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The Best Pontoon Fenders and Bumpers

Written by Anthony Roberts / Fact checked by Jonathan Larson

Even the pontoon fenders and bumpers are easy to overlook and take for granted. However, these are very important accessories that will help keep your boat safe from different kinds of damage.

Boats can sometimes get scuffed up; after all, it’s part of traversing the great outdoors. However, boats can also sustain damage worse than a few scratches or scuff marks. Sometimes, the damage can be costly and can take your boat out of commission for a while especially if it can’t be repaired right away.

best pontoon fenders and bumper

Thus, it’s best to take the necessary steps to prevent or at least mitigate damage to your boat. One of these steps is to use pontoon fenders or bumpers, which present an easy and affordable way to keep your boat safe and in perfect working condition.

These fenders and bumpers also come in different shapes, sizes, materials, and types. You’ll thus have a lot of different options that can help protect your boat and save money on costly repairs. This also means that you’ll be able to protect different parts of your pontoon.

Additionally, you can also buy dock fenders and dock edging that will provide an extra layer of protection for your boats. With all these options out there, it’s important to make sure that you find only the best fenders and bumpers on the market.

Top 1

VIVOHOME Boat Fender

+ Durable marine-grade PVC cushions against impact
+ Oval-shaped design prevents spinning
+ Vertical ribs prevent punctures and tearing

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Top 2

Taylor Made Boat Fender

+ Has a snug fit
+ Easy to secure under the pontoon deck
+ Durable and wear-resistant

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Top 3

Extreme Max 3006.7527

+ Easy to install with molded eyelets
+ UV-stabilized and chemical-resistant material
+ Looks good and effectively protects against damage

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Top 12 Pontoon Fender and Bumper Reviews

1. VIVOHOME Boat Fender

You won’t often find something that’s well-designed, well-made, and highly useful, all at a reasonable price. The VIVOHOME Vinyl Ribbed Marine Boat Fender, however, has all these characteristics.

It comes in a pack of four pontoon boat fenders and can provide easy, flexible, and reliable protection for your boat. It also comes with four pieces of rope, each about 5 feet long. You’ll also get 4 inflating needles and a pump for inflation. If you buy this pack, you won’t need any other tools or equipment to mount the fenders.

Because of the unpredictability of conditions out on the water, boats can sometimes get into accidents and can collide with various hard surfaces or other watercraft. With this in mind, this boat fender was designed to cushion the force of impact and thus minimize or outright prevent damage.

With its high-quality and marine-grade PVC construction, you can rest assured that this fender is durable and can withstand heavy impact. Additionally, it also has an oval-shaped design that prevents it from turning or spinning out of position.

It also has vertical ribs that add to the fender’s overall strength and prevents punctures and tearing. With an eyelet on each end, this fender will be easy to install vertically and diagonally.

One of the best things about this fender is its compact size. It may be smaller than other similar fenders, but it still works just as well. Additionally, because of its compact size, it can work well on a variety of boat types and sizes.

However, though this fender comes with a kit that includes a pump, some find that the pump is not to their liking. The pump can take some time to inflate the fenders and an electric pump might be the better option.
Pros
  • Comes in a kit of four, with rope, inflating needles, and a pump
  • Durable marine-grade PVC cushions against impact
  • Oval-shaped design prevents spinning
  • Vertical ribs prevent punctures and tearing
  • 2 eyelets for easy installation
  • Compact size, suitable for different kinds of boats
Cons
  • Included pump might not work well
This fender is durable, made with high-quality materials, efficiently designed, and comes in a complete kit with rope, inflation needles, and a pump. It can absorb heavy impact and is suitable for use with a variety of boats.

2. Taylor Made Pontoon Boat Fender

No need to worry about fenders rolling or spinning out of place with the Taylor Made Pontoon Boat Fender. This product ensures a snug fit and will remain firmly in place on your boat for years to come. It can also protect areas of your boat that are not typically covered by other types of fenders.

Taylor Made pontoon fenders boast an innovative design that allows them to fit right under the deck of the pontoon. They have a molded-in ridge that you can hook under the deck, and they also have a contoured shape that’s meant to fit over the curves of a pontoon.

Additionally, they also come with other securing points so they can fit well with different pontoon boats.

Made of UV-resistant marine-grade vinyl, this fender is inflatable and will not weigh down your boat. Its material is also durable and reliable, guaranteed to stay intact in the event of a collision with a dock or another boat. This fender can last years before finally showing signs of wear and tear.

