The inflatable boat is not a viable option without properly-organized equipment storage. The PVC bow bag is not just an accessory, but a critical element that ensures order and safety on the water. A properly-chosen seal box or soft bag allows you to unload the cockpit, freeing up space for fishing or rest, and reliably protect things from splash and rain.
Many owners of budget models face the problem of lack of standard fasteners, but modern solutions allow you to fasten the bag on almost any design. sealed-container And you can use waterproof bags, because it's important to keep your documents and electronics safe, and it depends on whether you plan to store your sleeping bag, your spare clothes, your tools.
In this article, we will discuss in detail all the nuances of choice, materials of manufacture and methods of reliable fixation of the trunk in the nose. You will learn how to avoid common errors during installation and why inflatable tubes require the use of special soft fastenersSo you don't have to damage the PVC fabric when you friction, and the proper organization of the space will make your boat a comfortable boat.
The main types of bags for the nose
The market for water-motor accessories offers many options, which are divided by type of design and method of installation. cock-bagIt's made of reinforced PVC or Oxford, and it's straped around the sides, and it's designed to be water-resistant and easy to transport.
The second type is tough. plastic-boxesThey provide 100% protection even when fully submerged, but they require a flat floor or a special podium, because the hard corners can damage the fabric of the boat when rubbed against the cylinders, and are more commonly used in the nose of boats with a hard transom and an inflatable keel.
The third option is combined solutions, where the frame is strengthened, but the outer part is soft. Tubus bags Often choose to store long objects, such as rods or antennas, for fishing, preferably a model with many pockets and the ability to fit on a shelf-seat (bench).
When choosing, you should pay attention to the quality of the accessories. Cheap lightning and plastic locks can quickly become unusable under the influence of salt water and ultraviolet light. Metallic elements Anti-corrosion coatings will last much longer, although they are more expensive.
Materials of manufacture and their specifications
The durability of an accessory depends on the material it is made of. Oxford (Oxford) It's lightweight, it's strong, it's very shape-shifting, and it's typically about 600 to 1,000 den, which is comparable to the density of the boat cylinders themselves.
The more budget-friendly option is PVC-coated polyester. It's also high-end. water-repellentIt's a very important parameter for the nose bag, because it's in constant contact with the floorboards and the sides.
The seams must be glued or boiled, otherwise water will seep through the needle holes. high-frequencyThis is a very monolithic, completely sealed seam, and it's critical for dry clothing and sleeping bags.
- 🌊 Oxford 1000D Maximum strength, suitable for extreme conditions.
- 🛡️ PVC - Full water resistance, easy to wash, but heavier.
- 🎒 Imbusted Nylon Light weight, but requires additional waterproofing of seams.
⚠️ Warning: Even if the bag is made of waterproof material, lightning can pass water under pressure. Use internal sealants for valuables.
Forward attachment methods
Putting a bag in the nose of a PVC boat requires careful attention so as not to disturb the balance and damage the cylinders. strap-holdingThe belts are thrown over the sides and fixed with fastexes or buckles under the bottom or on the inside of the side, and it is important that the belts do not rub against sharp corners of the floorboard.
For boats with inflatable floor (BBB) often use the system carbine-stripThese are the ones that cling to the transport handles or special rings, if they are designed, and in some models, the bag is simply inserted into the bow compartment between the cylinders, resting on the transom bulkhead, which ensures that it remains still without additional attachments.
If you are planning to carry heavy loads, it is recommended to use fixationThis can be Velcro straps sewn to the bottom of the bag and to the floor of the boat, or special laces that pass through the pits, the main rule is that the bag should not be displaced when rolling or hitting a wave.
☑️ Pre-installing check
An improperly secured bag can cause a shift in the center of gravity, which is dangerous on water. Make sure the load is evenly distributed and does not outweigh one side. Also check if the bag does not block access to the pump valves of cylinders.
Tightness and protection of contents
The issue of tightness is particularly acute for those who walk on a boat in the rain or on the wave. Conventional waterproof fabric can withstand only short-term exposure to moisture. seal-clasp (roll-top), where the neck twists several times and snaps. This is standard for dry bags, but in cocoon bags, lightning is more common.
To improve reliability, many models are equipped with internal valves. Even if external lightning lets water through, the internal valve will delay it. germ-boxes They have a rubber seal around the perimeter of the lid, and they can withstand full immersion.
