on Safety

Coastal Radio Network Services - Information 

Emergency Contact Numbers for Sydney

Boating Safety

Where can I see some videos?

Watch the Airhead Action Video

Just back in stock Airhead Viper 2 & 3, G-Force & Crash Mat 1-3 Rider Ski Tubes.

Watch the Sportsstuff Videos here

Also Sportstuff Crazy8, Wet N Wild Flyer & Mega Slice 1-4 Riders Tubes.

Which towable ski tube is right for me?

Which towable ski tube is right for me?

This really depends on your rider(s), your boat and personal taste. Let's look at the rider(s) first. Obviously, you'll need to choose a towable ski tube made for the number of riders you have.

Don't buy a Monte Carlo if you have only one rider. Another important consideration is the age of your rider(s). Some ski tubes ride more stable than others. Younger riders may feel less anxious on a more stable ski tube like the Sling Shot or the Battle Chariot recumbent towable.

Older, more daring riders may prefer a wilder ride on the 2 Extreme or the RPM. Of course the speed of the boat can change the ride of a ski tube too. If you have smaller, younger riders you'll want to slow down for them. Know your rider(s) and the type of ride he and/or she likes.

Personal taste can play a sizable role in your decision as well. There are many towables that provide a similar ride. Graphics, shape and design can play a large role in your decision.

There are many choices when selecting a boat towable, all considerations being equal, it just might come down to which one you think looks great behind your boat. All towables can provide years of fun for the right situation, from crazy new designs to the old standby round ski tubes.

When it comes to your boat, think practical. The larger the towable, the more power you will need to pull it and provide a fun ride. You can pull a Monte Carlo with a 100 HP motor, but with four adults hanging on, you may have some trouble providing a fun ride and getting them outside the wake. The most important thing to remember is to have fun and be safe!

Towable Ski Tube Care and Maintenance

So you recently bought your first ski tube, or maybe you've owned several before and just haven't paid attention to care and maintenance. There's really not much to the care and maintenance of your tube, but proper care and maintenance may just extend the life of your ski tube.

Proper Inflation

First and foremost in care and maintenance is proper inflation. Your tube will come with inflation instructions, follow those instructions carefully. If your ski tube is not properly inflated during use, it will place added stress on the tube cover by allowing water to collect between the cover and PVC bladder.

If your tube is over-inflated, it will place excessive stress on the bladder. Further, an over-inflated ski tube left in the sun will likely result in the tube bladder becoming misshaped. PVC has no "memory", so the tube won't return to its original shape.

Misshaped tubes may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms; hard to tow, erratic behavior, may "submarine" when being pulled behind the boat.

Cleaning Your Tube

Ski tubes get dirty. You can clean your tube with soap and water or a mild detergent. Simply use a soapy bucket of water and a sponge to gently wash away the dirt. Then rinse the tube clean with a garden hose.

Do not use strong cleaning agents on the nylon cover of your ski tube. These may cause damage to the fabric or fading.

Proper Storage

Proper storage of your towable is important as well. Before storing your ski tube, make sure it is completely dry. Tubes are easiest to dry when inflated. You may also dry a deflated tube by draping it over a clothes line or similar structure. Do not fold and store a ski tube that is wet. This will result in the growth of mold or mildew that may stain your tubes cover permanently.

At the end of the season, make sure your ski tube dries completely and store it in a cool dry area. Make sure to take precautions against rodents and vermin.

SKI TUBES: HOW TO USE INFLATABLE, TOWABLE BOAT TUBES

SKI TUBES: HOW TO USE INFLATABLE, TOWABLE BOAT TUBES
Tips & Information On How To Purchase, Use, Store & Maintain Boat Ski Tubes

Welcome to Ski Tubes: How To Use Inflatable, Towable Boat Tubes. 

This page is written for the novice water ski tube user.  It's a primer for someone who would like to get a towable tube but doesn't know much about water sports.  This site will give you information on choosing the right tube for your needs, towing a ski tube behind your boat, tips for safe tubing and maintaining your ski tube.