Not only does this fender offer protection, but it offers convenience as well. Because it can be left securely attached under the deck, you won’t have to worry about remembering to throw bumpers out before you hit the water. This fender also reduces clutter around your boat.

With its snug fit and durable construction, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that your boat is safe and you won’t have to deal with damage. Because of this and more, this product is among the suitable pontoon bumpers on the market.

While this fender is certainly a good purchase, it’s a bit more expensive than other fenders. Some might not find that it’s worth it, but it’s important to note that this fender is long-lasting and will help you save even more money on boat repairs.
Pros
  • Has a snug fit
  • Protects areas of your boat other fenders might not cover
  • Easy to secure under the pontoon deck, fits different boats
  • Durable and wear-resistant, UV-resistant marine-grade vinyl
  • Convenient; does not clutter boat deck
Cons
  • More expensive than other fenders
This durable, long-lasting, and well-designed fender will help make sure that your pontoon is effectively protected against impact. It can fit snugly under the deck of the boat and will stay intact and functional for years to come.

3. Extreme Max 3006.7527 Boat Fender

Save time, money, and manpower with the help of the Extreme Max 3006.7527 BoatTector Fender. This fender is a dependable accessory that’s easy to install, long-lasting, durable, and reasonably priced. It’s well-made and will prove to be one of the best purchases you’ve made for your boat.

The thing you’ll like best about this product is that it actually comes in a pack of four fenders. The pack also includes four fender lines and a needle valve for inflating and deflating a fender. This makes installing and setting up the fenders quick and easy, and all you’ll need to have on hand is an air pump.

Because these pontoon boat fender hangers already come with fender lines, they’re easy to install on the boat. Additionally, the fenders also have reinforced molded eyelets on each end, so all you’ll have to do is to thread the fender lines through the eyelets. You’ll then be able to mount the fenders on the sides of your boat.

Another important thing to note about this product is that it can withstand impact with hard surfaces. The fender is made of a sturdy rubber material that won’t crack under pressure. The material is also UV-stabilized and chemical-resistant, which means it won’t fade under the sun and won’t react negatively to cleaning products.

If you want your boat to look sharp, clean, and nice overall, this fender will actually add to your boat’s overall look. It’s not all function over form; it also looks good and will keep your boat looking good by preventing damage.

One thing that you have to watch out for, however, is that the fender lines that come with this pack might not be as sturdy as they should be. You might end up replacing them down the line.
Pros
  • Comes in a pack of four fenders with four fender lines and a needle valve
  • Easy to install with molded eyelets on each end
  • UV-stabilized and chemical-resistant material
  • Looks good and effectively protects against damage
Cons
  • Fender lines might not be as sturdy as expected
With a pack of four fenders, four fender lines, and a needle valve, all you’ll need to install the fenders is a working pump. These fenders are made of a durable material that will effectively protect your boat against impact.

4. VINGLI Ribbed Boat Fender

The mark of a good purchase is if it makes you want to buy it again in the future. This is something that the VINGLI Ribbed Boat Fender is likely to make you feel. It’s a reliable product that’s made well, designed well, and sure to last for a long time.

This fender actually comes in a pack of four as well. The pack comes with four pieces of rope, four inflating needles, and one pump. With a pack like this, you’ll be able to inflate, set up, and install your fenders without having to rely on other tools or equipment.

Each fender is made of high-quality PVC that’s corrosion-resistant, UV-resistant, and formulated to be resilient and flexible. This material will be able to absorb shock and can bounce right back if it bumps into hard surfaces, such as docks and other boats. Thus, it can effectively protect your boat against direct impact and damage.

The fenders also sport full-length ribs, and each one is made of a single piece of PVC. There are no seams, so there are far fewer chances that the fenders will spring a leak and deflate. They come deflated, but they’re easy to inflate and are guaranteed to hold their air.

Additionally, each fender comes in a size that will work extremely well for boats that are between 20 to 30 feet long. With this, you won’t have to worry that the fenders you’re buying are too large or too small for your boat.

One thing you have to watch out for is that the pump pin is a bit flimsy. Even so, it’s usable, but it’s best that you take care when using the pump so the pin won’t snap off.
Pros
  • Pack of four fenders, four pieces of rope, four inflating needles
  • Fenders come deflated; air pump included for inflating
  • Flexible PVC absorbs shock, resists UV and corrosion
  • No seams; greatly reduces chances of air leaking out
  • Suitable for watercraft with lengths of 20 to 30 feet
Cons
  • Flimsy pump pin that needs to be used carefully
This fender comes in a pack of four and already includes the tools that you’ll need for quick and easy installation. The fenders themselves are also made with a sturdy material and are designed to prevent air leaks.

