Small or long cockpit cushions?

[cmedsailor]

Custom made “long” cockpit cushions or “small” cushions like this example http://www.force4.co.uk/department/...-kapok-cushion-double-blue-white-stripe.html?

The long ones look definitely neater on the cockpit but they are too big to store downstairs (I don’t like the idea of them occupying a bed in a cabin). On the other hand small cushions are very easy to store in some corner. Both are comfortable I guess. What do you think?

 

[duncan99210]

We have four small cushions, originally Plastimo ones with a closed cell foam filling. SWMBO made new covers a couple of years back which were removable for cleaning. Use one each for four people in the cockpit or used flat on seats for more than that. Long custom cushions are more expensive and a pain to stow away below in comparison to the smaller one.

 

[Matt341]

Just had custom made cushions for our cockpit but they are in sections so are easier to store and if someone is sat forward then they don't need to stand up and move the whole cushion if I need to access the cockpit lockers or gas locker, being in sections means I can just move the one cushion that covers the locker. We were worried about them sliding around but the curve of the cockpit seems to hold them in place and we have the option to velcro them together if needed in the future.

 

[alteredoutlook]

Neither!! Just harden up your backside and save your money for the taverna!!!

 

[Gin]

Small- easier to manhandle/store
occasional secondary pillows
soiled or damaged means minimum expenditure to replace
emergency MOB flotation device- much easier to chuck a small one over
more use at other events where seating is uncomfortable, or even picnics

 

[Bobc]

We have small folding ones which live in the cockpit locker when not in use. Closed cell foam so can be used as flotation devices.

 

[Jabs]

My browser, with multiple tabs open, omitted the 'pit cushions?'.

I was going to answer, your choice madam!

Tony.

 

[Burnham Bob]

The fewer cushions the better. If you have them people tend to want to use them on passage. Invariably you'll find them a trip hazard. Maybe I'm just a miserable sod but any cushion that appears in the cockpit is immediately thrown back below unless we are moored or anchored.

 

[alan17]

I have 4. 2 long and 2 short.

The long one go from front of cockpit to forward edge of stern lockers.

The long ones are ideal for lying on and the short ones make a good backrest against cockpit bulk head. ideal in marina for soaking up the sun whilst resting.

They all store in the quarter berth. Can, and are, used to supplement the seating cushions which could do with being replaced.

 

[Tranona]

Compromise like the ones I have which are full length but fold in 3.

 

[richardbrennan]

I have a similar arrangement to Matt341 and it works well.

 

[Skylark]

cushions like this example http://www.force4.co.uk/department/...-kapok-cushion-double-blue-white-stripe.html?

We had exactly those on our 361 and they complimented the upholstery, too. They look a bit scruffy these days so they now live in a cockpit locker. Newer, plain fabric versions live in an aft cabin.

I agree with the trip hazard comment. Needs a bit of discipline with their use.

My idea of sailing is "autopilot, coffee, cake, music and a good book" just have to remember to look around every 20 minutes or so! Wouldn't be without them.

 

[ghostlymoron]

The backrests from my settee berths are designed to perform also as cockpit cushions so no problem with stowage. They're a bit 'good' though so I'll mainly use the individual ones which are scruffy but can also act as swimming floats.

 

[nigelmercier]

Just had custom made cushions for our cockpit... being in sections means I can just move the one cushion that covers the locker... the curve of the cockpit seems to hold them in place...

Ditto.