The Ultimate Boat Fender Guide

Boat fenders are an essential piece of equipment for protecting your boat from damage when docking or mooring. There are several types of boat fenders available on the market, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the different types of boat fenders, their features, and how to choose the best one for your needs. We will also provide recommendations and reviews of some of the top boat fenders on the market, taking into account factors such as size, shape, ease of storage, durability, and price. By the end of this article, you should have all the information you need to make an informed decision about which boat fender is the best choice for your vessel.

Boat fender size and shape

Boat fenders come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including ball, cylinder, sentry, tie-up, flat, and round. The best option for you will depend on the type and size of your boat, as well as your specific needs and preferences.

Ball fenders, such as the Taylor Made Tuff End, are typically used for larger boats and are effective in slips with heavy wakes from passing boats or busy marinas. They provide ample separation between the hull and dock walls and can also function as buoy floats. However, their size can make them challenging to store, especially when inflated.

Cylinder fenders, like the Taylor Made Storm Guard, are the most common type and are ideal for small boats. They can be easily stowed away in various places, such as in-sole lockers, under seats, or dedicated fender holders. Cylinder fenders offer flexibility in application as they can be hung horizontally or vertically. It is important to ensure you select the right size for your boat to provide adequate protection.

Sentry fenders, such as those made by Mission Boat Gear, are constructed from closed-cell foam and are designed for watersports boats with lower profiles. They offer protection above and below the rub rail and have a flatter shape, making them easier to store in small compartments. However, they are intended for day use only and may not be suitable for overnight protection or extreme conditions.

Flat fenders, like the EVA Foam Fender by NautiCurl, are a more recent innovation and are constructed from compressible, mould-resistant, and durable EVA foam. They contour well to curved hulls, providing trusted protection without rolling or riding up. Flat fenders are easy to store, lightweight, and affordable. However, their narrow profile may not provide sufficient protection for larger vessels.

Round fenders are commonly used for yachts and large vessels with concave hulls. They provide a significant distance of separation between boats due to their sphere shape. While they offer easy deployment and protection for large vessels, round fenders can be challenging to store due to their size and awkward shape.

When choosing a boat fender, consider factors such as boat size, hull shape, storage space, ease of deployment, protection offered, and affordability. Additionally, pay attention to the intended use and conditions, as some fenders are designed for day use or calmer waters, while others are built for overnight protection and extreme conditions.

Boat fender placement

Fender Placement Basics:

Place fenders along the widest part of the hull, as this area is most likely to make contact with the dock or another boat. If you're docking with only your bow against a jetty, concentrate your fenders there. When rafting with other boats, use larger-diameter fenders to accommodate varying hull shapes and movements.

Vertical vs Horizontal Placement:

The orientation of your fenders depends on the docking surface. Vertical placement works well for flat surfaces like docks, seawalls, or the sides of other boats. Horizontal placement is ideal for docking alongside pilings or posts. For exposed pilings or bulkheads, use a fender board with a pair of cylindrical fenders placed vertically.

Number and Size of Fenders:

As a general rule, use a minimum of two fenders, with one at the widest point of the hull and one near the stern. However, more fenders provide better protection and reduce the chance of hull damage. The size of your fenders should correspond to the size of your boat. Smaller boats require smaller fenders, but ensure they are not too small to provide adequate protection.

Height Adjustment:

The height of your fenders depends on the docking situation. When tied to a fixed dock, adjust the height to avoid damage due to tidal changes. With floating docks, position fenders just above the waterline. When approaching a dock, you can attach fenders to lifelines or rails, but consider moving them to midships cleats, toerails, or the bottom of stanchions for better protection.

Special Considerations:

When rafting with boats of different heights, use a combination of higher and lower fenders to accommodate the difference. For catamarans or boats with less hull curvature, adjust fenders accordingly to avoid tangling during departure. Smaller boats with fittings on the hull or deck may use L-shaped fenders that wrap around for maximum protection.

Boat fender materials

Boat fenders are available in a variety of materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed overview of the different materials used for boat fenders:

Inflatable PVC or Plastic

The traditional cylindrical fenders are made of inflatable PVC or plastic. They are flexible and can be used for most boat types. They are typically hung horizontally or vertically, offering some flexibility in application. Their size, however, can make storage difficult, and they may not be ideal for curved hulls as they tend to roll up, eliminating protection.

