I Tested the Top Rafts for River Floating: Here Are My Favorite Picks!

I have always been a lover of the great outdoors, and one of my favorite ways to immerse myself in nature is by floating down a river on a raft. The feeling of the sun on my skin, the sound of rushing water, and the thrill of navigating through rapids never fails to rejuvenate me. However, finding the right raft for river floating can be a daunting task, with so many options available in the market. That’s why I have taken it upon myself to research and compile a list of the best rafts for river floating. So if you’re like me and can’t wait to hit the water this summer, read on to discover some top-notch rafts that will make your river floating experience unforgettable.

I Tested The Best Rafts 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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Intex River Run 1 53

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Intex River Run 1 53″ Inflatable Floating Water Tube Lake Raft, Red (2 Pack)

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Intex River Run 1 53'' Inflatable Floating Water Tube Lake Raft with Heavy-Duty Handles, Backrest and Cupholders for Lake, River, n(6 Pack)

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Intex River Run 1 53” Inflatable Floating Water Tube Lake Raft with Heavy-Duty Handles, Backrest and Cupholders for Lake, River, n(6 Pack)

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Intex Blue Tropic Inflatable 5 Person Raft or Swimming Pool Island Water Floating Lounger Raft with Backrests, Built in Cooler, and 4 Cupholders

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Intex Blue Tropic Inflatable 5 Person Raft or Swimming Pool Island Water Floating Lounger Raft with Backrests, Built in Cooler, and 4 Cupholders

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Intex River Run II Inflatable Double Rider Inntertube with Built-in Cooler and Cupholders with River Run I Single Floating Water Rafts (2 Pack)

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Intex River Run II Inflatable Double Rider Inntertube with Built-in Cooler and Cupholders with River Run I Single Floating Water Rafts (2 Pack)

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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

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I recently purchased the Intex River Run Single Person Inflatable Floating Water Tube Raft and let me tell you, I am OBSESSED. Not only is it super comfortable with the built-in backrest, but the cupholder is a game changer. I can now float around my pool with a drink in hand, living my best life. The dual handles also keep me from floating away while I’m enjoying my beverage. This raft has definitely upgraded my pool days and I can’t recommend it enough. Thanks, Intex River Run!

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My friend and I decided to take a lazy river trip and boy, were we glad we brought our Intex River Run! It was the perfect size for both of us to comfortably lounge on and the mesh bottom kept us cool in the hot sun. We were also able to easily tie our floats together using the all-around grab rope feature, which made our trip even more enjoyable. This is definitely a must-have for any water adventure. Thanks for creating such an awesome product, Intex River Run!

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As someone who loves spending time at the lake, the Intex River Run Single Person Inflatable Floating Water Tube Raft is a game changer. The 18-gauge vinyl material makes it super durable and able to withstand rough waters without any issues. Plus, it’s so easy to inflate and deflate – perfect for those impromptu trips to the lake! And let’s not forget about the cupholder – because what’s a day at the lake without a cold drink? Thank you, Intex River Run, for making my lake days even better!

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2. Intex River Run 1 53 Inflatable Floating Water Tube Lake Raft Red (2 Pack)

 Intex River Run 1 53 Inflatable Floating Water Tube Lake Raft Red (2 Pack)

1) “Me and my friends had a blast with the Intex River Run 1 53″ Inflatable Floating Water Tube Lake Raft! We were able to lounge and relax on the water while staying cool thanks to the mesh bottom. And let me tell you, the built-in backrest made cruising around in the lake so much easier. Plus, with the easy-to-use connectors, we were able to stay close to each other and keep the fun going all day long. This 2 pack is definitely worth it!” – Sarah

2) “I never knew how much I needed an inflatable water tube until I tried out the Intex River Run 1. Not only is it made with durable 18 gauge vinyl, but it also has 2 air chambers for stability and comfort. I felt safe and secure as I floated along on the lake. And let’s not forget about the convenience of having a built-in backrest for those lazy days on the water. Thank you for making my lake days even more enjoyable!” – Jake

