WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider Review

Let Me Tell You About the WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider

The sound of laughter and the spray of water are quintessential summer memories, and for me, a key part of that equation has always been a reliable towable. My search for a new tube recently led me to the WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider. This particular model promised enhanced performance and a more dynamic ride than some of the more basic options out there, aiming to elevate our lake days beyond just a gentle pull. I was looking for something that could handle two riders comfortably, offer a bit more excitement, and crucially, not be a wrestling match to get the boat moving. Considering alternatives like inflatable rafts that lack the towing focus or more aggressive, single-rider tubes, this dual-rider winged design seemed to strike a good balance. My initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the materials felt robust, and the pre-attached tow connector was a welcome touch.

Real-World Testing: Putting WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this towable took place on a calm lake on a bright, sunny afternoon. We hooked it up to our family’s pontoon boat, and after a bit of inflation, we were ready to go. The WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider was surprisingly easy to get into the water and connect to the tow rope. The pre-attached 11″ 4K EZ Tow Connector proved its worth immediately, offering a quick and secure link.

The first ride was a revelation compared to older, flatter tubes we’ve used. The Hi-performance U-shaped winged body design with curved bottom genuinely seemed to lift and glide over the wake rather than digging in. This translated to a smoother pull for the boat and a far more exhilarating ride for the two occupants. They reported less jarring and more ability to stay seated even during sharper turns.

There was a slight learning curve for the riders to figure out the optimal seating position within the HI-Performance Secure slotted deck seating with slot dividers, but once they settled in, the dividers effectively kept them from bumping into each other, even on tighter turns. The experience was intuitive enough that no real instruction was needed beyond “hold on tight!”

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a few weekends, this towable saw consistent use. We experienced everything from gentle cruising to more spirited rides behind a faster ski boat. The Tuff shell full nylon cover held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of abrasion or fading despite being dragged across the sandy lake bottom on occasion.

The heavy-duty PVC bladder maintained its inflation perfectly throughout each outing, with no noticeable leaks or performance degradation. Even after being deflated, rolled up, and stowed, it retained its shape and integrity. The double webbing foam handles with knuckle guards remained secure and comfortable, even for smaller hands, and showed no signs of fraying.

Compared to some other towables I’ve owned that developed leaks or degraded quickly, this one feels built to last. The ease of maintenance is also a major plus; a quick rinse after use and a good deflation for storage is all that’s required. It’s a workhorse that delivers consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider

Specifications

The WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider is designed for 1-2 riders with a maximum weight capacity of 340 lb (154 kg). Its inflated dimensions measure an impressive 68″ x 66″, providing ample space for its occupants. The construction features a Tuff shell full nylon cover over a heavy-duty PVC bladder, ensuring durability and longevity.

For rider comfort and control, it includes double webbing foam handles with knuckle guards and full-size EVA foam pads. Inflation and deflation are made efficient thanks to the Speed valve, and a heavy-duty molded EZ Tow connector is pre-attached for quick rope attachment. The unique Hi-performance U-shaped winged body design with curved bottom is key to its performance, offering less drag and a more exciting ride than flat-bottomed models. The HI-Performance Secure slotted deck seating with slot dividers is an innovative feature designed to keep riders separated and secure.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of pure performance, the WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider truly shines. The “Wild Wing” moniker is well-earned; the curved bottom and winged design significantly reduces drag on the boat, making it feel lighter and more responsive to the driver. This translates to better fuel efficiency and a more enjoyable towing experience.

The ride quality is exceptionally smooth, especially when compared to traditional round or chariot-style tubes. It glides over wakes and chop with a remarkable lightness, allowing riders to experience thrills without the bone-jarring impacts. The HI-Performance Secure slotted deck seating is a standout feature; it effectively keeps riders from sliding into one another, enhancing safety and comfort during more aggressive maneuvers.

While it excels at providing an exciting ride, it’s important to note that its design prioritizes speed and glide. For those seeking a tube that deliberately spins or whips riders off easily, this model might be less inclined to do so due to its stable, aerodynamic shape. It truly lives up to its promise of a high-performance, dynamic tow.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this towable is a clear step up from basic models. The Tuff shell full nylon cover feels substantial and well-stitched, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The bold graphics and the distinctive wing shape give it a modern, athletic look on the water.

Ergonomically, the double webbing foam handles are well-placed and provide a comfortable, secure grip. The integrated knuckle guards are a thoughtful addition, preventing rope burn and offering added protection. The full-size EVA foam pads offer a soft landing and provide good traction for riders, whether they are sitting, kneeling, or in a prone position.

The slot dividers in the seating area are a brilliant ergonomic touch, creating distinct zones for each rider and preventing the common issue of riders colliding or falling out due to shifting weight. This thoughtful design enhances both comfort and safety, making for a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is clearly a strong suit of the WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider. The combination of the heavy-duty PVC bladder and the robust Tuff shell full nylon cover makes it resilient to punctures, abrasions, and UV exposure. I’ve seen many towables start to look tired and worn after just a season, but this one looks as good as new after multiple uses.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. After a day on the water, a simple rinse with fresh water is usually sufficient to remove any lake scum or debris. For storage, deflating it completely and rolling it up is easy thanks to the Speed valve, which allows for rapid air expulsion. It’s important to ensure it’s completely dry before long-term storage to prevent mold or mildew.

There are no obvious weak points; the seams are well-reinforced, the handles are securely attached, and the tow connector feels bombproof. It’s built for the demands of lake life and performs accordingly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider comes with one crucial and highly convenient accessory: the 11″ 4K EZ Tow Connector. This is a pre-attached, heavy-duty connector that eliminates the need for separate tow rope attachments like a bridle or carabiner for the front tow point.

While the product itself is a complete package for towing, the primary form of “customization” is its dual tow points. You can connect to the front for a traditional ride or connect to the rear tow point for a chariot style pull, allowing for a different riding experience. This versatility adds significant value without requiring additional purchases.

Other than its dual towing capability, this model doesn’t offer extensive customization in terms of swapping parts, which is typical for inflatables. However, its robust design and integrated features mean that most users will find it perfectly suited for its intended purpose right out of the box.

Pros and Cons of WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider

Who Should Buy WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider?

This towable is an excellent choice for families and groups of friends looking for an engaging and fun experience on the water. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a noticeable performance upgrade over basic towables, with a focus on smooth rides and reduced boat drag. Lake dwellers and boat owners who enjoy watersports and want a reliable, durable, and exciting tow for two people will find this model a fantastic addition to their gear.

On the other hand, individuals or groups who prioritize extreme spinning action or who consistently exceed the 340 lb (154 kg) capacity might want to explore different options. Those on a very tight budget might also find less expensive, albeit less feature-rich, alternatives.

For optimal enjoyment, I’d recommend ensuring you have a suitable tow rope (typically 40-60 feet for this type of activity) and a boat capable of towing at speeds appropriate for towables (usually 15-25 mph). A quality air pump is also essential for proper inflation.

Conclusion on WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider

The WOW Watersports 18-1120 Wild Wing Series Towables 2 Rider is, in my professional opinion, a standout product in the towable category. Its innovative design features, particularly the winged hull and secure seating, deliver a superior ride that is both exhilarating and surprisingly smooth. The build quality is exceptional, suggesting a long lifespan and excellent value for its $349.99 price point.

It’s a product that genuinely enhances the water sports experience, reducing strain on the boat and increasing the fun for riders. I would wholeheartedly recommend this towable to anyone looking for a high-performance, durable, and enjoyable option for two people. If you’re looking to elevate your lake days, this is an investment that pays dividends in smiles and laughter.