Comfort on the water is often the deciding factor, turning a short walk into a full-fledged pleasure or, conversely, a test of endurance. NDMA The problem of ergonomics is particularly acute, and the hard floor creates the illusion of stability, but sitting on cylinders or thin foam for hours becomes unbearable.
Well-chosen boat-seat It's not just a convenience, it's a good fit for the fisherman, which is critical when you're catching a trophy or waiting for a stick. Unlike the classic plywood floors, the structure of the NDNDM requires a special approach to fastening and weight distribution, and mistakes in choosing can lead to damage to the cylinders or loss of stability of the vessel.
In this article, we will discuss in detail what types of seats exist, how to properly fix them and what to look for when buying. You will learn about the nuances of compatibility of various mounts with the inflatable floor and understand why saving on this element of tuning can be expensive.
Features of the BNDT floor design and seat requirements
A low-pressure inflatable floor is a complex engineering structure where multiple internal baffle walls create a rigid plane when pumped, but unlike plywood paiola, it has a certain elasticity and oscillation amplitude. PVC boat seats, installed on such a floor, should not have point supports with a small contact area, otherwise they will simply lap the cylinders under the weight of the fisherman.
The main problem is load distribution: If you plan to use a swivel chair with a standard heel, you will definitely need an additional platform or reinforced transax sheet. Direct contact of the metal base with PVC tissue under human weight is unacceptable - this will lead to rapid abrasion of the material and loss of leakage.
⚠️ Warning: Never install metal chair bases directly on pumped NDND cylinders without wide plywood or plastic distribution areas.
There are several proven solutions for integrating seats into this design, most often using the method of attaching to the sides through special brackets or installing a transom jar that lies on the cylinders, spreading the weight over a larger area. transom plates They can also serve as a support if the design of the boat allows installation on the stern.
Use plywood sheets at least 10 mm thick under the base of the seats to evenly distribute the pressure on the inflatable tubes and prevent damage.
Types of seats for inflatable boats: from budget to premium
The water accessories market offers a wide range of solutions, and the choice depends on your goals. If you go short distances and appreciate minimalism, simple folding options will suit you. For those who spend all day on the water, adjustable and soft upholstery models will be indispensable.
The first type is the classic. benches They're simple, they're reliable, they're cheap, but sitting on a hard surface is tiring. back-chair They're already supported by the lumbar, which is actually inserted into the sockets or attached to the sides, and they're already supporting the lumbar, which is a great way to reduce fatigue.
The third, most comfortable option is a full-fledged rotating chair on a pedestal, which allows you to rotate 360 degrees, which is convenient for echoing or spinning in different directions, which often require more complex installation, but give a feeling comparable to a seat in a car.
- 🪑 Transformer benches: They are versatile, can be used as a seat or as a footrest, easily removed.
- 🎣 Tumba chairs: have a built-in gearbox, which saves space in the cockpit of the boat.
- 🔄 Turning chairs: Provide maximum comfort and mobility to the fisherman during fishing.
Fixing methods: from temporary to stationary
The choice of fixation has a direct impact on safety and sustainability. For boats with NDND, the three main methods are the most popular. side-holdingSpecial brackets cover inflatable tubes and are fixed with belts or screws, which allows you to adjust the position of the seat, but requires care so as not to damage the fabric.
The second method is the installation of graffiti Or reinforced floorboard: This is a chair mounted on a rigid base, which in turn lies on the bottom, which is the most reliable option for heavy anglers. The third way is to use inflatable stops or integrate the seat into the design of the boat itself (found in finished models such as "catamaran" or specialized fishing PVC).
When you're on board, it's important to be careful of the tension, too weak a mount will cause a bolter, too strong a bolter, deforms the balloon, and use a tight cloth or rubber pad in the contact areas of the metal with PVC.
☑️ Checking before installing the chair
Comparative table of popular seat models
To make it easier to choose, we've compiled a comparative profile of the popular seat types available on the market. Pay attention to the weight and the frame material, because for an inflatable boat, every kilogram counts, but the strength should not suffer.
| Model/Type | Frame material | Weight (kg) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transformer bench | Aluminum + Plywood | 3.5 | Adds up, 2 in 1. |
| Fisherman 1 chair | Powder steel | 5.2 | Tap box, soft seat |
| Rotary chair | Aluminum + Plastic | 6.0 | Rotation 360°, adjustable backrest |
| Inflatable seat | PVC | 0.8 | Compact, requires pumping |
As you can see from the table, aluminum designs are preferred for inflatable boats because of their light weight and corrosion resistance. Steel counterparts are more reliable but heavier and can rust when exposed to water frequently if the coating is damaged. D16T aluminum alloys are the best choice for seat frames in salt and fresh water.
Self-manufacturing and installation: step-by-step instructions
If the solutions are not suitable for price or functionality, you can make the seat yourself, and for this you need a sheet of moisture-resistant plywood (FC or FSF), a profile pipe or corner, and a set of fasteners, the main thing is to make wide supports so as not to push the bottom of the NDNDM.
Start by sawing the base. It needs to be wider than a standard seat to distribute the load. Then assemble the back frame. Use 30-50 mm thick foam for upholstery and a special waterproof fabric or leather. It is important to treat the plywood ends with varnish or epoxy to prevent swelling.
Sequence of action:1. Cut the base 400x400 mm.
2. Weld or twist the legs.
3. Fill with foam and cloth.
4. Set on the platform in the boat.
When you install, make sure that the legs are not sharp edges. All corners should be rounded. If you use a rotary mechanism, check its course before the final tightening of the bolts. The luft in the mechanism will feel much stronger on water than on land.
⚠️ Warning: When drilling holes in metal attachment elements, be sure to use metal drills and zinku holes so that the bolt hats do not damage the boat fabric.
The secret to durability of upholstery
Use a PU-impregnated Oxford 600D fabric that does not absorb water, dries quickly and is resistant to ultraviolet light, which is critical for open water.
Care and maintenance of seats in service
Anything needs maintenance, especially if it is operated in an aggressive aquatic environment. After each fishing, it is recommended to wipe the seats with dry rags, removing moisture and residues of fish slime. Metal parts, even if they are aluminum, should be periodically inspected for chipped paint.
The fabric upholstery and the soft elements require special attention. If the seat is wet, don't pack it in the case right away, it will cause mold and unpleasant smell. Dry the material in the air, in the shade. Direct sunlight, if prolonged, can burn out the dye and make the material brittle.
Once a season, check the reliability of fasteners. Motor vibrations and waves gradually unwind the nuts. Use a thread lock or just tighten the connections. Timely maintenance will extend your comfort life for several seasons.
Regular drying and checking of the fastener is a guarantee that your chair will last for many years without losing appearance and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a chair on a boat with NDND without drilling the sides?
Yes, it's possible. There are models with hook mounts that are put on board, or there are wide platforms that lie on the floor of the boat, and there are also popular options with inflatable stops.
What is the maximum weight of a standard PVC boat seat?
Most quality models are designed for loads up to 120-150 kg. However, it is important to consider not only the weight of the fisherman, but also the dynamic loads when pitching, so the safety margin should be significant.
What is the danger of using a heavy metal chair in a small boat?
Excess weight shifts the center of gravity and reduces the payload of the boat, which can lead to lower height above the water and deterioration of handling, especially in the wave.
Do I need to remove the chair when transporting the boat in assembled form?
It is advisable to remove so as not to damage the cylinders with sharp angles during deflation and packaging. If the chair is not removable, protective covers and gaskets should be used.