5. Dimex EasyFlex Plastic Dock Edging

Because boats frequently bump or rub up against docks, it’s best to make sure that docks are also outfitted to prevent damage to boats. The Dimex EasyFlex Dock Edging is a versatile product that you can use however you need to make your dock safer for your boat.

This dock edging comes in a P-profile with a single rib lining the interior of the cavity. The rib reinforces the dock edging and helps ensure that it won’t collapse or get crushed under the weight of a boat. Thus, this simple yet efficient construction and design can prevent light to significant damage.

Because this product is made of high-quality recycled PVC, it will last for a long time. The PVC is quite flexible as well, so it will be able to take a hit and bounce back without any issues. This makes this product one of the best dock edge pontoon fenders on the market.

You’ll also appreciate the versatility of this dock edging. It has a total length of 16 feet and comes coiled up for easier packaging and transport. To use it, you can uncoil the edging and leave it out in the sun for about 15 to 30 minutes so it becomes less stiff. You can then cut it into as many sections as you need.

Because you can cut the edging down to size, it will be easier to line the edges of your dock just the way you need to. Installation is also uncomplicated because the edging is reasonably lightweight and the material is also easy to drill through.

One drawback to this product is that if you don’t leave it out in the sun to soften up, it’s going to be difficult to uncoil and straighten out. Thus, you’ll have to wait for a bit after unpacking the product before being able to use and install it.
Pros
  • P-profile with interior rib to prevent the edging from collapsing
  • Made of flexible, high-quality, lightweight and recycled PVC
  • Can be cut into as many sections as needed to line the dock
  • Easy installation; PVC material is easy to drill through
Cons
  • Takes time to soften enough so that it can be straightened
This versatile, easy-to-use, and well-constructed dock edging offers reliable protection against impact and damage. It can be cut into multiple sections for easy installation, and it’s also made of flexible yet durable PVC.

6. Polyform G Series Boat Fender

Small watercraft need protection from boat scratches, and scuff marks too. The Polyform G Series Boat Fender is made specifically to protect smaller boats from damage caused by collision or impact with docks, other boats, or other hard surfaces. With fenders like this, you can spend a nice day out on the water without worry.

Measuring 12.8 inches long and 3.5 inches in diameter, this fender will be able to effectively protect your boat without weighing it down or bulking it up. Though it’s smaller than other fenders, it’s made to be strong, durable, and effective at protecting against damage. It’s also best for boats under 10 feet long.

However, it can also work quite well for much larger boats. If you have a larger boat, this fender will be able to serve you in some way. If you have a small boat, however, you won’t have to grapple with using overly large fenders.

Additionally, this fender comes pre-inflated. Thus, there will be no need to inflate it yourself and you’ll be able to mount the fender right after receiving it. It’s also built to prevent leaks and will not completely deflate even after significant impact.

One of the most important things about this fender is that it’s highly durable and can last a long time even if you leave it exposed to the elements. You have several years before you have to worry about buying new fenders for your boat.

While these fenders work very well, they do come with a strong, unpleasant chemical odor. The odor is difficult to get rid of and it can take some time before it goes away completely. You may want to leave the fender outdoors for about a week or until the smell disappears.
Pros
  • Smaller than other fenders but still durable and effective
  • Best for boats 10-foot-long and under
  • Can also work for larger watercraft
  • Comes pre-inflated; no need to inflate and can be used right away
  • Will not deflate after impact
  • Durable and can last for years to come
Cons
  • Has a strong and unpleasant chemical smell at first
This fender is made for smaller watercraft, but it can also work very well for larger boats. It’s already pre-inflated, so you won’t have to go through the trouble of having to inflate it before mounting.

7. MISSION Boat and Dock Fender

If you’re not a fan of cylindrical fenders, the MISSION Boat and Dock Fender is a great choice that you should definitely consider. It’s designed to hang at an angle and offer innovative protection for both your boat and your dock.

Cylindrical fenders tend to turn or spin when the boat hits a hard surface. This fender, however, is molded to fit right over the contour of the side of your boat. It won’t roll out of place, which means you won’t accidentally end up with boat scratches and other effects of impact.

