Function:

A fender is a protective, cushioning and/or shielding device placed between a boat and another object (dock, boat, etc.) to prevent damage. Soft foam or an inflated bladder absorb shock preventing (or minimizing) damage to the boat and the object it is impacting.

Effective Fendering:

Techniques for effective fendering vary according to application and preference.

For docking, it is important to select fenders sufficiently large (see Fender Selection below) to protect your boat. Generally you will require a minimum of three fenders when docking, one at maximum beam, a second roughly midway to the bow and a third roughly midway to the stern. Secure fenders to something solid and preferably low (i.e. a deck cleat or stanchion base is better than a stanchion top or lifeline) and adjust them to hang so that the bottoms barely skim the water surface.

For rafting, place three fenders close to maximum beam (or other primary point of contact) then position two buoys fore and aft for additional protection in the event of wave/wake action. When rafting, it is advisable to secure fenders to the boat already moored or anchored. As with docking, fender bottoms should hang just above the waterline unless hull(s) are wider elsewhere.

Note: For mooring beside a wharf with pilings, it may be necessary to use a "fender board" to span the distance between pilings.

Fender Selection:

We only sell fenders and buoys with superior ratings for durability and softness, so the main decision you have to make is size and number. If uncertain about sizing, we recommend you use larger fenders since they will offer added protection for your boat.

In sizing fenders, you are primarily concerned with the diameter of the cylinder (cylindrical fenders) or the diameter of the sphere (spherical fenders/buoys) because this is the distance between your boat and another object. To help you select the right fender for the right purpose, use the following guideline: