Protecting their Jet ski or PWC is one of the owner’s most important tasks. You spent money to keep the ship’s hull in perfect condition. In this post, we’ll go through the specifics of jet ski bumpers so you can enjoy the thrills of personal watercraft without worrying about damaging your jet ski when docking or taking off.
Jet Ski Bumpers
Jet ski bumpers, also known as fenders, are a standard jet skis component and protect the hull from docks, pilings, and other vessels. The jet ski needs a bumper to prevent damage to the vehicle and other nearby watercraft.
Difference Between Bumpers and Fenders
Bumpers and fenders are both helpful in protecting personal watercraft. Boat bumpers are fixed to docks, and fenders hang from the vessel. You can replace the word “bumper” with “fender” and vice versa. Bumper fenders are another term for these parts. Fenders or bumpers, whatever you prefer, are essential for the safety of your watercraft.
Materials of Jet Ski Bumpers
Due to their design, bumpers can absorb impact and prevent damage. Rubber, foam, vinyl, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can all serve as the bumper’s protective outer covering. Some materials may be more suited to your project than others. If you drop something on a soft surface, that smooth surface will bend and absorb all the stress. As a result, they can keep the boat safe from harm, whether from a collision or from being tied up improperly. Below, we’ve outlined the benefits and drawbacks of each option.
- PVC: Designed to stand up to any weather, PVC is also made to withstand sea salt, UV radiation, and ice.
- Vinyl: is resistant to humidity and moisture extremes. Unlikely to fade with time and should last for a very long time.
- Foam: is one of the more affordable dock bumper options, but it is also one of the least durable. Protecting your boat and dock is a success, but it may chip or fade with time.
- Rubber: Recycled rubber tires are low-friction, UV resistant, affordable, and can absorb high impacts. However, if your boat is made of fiberglass, tread carefully, as rubber can scratch the hull.
Types of Jet Ski Bumpers
Jet ski bumpers and fenders have a slightly distinct aesthetic but serve the same purpose. Jet ski bumpers typically fall into one of these categories:
Hull Hunger Jet ski Bumpers:
Because it is hinged and has a hook that slides under the rub rail, the Hull Hugger can be bent and shaped to fit different boats. A strap at the top fastens to a cleat or the ski eye. Also, you can set up the storage area to secure itself when the belt is fastened.
Hook Jet ski bumpers:
The jet ski bumpers designed by hook resemble a hook. The base tucks under the jet ski’s rub rail. You can place it firmly in place with the help of a suction cup and a line.
Areas that are hinged and can bend to the ski’s contour. Most jet ski bumpers with a hook also include an air pressure regulator on the fender’s inflation valve. It is a huge plus that you can inflate it. You can easily extend it again. You cannot repair non-inflatable ones, so you’ll have to buy a new one when they go flat.
Classic Bumpers:
The Classic Bumper follows the standard, long cylindrical form used on boats of all sizes. You can use the marine rope for attachment rather than suction cups. They come in various sizes and are a decent option for protecting the bottom of your jet ski.
Custom Bumpers:
The Sea-Doo Spark comes with a fender explicitly designed for it. You can easily install bumpers on the Spark because it has holes in the rub rail for them to fit into it.
Jet Ski Bumpers:
Here are the top jet ski bumpers, along with a discussion of their pros and cons.
1. Hull Hugr PWC Fender
Product Description
The Hull Hugr PWC Fender is to fit on jet skis and consists of two foam squares hinged together in the middle. This hinge gives the ski flexibility and shields it from the dock and other boats.
Under the rub rail, there is a molded acetyl hook for attachment. A strap and a vinyl hook attach the top to a ski eye. You can use the strap under the seat cover to keep things in place.
Product Specification
- It is designed to shield personal watercraft from larger vessels’ docks; this unique hinge is in the exact center.
- The hooks under the rub rail with a molded acetyl hook are integrated into the back of the bumper.
- Use the vinyl-coated steel hook and adjustable strap to attach the bumper’s top to a cleat or ski eye.
- Store the bumper within the PWC’s storage area.
- For best results, use two bumpers.
Pros
- The design of the strap is good.
- Vinyl coating on hooks is healthy and long-lasting.
- Works well as advertised.
- It is an inexpensive kit set.