Installation is also something that you won’t have to grapple with when it comes to this fender. Other fenders need to be mounted with ropes; this one has an integrated strap that can be looped around boat cleats. This design makes installation fast, easy but undeniably secure.

You might also find that the straps are long initially; if they are too long for you, you can trim them down to the right length. This strap, unlike the traditional rope, is made to stay dry and will therefore resist mold.

The construction of this pontoon bumper dock fender is also reliable and innovative. It’s not made of the usual PVC; instead, it’s made of a patented cross-linked closed-cell foam that’s made to be strong and durable. Thus, there will be no need for you to pump this fender full or air and worry about it leaking eventually.

Perhaps the thing you’ll need to consider before buying this product is that it’s a bit more expensive than other fenders. While the fender is certainly well-made and innovative, the price might make you think twice. However, depending on your needs, you may find that the price is worth it
Pros
  • Works for boats and docks
  • Molded to fit over the contour of your boat and will not roll out of place
  • Comes with a strap to make installation easy
  • Strap can be trimmed, is made to stay dry and resist mold
  • Made of durable and patented cross-linked closed-cell foam
  • No need to pump or worry about air leaks
Cons
  • Cost is higher than that of other fenders
Sometimes, you need something with a cutting-edge and highly functional design, just like this fender. It has a unique but functional shape that will make sure that your boat is protected from damage.

8. Dock Edge Dock Piling Bumper

Many dock bumpers can only be installed on straight surfaces. However, the Dock Edge Dock Piling Bumper has the flexibility and durability that makes it suitable for use on curved surfaces as well. Pontoon dock bumpers like this one are not just durable and effective, they’re also versatile and can be used in different ways.

One of the things that you have to contend with out on the water is mold. Mold isn’t just unsightly, but it can pose some dangers as well. Fortunately, this bumper is made of marine-grade PVC with UV inhibitors and fungicides. Thus, its color and quality won’t face under constant sunlight, and it won’t play host to mold.

Just like any other good, well-made bumper, this one is sturdy enough to be able to withstand impact without breaking, cracking, or collapsing. However, it’s also just soft enough that it can absorb shock and cushion the impact when a boat bumps into it. This way, the boat will not be damaged in any way by the impact.

You can also use a miter saw to cut the bumper into smaller sections as needed. This makes installation easy; you won’t have to wrangle a long piece of PVC and struggle with mounting it onto your dock. You can also easily drill into the material to fasten bolts and screws into place.

This bumper can be used to protect different parts of your dock. You can install it along the edge, over the posts, and over the pilings.

Though installation can be easy, it’s also important to note that this bumper tends to be heavy and you might need help installing it. Even if you cut it into smaller sections, the new pieces may still be heavy. It’s best to pre-drill into the bumper before installation.
Pros
  • Sturdy marine-grade PVC with UV inhibitors that does not stain or mold
  • Withstands impact and absorbs shock, thus preventing damage
  • Can be easily cut into smaller sections and drilled into
  • Suitable for dock edges, dock posts, and dock pilings
Cons
  • Heavy and might be difficult for one person to handle
A strong and well-made dock bumper is made of premium materials and designed to be simple but useful. This bumper is highly versatile and can protect your boat by effectively absorbing shock in case of impact.

9. Goplus Ribbed Marine Boat Fender

Built for maximum strength and durability, there’s a reason why the Goplus Ribbed Marine Boat Fender is among the reliable pontoon fendering on the market today. From its design to its construction, it’s made to withstand impact and prevent all sorts of damage to your boat.

Because it has ribs on all sides and is made of marine-grade vinyl, this fender has more strength to offer than its peers. The vinyl material is also UV-resistant, which means that it won’t fade or degrade over time. Additionally, the ribs are abrasion-resistant and will therefore be quite difficult to tear or puncture.

The ribs are also meant to create friction, which can then prevent the fender from rolling out of place. Even if the fender hits a hard surface, it’s more likely to stay in place compared to other fenders with fewer ribs.

Another important feature is the reinforced eyelet on each end of the fender. Rough conditions and impact can put a lot of pressure on the fender, and its eyelets need to be able to ensure that the fender stays in place. Thus, the eyelets are designed and engineered so that they won’t easily break.

The eyelets also make mounting easier. Simply loop a strong piece of rope through an eyelet and you’ll be able to tie the other end of the rope to the guardrail of your boat. This allows you to be able to space the fenders along your boat in the intervals you prefer.

