Have you been constantly anxious about your pontoon boat getting scratched or damaged if it hits the dock? The soul hurts more than the boat. You don’t need to worry about it anymore because bumpers and fenders are the perfect solutions to avoid this.
You must give your pontoon boats the best protection because you never know when they can clash with another boat or develop a dent when they accidentally hit the deck.
We tend to neglect these little protection needs and suffer multiple severe damages. This is where bumpers and fenders come into action to make sure your pontoon boats are 100% safe.
They are like cushions- fenders are for boats, and bumpers are for docks. You would want your boat to be scratch-free with zero damage. Therefore, it’s essential not just to buy any bumper and fender, but good quality and a long-lasting bumper and fender.
So, without any further delay, let’s find out how you can choose the best one.
Who Should Buy Bumpers and Fenders?
If I’m straightforward, every pontoon owner should buy bumpers and fenders. If you want to ensure your boat’s complete safety and protection, you need to take some necessary steps.
Imagine enjoying your pleasurable excursions and water sports under the stress of ‘what if ‘ your boat accidentally clashes with something. Also, if you didn’t already know, pontoon boats are highly susceptible to damage.
Apart from pontoon boat owners, people who are even planning to buy a pontoon boat or any other boat must make sure it’s safe too. Investing in something expensive only to let it get damaged later doesn’t make sense.
7 Best Inflatable Side Fenders –
The three side bumpers you see below are the best ones. I have listed four more options but won’t recommend getting them over this one. Those four options are listed below these.
3. VIVOHOME Vinyl Ribbed Marine Boat Fender –
This pack from ViviHome is an excellent option if you are on a budget. Here, you get four fenders and accessories for a comparably lesser price. I know it sounds incredible, but remember, you get what you pay for before you click that buy button.
To make the price low, the quality is somewhat sacrificed here. Like, the Pump is of low quality. And many people got fender with a pinhole leak. It may not happen with you, but if it does, warning, a lot of headaches approaching.
That’s why I will only recommend it if you are on a strict budget; otherwise, go for Polyform G-Series(#1). It’ll keep you on the safe side. Still, if you want to try it, let’s talk about what it got.
So, these fenders are made from high-quality marine UV-resistant PVC material that provides a sturdy exterior. The material is good; it’s soft to touch yet strong enough to take a lot of abuse.
It’ll probably last for years if you got it perfectly working out of the box. The same can’t be said for the pump or inflating needles that came along. Its design looks pretty similar to the Polyform G series except for the inflation valve.
Here, it has a football-like valve to inflate. It hardly takes a minute to fill each one using the inflating needle and pump(that came along). However, I am not satisfied with the pump’s quality; it’s alright, but not good.
Anyway, it comes in four colors and two sizes. Choose the size after looking at the size chart, but if you ask me for color, I’ll say take any except white as eventually white will turn black with mold. Again, they are good but not even close to Polyform G-series.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Cheaper than most fenders
- Sturdy fender that can take a lot of abuse
- Free Pump and four inflating needles
- Multiple colors and size options
Cons
- Many Complaints of Pinhole leak
- Overall quality isn’t that great
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
2. Taylor Made Products Pontoon Boat Fender –
The biggest problem with a dangling fender is often taking them on/off. When mooring, put them on, and vice-versa when sailing. While it’s suitable for some, many people feel burdened doing it repeatedly. Plus, dealing with inflation every then and now is another task.
Therefore, if you want a fender that, once set up, requires no extra work, then it’s all you need. From the brand Taylor Made, it offers a unique design. It’s made from sturdy plastic-like material coated with UV-resistant vinyl that can withstand years of bumping and angry hot sun without any hassle.
I was skeptical that the material might not hold well, but it did. It seems to be a good quality material with a nice texture. Also, the vinyl provides good protection against UV rays. So, it will look just as new even after years of use.
Don’t confuse it as a firm plastic fender; it’s inflatable. It has a football-style valve on the top for inflation. Once they are on, the BEST thing is that you never have to worry about removing them. Yup, you heard me right.
This is one of the reasons why I love this. The only thing you might be wondering is how to set it up. Well, you see that ridge hook? That groove at the back? That goes right between the deck and log.
Once there, strap it from the top and side to adjust it properly. You may not have noticed, but there are loops on the front and side for the purpose. Just use the two straps that came along this fender and secure it neatly.
It might take a few minutes to set up, but that’s the only time you do the work. Until, of course, you manually take them out.
Pros
- No worry about taking them on/off
- Sturdy material with Vinyl coating
- Can withstand years of use
- It fits neatly between deck and log.