Scroll down to see information on the following topics:
        Towable Ski Tube Basics
        How Water Ski Tubes Work
        Types Of Towable Tubes
        Instructions For Using Towables
        Inflatable Tips, Advice & Information
        How To Assemble And Inflate A Ski Tube
        Tow Rope Specifications
        Ski Tube Maintenance
        Water Ski Tube Pictures
        Links To Additional Ski Tube Information

WARNING:  Towing people behind boats is dangerous.  There is risk of drowning, collision, propeller contact and injury from snapped rope.  It is your responsibility to be aware of such risks and communicate them everyone aboard your boat.
This site is for general information purposes only.  You must read the specific instructions provided with your towable and your boat.  This information is provided on an as-is basis with no warranty regarding its accuracy, use or suitability for a specific purpose.

TOWABLE SKI TUBE BASICS
Why get a towable ski tube?  Because towing a ski tube extends the fun you can have with your power boat.  Towables allow riders to have an experience that's similar to water-skiing.  Passengers can enjoy water sports without knowing how to water ski.  
Some boat towable tubes can be ridden by several people at once, making it a great experience to share with friends.  Children that aren't old enough to water-ski can ride in tubes and participate in a fun day on the water.  Tubes can be towed by all kinds of boats... including boats that aren't necessarily good ski boats.

HOW WATER SKI TUBES WORK
A simple boat ski tube is nothing more than an inner tube with handles and a connection for a tow line.  The inner tube (sometimes called a "bladder") is typically made from strong PVC material.  Better quality tubes feature a nylon cover to protect the tube.  It's worth the extra couple of bucks to get a covered tube.
The tube is attached to a special ski tube tow rope.  The rope floats because it is made of nylon.  The rope connects to the boat using a special water ski towing cleat or a towing harness.  Ski tube tow ropes are typically 60 feet long.  Children should be towed with a shorter rope to prevent them from gaining excess speed if they move from side-to-side across the boat's wake.  Never tow with a rope shorter than 20 feet to reduce riders' carbon monoxide exposure from the boat's exhaust.

Installing a tow harness is easy.  You simply attach two closed hooks to your transom tie-down eyes.  The harness forms a "Y" behind your boat.  The tow rope attaches to the center of the "Y".  Harnesses are made of nylon rope and features a built in float so they stay on the surface and clear of the propeller.
If your boat does not have a water ski towing cleat you can add one.  They usually cost less than $50.  Note that a towing cleat must be installed at a specific location on your boat.  The location varies from boat to boat.  Call the manufacturer to determine the specific placement on your boat.
 
TYPES OF WATER SKI TUBES
As towable tubes have become more popular, more tube designs have become available.  Choosing the right ski tube is a matter of knowing what you want to do with your tube.

SINGLE RIDER TUBE:  As the name states, a single rider tube  accommodates only one rider.  Single rider tubes tend to be high performance tubes.  These tubes are more maneuverable  They're better suited for tricks, jumping, flying and high speeds.  They make great jet ski towable tubes.
Single rider tubes tend to be more affordable and easier to store.  Single rider tubes can safely use standard strength ski tube towing line and a standard towing harness.

 MULTI-RIDER TUBE:  These towable water tubes can accommodate 2-6 people, depending on design.  These tubes are inherently larger, slower and heavier than single rider models.  Mulit-rider tubes are great for families that want to slowly pull a group of kids.  They're also good for a group sociable adults who just want to play around.  Multi-rider water ski tubes are larger, more expensive and bulkier to store.
Note:  Multi-person boat tubes require use of a heavy duty tow line and a heavy duty towing harness.  Careful attention to equipment weight and stress limitations is required.  Without heavy duty lines, the tow rope will snap.  The snapped line will fling back like a whip and injure riders with amazing force.

STANDARD TUBE DESIGN:  A standard tube is similar to a large inflatable innertube.  It may or may not have a "floor" on the "inside of the doughnut hole."  It will have handles on top.  Riders can lay on their stomachs across the top, sit with their rear in the "doughnut hole" or sit upright with their rear on the top of the tube and feet in the "doughnut hole."  Standard tubes come in both singer and mulit-rider designs.

