New Inflatable - PVC or Hypalon?

J

JimC

Well-Known Member
Joined
30 Aug 2001
Messages
1,570
Location
Lancashire
Visit site
I'm thinking of replacing my inflatable. I liked the look of the Loadstar range at SBS. Is it worth paying approx' 50% extra for the hypalon versions? I carry mine rolled-up on the cabin roof so it's always exposed to the weather, and it gets inflated & deflated a lot of times per season.
 
Hypalon and stick it in a bag to delay UV degradation.

Lifespan 20 years minimum- How old are you? /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif
 
For the use you describe, it has to be Hypalon. Curreht PVC boats are much better and I can recommend Zodiac. This summer in the Balearics it was the inflatable of choice, but is must be protected from UV. Hot sun is a killer for PVC but may be OK in the UK. The cost difference is quite significant and you may decide to spend the difference on a higher spec PVC craft with say, inflatable keel and floor.
 
Some PVC material used on the cheaper dinghys can become very stiff in cold weather. So if you are going to use it in winter Hypalon would be best but a good quality PVC dinghy would be ok. May be worth trying ebay I got an almost new Avon for about the same price as a cheap PVC one.
 
What size are you looking for and whereabouts are you? I only ask as I'm selling my Honda 3.2 metre air floor inflatable. It's had about 30 odd hours use and apart from when it's being used, has always been stored out of sunlight. It's rated for up to 15 hp o/b, I use an 8 hp which gives me a top speed of 16 knots with 1 on board and about 13 kts 2 up so I guess might be a bit! faster with a 15. I don't know what material it is made from. PM me for details if you're interested.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Share this page

Top