Snow Tubes & Sleds

Snow tubing is the recreational practice of sliding down a snowy slope while seated in an inflated tube, similar to riding a tube down a waterslide (or sledding on snow). These lightweight tubes, typically constructed from durable, flexible materials like rubber or PVC, are designed to maximize gliding efficiency and minimize friction on snow. Snow tubing is either performed on natural hills or purpose-built snow tubing parks, which often feature groomed lanes and mechanical lifts for uphill transportation. Many ski resorts have dedicated snow tubing lanes.

Snow tubing and sledding are very similar. Both are exhilarating ways to ride down a snow-covered hill. Snow tubes are donut-shaped, providing a bouncy, spinning, unpredictable ride as you slide down the slope. It’s almost impossible to steer a snow tube. The best sleds and toboggans, on the other hand, can be steered and maneuvered, although not nearly as much as skis or snowboards. Sleds are also typically limited to one or two riders, but snow tubes like our Snowslide XL—which has a 340 lb weight limit—can actually accommodate several riders, particularly smaller children.

The choice between snow tubing and sledding often comes down to personal preference. If you're seeking a thrilling, fast-paced experience with lots of spins and bounces, or if you want to ride with three or four riders at once, snow tubing might be the perfect fit. If you prefer a more controlled ride for one or two riders, sledding could be the better option. Still, both activities provide a fun and memorable way to embrace the winter season.

Snow tubing is surprisingly easy to pick up. First things first, you need a snow tube and a suitable location, such as a snow tubing park or a gentle, snow-covered slope free from obstacles.

When you're ready to ride, simply sit inside the tube with your feet facing forward. The best tubes will have handles you can hold. Give yourself a gentle push or have a friend give you a little shove to get started. As you begin to slide, lean back slightly and let gravity do the rest! You'll naturally pick up speed as you descend, and you might even find yourself spinning and bouncing along the way. With tubing, there's no need to worry about steering or braking – just enjoy the ride! Remember to follow any posted rules or guidelines at your chosen location, and be mindful of other tubers or sledders around you.

Sledding and snow tubing are generally quite safe, but like any outdoor activity, there are inherent risks. The speed and potential loss of control can lead to collisions with others, trees, or hidden obstacles like rocks and uneven terrain. These collisions can cause a range of injuries, from sprains and fractures to concussions. To mitigate these risks, choose a designated area free of obstacles and consider wearing a snow helmet and snow goggles. Control your speed, be mindful of your surroundings, wear warm clothing, and take breaks to avoid overexertion.

Yes, snow tubing is a safe and enjoyable activity for kids, with proper precautions. It's important to choose a location with a gentle slope, free of obstacles, and to supervise children closely. Ensure they dress warmly and understand the importance of controlling their speed and being aware of their surroundings. For optimum safety, consider encouraging your child to wear a snow helmet, which will significantly reduce the chance of any head injuries.

It depends on the snow tube and the size and age of the riders. Our Snowslide XL has a 54-inch diameter, a 340lb weight capacity, and four XL grab handles around the rim. As long as the weight capacity is not exceeded, Snowslide XL can certainly fit multiple riders.

Again, it depends on the sled and the size and weight of the riders. Most kids’ sleds are designed for no more than one or two riders. Our Retrorider Toboggan comes in 35” (single) and 48” (double) sizes. The single has a max rider weight of 132 lbs, the double has a max rider weight of 176 lbs.

Yes, snow tubes generally tend to be faster than sleds. Their smooth, rounded shape reduces friction with the snow, allowing for quicker acceleration and higher speeds. Additionally, snow tubes often have a larger surface area in contact with the snow, which can further enhance their speed. However, the actual speed difference will vary depending on factors like the slope's incline, snow conditions, and the weight of the rider.

When it comes to dressing for snow tubing and sledding, adults should prioritize warmth, comfort, and protection from the elements. Layering is key, starting with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep the skin dry. A warm mid-layer, like a fleece or wool sweater, provides insulation, while a waterproof outer layer protects against snow and wind. Accessories are equally important: a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf or neck gaiter help prevent heat loss. For footwear, waterproof boots with good traction are essential to keep feet warm and dry while navigating the snowy terrain. Don't forget snow goggles to protect your eyes from the sun and snow glare, and consider wearing a snow helmet for added safety.

Just like adults, kids need to be bundled up for warmth and protection when snow tubing and sledding. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep them dry, followed by a fleece or wool jacket for insulation. Waterproof snow pants and a jacket are essential to keep the snow out. Don't forget a warm hat, waterproof gloves or mittens, and a scarf or neck gaiter to protect exposed skin. Warm, waterproof boots with good traction are crucial for navigating the snow. Goggles will shield their eyes from the sun and snow, and most importantly, a properly fitted snow helmet is a must for safety. (Around 4,000 kids suffer sledding-related head injuries each year.)

If snow tubing or sledding on a mellow incline in your backyard or neighborhood, many riders won’t bother with a snow helmet. Many resorts and snowparks will require a helmet for snow tubing, but either way, wearing one in these settings is highly recommended.

For sledding in the neighborhood, many children won’t wear snow goggles. However, it’s a good idea for safety—to shield their eyes from snow, wind, and ice—and purely for comfort. The best snow goggles will keep kids’ faces warm, offer UV protection, and reduce glare. There’s simply no reason not to wear them!

The best snow tubes are made from durable, cold-resistant PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is puncture-resistant and allows the tube to reach high speeds while gliding over the snow.

Unlike tubes, which are almost always made from PVC, sleds can be made from a variety of materials. Traditionally, sleds were crafted from wood, often sturdy hardwoods like oak or ash. However, modern sleds, like our Retrorider Toboggan, often incorporate lighter and more affordable materials like plastic or aluminum. Plastic sleds are perhaps the most popular because of their ease of use, extremely light weight, and low cost.

Inflating a snow tube is easy. You can either inflate by mouth or use a portable air compressor or hand pump. Start by unfolding the snow tube and laying it flat. Make sure you're indoors or in a place with a temperature above freezing to prevent the tube from getting too rigid. Open the valve and begin to pump (or blow).

Now, you just have to know when to stop. It's crucial not to overinflate. Every snow tube will have a recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). For our Snowslide XL, the recommended pressure is 0.2 PSI. This is another reason why portable air compressors are so handy. You can set your desired PSI in advance, and the compressor will automatically stop when it reaches that range. If you’re inflating your tube manually, stop when it feels firm and you can sit on it without sinking. Close the valve, and you’re ready to go!

Properly storing your snow tubes and sleds is crucial for their longevity. After the snow melts and the winter season ends, thoroughly clean your snow tubes and sleds to remove any dirt, debris, or salt residue. Allow them to dry completely, then store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. If space allows, hang your sleds up to prevent warping or bending. Also, avoid storing your sleds and tubes in damp basements or garages, where moisture can damage the materials. This is particularly crucial for tubes and wooden sleds. Plastic sleds are much more durable—and can really be stored just about anywhere—but the PVC fabric of snow tubes is susceptible to molding if not stored in a dry place.

The lifespan of snow tubes and sleds depends on several factors, including the frequency of use and how well they are cared for. Well-made sleds constructed from high-quality plastic, like high-density polyethylene (HDPE), can last for many years (5-10 years or longer), even with regular use. Inflatable snow tubes, while less durable than sleds, can also provide several seasons of fun with proper care and storage. Inspect your snow tubes and sleds regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or punctures, and store them properly (see above).