Flat Inflatable Boat Fenders – EVA Foam Pads 25x50 cm and 33x66 cm

These flat EVA protectors are specifically designed for inflatable boats and RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats), providing reliable cushioning for your tubes during docking. They are made from light-grey closed-cell EVA foam, which is both lightweight and extremely durable. The material won’t absorb water, so it remains buoyant and effective even after prolonged use. EVA foam retains its shock-absorbing elasticity across a wide temperature range, and the light grey color matches typical inflatable tube colors while leaving no marks on them.

A key feature of these fender pads is their pre-curved shape. Each pad is manufactured with a built-in curvature (approximately a 350 mm radius) to match the round profile of a boat’s inflatable tube (common for RIB tubes up to 12 m). This means the flat fender sits flush against the tube’s surface without sticking out or sliding off. When placed over the side tube, the protector “hugs” a portion of its curve, ensuring it stays put – crucial for remaining in position during docking or alongside maneuvers.

Two panel sizes are available to cover different needs:

• 25 x 50 cm (2 cm thick): The smaller protector is compact and ultra-light, suited for smaller inflatables, tenders, and dinghies up to about 5–6 m. It safeguards vulnerable spots when coming alongside (for example, when transferring people or cargo from a dinghy to a dock). It can also be used as a protective pad between your tender and a mothership yacht when the tender is secured alongside. When not needed, it stows away easily in a small locker or gear bag.
• 33 x 66 cm (2 cm thick): The larger pad is meant for more robust protection, covering a greater area. It’s ideal for big RIBs and professional inflatable craft up to ~10–12 m. This size allows you to protect a maximum portion of the tube when pressed against rough concrete pilings or docks. The large protector is still flexible enough to conform along the full width of the tube, giving you peace of mind when docking heavier boats.

To use, simply position the pad at the desired location along your boat’s tube before contact with a hard surface. Typically, you’d place them where the tube will meet the dock – for example, at the beam’s widest point or wherever the boat tends to touch first. They can be further secured by tying a line or strap through any grab handles or D-rings on your inflatable (if available), or you can just sandwich them between the boat and dock – the slight friction will help keep them in place thanks to their large contact area and curved fit.

Applications and recommendations:

• Deploy these flat pads when docking a RIB or inflatable boat against unprotected docks, concrete walls, or ship hulls – they will greatly reduce the chance of chafing or punctures by absorbing the abrasion and impact instead of your tubes.
• For longer boats, use multiple pads along the length of the tube (e.g., two or three spaced out). This way you cover the entire contact zone and protect the full side of your boat.
• The light-grey EVA material is gentle on tube surfaces (whether Hypalon or PVC) – it won’t stick, discolor, or leave oily residue on your tubes, even under heavy pressure or in hot sun.
• When rafting two inflatable boats together side by side, place these pads between them. The flat shape will remain steady and prevent direct tube-to-tube contact, which can cause rubbing and wear.
• After use, a quick rinse with fresh water will remove any sand or salt. Store the pads flat or along their slight curve – for example, propped against a bulkhead or in a dry locker. Their slim profile makes it easy to find space for them even on a small boat.