What do you recommend for fenders?

[ajochum]

Was wondering what all of you use for docking in the way of fenders? I have just purchased my 18' 2+3 and am sure some of you might have recommendations for the best fenders, based upon our style of boat. I have seen these padded ones that seem to sort of contour to the boat via a fold in them. I dock against the typical 4" round posts in most cases.

[Tony]

I like this kind best...

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/content/Item/01/06/59/i010659sq02.jpg

...but if docking to a round post you might be better off with this style:

http://images.cabelas.com/is/image/cabelas/s7_015193_imageset_03?$main-Large$

Or, consider this style if you want a pricey one!

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/content/Item/01/88/84/i018884sn01.jpg

[ajochum]

I was thinking of getting the ones in the middle, but on our boats, there is nothing to attach to in the front or back, only the middle. I see that they make a suction cup which might work.

[kramsay1234]

You can see the suction cups in this picture fairly well on mine. They are not contoured, just regular style bumpers, but the suction cups work well.

38301

[ajochum]

Now I'm getting the idea. Thanks Tony and Kevin - nice boat Kevin!!!

[Dr. Dan]

Taylor makes a variety...I carry 2 Large ones for Rafting & Sea Walls (10") I also carry 2 8" , and I carry 2 Pier Cushions - they are great for the random Rest or Bar and the unknown Dock.... I think they can be had at peircushions.com or something to that effect. They can be fitted to any size peir if you equipt them with an ample size line.

Also get good lines,Double Braided Nylon or a Polymer, I use a very long one 20' or 25' for the Bow Line, and a 20' for the back, 7/16" is a nice manageable size, if ya have decent lengths they are easier to toss to the Dock Hands when you are coming in..... I see some guys using 1/2" or 5/8' and they are a Bugger to Cleat. Just too big unless ya have 30 footer.

Good Luck...

Doc of the Fenders & Quarter Panels :smash:

[MOP]

I have both the long type and the 12" balls, the balls come in real handy when you raft up as the flare of the bows need something bigger then the regular types. Another plus for the ball type is if you need to dock when it is rough the straight types can jump up letting the hull hit the dock where as the balls can be attached low so they float and will always stay put to protect the boat.

[Formula Jr]

The first example Tony suggested is the kind I would suggest. They work well and you can tie one off on the steering column. The little hook and slight flat, keep them in place. I like the idea that you can also spin these and throw them a great distance to someone in the water.

[gold-n-rod]

I have both the long type and the 12" balls

You da man, Phil!!!!


the balls can be attached low so they float and will always stay put to protect the boat.

That must be an "advance age thing." It sounds painful to me. But then again, when I'm in the water, I get the opposite effect. :smash::smash::smash:

Here are some of my favorite fenders.....

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/83/276487571_09cf00eb15.jpg?v=0

[Jraysray]

You can see the suction cups in this picture fairly well on mine. They are not contoured, just regular style bumpers, but the suction cups work well.

38301

Where do you get the suction cups at?

[Tony]

Google "suction cup fenders" to price compare, click here (http://www.sportsauthority.com/sm-kwik-tek-suction-cup-fender-straps-2-pack-fenders-not--pi-1026775.html) for one option.


:beer:

[jl1962]

Here are three of my favorite Fenders!

[kramsay1234]

Those are the ones I have. I also use the large fenders and tie off my inside "holly ****!" handle. I actually find that that one fender ends up doing most of the work.


Google "suction cup fenders" to price compare, click here (http://www.sportsauthority.com/sm-kwik-tek-suction-cup-fender-straps-2-pack-fenders-not--pi-1026775.html) for one option.


:beer:

[Jraysray]

Google "suction cup fenders" to price compare, click here (http://www.sportsauthority.com/sm-kwik-tek-suction-cup-fender-straps-2-pack-fenders-not--pi-1026775.html) for one option.

:beer:

Do the suction cups slip or move? Sick of tying bumpers off the oh chit handle, steering wheel, throttle, kids, etc....... Ya know? Can't get enough fenders over the side.

[Tony]

The cups work and hold very well.

:beer:

[ajochum]

Just purchased two of the first kind you listed Tony, and will pick up a couple of the middle ones as well. Am planning on purchasing some of the suction cups as well, as there is no real place to attach otherwise.

[kramsay1234]

Secret is that you need very little moisture (spit) to make them stick. If they are too wet they don't stay. But I have never had them move on me yet, except when the suction cup was too wet.


Do the suction cups slip or move? Sick of tying bumpers off the oh chit handle, steering wheel, throttle, kids, etc....... Ya know? Can't get enough fenders over the side.

[Cuda]

1960 Caddy