Let’s Talk About Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender
In the world of boating, protecting your vessel from the inevitable bumps and scrapes of docking is paramount. The Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender promises to deliver a durable and reliable solution for just that. Manufactured by Taylor Made Products, this fender aims to combine robust construction with ease of use, ensuring your boat remains unscathed during mooring.
Living near the coast, I’ve seen firsthand the damage poorly chosen or inadequate fenders can inflict on a boat’s gel coat. My old dinghy suffered a nasty gash from rubbing against a rough pier, and it was a costly lesson. I wanted a fender that was easily deployable and durable enough to withstand the harsh marine environment.
Upon unboxing the Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender, my initial impression was positive. The blue vinyl has a high gloss finish, and the double molded black ends looked very robust. The material felt thick and substantial, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand repeated impacts.
I considered other fenders on the market, like the Polyform A-Series and the Dan Fender. However, the Taylor Made fender’s inflatable design and focus on durability at a competitive price point ultimately swayed my decision. I was hoping for a fender that would stand up to the rigors of frequent use without breaking the bank.
My initial excitement was tempered with a slight concern about the inflation process. Would it be easy to inflate and deflate as needed, or would it be a cumbersome task? Only real-world testing would provide the answers.
Real-World Testing: Putting Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender during a weekend sailing trip in the Puget Sound. The conditions were typical for the area: a mix of sun, wind, and choppy waters. I deployed the fender while docking at a marina in Friday Harbor.
The fender performed admirably, providing a solid cushion between my boat and the dock. I inflated it using a standard football needle pump, which was quick and easy. I found it very easy to use.
There were no immediate issues or surprises. The fender stayed in place and absorbed the impacts from the waves and other boats passing by.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to sun, saltwater, and occasional abrasion against rough surfaces. The vinyl remains pliable and has not faded.
Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with freshwater after each use is usually sufficient. I occasionally use a mild soap to remove any stubborn grime or algae. The fender’s construction allows for easy cleaning.
Compared to my previous solid fenders, the Taylor Made inflatable version offers superior impact absorption and is much easier to store when not in use. It outperforms my old fenders in terms of both protection and convenience.
Breaking Down the Features of Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender
Specifications
- The Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender measures 1 1/2″ x 3″. This size is ideal for smaller boats and dinghies.
- It is constructed from high-quality marine-grade vinyl. This ensures durability and resistance to the harsh marine environment.
- The fender features double molded black ends for added strength. This design enhances its ability to withstand repeated impacts.
- It includes a rubber football needle valve for easy inflation and deflation. The valve is designed for long life and reliable performance.
- The seamless one-piece construction minimizes potential weak points. This design also makes the fender more resistant to leaks.
Performance & Functionality
The Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender excels at its primary job: protecting your boat from damage during docking and mooring. Its inflatable design provides excellent shock absorption. The fender effectively cushions impacts.
The fender’s ribbed sides help to minimize roll, keeping it in place along the hull. This design feature prevents it from riding up or shifting. The fender performs as designed.
However, the small size (1 1/2″ x 3″) may not be adequate for larger vessels or areas with heavy wave action. For larger boats, multiple or larger fenders would be needed. It meets expectations for a fender of this size.
Design & Ergonomics
The Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender boasts a high gloss finish that looks great and is easy to clean. The blue color is vibrant and resists fading. The color remains bright after several months of exposure.
The inflatable design makes it lightweight and easy to handle. It is also compact for storage when deflated. The inflatable design enhances storage convenience.
The football needle valve is easy to access and use. However, it requires a specific needle adapter for inflation. A standard tire inflator will not work.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from marine-grade vinyl, the Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender is built to withstand the elements. The material resists UV damage, saltwater corrosion, and abrasion. The fender should last for many seasons with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply rinse with freshwater after each use and occasionally scrub with a mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. This type of maintenance helps to prolong the life of the fender.
The rubber football needle valve is also replaceable, further extending the fender’s lifespan. Replacement valves are readily available online.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender does not come with any included accessories beyond the fender itself. However, various ropes and fender lines can be purchased separately for attaching it to your boat and the dock. These are available at most marine supply stores.
There are no specific customization options available for this fender model. However, you could potentially add custom graphics or lettering using vinyl decals. These custom options enhance visibility.
The fender is compatible with standard fender lines and attachment hardware. This compatibility makes it easy to integrate into your existing docking setup.
Pros and Cons of Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender
Pros
- Excellent impact absorption thanks to its inflatable design.
- Durable marine-grade vinyl construction ensures long life.
- Easy to inflate and deflate using a standard football needle.
- Compact and lightweight for convenient storage when not in use.
- The high gloss finish is easy to clean and maintains its appearance.
Cons
- Small size may not be sufficient for larger boats or heavy wave conditions.
- Requires a specific needle adapter for inflation (not included).
Who Should Buy Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender?
The Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender is perfect for owners of small boats, dinghies, and personal watercraft who need reliable protection during docking and mooring. It’s also ideal for those with limited storage space. It’s the perfect size for a dinghy.
This fender is not the best choice for owners of larger vessels or those who frequently dock in areas with rough conditions. In such cases, larger or multiple fenders would be more appropriate. You’ll need bigger fenders for larger boats.
A must-have accessory is a dedicated fender line for easy and secure attachment to your boat and dock. Make sure you get the right length!
Conclusion on Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender
The Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender offers a great combination of durability, performance, and convenience at a reasonable price. While its small size may limit its applicability to larger boats, it excels as a reliable fender for smaller vessels. It is a practical and cost-effective solution.
The price of $98.39 is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the fender’s long-term durability. It offers excellent value for the money. Consider the cost of boat repairs!
I would definitely recommend the Taylor Made 951128 Super Gard Inflatable Vinyl Fender to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use fender for their small boat. Protect your investment and enjoy peace of mind on the water!