DECK TUBE:  A deck tube is a flat tube that's not unlike a mattress.  There is no "doughnut hole."  Riders lay on their stomachs.  They hold on to forward handles.  These tubes get your face close to the water and give a greater sensation of speed.  These towable tubes offer the best "high performance" features.

"RIDE IN" TUBE:  A "ride in" tube is similar to a small boat.  Riders sit on a dry seat or floor, with sides surrounding them. 

SPECIALTY TUBES:  Other fun water tube designs include stand-up chariots, inflatable kneeboards, ride-on-top jet skis, hydrofoil boats and multi-rider "hot dogs."

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING WATER SKI TUBES
Inspect the mechanical condition of your boat.  Water sports towable tubes place an extra strain on the engine and propulsion systems.  Make sure all fluid levels are correct and mechanical systems are operating properly.  Inspect your towing cleat or transom eyes to insure they're sturdy and tight.  Check that you have a rear view mirror, skiing safety flag, life jackets for all aboard and both a marine VHF radio and a cell phone on which you can call for medical help if needed.

Inspect your towable tube equipment.  The tube should be properly inflated.  The tow rope and tow harness should be in good condition with no fraying or serious discoloration.  Hardware should be free of rust and working properly.

Select a safe area on which to tow your water tube.  A safe area provides at least 100 feet of open water to each side of the boat (so your tube can safely move from side to side and jump wakes.)  There should be at least 3,000 feet of unobstructed waterway in front of the boat (no docks, pilings, daymarks, rocks, speed signs, etc.)  This allows you to avoid constant turning.  Make sure you are operating in a "boating fast zone" that's okay for your intended speed.  Know the local boating laws for the area in which you will operate.
Water depth should be at least 5-6 feet and free of underwater hazards.

Assign a spotter to remain aboard the tow boat.  The spotter's full attention should always be on the ski tube.  The spotter should constantly verbally communicate with the boat's captain about the riders' activities and status.  The spotter should tell the captain of any boats approaching from the side or rear.  The spotter should warn other boats of the ski tube by waiving a skiing safety flag when a rider is down in the water. 

The boat captain's attention should always be on the water (in front, to the sides and behind the boat), obstructions and boat traffic.

Discuss your towing plans with your water ski tube passengers and the spotter.  Agree on the speed at which you plan to tow, your "course" (anticipated turns) and the distance you will cover.
Review ski hand signals with tube passengers and the spotter.  Insure everyone know how to communicate.
Remind riders that towable tubes have no brakes and no steering systems.
Review how passengers will be retrieved from the water if they should fall off the tube.  If you have a large, tall tube fallen riders may need to board the boat prior to re-boarding the tube.
Discuss how passengers will be boarded onto the tube and how they will re-board the boat once the ride is complete.
Review the location of safety equipment aboard the boat (additional life jackets, floating cushions, VHF radio, cell phone, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, flares)

When you're ready to begin, choose a safe location to stop your boat.  Turn off the engine and remove the key.  Be sure to remove the ignition key any time someone is in the water near your propeller.  Have your passengers board the towable tube and paddle away from the boat.  Check that all riders are wearing life jackets.
Boats with inboard engines should run the bilge blower while the engine is off.  The blower vents any accumulated gasoline fumes from the engine compartment.  This allows you to start your engine again immediately (without having to wait four minutes for the blower to clear the engine compartment.)

Do not strap arms or legs to ski tube (riders will drown if the tube flips over.)

Do not place arms or legs between the tube and its nylon cover.

Restart your engine.  Move slowly though the water at idle speed until the tow rope is tight and aligned directly behind the boat.  Never "jerk start" a ski tube.  Do not launch from a dock or land.

You can now tow at slow or fast speeds.  As a general guide, a safe "fast" towing speed for adults is about 20-25 mph.  Safe speeds for children are less than 20 mph.

Most towables will come up on plane at 10 to 25 mph, depending on the weight of the riders.   It is important to keep the towable's nose up until planing.

