Boat Cover Buying Tips

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Knowing that there’s more to a good cover than color-coordinated fabric, we called the pros at Commercial Sewing in Torrington, Connecticut, to develop this list of things that mark a quality cover, regardless of brand.

1. Tight Is Right
“A custom fit allows the cover to perform better over time,” Commercial Sewing’s Greg Perosino says. “If you’re using tie-down straps, snaps or a roped hem to keep the cover on the boat, it’s never going to fit well enough to repel water.”  The company’s ratchet system tightens the cover like a skin.

2. To Dye For
Virtually every cover seems color-matched to its boat. When purchasing a cover, demand that it be made from solution-dyed polyester filament into which the color is forced. The color of solution-dyed “fabric” covers may leach and stain upholstery and gelcoat. Specifics can vary within a fabric maker’s lineup, so asking by brand alone isn’t sufficient.

3. Thank You for Your Support
Where the cover contacts hard edges such as a windshield frame, it should be reinforced on the underside. Look for either plastic or white feltlike batting. This material can also keep dye from leaching onto an aluminum windshield frame.