Cons
- Straps often come unhooked and are usually smaller in size.
- It is a little complex in installation.
2. Sea-Doo Spark Snap-in Fenders
Product Description
These Snap-In Fenders are quick and straightforward to install and remove. They were made just for the Sea-Doo Spark. You can securely attach it to your Jet ski using the front and rear pre-molded holes (the Spark is designed with holes already there to snap these into). They are sold in pairs and work exclusively with Spark.
Product Specification
- Weight: 0.01 ounces
- Size: 12 by ten by 12 inches
- Protect your investment from dock damage with these bumpers, snap-in fenders made particularly for Sea-Doo watercraft.
- Easy to install and remove
- Available for both the front and back of SPARK models. (Pairs only)
- For vehicles other than the SPARK, you’ll need the Snap-in Fenders Installation
Pros
- Bumpers are friendly and work if installed correctly.
- It already has holes and requires no modifications.
- Easy to use and great for keeping your jet ski from damage downside
Cons
- Plastic Pins that hold them tend to break after six months of use.
- It is costly.
3. PWC Contour Bumper with Hook & Strap Set
Product Description
Maximize the safety of your watercraft with this Bumper kit. This contour fender has a hinged design that makes it an ideal fit for the hulls and sides of PWCs. The hook and strap system guarantees a safe and stable installation. Since they are made of closed-cell foam, these bumpers won’t lose shape. Typically, a PWC fender will have a molded acetyl hook at the rear for easy attachment to the boat. It fastens the fender to the underside of the rub rail. Depending on your PWC, you can use the vinyl-dipped hook, and adjustable strap included to tie the top of the fender to a cleat or ski eye. You can also use the strap and attached rubber block to secure it within the PWC storage compartment. Fenders, straps, and hooks are all included. (Note that each PWC needs two fenders for maximum safety.)
Product Specification
- The brand name is Extreme Max.
- Two pounds is the item’s stated weight.
- All-around PWC defense
- It includes a pair of fenders with straps, hooks, and blocks
- Item dimensions are 12 by 6.5 by 5.12 inches
- Two-year replacement guarantee
Pros
- Works great
- Very easy to install
- Bumpers are of excellent quality
- Unaffected by direct sunlight or tears
Cons
- Ropes are not suitable to tie.
- Counterweight blocks at the end of ropes are smelly and of useless plastic.
4. 1066 Personal Watercraft Bumper
Product Description
Use these PWC fenders, and never worry about the sides of your boat again. You are fabricated from marine-grade vinyl, resistant to seawater and UV rays, among other harsh environmental factors. Not a unique fit; the degree of snugness will vary depending on the specifics of your watercraft’s make, model, and year.
Our watercraft (PWC) fenders are to flex and take on the contours of your watercraft. Taylor Made fenders have a ‘hinge’ movement at the bottom, allowing them to attach to the bond flange easily. You can use a regular air pump to inflate and change the pressure of the PWC fender thanks to its rubber football needle valve. The suction cup and securing line comes with a Taylor Made boat fender. Our fenders are for low-speed docking and are unsuitable for high-velocity operations. The Lippert Group, of which Taylor Made is a part, is a significant player in the RV, marine, automobile, commercial vehicle, and building materials markets worldwide.
Product Specification
- The model Number of the bumper is 1066
- Weight: 1.2 pounds
- Nine by nine by 3.5 inches Dimensions
- The fender bottom is shaped to “hook” under the bond flange for quick attachment.
- Flex areas on the fender provide a “hinge” action that allows the fender to conform to the shape of the watercraft.
- Inflation valve for air pressure
- Not a custom-fit fender. It will provide different fits depending on the watercraft’s year, make, and model.
- Only use at low speeds when docking; high rates are not recommended.
Pros
- Fine for quick tie-ups
- Made of good Quality Rubber
Cons
- The performance of the Crappy suction cup is not good. It does not stay attached to anything.
- Plastic Inner ropes can damage gunnels.
- Fenders have hard, sharp edges that seem that will damage the machine.
- Does not Fit Yamaha Waverunner
- Suitable only for low-speed docking and not ideal for high-speed docking.