Your inflatable water toy should slow at the same rate rate your boat slows.  Make sure that the water tube isn't "sneaking up" on the boat when the boat slows or stops.

The safest and easiest way to tow is to simply keep the towable directly behind your boat, in the "flat" area between your two wakes.  The "flat" area is in the middle of the wake "V" pattern.

The boat captain can place riders "outside the wake" by maneuvering the boat through a series of s-turns.  The sharper the s-turns, the greater the lateral movement of the tube.  Note that excessive speed or sharp turns can cause the tube to flip over abruptly.

If you are towing at fast speeds, note how the towable tube can move much faster than the boat.  When moving in a straight line, the boat and tube move at the same speed.  When a ski tube makes a sharp turn, tube speed can suddenly become twice that of the boat.   For example, a boat towing at 15 MPH can easily have a towable moving 30 MPH from  side-to-side.  If you would like to know more about towing a tube at fast speeds,  click here  for some excellent information, including diagrams and a tow course.

At fast speeds, be aware of how Centrifugal Force affects your riders.  Centrifugal Force is most apparent after a ski tube jumps a wake and makes a sharp turn to come back over a wake.  Centrifugal Force acts on the rider during the turn, making it natural for the rider to fall off the tube away from the boat.  This is known as the "slingshot effect."  The boat captain has the responsibility to control boat speed, Centrifugal Force and the "slingshot effect."

Most fatal ski tube accidents happen when riders strike another object while turning.  Extraordinary caution and vigilance is required when making s-turn maneuvers at fast speed.  It only takes a split second of inattention to send riders smashing into a dock, piling, sign, channel marker, rocks or another boat.
Accidents are also common when riders loose their grip while jumping wakes or making sharp turns.

Note the "multiplying effect" that boat wakes can have one each other.  A boat's wake is a sine wave moving through the water.  When combined with another boat's wake (or naturally occurring swell or chop), the resulting wake can be the sum of the height of both wakes.  This is the multiplying effect of naturally occurring sine waves.
For example say your boat makes a 2 foot tall wake while on plane.  Another boat traveling next to you makes a 3 foot wake.  At certain points the sine waves will meet and the resulting combined wake will be 5 feet tall!
This is critical for your riders.  If a rider is used to jumping 2 foot wakes, a 5 foot wake will launch them much higher with much greater force.  It is difficult to remain safely in control when this happens.
At least one family has been devastated by this effect.  A boat towing children was traveling at a safe distance from nearby docks.  Then two boats wakes combined.  The children lost their grip as they were launched off the giant wake.  They flew much farther and much faster because of the unusually large wake.  They kids hit their heads on a dock (that under normal conditions was a safe distance away.)  One died and one is permanently brain damaged.

Always tow at speeds that are safe for the weight, size, strength and skill level of your passengers.  Both the boat and tube should be under full control at all times.  If you're not completely in control, slow down.

If a rider falls off the water ski tube, pick them up immediately.  Fallen passengers are not easily seen by other boats.  The boat captain should slow down immediately.  The observer should maintain visual contact with the fallen rider and provide directions to the boat captain.   The observer should look for hand signals from the rider indicating that he/she is okay.

Move towards the fallen rider with the boat at slow speed.  The boat should be pointed into the wind or current, whichever is stronger.  Turn off engine and remove the ignition key when approaching the fallen rider.  
If the rider is hurt but able to grab a rope, throw them a line and gently haul them in.
If the injured person can't grab a rope, let the boat drift towards them with the engine off.   Always keep the boat operator's side toward the victim.  Retrieve the rider from the water when your boat gets close.  Put a swimmer in the water to retrieve the rider only as a last resort (you don't want to risk having to retrieve two people if you don't have to.)

Remember that it's much harder to retrieve people from the water than most people think.  You may wish to practice this technique in advance of an emergency.

If anyone becomes tired, take a break.  Boaters' fatigue and skiers' fatigue are a major contributors to accidents.  The risk of accidents increases as the day progresses and sun, motion, noise and muscle strain take their toll.

