WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable Review

How I Used the WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable and What I Found

Summer days on the lake are a cherished tradition, and this year, I was on the hunt for a towable that could handle a few riders without becoming a wrestling match for the boat driver. The WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable caught my eye, promising a fun experience for up to three people. My previous towable, a much smaller, simpler affair, had seen better days and frankly, wasn’t cut out for anything more than a single thrill-seeker. I needed something robust, but also something that wouldn’t chug gas trying to pull it.

Upon arrival, the Howler presented itself as a substantial piece of equipment. The full heavy-duty nylon cover felt reassuringly thick, a step up from the thinner plastic I’d encountered before. It felt like a product built to withstand the usual abuse of being dragged behind a boat, and then some. I briefly considered a more budget-friendly, generic inflatable, but the thought of flimsy seams and quick deflation steered me away. This WOW towable offered a promise of durability that was immediately apparent. My initial impression was one of practical design and solid construction, leaving me eager to get it onto the water.

Real-World Testing: Putting WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable to the Test

First Use Experience

Our testing grounds were the calm, sun-drenched waters of a local lake, during the peak of summer. We launched the Howler from a sandy beach, and inflating it was straightforward with a standard boat pump; the valve design was user-friendly and didn’t leak. Getting it into the water, even with three people climbing aboard, felt stable thanks to its generous size.

The real test came once the boat was moving. We started with moderate speeds, and the towable planed smoothly, the riders settling into their cockpit seating with a mix of excitement and comfort. Even at higher speeds, the drop speed bottom seemed to live up to its claim, reducing drag noticeably compared to other tubes I’ve used. There were a few instances where we hit small wakes, and while there was certainly spray, the cockpit design kept the riders relatively secure.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of weekend use, the WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable has held up remarkably well. We’ve put it through its paces with varying weights of riders, from teenagers to adults, and it consistently performed as expected. There are no visible signs of seam separation or significant wear on the heavy-duty nylon cover, even after being dragged over the occasional submerged branch or two.

Maintenance has been minimal. After each use, a quick rinse with fresh water and a thorough drying before storage have been sufficient. The bladder remains firm, and the tow system shows no signs of fraying or weakening. Compared to other inflatables that start to sag or develop stiffness after a season, this model feels significantly more robust. It’s clear the heavy-duty full nylon cover is a game-changer for longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable

Specifications

The WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable is designed to accommodate up to three riders, with a maximum weight capacity of 510 lbs. (231kg.). Its construction features a heavy-duty FULL nylon cover and a durable PVC bladder, promising resilience against the rigors of lake use. The speed drop bottom is a key design element, engineered to reduce boat drag for more fuel-efficient towing.

This towable boasts a secure cockpit seating arrangement, providing riders with a stable and comfortable position. The design includes ergonomic slanted leg rests, which are crucial for extended rides and for transitioning into a lounging state. The front tow point is part of a heavy-duty tow system construction, ensuring a secure connection to the tow rope.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any towable is to provide safe, exhilarating fun, and the Howler excels at this. The secure cockpit seating is not just a marketing term; it genuinely keeps riders planted, even during sharper turns. The slanted leg rest design contributes significantly to comfort, preventing riders from sliding forward and allowing them to relax more fully.

Its performance is notably enhanced by the drop speed bottom. I’ve found that tubes without this feature can be real anchors, requiring more power from the boat and creating a choppy ride. This model, however, pulls more cleanly through the water. The result is a smoother tow and less strain on the boat’s engine, which is a win-win.

Design & Ergonomics

Visually, the Howler has a sleek, modern design, but its true strength lies in its practical ergonomics. The single large cockpit is a smart choice, promoting rider interaction and making it easy to help each other onto the tube. The backrests within the cockpits are supportive, offering just enough comfort without being so tall that they impede the rider’s view or balance.

The materials feel substantial. The heavy-duty full nylon cover has a pleasant texture and is less prone to sticking to skin than some cheaper vinyl options. The stitching appears strong and uniform throughout. Even the inflation valve is robust, a small detail that often gets overlooked but is critical for long-term usability.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience over a full season, the durability of this towable is a significant selling point. The heavy-duty FULL nylon cover is clearly the hero here, offering excellent abrasion resistance and UV protection. I haven’t noticed any fading, although proper storage out of direct sunlight is always advisable.

Cleaning is a breeze. A simple hose-down after use removes any lake scum or debris. For deeper cleaning, a mild soap and water solution works well, followed by air drying. There are no complex parts to disassemble, making this an easy product to maintain for longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable comes as a complete package for immediate use. It includes the towable itself, which is ready to be inflated and connected to a tow rope. While there are no specific customization options for the towable itself, its robust design means it can handle standard tow ropes and various boat sizes.

The primary “accessory” in a way is its dual functionality. When not in use as a towable, it serves as a relaxing floating lounge. This means you’re essentially getting two products for the price of one, increasing its overall value.

Pros and Cons of WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable

Who Should Buy WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable?

This towable is an excellent choice for families or groups of friends who enjoy spending time on the water and want a reliable, comfortable, and fun experience for multiple riders. If you own a boat and regularly tow skiers or tubers, the durability and performance benefits of the Howler will be very appealing. It’s ideal for those who value long-term quality over a lower initial price.

Anyone looking for a simple, single-rider tube or those who primarily use their towable in extremely rough waters (where a more robust, individual tube might be preferred for safety) might want to consider other options. For those seeking a hassle-free, enjoyable experience that doesn’t drain the boat’s fuel tank unnecessarily, this WOW Watersports model is a strong contender. A good quality tow rope and a reliable inflation device are essential companions for this towable.

Conclusion on WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable

The WOW Watersports 20-1050 Howler 3 Rider Towable truly impressed me with its blend of durability, performance, and user comfort. The investment in a heavy-duty FULL nylon cover pays off significantly in terms of longevity, and the speed drop bottom provides a noticeable improvement in towing efficiency. It delivers on its promise of a fun, secure ride for three, and the added benefit of functioning as a floating lounge enhances its value proposition.

For its price of $335.99, you are getting a premium-quality towable that is built to last and provide countless hours of enjoyment. If you’re in the market for a multi-rider towable that prioritizes both fun and reliability, I can confidently recommend this model. It’s a purchase that promises to be a staple of summer lake days for years to come.