- It takes less time to set it up; that is too one-time.
Cons
- Bit costly, but worth the price
- Costly, but worth the price
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
1. Polyform G Series Boat Fenders –
This fender you see right here it’s the best. After buying and using tons of offenders, I realized that getting a cheap one isn’t worth it. You may feel good saving a couple of bucks but eventually have to pay more to fix the scratches caused by a cheap fender’s inefficiency.
That’s why I always recommend spending a bit more to get a good one. Like, this one from Polyform. It’s everything you’ll ever expect from a fender. It’s sturdy, thick, heavy, and can withstand a lot of punishment. It doesn’t matter the metal or jagged wood; it doesn’t rip or lose air.
I was surprised to see no sign of deflation even after years of constant slamming and beating. So, I didn’t have to inflate it often, which is a big plus for me. The reason is its specially engineered air valve.
Unlike other fenders, it has a screw with a seal to cover the air fill port. There is dual protection to secure the air inside, whereas other fenders offer needle fill, as we see in sports balls. That’s why they deflate easily while this one doesn’t.
Also, the saltwater doesn’t hurt it; neither do the harmful sun rays. Even after years, the color never faded, and it still looks as new as ever. I’m impressed!
Now, coming to the final point. It’s available in 17 beautiful colors(my favorite is Cobalt Blue) and six different sizes. You can select any color you like, but be careful with size. Don’t try to get a bigger size.
Make sure it fits best with your pontoon. For instance, G-1 is perfect for boats up to 10’, whereas G-4 is perfect for 18-23’ pontoon. Other than these two sizes, you can trust the official recommendation.
- Sturdy, heavy, and thick
- It doesn’t fade or rip even after years.
- Hold air properly; it doesn’t deflate
- Plenty of colors and sizes
- Can withstand a lot of beating and punishment
- Worth every penny
Cons
- Nothing
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Other Pontoon Inflatable Side Fenders –
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
3 Best Fence Saver Fender –
The fence saver fender you see below is the best one. I have listed two more options but won’t recommend getting them over this one.
1. Taylor Made Pontoon Boat Fence Fender –
This fence saver fender from Taylor Made looks like an upgraded version of their Side Fender. Same material, but a long design that goes all the way down. If you don’t know, fence saver fenders are designed to protect the aluminum railing on your pontoon.
They also work as a side fender, so there are two benefits with one fender. Now, let’s talk about design. So, it’s a 9” x 36” fender with multiple loops on the top, bottom, and sides. These loops are made to strap it down horizontally and vertically.
It is pretty easy to strap it, but only when outside the water. Once you are in the water, it’s tough to manipulate. The problem usually arrives by attaching the bottom part. The clip on the bottom is tiny, making it harder to grab onto the deck’s underside.
So, you need to grab and strap it yourself, which is harder in the water. Once attached, they work flawlessly, but if they get off their water position, you can’t do anything, which is its biggest downside. Plus, they will sink if dropped.
Yup, let me tell you why. This fender is made from plastic material that’s hollow from the inside. So, if the water gets in from the loops(i.e., holes), it can sink from the weight. That, however, will only happen if it falls off the pontoon into the water.
So, make sure to strap is correct. Another thing that really disappointed me was how rigid they really are. I wish they were a little softer, like the wall fenders. I doubt how they absorb the dings being that hard, but they do the work, so no complaints here.
Overall, I really love them, and it’s the only fence saver fender I recommend. Yes, there are some cons, but it works like a charm if you strap them well.
Pros
- Very high quality can work for years.
- Longer than side fenders, so it protects more.
- More loops to secure easily
- No need to take off
Cons
- Hard to manipulate in water
- Very rigid
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Other Pontoon Fence Saver Fenders
If you really want a fence saver fender, I will strongly recommend the above one from Taylor Made. If that doesn’t seem reasonable, check the options below.
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
6 Best Corner Bumpers –
Of all the six, I will recommend these two corner bumpers. I have listed four other options but wouldn’t recommend buying them over these two.
2. Taylor Made Pontoon Corner-Gard Silver –
If your pontoon has right-angle corners, then this bumper from Taylor Made is for you. It comes straight out of the box but can turn 90° to get on the corner’s sides. I love its silver design, which is very similar to the aluminum in the corner.
So much so that you can’t really point any significant difference once these are on. The color doesn’t seem to change, but now it has corner protection. It basically provides air-cushioned impact protection when docking or hitting other boats.