It is important to regularly check the condition of the seals and lubricate the lightning with a special silicone lubricant. Dry lightning can disperse at the most inopportune moment or start to leak water. Silicone lubricant It preserves the elasticity of the teeth and protects them from corrosion.
| Type of protection | Resistance to water | Immersion resistance | Recommended application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof fabric | High (rain, splash) | No. | Clothing, tools, products |
| Lightning with valve | Medium (rainfall, wave) | Short-term | Change of shoes, personal items |
| Coil fastener (curl) | Very high. | Yes (up to 1-2m) | Sleeping bags, dry clothes |
| Hard germbox. | Absolute. | Yes (full) | Documents, electronics, money. |
⚠️ Warning: After each trip, be sure to dry the bag. The humid environment inside the closed volume provokes mold, which destroys the fabric and creates an unpleasant smell.
Space Organization and Ergonomics
The proper arrangement of things in the nose bag affects the ease of use of the boat. Heavy objects such as anchor, chains or spare batteries should be placed. lower This reduces the center of gravity of the boat, making it more stable on the water.
Lightweight and bulky things, like a tent or inflatable pillows, are best stacked on top. If the bag has outer pockets, use them for items that should always be at hand: sunscreen, navigator, spare hooks, which will eliminate the need to open the main compartment every time.
For anglers, it is important to install the bag so that it does not interfere with the throwing of tackles. Low profile modelsThese are the ones that are attached directly to the balloon, which take up the minimum space in the cockpit, and there are also models that are attached to the seat (bench), completely freeing the floor.
How to increase the life of the bag?
To prolong the life of the accessory, avoid contact with gasoline and oil, which can dissolve the PVC coating. It is also not recommended to leave the bag with the cargo in the boat in the sun unnecessarily - ultraviolet light and heating weaken the threads and glue seams. After the season, store the bag in a straightened form in a dry room.
Comparison of popular models and brands
There are many manufacturers on the market, from Chinese OEMs to well-known brands, leading the way in the field of outdoor products. Stinger, hunter and FlagshipTheir products are distinguished by high-quality cut and adapted to Russian realities.
Budget counterparts often sin the quality of the fittings, plastic buckles can burst in the cold, and lightning - catch after the first contact with sand. A quality bag It is not a season with proper care.
The choice also includes compatibility with your boat model. Universal bags are suitable for most, but for boats of a specific shape (for example, with a heavily upturned nose), it is better to look for specialized solutions. Sometimes it makes sense to order tailoring bags to individual sizes from craftsmen.
Use reflective elements or bright colors for the bag. In the event of loss or falling overboard (if it unfastens), a bright bag is easier to spot on the water or find in the dark on the shore.
Accessories care and maintenance
For the PVC boat's nose bag to last, it needs to be properly cared for. After each trip, especially on salt water, the product must be rinsed with fresh water. The salt crystallizes and can damage the fabric and metal components of the fittings. Wash the bag with a soft sponge using neutral detergents.
Drying should take place in natural conditions, away from direct sunlight and heating devices. Over-drying Make the material brittle, and the heat can deform the bag, so make sure that the product is completely dry before packaging, otherwise the appearance of fungus is inevitable.
Regularly check the integrity of the seams and fasteners. If you notice a discrepancy of threads, immediately sew them with a kapron thread. Small punctures can be sealed with a PVC remix for boats. Timely minor repairs will prevent a major breakage at the most inopportune time.
Proper care of the bag includes: fresh water rinse, drying in the shade, zipper lubrication and checking the seams. This extends the life of 2-3 times.
Can I wash my bag in the washing machine?
Aggressive mechanical pressure on the drum and high temperatures can damage the water-repellent coating, deform the frame (if any) and damage the tightness of the seams. Only hand washing.
What is the maximum load the bag can withstand?
Usually soft cocoon bags are designed for 15-25 kg. Exceeding this weight can lead to deformation of the mounts and separation of the belts. Hard sealed boxes withstand more, but they can not be placed on a soft bottom without support.
Will a bag in your nose replace a full-fledged zip?
No, it's different. The bag in the nose is temporary or extra storage. The runduk is usually rigid, fixed, and serves as a seat. The bag is more versatile and mobile.
What to do if the bag starts to leak water?
Find the leak. If it's a seam, put it on a PVC tape. If it's lightning, replace the runner or use a water-repellent spray. For critical things, always use an internal sealant.