What Tow Speed's Best for Water Skis, Tubes & Boards?

Best Tow Speeds for Tubes

For young children, start off at 15 to 20 MPH. This is a safe speed range that allows children to get used to the tube with a smooth, predictable ride.

For 1- to 2-person tubes, a speed of 20 to 25 MPH is recommended. This is generally the safe limit for most towed tubes -- speeds higher than this can place stress on the tube's attachment anchor.

For adults and larger tubes, 30 to 35 MPH may be safe. These speeds are usually suitable for larger tubes with adult riders, but they should be approached responsibly. Avoid towing a tube this fast in rough, choppy water, and focus on making smooth turns to avoid high shear loads on the tube's rope and anchor point.

Best Tow Speed for Wakeboards

Speeds of 15 to 20 MPH are best for beginner wakeboarders. Keep in mind that slower speeds make getting up and moving on the water more difficult. It may be better to start out a bit faster. Then, once your rider's moving, you can slow the tow a bit while they learn to ride confidently.

Speeds of 20 to 25 MPH are good for intermediate riders. This speed range balances stability and control, allowing the wakeboarder to carve more tightly through the wake and catch some air.

Speeds up to 30 MPH are for advanced wakeboarders. These speeds are necessary to create larger wakes for advanced riders who want to catch big air and perform tricks. Keep in mind the conditions on the water, and avoid these speeds when the water's rough, or when there's high wind.

Tips for Proper Towing

Appropriate tow speeds are just one factor in ensuring towed watersports are safe for riders. Follow these tips to prevent damage to equipment, and potential injuries.

Take up Line Slack Slowly

You should never "gun it" when towing a rider. Always get up to speed slowly, ensuring slack is removed from the tow line gradually. This avoids shock to the line and rider's arms.

Match Tow Line Length with Speed

No matter the towed watersport, the tow line involved acts as a shock absorber. The faster you're towing, the longer your line should be. For example, a 60-foot rope may be best for wakeboarding at 20 MPH, but a 70-foot line may be better suited for riding at 25 MPH.

Match Line Length With Rider Skill

Regardless of speed, beginner towed riders benefit from longer ropes. More rope length provides more damping and allows for slower, more controlled turns when skiing, wakeboarding, and kneeboarding.

The same holds true for towed tubes. A longer tow rope reduces the "whip" action a tube experiences in turns, providing a smoother, more stable ride.