This bumper is made from PVC material that makes it sturdy enough to withstand lots of abuse. It does work, but there is one problem. This bumper is wider than the aluminum trim.
It’s too close to the metal’s edge, making it almost impossible to fasten all four corners. You have to sacrifice one corner to fix the other three, which is its only downside. Otherwise, it’s a good bumper.
Now, there are some things I want to clear. Firstly, it doesn’t work with hooks or straps; instead, you have to drill it down. Secondly, it’s not a pack but one bumper. One bumper only protects one corner, so get three more for all the corners.
Pros
- Sturdy PVC material
- Flexible from the center
- Can withstand a lot of abuse
- The special silver color matches the aluminum.
Cons
- Wider, can’t fasten all the corners
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
1. Taylor Made Pontoon Boat Corner Protector Fender –
What I love the most is its clean design. It’s neat, and the color looks similar to aluminum. So it doesn’t look odd. A marine-grade, UV-resistant vinyl coating on the PVC protects it from harmful UV rays.
Also, it makes it look pretty. The vinyl coating prevents color fading and ensures a new-like condition for a long. However, the coating on this fender is a little flimsy, which gets marked up easily. Still, it prevents color fading.
Like its flat version, it provides air-cushioning impact protection when docking or clashing with other boats. In simple words, it provides effective prevention against dings. The set-up is also similar to the other variant.
You have to drill it down to the aluminum trim. You get four stainless steel fastener that goes inside each corner. Thankfully, this fender isn’t as wide as the other one, making installation easy.
However, the installation can be difficult if the boat is in the water. So, I’ll suggest putting it on a trailer before installation. Believe me; it’ll make the set-up way easier.
You can’t find it from the picture, but it’s an inflatable bumper. It has a football-style valve that is used for inflation. Overall, I like this fender.
Pros
- Sturdy yet flexible
- Clean design and color
- The color doesn’t fade from beating or basking.
- Air-cushion impact protection
- Can fit different size corners
Cons
- Difficult to install in the water
- Have to drill it long thanks to the long fastener
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Other Pontoon Corner Bumpers –
Just in case you need some other recommendations.
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Pontoon Bumpers and Fenders Accessories[Must-Have] –
1. Rail Fender Hanger & Adjuster –
Are you tired of tying knots every time you pull up to a dock or another boat? Doing so repeatedly can be frustrating and strenuous. Remember, you have to work on at least six bumpers, and that number can increase depending on your pontoon’s size.
And if you are like me, you want it effortless. Well, good news for you! This fender hanger and adjuster from Taylor made can help. It makes hanging bumpers and fenders a breeze. You no longer have to tie knots every then and now.
Also, it helps to set up a fender at corners where there is no opening. You know, where the aluminum is all up. It’s made from ABS plastic, which helps it hold weight much bigger than itself. Also, the setup is easy.
It clamps securely to 1.25” and 1” square tube railing, with no screws, nothing. Once it’s on, pass the rope through the hole, tie a small knot to make it hold, and done—just the opposite when it comes to removal.
I love that you can easily adjust the hanger even when holding a fender. This thing can be helpful when changing the height or location of the fender. The other thing I like is its grey color that’s similar to the rail.
So, it won’t look odd; instead, a part of the pontoon. Overall, I love this hanger; it just makes life much easier. But there is something you should know. Since this is plastic, it can break in extreme conditions.
Like, you throwing the fender down in a hurry or maybe when in rough water. Of course, it doesn’t occur often, but it can. So, I will suggest trying an additional knot with the railing to be on the safe side. If I still have to tie a knot, why buy it?
Firstly, there is no instruction to tie a knot; it’s my personal suggestion. If you don’t like it, only knot it when the water is rough.
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Other Pontoon Fender Hanger –
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
2. Mold & Mildew Stain Remover + Cleaner –
But sadly, you have to as it’s the only thing that’ll prevent the dings and scratches. Buying new fenders means literally throwing away your hard-earned cash. So, the best option is the use of a mold & mildew cleaner.
And what’s better than this one from Star Brite. It has a concentrated formula that works flawlessly on the fender and the boat. It hardly takes any effort. All you have to do is, spray it on and watch the stains disappear.
Once everything looks good, rinse it with water. Easy as that! Remember, no scrubbing is needed. I really love its powerful formula, which isn’t the usual unbuffered bleach water we see in the market.
It’s made from buffered bleach, chelating agents, and surfactants. The buffered bleach removes the mold & mildew stains while the cheating agents lift the ground-in dirt. Finally, the surfactants cut any grease or grime off the fender.