When the ride is over, stop the boat in a safe location.  Shut off the engine and remove the ignition key.  Using your hands, pull the tow rope into the boat to bring the towable tube closer.  Allow riders to re-board the boat.

Safely secure the ski tube and rope.  It's difficult to stow a big tube on a small boat.  A secured ski tube must not obstruct the boat captain's view.  An inflatable should be well secured so the captain doesn't need to worry about the ski tube flying off the boat.  Tie-down kits are available for about $20 to help secure a tube to a boat.  Have an inflator aboard so the tube can be easily deflated and re-inflated if necessary.  A deflated tube is much easier to stow.

WATER SKI TUBE TIPS, ADVICE & INFORMATION

Make sure your boat has a full tank of gas.  You'll burn a lot of gas while towing.  Some non-water skiing boaters are surprised to find that the cost of the boat ski tube is easily eclipsed by the cost of the additional gas burned while towing.

Be aware of riders' perception of speed.  Once riders get off the boat and away from engine noise, their perception of speed will change.  Riders may want to go faster than is safe.

A good way for riders to get used to a new towable tube is to first experiment with it away from your boat.  Use it in a swimming pool or near shore.  See how it sits.  Sit how easily it tips over.  Practice climbing aboard as if re-boarding after a fall.  Float around and enjoy it.  This will give you an initiative sense of the tube.  You'll feel more confident with it and better be able to control it when it's behind your boat.  Playing with the tube in advance of towing is especially helpful to children.

Under normal conditions, a safe towing speed for adults is about 20 to 25 mph. Safe speeds for children are less than 20 mph, depending on the age and physical capability of the child.

Allow the towable to dry completely before it is stored.

If you're storing an inflatable for several months, deflate it and store it indoors.

Do not tow a tube upsidedown.  It will damage the boat ski tube.

Do not pull a towable tube at high speeds without a rider.  This can damage the tube

To prevent CO poisoning, make sure your tow line is at lease 20 feet long.  Carbon Monoxide is omitted by all engines.  Riders who breath in exhaust fumes will get sick, pass out, suffer impaired judgment or become extremely fatigued.

Water ski tubes can not be used as snow tubes.

Between tubing trips, stow the boat inner tube in a place that won't obstruct the boat captain's vision.  If necessary, deflate your towable ski tube and store it in a locker or cabin.

Monitor weather conditions carefully throughout the day.  The weather can change suddenly.  Immediately stop towing if weather conditions deteriorate.  NEVER tow or swim if lightning can be seen or thunder can be heard anywhere from your location.  If lightning is close enough to be seen or heard, it's close enough to kill you.

Don't bother tubing when it's windy, rainy or the water is choppy.  These weather conditions create rider fatigue.  It's hard for the boat captain to maintain a consistent speed and easily maneuver.

Wear a wet suit if tubing in cooler weather.  Cold water and wind can easily cause hypothermia.

When towing young children, drive the boat at slower speeds and use a shorter tow rope.  Children under 6 should not ride any type of ski tube.  Children older than 6 should only ride with careful supervisions

Only pull ski tubes during daylight hours (it's the law in most places.)

Do  not pull more than one tube at once.  A line from one tube can easily hurt riders on another tube.

Do not buzz (spray) people or other boats.  This can easily result in a crash.

Know your tube's maximum speed rating and don't exceed it.  A tube moving from side-to-side behind your boat is traveling nearly twice as fast as the boat.  Excessive speed will "slingshot" your riders off the ski tube.

Know your tube's maximum number of riders and weight limitations.  Know the strength rating of your tow line and harness.  Do not risk breaking and "whiplashing" your tow line by overloading it.  Multi-rider tubes require special heavy duty towing line and a heavy duty tow harness.

Insure that there is a lot of room between your boat and any nearby objects (pilings, docks, daymarks, signs, other boats, etc.)   Keep the boat on a straight heading (and the tube directly behind the boat) if there are objects nearby.  If a waterway suddenly becomes crowded, bring all riders and the tube back into the tow boat and find a better location.  Only tube in wide, long, deep and unobstructed areas.

When loading or unloading tube riders, always turn off your boat engine and remove the ignition key.

