Inflatable watercraft often involve balancing minimum weight with maximum comfort. bayouThe buoyancy packages that come with most models provide buoyancy, but rarely provide the comfort they want during long walks or hours of waiting for cool, and this is where specialized pads come on the scene, turning a rigid seat into an ergonomic fishing spot.
The modern accessory market offers a variety of solutions, from simple foam mats to complex designs with pockets and fixtures. jar-liner Not only does it reduce stress on the spine, but it also protects the balloon system itself from mechanical damage, abrasion and puncture, which is an investment in the health of the fisherman and the durability of the equipment.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the types of coatings, how they are fixed and the nuances of material selection. You will learn why some fishermen prefer plywood with upholstery, while others choose modern composites. Understanding these differences will help you equip the boat exactly as you need for your fishing style.
Why do you need additional overlays on hard banks?
The main function of any pad is to increase the level of comfort: sitting for several hours on a flat, even if covered with a fabric, plywood board is extremely uncomfortable, hard surface disrupts blood circulation in the legs, leading to numbness and fatigue. orthopedic High-quality overlay allows you to distribute body weight more evenly, minimizing discomfort.
The second, equally important aspect is the protection of the can itself, plywood, even moisture-resistant, can eventually dissect or become chipped, and the PVC boat's fabric, which is in contact with the rough surface of the seat, is subjected to constant friction. lining It acts as a buffer, keeping the integrity of both the seat and the bottom of the boat, and this is especially true when fishing actively, when you have to move around the cockpit often.
And the linings also act as an organizer, and many modern models have pockets for small things, gear-mounting loops, or even built-in rod holders, which allow you to keep everything you need on hand without cluttering the boat with extra bags, a solution that can be hard to overestimate in a confined space.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing a lining, make sure that the upholstery material does not have sharp elements or rough fittings on the back side, which could damage the boat cylinders when rolling.
The extra tuning elements allow you to customize the production boat to your individual needs. Whether you prefer to sit upright or reclining, the lining can be tailored or made for any scenario, which makes fishing more enjoyable and productive.
Materials of manufacture: from plywood to composites
The choice of the material is a critical moment. The traditional solution remains the same. plywoodIt's an affordable, lightweight and durable material that's easy to work, but even moisture-resistant plywood requires high-quality varnishing or pasting, because being in a moist environment can cause it to swell and lose its properties.
A more advanced option is considered composite materials, such as: fiberglass They're not afraid of water at all, they're smooth, they're tough, they can weigh more than plywood, but they can make up for that, and they're often used in premium boats or custom-made.
For the upper part, which is in contact with the angler, there are different types of upholstery.
- 🧶 Car fabric - wear-resistant, easy to clean, available in any colors.
- 🌊 Oxford (Oxford) - waterproof material with PVC coating, ideal for aquatic environment.
- 🛋️ Eco-skin. - aesthetic appearance, easily wiped from dirt, but can be slippery and stick to the body in the heat.
- 🧽 Sports net Provides excellent ventilation, dries quickly, but is less comfortable for prolonged sitting without additional lining.
⚠️ Attention: Avoid using materials that absorb water and dry for a long time, such as regular foam without a protective shell or natural fabric without impregnation.
Each material has its advantages and disadvantages: plywood is cheap and easy to work, composites are eternal but expensive. Upholstery from Oxford is practical, the mesh is comfortable in the heat. The choice depends on budget and operating conditions.
Types of fasteners and methods of fixing
The safety of the can is a safety issue. In the water, especially in the presence of a wave, seat displacement is unacceptable. There are several basic ways of attaching, each with its own features of installation and operation.
The most common option is to fix on Velcro strapsVelcro strips are glued to the ends of the jar and to the lining itself, which provides a fairly rigid fixation, allowing you to quickly remove the cover for washing or replacement, and it is important to use high-quality accessories with high adhesion, resistant to salt water and ultraviolet light.
The second popular method is the use of rubber-damper They're going to be able to reach the perimeter of the jar, pulling and holding the lining, and the good thing about this is that it doesn't require adhesives, but it can lose aesthetics and reliability when you shake a lot, and it's often combined with other methods.
The third option is to rigidly fix with the help of sling and fastexThe slings are thrown over the ends of the jar and snapped from the bottom, which gives you a dead grip, without any movement, but it takes longer to install and remove this structure than with Velcro straps.
