POLYFORM

F-1 FENDER

BOAT SIZE: 20 to 30 ft.

SIZES: 6-by-24 in. to 29-by-76 in. (F-13)

COLORS: 18 (including three shades of red and four shades of green)

PRICE: From $38 at amazon.com; polyformusa.com Molded in one piece of PVC vinyl, the fender has eyelets on both ends. Each has a protected valve to allow deflation and inflation for easier stowage and/or to adjust for contraction or expansion due to changes in temperature. It is tough with a smooth surface that won’t pick up grit.

BEST USES: Match up the color of your vessel’s side colors, or trim or contrast them for a statement. Most are hung by a single whip as needed. Keep at least one easily accessible from the deck to have a crewman hand-hold the fender whip to keep the fender in place at a point of contact while docking. Double-line it and hang it horizontally to protect against pilings.