Boat dock bumpers are an essential accessory for any boat owner. They protect your boat from damage by cushioning the impact between the boat and the dock. A good boat dock bumper will absorb the shock of the boat hitting the dock and prevent scratches, dents, and other damage to your boat’s hull.
When it comes to buying the best boat dock bumper, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the material. Boat dock bumpers are made from a variety of materials, including rubber, PVC, and foam. Each material has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to choose the one that best fits your needs.
Another critical factor to consider is the size of the boat dock bumper. The bumper should be long enough to cover the area of the boat that will come into contact with the dock. If the bumper is too short, it won’t provide adequate protection, and if it’s too long, it can be difficult to maneuver your boat in and out of the dock.
Finally, it’s essential to consider the durability of the boat dock bumper. You want a bumper that will last for years without losing its shape or effectiveness. Look for bumpers made from high-quality materials and with a reputation for durability.
In this article, we will review the best boat dock bumpers on the market today. We’ve tested each bumper for durability, effectiveness, and ease of use, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or a beginner, we’ve got you covered.
Best Boat Dock Bumpers
We know how important it is to protect your boat and dock from damage caused by collisions, waves, and wind. That’s why we’ve researched various boat dock bumpers to bring you the best products. Our roundup includes a variety of options to fit your specific needs and budget. Whether you have a small boat or a large vessel, these boat dock bumpers, in conjunction with your dock lines, will provide the necessary protection to keep your boat and dock safe. Check out our top picks below.
Taylor Made Products Commercial Grade Double Molded Dock Edging White Side Gard, 10′ Coil
If you’re looking for a durable dock edging that provides superior protection for your boat, the Taylor Made Products Commercial Grade Double Molded Dock Edging is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Made from 85% recycled commercial grade double molded material
- Easy installation
- Ideal for dock builders and large boat owners
Cons
- Hardware not included
- May mark up if pontoons of boat make contact
- Not suitable for installation in colder weather
This dock edging is designed to answer the needs of marinas, dock builders, and larger boat owners who require a top-performing protective dock edging with heavier wall sections. The double molded vinyl is molded twice then molecularly bonded for added protection and durability. A tough inner core is surrounded by soft white vinyl for an extra cushion against tough and busy docks.
Installation is easy, each piece installs to the edge of docks or floats with screws or nails. Hardware is not included. Made from 85% recycled commercial grade double molded material, this dock edging is available in white and black measuring 3-1/2” x 1-3/8”.
While this dock edging is an excellent choice for most applications, it may mark up if pontoons of boat make contact, and it may not be suitable for installation in colder weather.
Overall, if you’re looking for a commercial-grade dock edging that provides superior protection for your boat, the Taylor Made Products Commercial Grade Double Molded Dock Edging is an excellent choice.
Attwood Dock Fender
If you are looking for a durable and reliable boat dock bumper, then the Attwood Dock Fender is a great option.
Pros
- The SoftSide technology and low-profile soft top edge make installation easy and reduce tripping risks.
- The bumper is designed to last with an industry-best lifetime warranty against splitting, cracking, chalking, or deflating.
- The universal fit makes it easy to install on any boat dock or swim raft.
Cons
- Some customers have reported difficulty with installation due to the deep depressions for screw placement.
- The bumper is more like plastic than rubber, which may not be ideal for all users.
The Attwood Dock Fender is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and durable boat dock bumper. The SoftSide technology and low-profile soft top edge make it easy to install and reduce tripping risks, while the industry-best lifetime warranty ensures that it will last for years to come. The universal fit also makes it easy to install on any boat dock or swim raft.
Installation can be a bit tricky due to the deep depressions for screw placement, and some users have noted that the bumper is more like plastic than rubber, which may not be ideal for all users.
Overall, if you are in the market for a high-quality boat dock bumper, the Attwood Dock Fender is definitely worth considering.
Attwood Softside UV-Resistant Marine Corner Dock Fender
If you’re looking for a reliable dock fender to protect your vessel, the Attwood Softside UV-Resistant Marine Corner Dock Fender is a great option.
Pros
- Made from soft, lightweight material that’s easy on your boat
- Very tough and resistant to chalking, splitting, deflating, or crushing
- Highly resistant to UV and fading
Cons
- Screw holes may not line up exactly with your dock
- Recommended hardware for installation is not included
- A bit pricey compared to other options
This fender is molded from a soft, lightweight material that’s easy on your boat, yet still very tough and durable. It’s highly resistant to UV and fading, so you can trust that it will last for a long time. And, it fits any 90-degree angle, making installation a breeze with just four 5/16 inch holes.
However, some customers have reported that the screw holes on the fender may not line up exactly with their dock, which can make installation a bit tricky. Additionally, the recommended hardware for installation is not included with the fender, so you’ll need to purchase that separately. Finally, the fender is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable dock fender that will protect your vessel from damage, the Attwood Softside UV-Resistant Marine Corner Dock Fender is a solid choice.
