BALL FENDER

THE BUFFER: Ball fenders, such as the Taylor Made Tuff End, are great for use on bigger boats, especially in slips that endure a lot of wakes from passing boat traffic or in busy marinas. They will keep your hull sides well away from pilings and dock walls, and they’re stout, round shape prevents them from getting caught up on the dock or other obstructions. They also double as buoy floats.

THE SQUEEZE: Their size makes storage difficult (though they can be deflated), and if you just need fenders for the fuel dock or the occasional restaurant, they can be overkill.

PRICE: $59.99 for a 12-inch diameter; westmarine.com