☑️ Checking of the attachment reliability
When choosing a fastening method, consider the frequency of the boat. If you often remove cans for drying or compact stowage, Velcro will be more convenient. If the boat is assembled for a long time, you can use more stationary options.
Comparative table of specifications of linings
To make it easier to choose, we suggest comparing the main types of pads by key parameters, which will help you make an informed decision based on your priorities: price, comfort or durability.
| Parameter | Furrow-covered | Plywood hard | Inflatable (staff) | Composite upholstered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort. | Tall (soft) | Medium (hard) | Medium (depending on pumping) | Tall (ergonomic) |
| Weight. | Low. | Medium. | Low. | Medium/High |
| Moisture resistance | Just a case. | Requires processing | Absolute. | Absolute. |
| Price. | Low. | Medium | It's included. | High. |
As you can see from the table, there is no universal solution. Furrowing options are ideal for those who appreciate softness and light weight. Plywood and composites choose anglers who need a hard back support when actively catching fish. Inflatable cans are good for their versatility, but lose in stability of shape.
The weight of the product is a critical parameter: too heavy a lining can shift the center of gravity of a small vessel, which is especially dangerous in windy weather.Instructions for self-manufacturing
For the self-driving, making a lining is a great project, saving your budget and getting something that fits your boat's geometry perfectly, and it doesn't require complex equipment, but it needs care.
First, you need to take the dimensions off the can. Length, width and thickness are the basic parameters. If you're making a plywood patch from scratch, you'll need to cut the base with an electro-cloth. Be sure to treat the edges with sandpaper to remove the burrs. Then cover the plywood with a few layers of yacht varnish or paste it with self-adhesive film.
The next step is to make a soft layer. Use a furniture foam at least 30 kg/m3. Cut the piece by the size of the base and glue it with contact glue. Upholstery is best suited to Oxford fabric or a durable jean. sew a case on a typewriter, including a valve or zipper for ease of removal.
The Secret to Long-Term Upholstery
Use a double seam and reinforced threads. The inside of the case can be laid with a layer of syntepon so that the foam does not wear on the fabric during operation.
The final step is to install the mounting system, sew the Velcro backs to the cover, and the main ones stick plywood to the ends, let the glue dry completely before use, and now your chair is ready to be put into the boat.
Seat maintenance and maintenance
Even the best quality materials require maintenance, especially in aggressive aquatic environments. After every fishing, especially if it is in salt water, the linings must be rinsed with fresh water. The salt crystallizes when drying and can destroy the structure of tissue and thread.
Drying is a must. Even if the materials are "quick-drying," it's best to let them dry completely before being packaged in a germ or a hazelnut. The humid environment is the perfect place to develop mold and fungus, which not only smell bad, but also destroy the organic components of upholstery and foam.
Periodically check the condition of fasteners. Velcro straps tend to clog with sand and pile, losing traction. They can be cleaned with a hard brush. Fastexes and buckles should be examined for cracks caused by ultraviolet or ome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you use conventional car mats as pads?
Car mats can be used, but with caution. Rubber can be too heavy and slippery. In addition, the chemical composition of rubber can react with PVC boats, it is better to use them as a temporary solution or to lay additional fabric between the mat and the can.
What is the optimal thickness of the foam for a comfortable seat?
The optimal thickness is in the range of 30-50 mm. The smaller thickness will not give a tangible effect, and a larger one can make the landing unstable, especially for people with high weight. For fishing with active paddle work, it is better to choose thinner and tougher options.
How do you put the velcros on the plywood so they don't fall off?
It is best to use special contact adhesives for PVC and fabrics (for example, 88th glue or specialized compounds for boats). Conventional PVA or stationery glue will not withstand loads and moisture. It is advisable to degrease the surface of the plywood before gluing.
Will the boat impact the loading capacity?
The lining itself weighs a little (from 0.5 to 1.5 kg), which is irrelevant for the carrying capacity. However, if the lining completely covers the inflatable jar, it can slightly reduce its buoyancy due to weight, but this is compensated by comfort, the main thing is that the lining does not overlap the pump valves.
A properly selected and installed lining turns a hard can into a comfortable chair, prolonging the pleasure of fishing and maintaining the health of the back.