One other thing that you’ll really like is that the fender comes with a valve for inflation, but it’s already pre-inflated. However, the downside here is that you might find that the fender does not come with enough air. You’ll likely need to add a bit more air, so you’ll still need to have a pump and inflation needle on hand.
Pros
  • UV-resistant and abrasion-resistant marine-grade vinyl
  • Ribs on all sides to prevent rolling or turning
  • Reinforced eyelets that won’t easily break
  • Comes pre-inflated with a valve for additional air
Cons
  • Needs to be inflated more once unboxed
Built and made to be durable, long-lasting, and capable of withstanding impact, this fender is a great purchase. It’s made of high-quality vinyl that won’t easily tear and comes with ribs to prevent rolling and turning.

10. Attwood Pontoon Boat Fender

Often, boat bumpers for pontoons come in a cylindrical or sausage-like shape. While they work well and are suitable in many situations, you might be looking for something like the Attwood Softside Pontoon Boat Fender. This fender can be even more effective and easier to maintain.

Cylindrical fenders need to be inflated in order to work. Thus, there’s always the risk that they’ll lose air or deflate completely. You won’t have to worry about that with this fender, which has a one-piece construction that’s made of a sturdy polymetric material.

Don’t let this material fool you — it’s soft to the touch, and you may find yourself doubting that it can hold up against collision with hard surfaces. However, this material is actually quite durable and capable of effectively absorbing shock. Additionally, it’s also UV-resistant, which means that it can maintain its quality for a long time.

This also means that the fender is quite low-maintenance. It doesn’t have to be refilled with air now and then, and it won’t be completely useless if it gets punctured. If you’re looking for something that you won’t have to take care of much, this is the fender for you.

Mounting this fender is also easier and simpler compared to how other fenders are mounted. It comes with a strap that can help you securely mount the fender on your boat. The strap can also help you adjust the height of the fender. However, if you prefer to use a rope, it will also be possible.

With that said, you do still have to keep an eye on the strap. The strap that comes with the fender can be a bit flimsy and can twist around and get tangled. However, you have the option of replacing the strap with something that can work better.
Pros
  • No need to inflate, unlike inflatable fenders
  • Made of soft but sturdy, UV-resistant and shock-absorbent polymetric material
  • Low-maintenance; still useful even with a bit of damage
  • Easy to mount on your boat
Cons
  • Included strap does not hold up well and can twist and tangle
If inflatable cylindrical fenders aren’t working for you, this is a low-maintenance alternative that won’t require air or regular checking. It’s made of a durable material that’s soft enough to cushion impact without causing any damage.

11. X-Haibei Anchor Buoy Boat Fender

The best alternatives are the ones that are versatile. That’s what the X-Haibei Anchor Buoy Boat Fender can offer. Not only can it work as a boat fender, but it can also function as a floater, a navigation buoy, a safety buoy, and more.

This product is designed to be an alternative to the usual boat fenders and can protect your boat when it’s tied up to another boat or to the dock. It can be preferable to a cylindrical fender because this one doesn’t roll out of place when it hits a hard surface. It can stay right where it is and provide your boat with the utmost protection.

The fender is deflated when delivered, but inflating it is simple — in fact, it can be easier than inflating cylindrical fenders. You can inflate it by mouth if you want to do so, but a hand pump will also work. After filling it partway with air, you can also add water to give the fender a bit of heft.

If you have a smaller boat that sits low on the water, it might not be suitable for the longer pontoon boat bumpers. This fender, however, can fit just right for smaller boats and can protect them from rubbing or bumping up against the dock. Of course, it can also work just fine for larger boats.

Although the product description says it’s UV-protected, the fender can fade under the sun. While this doesn’t affect its ability to hold air and float, it does mean that it becomes far less visible after a while.
Pros
  • Works as a fender and a buoy
  • Alternative to cylindrical fenders, which tend to roll out of place
  • Easy to inflate by mouth or by using a hand pump
  • Water can be added for more heft
  • Protects low-lying boats and large boats
Cons
  • Material’s color fades over time and is no longer as visible
A boat fender that can also function as a buoy has a lot to offer because of its versatility. This fender is a great alternative to cylindrical fenders, and it’s also easy to inflate and set up.

