Craig Thornburrow

Deciding Between Inflatable Rafts

Inflatable rafts have many benefits, especially for those who cannot afford or store a standard water craft. Learn about the different kind of inflatable boats before deciding on one.

Inflatable rafts are a great way to enjoy the water without having to invest in an expensive and hard to store water craft. The only trick is deciding which one is for you. This will teach you a bit about what the advantages are to an inflatable boat versus a regular boat and how to find an inflatable version for your needs.

Differences in Rafts

The main reason people opt for an inflatable raft versus a regular one is the price compared to buying a boat. Another big reason for making this selection is the storage factor. Not everyone has the space to keep a full size water craft, or can also afford keeping this type of vessel housed in storage or docked. This type of inflatable craft can be stored with great ease in a garage, basement or storage shed.

These types of rafts are also much easier to transport. While a standard boat requires a trailer and hitch, a blow up raft simply goes in the car as is to be inflated at the water. Getting a regular boat into the water alone can be a tremendous hassle that takes a good deal of time, as well as precision. At the end of the day, you also do not have to get the boat back on the trailer to transport back. This can additionally be a bigger liability for driving which also means extra insurance expenses.

Synthetic Rubber Coatings Vs. Plastic Coatings

The two types of main coatings for inflatable rafts are synthetic rubber and plastic. Both have pros and cons. Synthetic rubber does better with resisting abrasion. This also does better with extreme temperatures. When it comes to storage, synthetic rubber does better with preventing the growth of mold and mildew. These inflatable crafts are good for severe climates and outdoors men and women who need to leave the raft inflated for a prolonged period. Also, if you plan to use your raft frequently, this might be the better choice for you. Because of their durability, butted seams and ability to be more useable in more situations, synthetic rubber coated boats tend to come with a higher price tag.

Plastic coatings do well with returning easier to their original shape and size after deflation. This makes storage much less hassle. Stronger versions of plastic coated rafts can also do well with standing up to cold temperatures. Pretty much, though, these have a more limited use. If you need a boat that can be subjected to bright, direct sunlight for a prolonged period of time or remain inflated or exposed to the elements, a plastic coated inflatable boat probably isn’t for you. Take into consideration how you intend to use your boat and then decide which inflatable rafts are for you.

Article Tags: Inflatable Rafts, Synthetic Rubber, Does Better

Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR