Long-term exposure to water requires not only reliable technology, but also basic comfort, which is often ignored by beginners. A conventional inflatable balloon or a rigid plywood jar quickly leads to fatigue of the back and legs, reducing the concentration of the angler. backrest It becomes not just an accessory, but a necessity for any serious boater.
The modern market offers many solutions, from simple folding models to full-fledged captain's seats with adjustments. Properly selected furniture can turn a small inflatable boat into a full-fledged floating office or a cozy place to relax.
In this article, we will discuss in detail how to choose the optimal seat, what materials are resistant to water and the sun, and also consider the nuances of the installation so as not to damage the sides of your vessel. Comfort on the water It is a matter of safety and pleasure in the process.
Basic requirements for boat seats
When choosing a seat, you need to consider the aggressive environment in which it will be located. Moisture, salt mist, direct ultraviolet rays and temperature changes quickly disable poor-quality materials. The first thing to pay attention to is the stability of the upholstery and frame to corrosion and burnout..
The design should be as light as possible, as every extra kilogram on board affects the carrying capacity and running performance of the vessel. framework should not suffer: sudden rolling or sharp braking can put a serious strain on the attachment elements.
An important aspect is ergonomics: the back should keep the spine in its natural position, and the seat should be stiff enough not to be crushed to the ground. Many models are equipped with additional armrests that can interfere with rowing, but are useful for drifting.
- 🌊 Wet resistance of materials: plastic, aluminum, processed plywood.
- ☀️ UV Tissue Protection: Prevents fading and cracking.
- ⚖️ Weight of the structure: optimally from 2 to 5 kg depending on the type.
And the size, if folded, should not take up half the useful area of the cockpit, especially if the boat is single or double, and compactness in transportation is often the deciding factor when buying.
Types of constructions and materials of manufacture
Modern manufacturers use several basic materials to create boat seats. aluminumIt's a combination of lightness and high strength, and aluminum doesn't rust, which is critical for water use.
Another popular option is marine plywood coated with special varnish or plastic, which look aesthetically pleasing and cost less than metal counterparts, but require more careful care of the coating, and damaged varnish can cause the wood to swell.
The third type is solid plastic, which is a budget solution that is not afraid of water at all, but can be less durable on the kink at low temperatures. Plastic seats often have complex geometries to better support the back.
⚠️ Warning: When buying a plywood chair, be sure to check the quality of the edge treatment. Even a microscopic varnish chip will become the point of entry of moisture, which will lead to the layering of the material in one season.
Upholstery also plays a role, with vinyl or a special yacht fabric that dries quickly and does not absorb odors being the most durable, and the foam inside must be closed on all sides to prevent water from accumulating inside the cushion.
Methods of fastening a chair in a PVC boat
Seat installation is a critical step that your safety depends on, and there are several basic ways to fix it, and the easiest way to fix it is to put it on a removable can that rests on the sides or the piers, which is a mobile option, but it can shift when rolling.
A more reliable method is to attach to the squirrel board or bottom using rotary devices. duck-loop Or rotating carving bases, which allow you to rotate the chair 360 degrees, which is convenient for fishing.
☑️ Pre-installing check
When drilling holes in the transmolina or banks, only stainless fasteners (AISI 316) should be used. Conventional steel will rust in a couple of weeks, spoiling the appearance and weakening the connection.
| Type of attachment | Installation | Mobility | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Invoice (on the jar) | No drilling. | High. | Medium |
| Threaded (in transom) | Requires drilling. | Fixed | High. |
| The turning base | Drilling + glue | Rotation | Very high. |
If you plan to use a swivel chair, make sure that your boat's trawl board is sufficiently thick (usually at least 25-30 mm) to securely lock the bolts.
Installation of the rotary mechanism DIY
For those who want to get the most comfort, the best solution is to install the chair on a rotary device, which requires accuracy and a basic set of tools, first you need to mark the installation site on a transom board or an additional platform.
Drill holes under the base fasteners. The diameter of the drill must match the diameter of the bolts to exclude backlashes. silicone sealant before screwing the fastener to prevent water from entering the structure of the board.
Nuances of hermetic work
Use only neutral silicone, which does not contain acetic acid. Acid sealant can cause corrosion of aluminum parts of the boat and fasteners, which will lead to the destruction of the connection.
Secure the base of the rotary mechanism by pressing it tightly against the surface. Let the sealant dry according to the instructions (usually 24 hours) before installing the chair itself. Then fasten the seat to the top of the rotary device.
⚠️ Warning: Do not pull the bolts of the rotary mechanism attachment. Excessive force can deform the plastic base or push through the wooden tanning board, leading to backlashes.
After installation, check the smoothness of the ride. The mechanism should rotate without jerking, but also without excessive freedom. If there is a puff adjusting screw in the kit, adjust it to your weight.
Comfort and ergonomics in long-distance voyages
When the basic installation is complete, you need to think about the extra comfort of sitting on a hard surface, which is disrupting circulation. PVC-seat It must have an anatomical bend of the back and a sufficient depth of the seat.
Many anglers prefer models with adjustable backrest tilt, which allows you to change the position of the body depending on the task: vertically for active fish search or leaning back for rest. Armrests also add convenience, but their height must be adjusted so that you do not interfere with the work of oars or rods.
To increase comfort in hot weather, use special ventilated seat capes that prevent clothes from sticking to vinyl and improve air circulation.
Pay attention to the landing height. A seat that is too high can shift the center of gravity of a boat, which is especially dangerous in windy weather or in sharp maneuvers. The optimal height of the seat above the floor level of the cockpit is 35-45 cm.
- 🎣 The presence of fasteners for fishing rods in the armrests.
- 🎒 Pockets in the back for storing small things.
- 🔄 The possibility of rapid dismantling for transportation.
Care and storage of boat equipment
For your chair to last for years, it needs to be properly cared for, and after every step out on the water, especially if it's a saltwater fishing trip, you have to rinse the seat with fresh water, and salt and fish mucus are aggressive in the materials.
Keep the chair in a dry, ventilated room, and do not leave it in direct sunlight in the open air during the off-season, even if the material is declared UV-resistant, and constant heating and cooling accelerates the aging of plastic and fabric.
Regular lubrication of the moving parts of the rotary mechanism with silicone lubrication will prolong its service life by 2-3 times and maintain smooth rotation.
Check the condition of the fasteners periodically. Vibration when the motor is running can weaken the threaded joints. Use the thread lock when reassembling if you notice that the bolts begin to unscrew on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a soft car seat on a PVC boat?
Technically, it's possible, but it's not recommended. Car seats have a metal frame that rusts quickly, and a foam that absorbs moisture and starts to rot. It's better to use specialized marine models.
What is the maximum weight of a standard rotating chair?
Most high-quality plastic bases are designed for loads up to 120-130 kg. Aluminum structures can withstand up to 150 kg or more. Always check the specifications of a particular model with the manufacturer.
Do I need to remove the chair when transporting a boat inflated form?
It is advisable to take pictures, especially if you plan to go on the highway at high speeds, wind loads can unsettle the mounts or damage the boat itself, if you can not remove, make sure that the fixation is reliable.
What is better to wash the vinyl upholstery of the chair?
Use warm soapy water or special vinyl care products. Avoid aggressive solvents, gasoline or acetone, as they can destroy the structure of the material and wash away the protective layer.