12. Attwood Dock Corner Fender

Dock corners can be particularly tricky, especially because they tend to be sharp and hard to maneuver around. It’s not surprising when boats end up having an unfortunate encounter with a dock corner. The Attwood Dock Corner Fender, however, can help protect your boat from these encounters.

Pontoon boat corner bumpers for docks are, in many cases, quite necessary. However, it’s important to make sure that they are made well and can fit your dock correctly. This fender is actually quite large, and therefore covers a larger area. If you find that it’s oversized for your dock, you’ll always have the option of cutting off the extra parts.

This fender is made of a durable but flexible plastic material. It has just enough give that it won’t break or crack if it ever gets hit by a boat. This also means that it won’t damage your boat’s hull in any way, even in the event of a pretty severe collision.

Pontoon boat dock bumpers help you ensure that all your bases are covered when it comes to protecting your boat. You can line the edges, posts, and pilings of your dock with bumpers or edging, but leaving the dock corners exposed means that there is still potential for damage.

If your dock is in a tight or inconvenient spot, a dock corner fender will be especially helpful. You won’t have to worry about mooring your boat safely and maneuvering around tricky spots. Even if you hit your dock a couple of times, your boat will come away with nary a scratch.

One thing that you have to watch out for is that this fender comes at a very precise 90-degree angle. Don’t purchase this without first measuring the angle of your dock’s corners. Chances are that it’s also 90 degrees, but some docks are built differently.
Pros
  • Can be cut to fit smaller docks
  • Made of flexible material that won’t break or crack
  • Ensures that your dock is sufficiently outfitted
  • Helps make maneuvering around the dock less stressful
Cons
  • Comes at exactly 90 degrees; might not fit some docks
Dock corners can be particularly dangerous to boats and their hulls, but dock corner fenders can solve this problem. This fender is made well and sufficiently flexible, which means that it won’t cause any damage to the hull of your boat.

What are Pontoon Fenders and Bumpers and How Do They Work

pontoon-boat-bumpers

Pontoon fenders and bumpers, simply put, provide protection for the hull of your boat. There will be times in which your boat will have an unfortunate collision with another boat, a dock, or another hard surface. While this collision might not dent or significantly damage your hull, it can still cause scratches and other light damage.

This is where boat fenders and bumpers come in. These accessories are designed and used to absorb impact in case your boat does collide with another object. They also prevent direct contact, which prevents the boat from rubbing up against another surface that can cause damage to the hull.

Because the conditions out on the water are often unpredictable, it’s best to always be prepared. This includes outfitting your boat with pontoon boat bumper guards and fenders to minimize or prevent damage due to collision. Typically, these fenders and bumpers are left mounted on the boat even when it’s not in use.

This way, if a wake or wave pushes your boat up against the dock or against another boat, the fenders are already there to prevent direct contact.

There are also bumpers and fenders that are made specifically for docks. Dock bumpers are mounted on the edge, sides, posts, and pilings of a dock to protect boats from direct contact.

Types of Pontoon Fenders and Pumpers

There are many options on the market if you’re looking for fenders and dock bumpers for pontoon boats. These fenders and bumpers come in different shapes, sizes, designs, and materials, and each type has specific characteristics.

Dock bumpers, fenders, and edging

To add another layer of protection for your boat, mount bumpers on your dock. Dock bumpers also come in different types, sizes, and shapes, but they all serve the same purpose. They are all meant to cover certain parts of your dock to prevent impact and direct contact with your boat.

Boat fenders

Boat fenders are mounted directly on the boat instead of the dock. These fenders will protect your boat from damage if it ever bumps into another boat out on the water. Of course, in the process, the fenders will not damage the other boat’s hull. Thus, they present a very effective way of protecting all boats on the water.

Inflatable fenders

This type of boat fenders is made of PVC or vinyl, which should be marine-grade and preferably UV-resistant. It is filled with air and is often hung along the sides of the boat.

Single-piece fenders

This type of fender, meanwhile, is not inflatable. It typically comes in a molded design that takes the contour of your boat into consideration. It is also often fastened securely on the side of the boat and does not move around.

These fenders tend to have innovative designs. One example of this is the Akua Pontoon Boat Fender.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Pontoon Fenders and Bumpers

pontoon-boat-fenders

The best pontoon fenders and bumpers effectively protect pontoons and other types of boats against the damage that can be caused by collisions. They are typically easy to mount, very low-maintenance, and long-lasting.

Because these fenders and bumpers prevent damage, they help you save money in repairs. While scratches and scuff marks on the hull of a boat are easy and cheap to buff out or paint over, the damage can also be worse.

