GL: Fenders and Fender Boards

[writerfred at aol.com]

Having?made 428 lockages on the inland rivers over the last 20 years and under about every imaginable condition doesn't make me an expert. But?in all this discussion, I feel compelled to mention Aere fenders (praktek.com), a truly outstanding product.

They are unbelievably quick and easy to inflate and deflate and go pancake flat for storage. They are available in a wide range of long-short-fat-thin sizes, shapes?and colors and can be rigged horizontally as well as vertically. The Admiral loves them because of their exceptionally light weight, a point she enthusiastically shares with other First Mates.

Most important, they are?profoundly tough. Short of the likes of a protruding spike nail, I can't think of a situation these fenders can't handle. And they are so?much easier to clean than?the usual vinyl fenders that?it's almost a non-issue.?

We have used four Aere fenders on our 34-foot coastal cruiser for eight years, including two 18X36-inch ones used for?nearly 200?lockages, some of which have been?agonizingly brutal. So?well do these fenders?resist abrasion and dirt?that?you can hardly tell them from new.

You should seriously consider these before?deciding anything?concerning fender boards, ball fenders and fender covers. My experiences have proved to me that except in very rare situations, what is possible with Aere fenders makes all three obsolete and?greatly simplifies fendering in general.

You will pay significantly more for them. But to me,?that's a moot point?when?I consider the value of what they are protecting.

I have no connection with this company. I do, however,?believe?in promoting?any product?meeting or exceeding expectations.?After all, that helps keep the good guys in business.

Fred Myers