Standard cylindrical fenders provide robust protection for most docking situations. However, specialized challenges such as protecting flat surfaces like swim platforms and transoms, or managing extreme tidal changes, call for an alternative design. AERÉ mat fenders offer an effective solution for these and other specialized applications.

Piling Protection Challenges

In specific situations, particularly around pilings or in areas with complex angles, cylindrical fenders can shift position. Mat fenders address these scenarios through their flat, stable design. When deployed in areas requiring extended flat coverage, such as alongside pilings or protecting flat transom surfaces, their design eliminates the rolling tendency that can occur in these applications. The wide, flat surface maintains contact with both vessel and dock structures regardless of minor shifts in position or angle.

Swim Platform Protection Challenges

Swim platforms present a flat transom surface that benefits from a specialized protection shape. While cylindrical fenders can be used, the flat design of AERÉ mat fenders was created to conform to and protect these flat surfaces, preventing rolling or gaps that could expose platform edges to dock contact.

AERÉ mat fenders were specifically designed for stern and swim platform protection. The flat design conforms to platform surfaces, while the 8-inch thickness provides strong protection without creating awkward height differences that complicate boarding from tenders. Multiple D-rings on all sides allow secure attachment in any orientation.

In crowded marinas where boat wakes, wind, and current constantly push vessels against docks, mat fenders offer added stability and coverage, maintaining their protective position regardless of external forces.

Tidal Range Challenges

In marinas where vessels are secured to fixed pilings, boats naturally move vertically with changing tides. Mat fenders excel in these scenarios through their extended vertical surface area. When hung vertically alongside pilings, they provide continuous protection as the boat rises and falls, eliminating the need to position multiple individual fenders at different heights. This coverage is especially valuable for overnight stays and extended docking periods where tidal cycles create significant vertical movement against piling structures.

This vertical orientation is particularly helpful for extended stays where boats remain docked over multiple tide cycles, overnight protection when owners are absent, and piling protection where boats move vertically against rough piling surfaces.

Sailboat Protection Challenges

Sailboats present unique docking challenges that require specialized fender solutions. Limited deck space restricts the number and size of fenders that can be stored and deployed. Vulnerable transoms near waterlines need protection but are difficult to cover with traditional equipment. Sailboat configurations often require extended hull coverage to protect curved surfaces and critical stern areas.

Mat fenders address these challenges through their compact, deflatable design, which requires minimal storage space when not in use. Their extended flat surface provides greater hull coverage with fewer individual fenders required, which is important for vessels with limited deck space. The flat design excels at protecting vulnerable transoms positioned near waterlines, while multiple D-ring attachment points allow flexible positioning to address the unique protection needs of various sailboat configurations.

Multiple Deployment Options

The versatility of mat fenders comes from deployment configurations that leverage their flat design:

• Horizontal Stern Deployment: Position mat fenders horizontally behind swim platforms or transoms to create protective barriers against floating debris, careless tender operators, or following seas.
• Vertical Piling Protection: Hang mat fenders vertically alongside pilings to protect hull sections that contact these structures during tidal movements or wind shifts. Extended vertical coverage accommodates boat movement without constant adjustment.
• Flat Dock Face Coverage: Against floating docks or seawalls, mat fenders provide maximum surface contact, distributing impact forces across larger areas and reducing pressure points that damage gelcoat.
• Corner and Angle Protection: The flexible nature allows mat fenders to protect challenging angles and corners. Strategic placement using multiple D-ring attachment points ensures comprehensive coverage of traditionally vulnerable areas.

Construction and Durability

AERÉ mat fenders maintain the same construction standards as their cylindrical fender line, up to 10 times stronger than standard fenders. Heavy-duty materials withstand constant friction and pressure, while stainless steel D-rings provide secure, corrosion-resistant attachment points.

The inflatable design delivers strong protection while maintaining storage convenience. When deflated, mat fenders require minimal space, which is important for sailboats and vessels with limited storage capacity.

Size Selection for Specific Applications

AERÉ offers mat fenders in sizes ranging from 3′ x 2′ x 8″ for smaller vessels to 16′ x 2′ x 8″ for mega-yacht stern protection. The consistent 8-inch thickness across all sizes provides substantial protection while maintaining manageable boarding heights for tender access.

Addressing Specific Problem Scenarios

• Swim Platform Protection: Deploy an 8′ x 2′ x 8″ mat fender horizontally behind the platform, securing it to stern cleats. The flat surface prevents rolling, while the 8-inch thickness maintains adequate standoff distance.
• Piling Protection: Deploy mat fenders vertically alongside pilings where rolling can occur. The flat, stable design maintains position against rough piling surfaces while providing extended coverage as the vessel moves with tidal changes.
• Hull Protection During Tidal Changes: Hang mat fenders vertically along impacted hull sections. Extended vertical coverage protects throughout tide cycles without requiring adjustment.
• Extended Sailboat Hull Coverage: Mat fenders conform to sailboat hull curves while providing extended coverage that reduces the total number of fenders required.

When Mat Fenders Are the Right Choice

Consider mat fenders when specialized protection is needed, such as when swim platforms or transoms require a conforming barrier, when extended coverage is necessary for high tidal ranges, or when a stable, non-rolling fender is preferred for constant protection.

The versatility of AERÉ mat fenders means they often complement existing cylindrical fender systems rather than replace them entirely. Strategic deployment of both fender types creates comprehensive protection that addresses all potential impact scenarios.

For boat owners looking for reliable solutions for specialized protection, mat fenders provide solutions that make docking operations more confident and vessel protection more reliable.