In simple words, you get all-round protection, and that too without much effort. The best part? You can use it also use it on your pontoon to clean the stains.
Like, the mold on the seat can be easily removed with this spray. Don’t worry! This formula doesn’t harm the stitching or threads, so it’s safe to use.
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Other Pontoon Mold & Mildew Remover –
Table could not be displayed.3. Anchor Bungees –
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
4. Docks Cleats –
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Important Things To Consider Before Buying –
When shopping for literally anything, whether it be an electrical appliance, furniture, or even clothes, it’s always confusing to what will be the best for you.
It might seem easy to choose anything at first, and luckily, it may come good. However, background research is necessary to opt for the best and make your investment worth it.
All the features of your product must be perfect and function properly. Thus, investing in bumpers and fenders, especially for expensive boats like pontoons, there are some essential pointers to consider.
1. Type –
There are many types of bumpers and fenders. Therefore, it is essential to pick the right type depending on your pontoon. The perfect bumper and fender will ensure zero risks. The type of fenders that compliments your pontoon depends on your pontoon’s length, weight, and mooring conditions.
You don’t want to end up with just any fenders that don’t even support your boat. Pontoon boat owners usually go for cylindrical or round fenders. Similarly, dock bumpers are of various types, and the right type depends on your dock’s height, mounting face conditions, etc.
Different types of bumpers come with different usage, so you must analyze which area of the dock is most prone to damage to your pontoon. Accordingly, it will become convenient for you to go for the correct type of bumper.
2. Warranty –
Who wouldn’t like a long-lasting, durable product, especially when it comes to something that is meant for protection? The answer is simple, everyone.
Apart from buying good quality bumpers and fenders that last for a long time, what’s more important is to have warranty coverage.
In case there’s a flaw in the design or any manufacturing defect, you can contact the company for its repair and save yourself from the loss. Usually, for bumpers and fenders, most companies provide a warranty of one year.
A reasonable and longer warranty period will make you feel secure about your purchase. You can also consider paying for an extended warranty period.
3. Price –
When it comes to buying high-quality products, the price is arguably the most crucial factor to consider. Your investment in bumpers and fenders should not be too expensive or too cheap.
A moderate price for these safety products that function according to their specifications should be your ideal choice. Don’t settle for just any bumper and fender.
Usually, to check if the price is worth the product, you must consider aspects like the size, the quality, the durability, and most importantly, the reviews. You can also wait for a sale or discount period to buy these products.
4. Reviews –
According to most buyers of bumpers and fenders, they went through reviews before purchasing these products. Customer reviews and feedback, especially on individual platforms, will play a significant role in your successful purchase.
You wouldn’t want to get defective products when you expect high quality. Make sure that you rely on feedback written only by verified customers. Besides, you will also gain information about your bumpers and understand what type will suit your boat.
An important thing to keep in mind is not just going by ratings but also going through a detailed review of the product.
FAQs –
How Many Fenders Should A Pontoon Boat Have?
The number of fenders one should use depends on the size of the pontoon boats. The larger the size, the more fenders it should have.
Ideally, a minimum of three fenders- one at the fore, one at the widest beam, and one at the aft is needed. However, one fender per 10 feet of waterline is the general rule.
How To Clean Fenders And Bumpers?
Fenders and bumpers can quickly get dirty, so it’s important to clean them now and then. You can wash them with household soap, but for stains that are tougher to clean, you’ll have to go for fender cleaning products available online or in the markets.
Additionally, you can dip a stiff brush into mineral spirits and use a pressure washer for easy cleaning.
How Does A Dock Bumper Work?
A dock bumper is attached to the dock where you’ll secure your pontoon boat. It absorbs the impact of a hit from the boat, which could move by the waves’ intensity.
When your boat accidentally hits the dock, the bumper will save you from the huge amounts in boat repair. Every boat owner must have a dock bumper for 100% safety.
Conclusion
You should never compromise with your pontoon boats regarding their protection. You would want to enjoy your boat ride without worrying about it getting scratches or dents. If you conduct proper research and consider essential things before buying, you’ll have the best quality fenders and bumpers. I hope this article will help you make the best purchase.
I recently purchased a pontoon boat, and after a few outings and dockings, I notice some small dings. I didn’t want to have fenders tied to the side of the boat, but if I wanted to prevent further dings I had no choice. After shopping at the local marina and online, I found VIVOHOME Vinyl Ribbed Marine Boat Fender. The fenders were half the price of all other fenders and came with tie-down ropes. I am very please with this deal.