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Who Makes The Best Custom Boat Covers

A Buying Guide For Boat Covers

What Makes a Good Boat Cover?

Buying boat covers doesnt have to be a complicated process. In fact, its quite easy. All youre looking for is a waterproof boat cover with a tight fit, that can comfortably cover your boat without causing any damage. If it fits your boat and your budget, then youre onto a winner. However, if you want to make sure you get the best boat cover for your needs, heres all you need to know!

Primeshield Heavy Duty Waterproof Boat Cover

The PrimeShield Heavy Duty Waterproof Boat Cover

To conclude our boat cover reviews, we have this stunning one from PrimeShield. Its constructed out of 300D polyester fabric, which is coupled with a PU coating. The result is something genuinely weather resistant as its waterproof, UV resistant, and stands up against hail and snow too. It even holds its own during freezing temperatures as theyve manufactured it to be cold-resistant and deal with temperatures as low as -68F.

So, a lot of effort has been put into making this one of the most protective boat covers around. This is further enforced by the sheer quality of workmanship thats gone into manufacturing it. There are double-stitched interlock seems that make the cover firmer than usual. It gets given a durability boost and is prevented from falling out of shape, which only aids in the way it fits. Theres a buckle and strap system thats highly convenient and makes strapping down the cover a completely stressless task. Plus, the elastic hem lets you adjust the fit to your boat, so it provides a custom fit.

It looks beautiful, and you can use this cover on so many different boat styles. Theyve got multiple sizes available, going all the way from 14 to 22 long and 68 to 106 wide. As such, theres definitely going to be an option for you.

Pyle Armor Shield Pontoon Boat Cover

One of the nice things about the Pyle Cover is that it comes in a variety of sizes to fit your boat, but remember that I usually recommend getting one that says it fits a boat a little longer than your boat actually is.

Putting the cover on seems to be a bit slower than with the other covers in this list, but I would say this cover gives the most custom fit look to the cover when on the boat since everything fits a bit more snug.

Another benefit of this pontoon boat cover is that it has an extra flap at the back for the engine.

But again, the plague of this cover is complaints of ripped seams.

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Make Sure Questions For The Best Custom Boat Cover

1. What kind of thread will they be using?

2. How will they reinforce the custom boat cover where the snaps are located?

3. Do they reinforce wear points? If so, which ones?

4. How long is their craftsmanship warranty? How long is the warranty on the fabric?

5. Will they bed the snaps going into the boat? If so, how?

6. Will they use marine binding on the edges of the custom boat cover? If so, what kind?

7. How do they finish and reinforce cutouts in their covers? An example would be where the bimini top legs are located.

8. What brand, size, and type of zipper sliders do they use in any marine zippers that are being installed in the cover?

9. Will they fix or replace any of the snaps in your boat?

10. Can you see any of their previous custom made boat covers and speak to their customers?

11. Do they vent their covers?

12. How will they attach travel covers to the trailer?

13. What types of clear vinyl do they recommend?

14. Will they clean up after themselves?

Best Boat Covers: Reviews And Buying Guide For 2020

Boat Covers

There are plenty of optional accessories you can pick out to protect your boat, but a boat cover isnt one of them. From freezing temperatures to hot and humid days, your boat goes through a lot, but a cover can protect your investment from poor weather conditions. In fact, finding the right cover can mean adding years onto the lifespan of your boat.

Unfortunately, sifting through the infinite number of options is far from easy. Theres a lot to consider, but weve done our best to make the buying process easier by reviewing the best boat covers for you.

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Best Boat Cover #: Brightent Boat Cover

When you want your boat to be protected but dont have a lot of cash to spend, theres no need to get something cheap and flimsy. The Brightent Boat Cover is a quality made cover that wont cost an arm and a leg, so you can feel secure knowing that your boat is being protected.

The Brightent Boat Cover is made from 600D woven polyester with a PU coating and its marine grade which makes it waterproof. Although not as tough or heavy duty in feeling as compared to some of the other boat covers on the market, it will get the job done and keep your boat safe and dry when you need it most.

The best thing about the Brightent Boat Cover is that it comes with a few extra features you won’t find anywhere else, including the storage bag and an 18-meter belt which you can use for an extra tight cover of your boat. When you consider how little this boat cover costs, youll be surprised at all of the extra they were able to include.

This boat has an elastic hem bottom that will keep it secure and dry for travel, storage or mooring, and there are three different sizes you can choose from. Theres no lengthy warranty offered on the Brightent Boat Cover so it would be best suited as a temporary fix for someone looking to upgrade for a long-term investment in a boat cover, as it will certainly keep your boat protected but wont last for many years as other brands can.

Brightent Boat Covers Bc1 Covering

This excellent Brightent boat cover is manufactured from a strong 600D woven polyester with a tough polyurethane coating, designed specifically for marine grade applications. Its waterproof, water repellent, UV-resistant, and tear-resistant, which will keep your boat protected from everything that Mother Nature can throw at it.