Closed-Cell Foam

Fenders made of closed-cell foam, such as the Mission Boat Gear Sentry fenders, are designed to work best on sleek tow-sports boats with lower profiles. They are contoured to offer protection both above and below the rub rail. Their flatter shape makes them easier to store in small compartments. However, they are intended for day use only and may not provide overnight protection or withstand extreme conditions.

Molded EVA Foam

Flat fenders constructed from EVA foam, such as the NautiCurl's Foam Flat Fender, offer several advantages over traditional fenders. They are compressible, mould-resistant, and durable, providing long-lasting protection for most boat styles. Flat fenders contour easily to curved hulls, preventing rolling or riding up. They also allow for a lower connection point due to the integrated dock line pass-through. However, their narrow profile may not provide sufficient protection for larger vessels.

Molded Foam

Molded foam fenders are designed to contour to the hull of wakeboats or runabouts, adding style and durability. For example, the FatSac Foam Fender has a stylish shape ideal for wakeboard boats. These fenders have multiple rope attachment points and a heavy-duty design, providing protection even in rough water conditions. However, they tend to be more expensive and bulkier than flat fenders.

Polyester

Polyester is another material used for boat fender covers, providing protection for the fenders themselves.

Boat fender storage

Boat fenders come in various shapes and sizes, and each type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. When not in use, it is important to store them properly to ensure they remain in good condition and readily available for future use. Here are some tips for boat fender storage:

• Flat Fenders: Flat fenders, such as the EVA Foam Fender, are easy to store due to their low profile and lightweight construction. They can be conveniently stowed under seats, in compartments, or even used as seat cushions. Their integrated dock line pass-through allows for a lower connection point, freeing up space on the boat cleats.
• Cylindrical Fenders: Traditional cylindrical fenders can be bulky and difficult to store due to their shape. They are often stored in in-sole lockers, under seat benches, or in dedicated fender holders. If space is limited, consider deflating them for compact storage.
• Ball Fenders: Ball fenders, like the Taylor Made Tuff End, are stout and round, preventing them from getting caught on docks. However, their size can make storage challenging. They can be deflated for storage if necessary, but ensure they are properly inflated before use.
• Sentry Fenders: Sentry fenders, such as those made by Mission Boat Gear, are constructed from closed-cell foam and have a flatter shape, making them easier to store in small compartments. While they are designed for day use only, they offer excellent protection for smaller boats.
• Tie-Up Fenders: These fenders are ideal for open water tie-ups between multiple boats. When not in use, they can be deflated and stored in compact spaces.
• Molded Foam Fenders: Molded foam fenders, like the FatSac Foam Fender, are designed to contour to the hull of wakeboats or runabouts. While they provide heavy-duty protection and style, they are bulkier than flat fenders and may require more storage space.
• Round Fenders: Round fenders are commonly used for yachts and large vessels, and their sphere shape provides a large distance of separation between boats. However, their size and shape make them challenging to store on board.

When storing your boat fenders, consider the available space on your boat and the convenience of access. Ensure that they are properly secured to prevent them from rolling or shifting during storage. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of your fenders will help extend their lifespan and maintain their effectiveness.

Boat fender maintenance

Boat fenders are essential for protecting your vessel from damage when moored or docked. To ensure your fenders are kept in good condition, there are several maintenance and cleaning practices you can follow.

Firstly, try to keep your fenders out of the water when not in use. This will reduce the build-up of dirt, water, salt, and other grime that can cause stains and unwanted growth. Regularly spray and scrub your fenders to reduce stains and build-up, and always dry them completely before returning them to storage to mitigate the risk of mildew.

When cleaning your fenders, use a combination of regular bleach, household soap, and comet to remove sediment build-up and light scuff marks. For more stubborn marks, use a moderately stiff brush, dipping it into mineral spirits if necessary. You can also use a pressure washer to blast away dirt and grime, or a magic eraser for more persistent stains. It is also recommended to use a fender cleaner with UV protection, such as Starbrite's inflatable boat and fender cleaner.

Avoid using strong solvents like lacquer thinner or acetone, as these can damage the fender material and reduce its lifespan. Similarly, do not attempt to paint your fenders, as the paint will eventually chip and may damage your boat. If your fenders are heavily worn, consider using fender covers to extend their life. However, ensure these are also regularly cleaned to prevent a build-up of dirt and grime.

Finally, remember to check your fenders throughout the year to ensure they are working properly. If they are no longer holding air or show excessive wear, replace them to avoid putting your boat at risk.

Frequently asked questions