Classic Accessories Togiak Float Tube

A good float tube with a couple of flaws.
I have borrowed several different float tubes from friends for fishing trips, and I have also used inflatable kayaks and Zodiac-style boats. When I was finally ready to buy a float tube of my own, I bought this one.

After taking it on its first fishing trip, this is what I can report:

First, I was amazed to discover that the designers of this tube apparently expect you to blow it up entirely with your lungs!!! The only air valve on the two pontoons is a tube about the size of a large drinking straw with a twist-to-close cap. Every other inflatable watercraft I've ever used has dual-sized inflation valves-- that is, one opening about 1" in diameter, and another that is about 0.5" in diameter, which can be easily inflated with an air pump and quickly deflated at the end of the day. I even bought an air pump at the same time that I bought this tube, expecting a similar valve system. Luckily one of the adapters on my air pump kind of fits over the drinking straw...
Outstanding tube for the money
I am exceptionally please with my Togiak float tube. Unlike a previous reviewer, I really prefer the seat blocks in the tube as they provide a comfortable, stable and bouyant platform that keeps me sitting up high in the water unlike many tubes. The cover material is strong and the stitching and other workmanship appears to be very good. I really enjoy this boat.
Togiak has a bad design
Okay, I've been using float tubes since the early 90's. My own and other peoples. I'm a serious fly fisherman and am on the water at least 100 days a year.
Wanted a new U-boat. Togiak had a good price and nice design. I don't mind the foam in the bottom, though I won't be putting this in my backpack.
Good: Seams (except for one 2" area are double stitched. Lots of storage space. And more storage.
Not so good: I'm concerned about the "sharpened" pieces of PVC for the spreader tube. Foam blocks make it less compact for packing in. Also, though there are backpacking straps included. You would not want to wear them more than 100 yards. No padding and they'll cut into you. Non-standard inflation valve makes it a pain to inflate with a pump and this is so much more than I want to do by mouth.
Bad: Seat is set too far back. This combined with the lack of bladder behind you tilts you back to far, as much as 25 to 30 degrees. This brings your feet up higher...
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