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The smell of the sea air, the sun on your face, and a boat in the distance pulling an inflatable tube. It definitely makes you wonder if it’s a worthy investment and just how much fun can you have on them. Airhead has an amazing range of inflatable towable tubes to match all needs.
We are going to look at two rather different tubes, the Big Mable vs Airhead Mach. We will compare all of their features from the size and appearance to the tow points and valve types. With the help of a side-by-side chart to review and some pros and cons, we will be able to make a decision on which is the better tube.
We will begin with the few similarities the Big Mable and the Airhead Mach have.
Big Mable vs Airhead Mach – Similarities
Quick Glance
Here are the specifics of the Big Mable and the Airhead Mach in a comparison chart.
Maximum Speed Limit
For adult riders, the maximum speed limit is 20 miles per hour. For younger riders, the speed limit is 15 miles per hour.
Capacity
The Big Mable and the Airhead Mach are suitable for one or two riders. The Big Mable has a weight limit of 340 pounds and although there is no information about the Airhead Mach, we would assume it is the same. The Big Mable also comes is 1-3 riders and 1-4 riders. The Airhead Mach comes in a single rider as well as 1-3 riders.
Booster Ball Compatible
Airhead’s Booster Ball helps to improve the performance of the Big Mable and the Airhead Mach. It absorbs shocks and reduces drag. It also helps to make sure the fuel consumption is optimal. The Booster Balls are sold separately.
Speed Safety Values
The Speed Safety Valves with the Big Mable and the Airhead Mach are patented. They allow for fast inflation and deflation. With the one-way inflation, you don’t lose air as you are putting the cap back on. To deflate, you just need to take the cap off.
Now let’s take a closer look at what makes the Big Mable and the Airhead Mach different.
Differences Between Big Mable and Airhead Mach
Appearance
These inflatable towable tubes are different in appearance and design.
Big Mable
This tube is bright orange with yellow, black, and white features. It measures 66 x 69 inches.
Airhead Mach
This is blue with black features and black and white text. It is slightly larger at 69 x 69 inches. The main difference in that it has two cockpit seats.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Read next – Big Mable vs Big Betty: Which Towable Boat Tubes are Better?
Materials
There are two parts to the towable tubes and while the materials are similar, there is one thing that sets them apart.
Big Mable
The inner part of the tube, the bladder, is made of heavy-gauge PCV. The out layer is a heavy-duty, double-stitched nylon cover that covers the whole tube.
Airhead Mach
The bladder is made from the same heavy-gauge PVC. The outer layer is tough 840 denier nylon, but it only covers part of the tube, so you do have to be careful with the seams because they can be quite sharp.
The Winner Is- The Big Mable
Read next – Big Mable vs Big Brawler: Which Towable Boat Tubes are Better?
Tow Points
Both tubes use the patented Kwik Connect attachments for very easy and fast joining to the tow rope.
Big Mable
With dual tow points, you can connect this tube at the front for forward-facing riding or from the back and use it in a chariot style.
Airhead Mach
The tube can only be towed from the front.
The Winner Is- The Big Mable
Read next – Big Mable vs Chariot Warbird: Which Rider Towable Tubes are Better?
Handles
Because of the different designs, the tubes have a different number of handles.
Big Mable
There are 7 neoprene handles placed on the seat, the insides and on the top so you can hold on in different positions.
Airhead Mach
There are 4 neoprene handles, two for each rider. They are filled with foam for added comfort.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Value for Money
There are two things to consider with the value for money, the price and the warranty.
Big Mable
It’s a more expensive tube, possibly up to $100 more. It does come with a one-year limited warranty.
Airhead Mach
You can take advantage of the savings but bear in mind the limited warranty is for just 90 days.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Pros and Cons
Finally, we have some pros and cons of the two towable tubes from Airhead.
Big Mable
Pros:
- The double-stitched full cover offers more protection
- More spacious, especially for adults
- Sturdy and fun for all ages
Cons:
- You may have to add more air during a day of heavy use
Airhead Mach
Pros:
- Easy inflation and it stays inflated
- A much better option for smaller children
- With the savings, you can get the Booster Ball
Cons:
- Too many issues with quality control
The Final Verdict
We love the idea of the cockpit seats with the Airhead Mach tube. This is definitely a better choice for younger riders and those who are a little nervous. That being said, it comes with some flaws. First of all, the quality control is a bit of an issue, especially with a short warranty. You also need to make sure you get the right speed or else you end up with water in the seats and this may affect the performance. On the other end, the Big Mable is more expensive, but the quality control is much better, and the full nylon cover makes a big difference. It’s strong and sturdy so you still feel safe, and you have the option to tow in either direction, so really, it’s double the fun. For these reasons, the Big Mable is our winner today.