Assign a spotter to sit in the boat and monitor the tube riders.

Equip your tow boat with a rear view mirror.

Make sure everyone aboard the tube and the tow boat understands hand signals.   Hand signals are the only way you will be able to communicate.

Review the planned towing course, speed, towing technique and location of safety equipment with everyone prior to making a run.

Always wear an appropriate life jacket, know the boating rules for your area and study the tube manufacturer's instructions prior to tubing. 

Of course never tube or drive a boat after drinking alcohol.  Do not tube with people who have been drinking.  Tubing is inherently risky.  The risk of injury goes up exponentially when booze is involved.  Have a safe trip and celebrate with a cold one when the tubing has ended.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE A WATER SKI TUBE
Always read the assembly instructions for your specific inflatable.  In general, most ski tubes are put together as follows:
  1. Place the PVC inner tube ("bladder") inside the nylon cover.
  2. Line up tube valves with openings in the nylon cover.  
  3. Inflate until the inner tube is firm and nylon cover is taut.

HOW TO INFLATE A WATER SKI TUBE
First inflate your water tube's safety chamber.  The safety chamber usually has a low-volume safety value that can be blown up with your mouth or an inflator with the proper "cone" shaped adapter.
Most inner tubes are made of PVC, which is extremely tough and durable.  In order for the inner tube to inflate properly, the PVC must expand.  A ski tube is correctly inflated when the inner tube is firm to the touch and the cover fits like a glove.  The cover should be free of wrinkles.  It should be hard to get your hand between the nylon cover and the tube.
Be careful not to over-inflate the inner tube.  This is the main cause of damage to PVC material.  Over-inflation also can rip seams in the nylon cover.
Note that in hot weather, the air inside your tube will expand.  You may need to release some air to prevent the tube from becoming over-inflated and ripping seams in its cover.
An under-inflated tow tube sits too low in the water.  This causes the ski tube to be dragged through the water (not get pulled across it.)  The stress of dragging due to under-inflation stretches the tube out of shape and stretches the cover.
Ski tubes require a massive amount of air.  I have found it easiest to simply reverse the flow of a shop vac, hold the hose securely to the speed valve and inflate.  This technique only take a couple of minutes.  It's much faster than using a low-air-flow compressor used to inflate tires.  
The main chamber of towable ski tubes can not be inflated by mouth.  Do NOT use a hair dryer to inflate your water ski tube.  The heat from a hair dryer may permanently damage the valve.
Air will have to be added periodically to your towable tube.  Water tubes that are used frequently will require injections of additional air more frequently.  If the tube is popping out of it's cover, more air is needed.  
Proper inflation is critical to safety and tube longevity.  Check for proper tube inflation prior to each use.

TYPES OF VALVES USED ON INFLATABLE SKI TUBES
SAFETY VALVE:  This "push-in" valve is used on safety chambers.  A "safety valve" is similar to the valves found on inflatable pool toys that you can blow up by using your mouth.  A safety chamber is a separate inflatable area of your ski tube.  It will remain full of air (and float) if the main tube should accidentally get punctured and loose its air.
It's easiest to inflate a safety valve using a hand or electric pump.  Most pumps have an adapter to fit this common valve. Make sure to open the small flap inside the opening and inflate until firm.

SPEED VALVE (RAISED & RECESSED TYPEs):  A speed valve can be used with a standard electric air pump.  It can also be inflated by using a shop vac, leaf blower or vacuum (so long as these appliance have a reversible flow switch.)  Adapters are available that allow you to use a speed valve with an air compressor ("tire" fitting.)

RECESSED MULTI VALVE:  This type is similar to a speed valve, but has a built in adapter for use with an air compressor (with a "tire" fitting.)

To inflate, unscrew the cap and attach the hose from your inflator.  Close a speed valve by screwing the valve bottom into the base.

TROUBLESHOOTING TOWABLE SKI TUBE PROBLEMS
Problem: Tube doesn't hold air.
Solution: Check to see that the speed valve is installed properly.  Re-install speed valve if needed. Check to see if the ski tube was inflated fully from the beginning and add more air if necessary.

