As the summer boating season kicks off, your vessel is exposed to a constant mix of sun, saltwater, and busy marina traffic, all of which can take a toll on your boat’s finish. While there are many products and strategies to minimize wear, real protection starts with premium-quality gear built for real-world conditions. AERÉ Marine products are designed to keep your boat in top shape, even in the harshest summer environments. Here’s how to protect your boat’s finish while making the most of sunny days on the water.
Invest in Boat Fender Protectors
When people talk about “boat fender protectors,” they’re often thinking of the fenders themselves. While inflatable fenders are your first line of defense, pairing them with Fenda-Sox® covers offers even better protection for your hull. These soft yet durable sleeves slip over your inflatable fenders to create a buffer between the fender and your hull. Without a cover, fenders can scuff, mark, or even burnish the gelcoat from heat and friction.
Fenda-Sox covers, available in neoprene and polyester knit (manufactured in the U.S.), offer a tailored fit without strings or toggles. They look great dockside, extend fender life, and help preserve your boat’s finish during high-traffic weekends or raft-ups.
Use the Right Fenders in the Right Places
It’s important to use fenders appropriate for your boat’s size and your docking conditions. AERÉ inflatable fenders are ideal because they’re lightweight, easy to store, and available in a wide range of sizes. Built for higher internal pressure, they’re far more durable than standard options. For stern or narrow docking areas, AERÉ Mat Fenders provide discreet, dependable protection with a flat profile that’s easy to position in tight spaces..
Pro tip: Position your fenders midship, at the stern, and on the bow depending on where your boat is likely to make contact. Use high-quality fender lines to secure them properly and ensure they don’t slide out of place.
Clean Regularly to Prevent Salt Damage
Salt is one of the most damaging elements in a marine environment. After every outing, rinse your hull, deck, and hardware with fresh water to prevent salt buildup. Over time, salt can degrade finishes, stain upholstery, and corrode metal components.
If you’re using Fenda-Sox covers, you can easily wash them as needed to remove salt spray and dirt, keeping them (and your boat) looking sharp all season long.
Important: Wash with fresh water only. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals as these can damage the UV protection and cause fabric/yarn color to fade.
UV Protection Is Key
Sun exposure is relentless, especially if you boat in tropical or southern waters. UV rays can oxidize gelcoat, fade paint, and weaken materials over time. In addition to waxing your hull regularly with a high-quality marine wax, be sure your fender protectors are UV-resistant.
AERÉ’s neoprene and polyester Fenda-Sox covers are designed to resist fading and deterioration from UV exposure, maintaining their look and function even after long days in the sun.
Stay Ready for Any Docking Scenario
Whether you’re docking at a busy marina, mooring in a quiet cove, or rafting up at a float party, preparation is your best defense. Keep extra fenders on board. AERÉ’s inflatable fenders deflate and roll up for compact storage so you’re ready for any setup. Pair them with AERÉ’s Chafe-Pro Dock Lines, which feature built-in abrasion guards to minimize wear on both your lines and your vessel.
Need more protection for rougher conditions or side-to-side motion? Stack fenders vertically or double up in high-impact zones. AERÉ gear adapts to whatever your docking situation demands.
Protect Your Finish and Your Investment
Protecting your boat’s finish isn’t just about looks, it’s about preserving the value of your investment. Scratches, chips, and UV damage can lead to costly repairs and hurt resale value down the line. By incorporating AERÉ Marine’s premium inflatable fenders, Fenda-Sox covers, dock lines, and smart maintenance habits, you’re preserving your boat’s finish and protecting its value long-term.
