Choosing An Inflatable Boat: A Primer On The Differences
There are a lot of choices out there when it comes to inflatable boats, and it could be a bit overwhelming. If you're thinking about buying an inflatable boat, there are a few things you need to consider before diving head-first into a purchase. PVC or Hypalon? Roll-up, air floor, or rigid hull? These are the questions that you have to answer, and we'll help you pick the one that's right for you once you've explored the options. Now, let's go over what distinguishes one inflatable boat from another, because they're not all made the sam
While manufacturers can choose from several different types of materials used to create the tubes on an inflatable boat, we are going to focus on the two most durable fabrics: PVC and Hypalon. These two fabric types are used by every major inflatable boat brand and are a proven, time-tested - and battle-tested - way to build an inflatable.
Fabric types
Hypalon was a proprietary synthetic rubber coating from DuPont, applied to the exterior of the fabric. While the Hypalon brand name is no longer produced by DuPont, the concept lives on from other manufacturers. This coating - called CSM - provides surprising strength, and the neoprene coating on the interior helps with sealing. Hypalon/CSM boats are hand-glued. Because building these boats is quite labor-intensive, and because they are more durable, they cost more than boats made from PVC. Hypalon/CSM inflatable boats are resistant to several different things, such as oil, abrasion, harsh temperatures, gasoline, and other chemicals. Due to being so hardy, they're considered ideal for boating in extreme conditions or for boaters who won't be deflating their boats repeatedly. These boats are normally guaranteed for at least 5 years or longer with 10 years being the customary warranty for Hypalon/CSM boats.
PVC is a type of plastic coating laminate around a nylon fiber core. They can be assembled by hand, but are more often done by machine, so they're not nearly as labor intensive. Therefore, boats made using PVC are usually cheaper than Hypalon inflatable boats. PVC is very tough and is easy to repair. It is not quite as durable as Hypalon, however, and choosing a PVC boat for hot climates will take extra effort to maintain. Use of a boat cover is recommended, as well as liberal use of 303, a UV ray protectant. PVC provides great value for those using their inflatable in cooler climates such as in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest, and are ideal for recreational use.
Hull types
There are three different hull types available: roll-up, air floor, and rigid hull. A roll-up boat typically has a removable floor system, comprised of wood or aluminum panels and secured in the boat using aluminum rails called "stringers". The stringers act as the backbone of the boat. There have been inflatables that use a hinged floor system that rolls up with the boat, and these are seldom seen. Roll-up boats are typically lighter than the rigid hull boats, but heavier than the air floors. Assembly can be challenging, especially for folks who are by themselves. An inflatable keel for planing and tracking is common.
The air floor boats use an inflatable bladder as the floor, typically with drop-stitch construction. This means there are thousands of small strands of fibers inside the bladder that prevent ballooning. When properly inflated, air floors can feel as rigid as wood, and easily supports the weight of several adults and their gear! The air floor remains in the boat for storage, and rolls up with the tubeset. Preparing the boat for use is very simple, as all one needs to do is get air into the floor and tubes; no other installation is needed. Air floors are also very light weight and can be inflated right on deck, even over hatches or other obstructions that would make assembling a roll-up inflatable difficult or impossible. Air floor boats are typically more expensive than roll-ups but less than rigid hulls. Air floors can be replaced if damaged or worn. Inflatable keels are typical, with inflation sometimes plumbed into the floor making for extremely easy setup.
Rigid hull inflatables (commonly called RIB's) provide the best performance, and not just because they are usually rated for higher horsepower outboards than comparable length roll-ups or air floors. The RIB has planing characteristics similar to traditional hulled boats; quick to get on step and can be used for a variety of purposes, including pulling a water skier. Virtually all of the name brand luxury inflatables are RIBs. Hull construction can be made from fiberglass or aluminum, with a keel guard suggested for durable protection from rocks and beaching. Buying a RIB almost guarantees the need for a trailer for transport, so keep that added expense in mind when shopping. There are a few smaller RIB's (around the 10' size) that offer a folding transom for easier storage; just deflate the tubes and fold the transom down for a low profile.
Summary
Given that there are several different boat designs, having a roll-up, air floor, or rigid hull is simply a matter of preference. Inflatable boats with roll-up and air floor hulls are easier to store and transport. They're also very stable to get in and out of. Rigid inflatable boats have a rigid hull (hence the name) and all but the rigid portion can be deflated. This means that you'll still need to use a bit of logistics in order to move the boat from place to place. Boats with rigid hulls are more expensive, and they'll need additional equipment in order to transport them, since they can't be stowed and stored as easily as roll-up boats.
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