Problem:  Speed valve is leaking.
Solution: Make sure the speed valve has a rubber gasket.   Listen closely to hear if air is leaking.   Be sure the valve and cap are screwed in straight and are tight.   Leakage can occur if the valve is cross-threaded.  Check to see that the washer is in place and sealed property.   Be sure the washer on the valve is completely flush against the top portion of the threads.  Inspect the base of the speed valve for nicks or scratches that may appear on the ridge where the washer and the valve would make contact.  If there appears to be nicks or scratches on this ridge, you can repair this at home by aiming a hairdryer set on a warm setting directly at this point.  After one-to-two minutes and the nicks or scratches should disappear.

Problem: Towable inflates but doesn't become firm.
Solution:  Check to make sure it was inflated firmly with a high volume air pump.  If you are sure the tube was inflated property, assess the innertube for leaks or re-install the speed valve.  Soapy water can be applied with a spray bottle to the outer skin of innertube.  An air leak will reveal itself by creating soapy bubbles.  If a leak is discovered, the innertube may be patched with a patch kit (sold at stores that stock ski tubes.)

Symptom: Towable tube nylon cover is loose.
Solution:  Check to make sure that innertube is placed inside the cover and that the tube is fully inflated.  The cover should fit snugly over the well-inflated tube.  If the cover remains loose, add more air.

WATER SKI TUBE TOW ROPE SPECIFICATIONS & GUIDELINES
WARNING:  Always check with the manufacturer of your specific towable product for tow rope specifications.  Offered here as a GENERAL GUIDE ONLY these the WSIA (Water Sport Industry Association) recommendations for
tow ropes as reported by one tube manufacturer:

Number of Riders     Combined Weight of Riders         Rope Tensile Strength
    One                                        170 Lbs.                                        1500 Lbs.
    Two                                        340 Lbs.                                        2375 Lbs.
    Three                                     510 Lbs.                                        3350 Lbs.
    Four                                        680 Lbs.                                        4100 Lbs.

A standard tow rope should be at least 50 feet in length, but not exceed 65 feet.

The tow rope should be assembled in a manner appropriate for the water craft and tow tube.

Check all rope connections for frays, cuts, sharp edges, knots and wear and tear before each use.  Discard any ropes that appear to be worn.  It is recommended that you replace each tow rope at the beginning of the boating season.

Tow ropes are subject to stretching during use.  Warn riders and people in the boat of the danger of ropes recoiling.

DO NOT place arms, legs or head in the handle section.

Ensure that the tow rope is free from all body parts prior to towing a rider.

Do not use a tow rope made of bungee material.

Ropes will deteriorate with direct exposure to sunlight.  Store tow ropes and tow harnesses away from direct sunlight.  Throw away any rope that is frayed, discolored or raveling.

Do not add hardware to your ski tube that was not supplied by the manufacturer.

Avoid being in proximity of the boat's propeller at all times.  If your tow rope becomes tangled in the propeller, shut off the engine and remove key from ignition before untangling rope from the propeller.

TOWABLE SKI TUBE MAINTENANCE
Clean your towable water tube using soap and water or mild detergent. Never use talcum powder or strong solvents.  Once clean and dry your ski tube can be deflated and stored in a cool, dry area out of direct sunlight.  To deflate, simply unscrew the entire valve from the base.  Do not store a ski tube on the beach, dock or boat full of air!  Heat will expand the air inside and cause over-inflation.

Avoid storing your deflated towable in places with extreme temperatures.  Protect your ski tube from insects and rodents.
The bright colored fabric covers used on towables may bleed and fade when they get wet for the first time.   When your tube is new, protect your boat's surfaces from possible staining.

WARNING:  Towing people behind boats is dangerous.  There is risk of drowning, collision, propeller contact and injury from snapped rope.  It is your responsibility to be aware of such risks and communicate them everyone aboard your boat.

This site is for general information purposes only.  You must read the specific instructions provided with your towable and your boat.  This information is provided on an as-is basis with no warranty regarding its accuracy, use or suitability for a specific purpose.