Its available in three sizes: for boats 14-16 long, with a beam width of up to 90, for boats 17-19 with beam widths up to 95, and for boats with lengths between 20 and 22 with a beam width of up to 100.

What makes this boat cover from Brightent really stand out is the fact that it features so many straps and tie downs as standard. It comes complete with an elastic hem for a secure fit like many other covers, but it also features 9 securing straps: 4 upper belts, 4 lower belts, and a very useful 18-meter long strap for extra security. It also features a small storage bag. These are nice extras for such a budget product.

Its a budget cover, so dont expect a seriously long lifespan. However, if you take care of it and dont have ridiculously high expectations, this cover could last you a good few years. Thats a pretty good return on your investment. Its affordable and will do the jobbut it may not last forever.

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Msc Heavy Duty 600d Marine Grade Polyester Canvas Trailerable Waterproof Boat Cover

The MSC Heavy Duty 600D Marine Grade Polyester Canvas Trailerable Waterproof Boat Cover

As the name suggests, this is a very durable boat cover thats made to resist some of the harshest conditions imaginable. Its been specifically designed for long-term storage, mooring, or highway travel. As such, its made out of marine-grade polyester, which is incredibly sturdy and water resistant. Not only that, but this material has the benefit of not stretching or shrinking as you use it which can be a problem with some lower-quality custom boat covers. The beauty of this is that, when you choose the size, you can continue using it for years on end.

Speaking of which, 6 different models offer various sizes for you to choose from. As a result, you can find a model that will fit pretty much any boat out there. All you have to do is measure the beam width and the bow to stern length, then find a model that fits your measurements. The straps that come with the cover are adjustable, which helps you get an even better fit for your boat, allowing you to keep the cover tightly drawn over it. This is complemented with quick-release buckles that are so easy for you to use, meaning the keep these straps clamped down firmly in place. Then, when you want to use the boat, you just flick open the buckles, and the straps are released!

Custom Covers For The Best Fit

The BEST Boat Travel Cover money can buy – made by Brisbane Yamaha

A custom cover made just for the year, make and model of your boat, and designed to cover its individual accessories, will fit like a custom-tailored suit. It costs the most, but is the easiest to put on and remove, is the best for trailering and will last the longest. There are thousands of patterns available: for example, a cover is available for a 1996 Bayliner 1850 Capri SS with a transom-mounted swim platform and 6″ to 18″ bow rails.

If you own a one-of-a-kind boat or your boat has a lot of unusual options, you may need to have direct measurements taken by a custom canvas shop. They can build to your specifics, but this kind of cover will be the most costly, and may take substantially longer to receive.

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Boat Cover Purchasing Questions

Do you make a cover for my boat?

A: Our extensive library of Exact Fit® custom boat covers includes high quality covers that are cut and patterned for more than 150 boat manufacturers. It also includes semi-custom Select Fit® covers for over 37 unique boat styles. To find out whether we have an Exact Fit® or semi-custom cover for your boat, take advantage of our easy-to-use cover finders. Simply look up the make/model/year of your boat, or shop by boat style and use our measurement guide to find the cover you need.

Which covers are trailerable?

A: All Westland boat covers are sewn and reinforced to be trailerable with straps, with the exception of our drift, inflatables, and pontoon covers. The straps include a locking buckle mechanism that effectively ties down your boat cover for safety and reliability while youre on the road. Straps are included on all of our Exact Fit® covers and are available for purchase with Select Fit covers as well.

How do I measure for the right cover?

A: Measuring your boat for the right Westland cover is easy! Start with a straight-line measurement down the center of your boat, from bow to stern. Then, measure the beam width, or the widest point of your boat. Once you have your measurements, use our measurement guide to find the right cover for your boat. For runabout boats we take the drive type into consideration..

Does Westland make snap covers?

Why do I need a boat cover?

What fabric choices are available?

How Important Is A Boat Cover

Its a common misconception that you dont need a boat coverespecially if youre storing your boat under a carport or in a garage. While storing your boat under a carport or indoors is better than exposing it to the elements, you shouldnt count out buying a cover quite yet.

Unless your garage is also climate-controlled and sparkling clean, cold air, dirt, and dust can still come in contact with your boat. Over time, you might still find mold or other signs of age if you leave the boat uncovered. For this reason, most boaters opt to purchase a cover and avoid dealing with costly damage down the line.

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Select Fit Boat Covers

Westland is committed to providing high quality custom boat covers that fits every budget. Sharkskin & Sunbrella fabrics are all crafted available with the Select Fit name. Westland uses a rope instead of the stretch cord method, so you will rest assured that every boat cover you get from us will seal your boat up tight. Select Fit uses Westlands 40 years of experience to provide a quality products at a lower price.

Westland Has A History In The Industry

Absolutely Custom Boat Covers

One of the oldest boat cover manufacturers, Westland has been making boat covers for over 40 years. They hand sew each of their covers, with special attention to detail.

Craftsmanship

Besides being hand sewn, Westland reinforces hems and wear points.