5. Airhead SB-4 Boat Fender
Product Description
The Airhead SB-4 Boat Fender has a long, flexible nylon exterior and a foam-like inside. It’s made specifically for usage on PWCs. Typical Type bumper design. Two huge suction cups at the top and bottom ensure a secure hold on the rub rail. It’s also possible to anchor a line under the seat cushion.
Product Specifications
- The model’s name is Airhead SB-4.
- The package includes two fenders, each measuring three by 18 inches
- Fenders attach to your PWC with two oversized suction cups
- Fenders have nylon covers
- Item weight is 0.1 gram
- Fenders are designed for use with PWC
Pros:
- Held great above and underwater on the standup jet ski.
- It is straightforward to use.
Cons:
- The suction cup does not stick
- Suitable for only temporary use.
6. Yamaha PWC Fender
Product Description
Although Yamaha manufactured this bumper, it is compatible with all significant jet ski manufacturers. You may attach it to your ski with the included four-foot rope. It is an excellent jet ski fender unless you have extreme brand loyalty.
These high-quality fenders will keep your Waverunner or boat safe when docked or moored next to another vessel. These bumpers have a rope length of four feet.
Product Specifications
- The set includes fenders, high-quality suction cups, and ropes.
- These high-quality fenders help to protect the Waverunner or Boat when secured to the dock or another boat. These fenders come equipped with four feet of rope.
7. Extreme Max 3006.7587 BoatTector Inflatable Fender
Product Description
Protect your boat without putting a dent in your wallet! BoatTector fenders offer superior protection for your docked ship, taking the beating of wind and waves, so your boat doesn’t have to. The sturdy PVC walls are designed with reinforced ribs and consistent wall thickness for durability and abrasion protection. Each fender has a needle valve to allow you to inflate or deflate the fender to the desired PSI and a molded eyelet to ensure fender longevity and strength.
Product Specifications
- It Comes with two 3/8″ x 5′ fender lines and two 4.5″ x 16″ BoatTector fenders.
- Each fender has a needle valve so you can adjust the pressure to your liking (needle valve pump sold separately)
- They have molded eyelets to prevent wear and tear
- They have a two-year limited warranty
- Their dimensions are 15.67 by 10.5 by 2.3 inches
- They weigh 2.3 pounds
- They have a limited pressure range of 0 to 100 psi.
Pros
- They look and feel great, put away till next summer with great color.
- Excellent price
- These bumpers are made well.
- The color is charming.
- Outstanding Customer Service
Cons
- Some parts have a short lifetime.
- Sometimes the size only fits on a jet ski.
How Many Jets Ski Bumpers Do I Need?
In most cases, two jet ski fenders should be sufficient. It is positioned one on the jet ski’s forward edge and another lower down toward the craft’s rear.
Jet Ski Bumper Installation
The Jet Ski Bumper is simple to install. It takes less than 30 minutes to install specific Bumpers. There’s no need to call in the pros for this. Installing a bumper on a jet ski should go as follows.
- Get a tape measure and determine how much room you must set up the bumper.
- You must determine the distance from the dock to the water to avoid having your bumper underwater.
- To protect your posts from damage, you’ll need to measure their length and breadth before adding bumpers.
- The length of your dock may necessitate modifying the size of your dock bumpers. Once everything is in position, you may mark and pre-drill the holes.
- Screw the bumpers using stainless steel washers and bolts. Stainless steel is more costly than metal but holds up far better in saltwater.
When You Should Put Jet Ski Bumpers
When docking a jet ski, it’s a good idea to equip it with bumpers to prevent damage. As a result, the Jet ski will be safe from scratches and other damage. You may also use the Jet ski bumpers when transporting a jet ski.
Final Thoughts
Instead of taking a chance on costly repairs and trips to the repair shop, it’s best to safeguard your jet ski with some high-quality bumpers.
The sides of your jet ski are vulnerable to damage from collisions with docks and other boats, so bumpers are a must-have accessory. Bumpers protect your jet ski from injury during an accident.
High-strength, durable materials that can withstand repeated impacts are ideal for making bumpers for Jet Skis. It is essential to take proper precautions to avoid leaving unattractive scuff marks on your jet ski after every ride. If you want to know about other jet ski accessories and want to find the best jet ski accessories, you may also check them out.
Make sure you have enough jet ski bumpers and then some.