Lightweight Tenders

[PTB]

I recall a post last year about these ultra lightweight inflatables .. 3D and now Force 4 have one. ( forgive me if I've missed subsequent posts)
Question is, has anybody now got some serious experience with their durability ... ie crammed on a dinghy pontoon, sitting on a beach, on and off the deck.
Love the idea of easy handling and appreciate more care needed but are they just too lightweight for any longevity?

Thanks.

 

[Tranona]

Recently covered here at length - sorry don't have link but a search might find it. Consensus was OK, but some reservations about resistance to rough handling and being blown about because of light weight. In addition to the two types you mention saw one made by Highfield today that looks a bit different from the others.

 

[Spyro]

Got a Seago ecolite it's not that light around 24kg and I've had a couple of punctures. I've learned to be a bit more careful with it now.

 

[Pete7]

Got a Seago ecolite it's not that light around 24kg and I've had a couple of punctures. I've learned to be a bit more careful with it now.

Have a Wetline 260 at home at the moment having a couple of punctures including a tear repaired, wouldn't want to go any lighter.

 

[VicMallows]

Got a Seago ecolite it's not that light around 24kg and I've had a couple of punctures. I've learned to be a bit more careful with it now.

Yes, I think the OP needs to define his idea of 'light'. I have a Waveline eco240 which is also around 24Kg and sold as being 'light' (probably from same factory!) ... but I certainly don't consider it light when manhandling it.

(BTW, the 'eco' bit in the name stands for 'economy' .......not whatever the advertisers would prefer you to imply)

 

[pvb]

Yes, I think the OP needs to define his idea of 'light'. I have a Waveline eco240 which is also around 24Kg and sold as being 'light' (probably from same factory!) ... but I certainly don't consider it light when manhandling it.

The 3D 250 weighs 14.5kg! I looked at them, spoke to the (knowledgeable) dealer about them, and bought a Zodiac Cadet Aero instead. I can manage it OK, and I reckon it'll last for years.

 

[Jabs]

I have a 3D and love it. I'm very careful with it.

The advantage is that it is easy to carry rather than drag. It is light but I am happy with the decision!

BTW, I also have a Lehr LPG outboard which is fantastic!

Tony.

 

[Marine Reflections]

I have a 3D, yes very light (main reason for purchase) certainly a lot more durable and tougher than I thought it was going to be, very happy with it, other than the fact it rarely gets used.

Had a Wetline prior to this, but the weight made it near impossible to get on and off my van roof, the 3D tucks up nicely into a bag with rucksack type fittings, so I can pop it on my back and walk it to the boat with ease.

Tony

 

[PTB]

Recently covered here at length - sorry don't have link but a search might find it. Consensus was OK, but some reservations about resistance to rough handling and being blown about because of light weight. In addition to the two types you mention saw one made by Highfield today that looks a bit different from the others.

Whoops .. just found the thread, but thanks for new input , P.