Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle Review

Let’s Talk About Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle

The Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle isn’t your typical tactical gear item, yet for anyone serious about maintaining their boat, RV, or even their home’s exterior, it’s a game-changer. This simple neoprene sleeve with foam insert from Shurhold transforms their existing 855 handle into a surface-protecting and buoyant cleaning tool. It’s a small investment that saves you from costly scratches and the frustration of losing your cleaning tools overboard.

My introduction to the need for something like the Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle came from a painfully avoidable accident. While detailing my fishing boat, a rogue wave knocked my Shurhold handle right into the water. Gone. I needed a solution that protected both my investment in cleaning equipment and the gel coat of my boat.

The Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle arrives in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was that the neoprene felt durable, yet soft enough to prevent scratching. The foam insert gave it a surprisingly substantial feel and obvious buoyancy.

I considered a dedicated foam cleaning handle or even wrapping my existing handle in pipe insulation. However, the Handle Mate offered a clean, professional, and purpose-built solution. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping this small addition would live up to its claims.

This clever product offered a promising combination of protection and functionality. It’s safe to say I was eager to see it in action.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle was during a complete wash-down and wax of my 21-foot center console boat. I primarily tested it while using the Shurhold handle with a brush attachment to clean the hull and deck. The conditions were sunny, but with a moderate chop on the water, creating a challenge to avoid bumps and scrapes.

The Handle Mate performed flawlessly, providing a cushioned buffer between the handle and the boat’s gel coat. I noticed an immediate difference in my peace of mind; I no longer worried about accidentally scratching the surface. The added buoyancy was also a welcome surprise.

The Handle Mate was easy to slip onto the 855 handle, requiring no tools or special techniques. There was a slight learning curve in terms of getting used to the slightly increased diameter of the handle. However, it wasn’t a significant change.

There were no initial issues with the Handle Mate after its first use, and I saw how it would make boat cleaning less stressful. It performed exactly as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile addition to my cleaning arsenal. It has been exposed to harsh sunlight, saltwater, and various cleaning chemicals. It has held up surprisingly well.

The neoprene shows no signs of fading or cracking, and the foam insert remains resilient. Cleaning the Handle Mate itself is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water is usually all it takes. It still looks and performs almost as new.

Prior to using the Handle Mate, I often used rags or towels to pad the Shurhold handle, which was a clumsy and ineffective solution. The Handle Mate is far more convenient and provides better protection. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle

Specifications

• The Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle is a neoprene sleeve designed specifically for Shurhold’s 855 handle. It has a simple design that provides both protection and flotation.

• It features a foam insert for added buoyancy and cushioning, minimizing the risk of scratches and dings on delicate surfaces. This is vital for protecting expensive gel coats on boats and RVs.

• The primary material is black neoprene, offering a balance of durability, flexibility, and resistance to the elements. The color helps to hide dirt and grime.

• The Manufacturer is Shurhold, known for its high-quality detailing and cleaning supplies for boats and other vehicles. The Shurhold name adds a layer of assurance of quality.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the Handle Mate’s ability to protect surfaces. The neoprene construction and foam insert make it both functional and long-lasting.

Performance & Functionality

The Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle excels at its primary function: protecting surfaces and adding buoyancy. It prevents scratches and dings from the handle during cleaning and waxing. The buoyancy prevents your Shurhold handle from sinking if dropped in the water.

Its greatest strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a straightforward solution to a common problem. The main weakness is that it’s designed specifically for the Shurhold 855 handle. It is not a universal fit for all cleaning handles.

The product meets and exceeds expectations, providing peace of mind and protecting my investment in my boat. It has made boat cleaning less stressful and more enjoyable.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The neoprene feels durable, and the stitching is clean and strong. The Handle Mate adds minimal weight to the handle.

It is incredibly user-friendly, slipping easily onto the Shurhold 855 handle. There is no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The neoprene construction is designed to withstand the rigors of marine environments. It is resistant to UV damage, saltwater, and common cleaning chemicals. With proper care, it should last for many years.

Maintaining the Handle Mate is simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available, as it is designed as a specific-fit product.

It’s compatible with all Shurhold 855 handles. It is also compatible with any of Shurhold’s various brush and mop attachments.

Pros and Cons of Shurhold Handle Mate PFD f/855 Handle