| Originally used primarily as lifesaving devices, | | | | stunts, has brought about a search for innovative |
| watersports tubes are an example of how people's | | | | ways for water skiers to ride faster, jump higher, |
| imagination has given way to new and exciting ways | | | | and move more freely. As such, the designs of |
| to have fun. | | | | watersports tubes are made to suit the rigors of the |
| People have used rubber tubes as life-saving | | | | sport and the demands of watersports athletes for |
| floatation devices in previous decades. Records show | | | | higher performance. |
| that British sea vessels were some of the first that | | | | Usually, watersports tubes are crafted using |
| featured ring-shaped lifebuoys in order to help rescue | | | | lightweight material, in order to better help the |
| people from drowning. The popularity of the tubes | | | | athletes have better control. The tubular shape helps |
| was such that in 1912, the candy Life Savers took | | | | keep the devices structurally strong, so it will not fall |
| the phrase and inspiration for picking that name, | | | | apart while in use. Watersports tubes are also made |
| given the ring shape the candy had. | | | | to provide comfort for the skier as he skims on the |
| Over time, developments to the design of tube | | | | top of the water's surface. Some models also |
| water floatation devices evolved. The use of inner | | | | feature handholds, air and water-release valves, |
| tubes for watersports only came recently, with the | | | | knuckle guards and other options in order to allow |
| advent of popular watersports such as water skiing | | | | the user to have greater control over the tube and |
| and surfing. The rise of these action-oriented sports, | | | | have a safer ride. |
| especially with competitions that feature high risk | | | | |