When you choose the wrong bumpers or fenders for your dock or boat, however, it can also be a problem. If the bumper or fender doesn’t fit well and isn’t suitable for your needs at all, it’s unlikely to be 100% effective against damage.

Buyer’s Guide

There are so many high-quality choices of dock and boat bumpers or fenders. The best of the best can serve as Bennington pontoon fenders and bumpers, or as fenders and bumpers for other boat brands as well. So how can you make sure that the accessories you buy are the best ones for your needs?

One thing you should figure out is how much you’re willing to spend on your bumpers and fenders. Some options can be a bit expensive, but it’s because they’re durable, made of high-quality materials, or made with an innovative and new design.

Another thing you need to think about is the type of fenders and bumpers you want. For example, if you don’t mind the maintenance that inflatable fenders need, then they’ll make a good choice for you. If you’d rather have fenders that you can mount then forget about, inflatable fenders will certainly not be a good choice.

If you’re unsure about which fenders and bumpers will benefit you best, you can ask other boat owners for their recommendations. You can also look at reviews online to see how certain products are performing in real life.

Care and Maintenance

Some fenders and bumpers can be left on the boat or dock. Typically, this is good enough as pontoon fender storage. However, some options should not be left out in the sun for extended periods of time because their color can fade and their material can degrade.

If you have inflatable bumpers or fenders, make sure to check them out now and then to see if they are leaking air somewhere. They may also need additional air, so you may have to pump them with more air. For this reason, it may be best to keep a pump and inflating needles aboard your boat.

In general, however, it’s best to choose the bumpers and fenders that are as low-maintenance as possible. Look for the ones that are made of UV-resistant materials, have reinforced parts, or have good designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

pontoon-fendering

There’s a lot more to learn about boat and dock fenders and bumpers. With this information, you’ll hopefully be able to make the right and informed decisions.

Who makes the top-rated pontoon boat fenders and bumpers?

There are many brands that produce fenders and bumpers, but not all of them are worth your money. Check out brands like VIVOHOME, Taylor Made, Attwood, Dimex, and more. These brands offer products that have been proven to be reliable, well-made, and constructed well.

If you want tried and true products, stick with the brands that have been around for quite some time. However, there are also newer brands with newer and more innovative products that deserve attention.

How to attach boat fenders on a pontoon?

Typically, fenders are mounted on boats with ropes or straps. Pontoon front bumpers, for example, can be hung from the rail with rope. This is usually the way that inflatable fenders are mounted.

Other fenders, meanwhile, are mounted under the pontoon’s deck and are attached to the boat via an integral strap. While inflatable fenders tend to move around, other types are usually stationary.

How many bumpers does a pontoon boat have?

The quick answer is three to five, with three being the absolute minimum. When docking, you’ll need at least three fenders, preferably all in the same size. However, having five can provide you with extra protection against collisions.

Where can I buy bumpers and fenders?

Pontoon corner bumpers, fenders, and other watercraft accessories are frequently available at marine supply stores. You might be able to find what you’re looking for in a store close to where you live or where you usually boat. You can also ask your friends or acquaintances if they know of a store that might have what you need.

However, even if you visit different stores, you might still end up without the fender or bumper you’re looking for. This is because you won’t always be sure if a store has what you want in stock. You might also find that the store is selling the product you want at a very expensive price.

One of the better options, of course, is to order bumpers and fenders online. Online catalogs are easily accessible and you’ll be able to see which products are available for purchase. Additionally, online catalogs tend to have lower prices than their counterparts in brick and mortar stores.

Conclusion

From dock bumpers for pontoon boats to boat fenders for all types of watercraft, there are many great options on the market. You can keep your boat well-protected from damage with the help of any one of these bumpers and fenders, as long as you choose from the best of the best.

Bumpers and fenders come in different shapes, sizes, colors, materials, designs, and more. They also have different price ranges, which is why it’s important to figure out how much you’re willing to spend on a fender or bumper.

With a wide variety of options, you’ll surely be able to find something within your budget. You’ll also have the chance to rethink things in terms of your budget or even in terms of the type of bumper or fender you want. If a product costs more but is also durable and will last for a long time, maybe it’s worth the extra expense.

Of course, you can still get your hands on the best pontoon fenders and bumpers with a reasonable budget. Explore online catalogs to see which options stand out the most. This way, you’ll be able to make the right choice.

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