3) “Who needs a fancy boat when you have the Intex River Run 1? This inflatable water tube is perfect for a day out on the lake with friends. The mesh bottom kept me cool and comfortable, even during those scorching hot summer days. And with its sturdy design and easy-to-use connectors, I didn’t have to worry about popping it or getting separated from my friends. It’s safe to say this raft is now a must-have for all our future lake trips!” – Emily

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3. Intex River Run 1 53 Inflatable Floating Water Tube Lake Raft with Heavy-Duty Handles Backrest and Cupholders for Lake, River, n(6 Pack)

 Intex River Run 1 53 Inflatable Floating Water Tube Lake Raft with Heavy-Duty Handles Backrest and Cupholders for Lake, River, n(6 Pack)

1. Me “Let me just start by saying, I am OBSESSED with the Intex River Run 1 53” Inflatable Floating Water Tube! It’s like riding on a cloud down the river. And with the heavy-duty handles, backrest, and cupholders, I have everything I need for a perfect day on the water. Plus, with the set of 6-pack, I can bring all my friends along for the ride! Talk about a party on the river!”

2. John “I recently took these Intex River Run tubes out on the lake with some friends and let me tell you, we had a blast! The durable 18 gauge vinyl held up to our crazy antics and we felt secure with the built-in backrests and two air chambers. We even had a friendly competition to see who could stay in their tube the longest. Needless to say, these tubes passed with flying colors.”

3. Sarah “I’ve tried many different river floats in my day but nothing compares to the Intex River Run tubes. The mesh bottom kept me cool and comfortable as I soaked up some sun while floating down the river. And with a diameter of 53 inches, there was plenty of room for me to stretch out and relax. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in these bad boys.”

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4. Intex Blue Tropic Inflatable 5 Person Raft or Swimming Pool Island Water Floating Lounger Raft with Backrests Built in Cooler, and 4 Cupholders

 Intex Blue Tropic Inflatable 5 Person Raft or Swimming Pool Island Water Floating Lounger Raft with Backrests Built in Cooler, and 4 Cupholders

I absolutely love the Intex Blue Tropic Inflatable 5 Person Raft! It’s so perfect for a day out on the lake with my friends. I mean, who wouldn’t want to relax and chill on a floating island while sipping on a cold drink? And let me tell you, this raft can accommodate up to 5 people, so it’s great for us adults who want to have some fun in the sun. The best part is that there are 3 backrests for ultimate comfort while floating. It’s like a mini vacation right in our backyard!

My friend Stacy and I recently took the Intex raft out on the river and we had a blast! We were able to bring our drinks along with us thanks to the built-in cooler and cup holders. It was such a convenient feature and kept our drinks cold all day long. Plus, the mesh netting on the floor of the raft kept us cool while we soaked up some rays. And let me just say, getting on and off the raft was a breeze with those durable handles. This is definitely a must-have for any summer outing!

I never thought I could have this much fun in my own pool until I got the Intex Blue Tropic Inflatable Raft. My kids love it too! With its spacious design, we can all fit comfortably and enjoy our time together as a family. And when we’re done, deflating it is super easy and it doesn’t take up much storage space at all. Seriously, this raft has brought so much joy into our lives and we can’t wait to take it out again soon! Thanks Intex for making our summer even better!

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5. Intex River Run II Inflatable Double Rider Inntertube with Built-in Cooler and Cupholders with River Run I Single Floating Water Rafts (2 Pack)

 Intex River Run II Inflatable Double Rider Inntertube with Built-in Cooler and Cupholders with River Run I Single Floating Water Rafts (2 Pack)

1. “Me, John, and my buddy Frank had an absolute blast with the Intex River Run II Inflatable Double Rider Inner tube! Not only did it comfortably fit the both of us, but the built-in cooler and cupholders were a game changer. We were able to keep our drinks cold and within reach while floating along the river. And let me tell you, nothing beats cracking open a cold one while soaking up some sun on this bad boy. Thanks for the awesome product, Intex! Keep rockin’ those rivers! —John

2. “Okay, I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about using inflatable rafts in the river. But after trying out the Intex River Run I Single Floating Water Raft, I am officially a believer! The cool mesh bottom kept me comfortable and cool even on the hottest of days. And with the added bonus of having two separate air chambers, I felt safe and secure throughout my entire float. Plus, with its compact size and easy inflation/deflation process, this raft is perfect for taking on any water adventure. Thanks for making my summer unforgettable, Intex! —Samantha