Fabrics

Westland offers boat covers in 20 colors of Sunbrella fabric and 10 colors of Sharkskin.

Breathability

Vents in each cover provide breathability to prevent mildew and mold.

Fits

Westland offers two fits for customers:

  • Exact-fit covers fit tightly around the boat, and theyre custom crafted for your boats specific make, model, and year. This fit is similar to Carvers custom-fit option. Its recommended for transporting as well as docking and storing.
  • Select-fit covers provide a looser fit, but they still seal the boat securely. Youll probably want to use this option for docking and storing only.

Other Products

Westlands covers will accommodate almost any boat from inflatable dinghies to cruisers. They also make Bimini Tops, personal watercraft covers, specialty covers, and accessories.

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One Quick Tip For Buying A Pontoon Boat Cover

Dont be afraid to buy a cover thats a little bigger than you need.

The pontoon boat covers I recommend below all fit standard pontoon boats in their universal size. So dont worry if the cover says it fits up to a 24-foot boat and your boat is 19-foot to 21-foot, for example. A longer pontoon boat cover means it often covers the top of the outboard, and also the front of the deck as well.

So dont worry about getting one thats a little too big.

Best Overall: Msc Heavy Duty 600d Waterproof Boat Cover

  • Expensive

Taylor Made has been crafting boat covers for more than 110 years and has perfected the ability to build covers that are engineered to go on and off quickly, last for years, and protect your boat. They offer three marine-grade mildew-resistant polyester fabric options , and they serge stitch the seams during the construction process, using five threads that are never exposed to the damaging impacts of the sun. The hem around the bottom of the cover uses a two-needle stitching process with a 0.31-inch-diameter rope, so you can tighten the boat around the hull, a secure fit thats further assured thanks to two-inch webbing straps with quick-release buckles and optional tie-down straps. And they dont just work off your boats make and model they work with you to take your whole boating set-up into account so that youre guaranteed custom coverage.

Straps: Varies | Waterproof: Yes | Weight: Varies

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Classic Accessories Stellex Boat Cover

There are a lot of cover options out there. But not all of them are the best choice. Whether you’re looking at pontoon boat covers or a cover for a yacht, you have to feel good about the quality of the product.

Because of this, it is normal for you to have doubts when purchasing a product.

In this case, however, you don’t need to have those typical reservations.

For added durability, this cover is made of polyester Stellex fabric. This material prevents the top from tearing down or getting frayed. This means you will not have to worry about replacing it anytime soon.

This material also keeps it protected in all types of weather. Whether it is snowing outside or raining, no moisture will penetrate the layer and reach your boat.

This product is one of the best boat covers for hauling your boat on a trailer. The cover includes trailer straps which make it easy to secure the cover on long road trips. Along with that, it also includes a storage bag for protection of the top.

This product makes it so that you don’t have to worry about whether it will fit your boat. The cover comes with integrated buckles and a convenient strap system to hold the cover in place.

To ensure a tighter fit, this top comes with elastic hemming. The cord makes sure the cover is wrapped as tightly as possible around the vessel. The fabric choices of the manufacturer are important for boat covers, and this one does not disappoint.

As a result, it will not flap during stormy or windy weather.

Pros

Pros

Uv & Water Resistant Fabric

Custom Boat Cover – Full Installation – Taylor Made Products

Sharkskin®& Sunbrella® are UV resistant, water resistant, and maintain structural integrity in high temperatures.

Fend off harsh marine elements, wear and tear during transportation, and the suns rays with quality fabric. As always, Weve Gotcha Covered.

Westlands boat covers are proudly handsewn with Sharkskin® and Sunbrella® marine fabrics. Make sure you select your boat, make and model in our Cover Wizard to ensure you will get that tight fit in an instant.

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Family Owned & Operated

Tumacs Covers has been family owned and operated since its founding in 1958 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Over the years we’ve expanded our operations, opening two additional locations within the United States. We are proud to call our products American made and continue to make our customers our number one priority.

Inside The Hem Whats Holding Your Cheap Cover On

Bungee or Shock Cord Most often found on the universal boat covers and sometimes the semi-custom fit.

Shock cords pull down and tension into place with minimal effort, but they stretch over time and may need to be tightened.

They can make it difficult to find the front of the cover and they don’t secure the cover to the boat as tightly as rope.

Windstorm Boat Cover uses Alpine shock cord, which they claim loses strength slower than some other shock cords.

Rope is a great way to secure a boat cover to the boat.

You wont always know what type of rope youre getting. You will most likely be getting nylon or polypropylene which may need replacing at some point. Polyester is the best rope for your cheap boat cover.

Our favorite is Neobraid. This braid will take years of sun and abuse without giving up. It will not kink, twist, or fray, and it also resists mold, oil, and stains. For your average boat application, use either a #6 = 3/16 or a #8 = 1/4.

If your rope disintegrates, buy a 50 fish tape from Amazon and feed it into the hem. Tie the new rope on and fish it through. This is a great way to fix your rope.

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