EASYFLEX Dock Edging D-Profile Coil 25′ White
If you’re looking for an affordable and durable boat dock bumper, the EASYFLEX Dock Edging D-Profile Coil 25′ White is a great choice.
Pros
- Flexible core prevents boats from hitting sharp corners and dock edges
- Made with pigmented plastic, so there’s no color transfer that could scuff your boat
- Effective boat and dock protection in both fresh and saltwater
Cons
- Algae may grow on it if installed below the waterline
- Galvanized Deck and Dock Screws are sold separately
- May not be as high-quality as more expensive options
This dock edging is easy to install – simply uncoil, easily cut to size with a handsaw, and anchor to dock or pier. It’s made with recycled flexible PVC and has a single cavity D-shape design that’s ideal for vertical dock pylons and horizontal beams.
Overall, the EASYFLEX Dock Edging D-Profile Coil 25′ White is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and effective boat dock bumper.
KEMIMOTO PWC Boat Fender
If you are looking for a reliable and durable boat dock bumper, the KEMIMOTO PWC Boat Fender might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The KEMIMOTO PWC Boat Fender is made of high-impact closed-cell foam, which provides better protection than ordinary conventional fenders.
- The fender is easy to use and comes with an attached rope to hang the fender and firmly fix it at the appropriate position on the jet ski.
- The fender is suitable for many applications and compatible with various types of boats under 25 feet in length.
Cons
- The fender might be too slim for some users, and it might not be suitable for larger boats.
- The eyelet in the fender may break if overstressed causing the fender to float away.
- Users might need to purchase more than one set if they have a 17 ft or larger boat.
The KEMIMOTO PWC Boat Fender is engineered with two parts, one large and one small, for flexible use and a seamless fit to the varying contours of your boat, and to prevent scratches when docked. The fender is well-made and durable, and it will provide excellent protection for your boat. The fender is also easy to use, and it comes with an attached rope that can adjust various positions and provide all-around protection.
Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and durable boat dock bumper, the KEMIMOTO PWC Boat Fender is an excellent choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a boat dock bumper, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Material
One of the most important things to consider is the material the bumper is made of. Some common materials include vinyl, rubber, and foam. Vinyl bumpers are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, while rubber bumpers are softer and more flexible, making them ideal for areas with a lot of boat traffic. Foam bumpers are the softest and are great for protecting boats from scratches and dents.
Size
The size of the bumper is also important. You want to make sure you get a bumper that is large enough to protect your boat from damage, but not so large that it takes up too much space on your dock. Measure the length of your boat and choose a bumper that is slightly longer than that.
Shape
The shape of the bumper is also something to consider. Some bumpers are straight, while others are curved or angled. Straight bumpers are great for areas with a lot of straight dock space, while curved or angled bumpers are better for areas with corners or curves.
Installation
Finally, consider how easy the bumper is to install. Some bumpers require special tools or hardware to install, while others simply slide onto your dock. Make sure you choose a bumper that is easy to install and won’t take up too much of your time.
In summary, when choosing a boat dock bumper, consider the material, size, shape, and ease of installation to ensure you get the best product for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dock bumper for pontoon boats?
The best dock bumpers for pontoon boats are those that attach to the boat and are specifically designed for pontoon boats. These bumpers are typically wider and thicker than standard dock bumpers, providing better protection against damage. Look for bumpers made from durable materials that can withstand the harsh marine environment.
What can I use to protect my boat from dock damage?
In addition to dock bumpers, there are several other products you can use to protect your boat from dock damage. These include dock fenders, rub rails, and corner bumpers. Each of these products serves a slightly different purpose. It’s important to choose the right one for your specific needs.
How do I install DIY dock bumpers?
Installing DIY dock bumpers is relatively simple. First, measure the length of your dock and determine how many bumpers you will need. Next, attach the bumpers to the dock using screws or other fasteners. Make sure the bumpers are securely attached and evenly spaced along the length of the dock.
What’s the difference between laminated and molded dock bumpers?
Laminated dock bumpers are made from layers of rubber or other materials that are glued together. Molded dock bumpers, on the other hand, are made from a single piece of material that is molded into the desired shape. Laminated bumpers are typically less expensive, but molded bumpers are more durable and longer-lasting.
What are some Boat dock bumper ideas?
Some boat dock bumper ideas include using old tires, pool noodles, or PVC pipe to create DIY bumpers. You can also purchase pre-made bumpers in a variety of shapes and sizes, including corner bumpers, straight bumpers, and curved bumpers.
Are Taylor Made dock bumpers worth the investment?
Taylor Made dock bumpers are known for their high quality and durability. While they may be more expensive than some other brands, they are worth the investment if you want a bumper that will last for many years.