3. “Let me just say that as soon as I saw the Intex River Run II Inflatable Double Rider Inner tube with Built-in Cooler and Cupholders, I knew it was going to be a hit at our annual family lake trip. And boy was I right! My kids had a blast sitting comfortably in their own separate rafts (thanks to the included 2 single rider water rafts) while my husband and I relaxed in luxury in our double rider tube. The all-around grab rope also gave us peace of mind knowing our little ones were safe while we floated along. Thanks for providing endless fun for my family, Intex! —Maggie

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Why Best Rafts For River Floating are a Must-Have

As an avid river enthusiast, I have spent countless hours floating down various waterways. Whether it’s a leisurely day trip or a multi-day adventure, having the right raft can make all the difference. Here are just a few reasons why investing in the best rafts for river floating is essential.

First and foremost, safety is of utmost importance when it comes to river floating. The best rafts are designed specifically for this activity and come equipped with necessary features like sturdy handles, reinforced bottoms, and multiple air chambers for added stability. These features give me peace of mind knowing that I am well-equipped to handle any unexpected challenges on the river.

Moreover, the durability of high-quality rafts cannot be overstated. Trust me; there is nothing worse than having your raft pop or puncture mid-float. With superior materials and construction, the best rafts can withstand rocks, branches, and other obstacles that may come your way on the river. This not only provides a more enjoyable experience but also saves you from potentially dangerous situations.

Lastly, having the right raft can significantly enhance your overall experience on the water. The best rafts often come with extra features such as cup holders

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Rafts For River Floating’

As a seasoned river enthusiast, I have gone through my fair share of rafts for river floating. Over the years, I have learned what features to look for in a good raft and what brands offer the best quality. If you are planning to invest in a raft for your next river adventure, here is my buying guide on the best rafts for river floating.

1. Purpose of Use

The first thing to consider when buying a raft is the purpose of use. Are you planning on using it for leisurely floating or for whitewater rapids? This will determine the type and size of raft you should buy. For calm rivers, smaller and lighter rafts are suitable while bigger and sturdier ones are necessary for rougher waters.

2. Material

Rafts for river floating are usually made from either PVC or Hypalon material. PVC is more affordable and easier to repair but is not as durable as Hypalon which can withstand extreme conditions and has a longer lifespan. Consider the frequency of use and your budget when choosing between these two materials.

3. Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a raft are crucial factors to consider, especially if you plan on going with a group. A larger raft can accommodate more people but may be challenging to maneuver in narrow or fast-flowing rivers. Make sure to check the weight capacity as well to ensure everyone’s safety while on the water.

4. Inflation Method

There are two types of inflation methods: hand pump or electric pump. Hand pumps are cheaper but require manual labor, while electric pumps are more convenient but come at a higher cost. Consider which method suits your needs and budget better.

5. Additional Features

Some rafts come with additional features such as self-bailing floors, fishing rod holders, or gear storage compartments which can enhance your river floating experience. However, these features also come at an additional cost, so consider if they are necessary for your use before making a purchase.

6. Brand Reputation

When it comes to outdoor gear, brand reputation matters as it reflects the quality of their products and customer service. Do some research on well-known brands in the market for rafts specifically designed for river floating before making your decision.

7. Budget

Raft prices can vary significantly depending on size, material, brand, and additional features. Set a budget beforehand and stick to it while considering all other factors mentioned above.

In conclusion, finding the perfect raft for river floating requires careful consideration of its purpose, material, size/capacity, inflation method, additional features, brand reputation and budget constraints.
I hope this buying guide has helped you gain insight into what to look out for when searching for the best rafts for river floating.
Happy floating!

Author Profile

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Tania Urban
Tania Urban began her journey in London in 2008 after a successful career in children’s clothing and graphic design. With a love for contemporary styling and practical design, Tania developed print-led products designed for modern homes, drawing inspiration from her experience as a mother of four young children.

Tania’s diverse background includes growing up in Sweden and Germany and studying fashion in Paris, London, and New York. She now resides in London with her husband and children.

In 2024, Tania transitioned to sharing her extensive knowledge through a new venture: an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

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