How to Choose the Right Bumpers for Your Boat Dock

Do you need to shop for boat dock bumpers but aren’t sure where to start? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the options available for boat dock bumpers? Looking for a quick guide to get you started?

Hunting for the best boat dock accessories, like bumpers, can be a tough chore. With so many options available, it’s understandable that you would want a simple breakdown explaining exactly how to navigate the process. Luckily for you, we’ve put together a simple How-To guide that will help you purchase the right bumpers for your boat dock.

How to Choose Boat Dock Bumpers

Step 1: Determine the needs of your boat.

Do you have a larger boat like pontoon? Or something small like a simple motorboat? Your answer will help you determine what kind of bumpers your need! Larger boats will require more bumpers with a heavy duty design, while small boats can probably get away with less.

Step 2: Consider your waterway.

Is your waterfront property situated on a lazy river or do you have direct access to a large lake? The conditions you encounter at your dock will demand different types of bumpers. Boats docked on rougher waters might be well served by vertical bumpers that protect your dock and boat through fluctuations in water level.

Step 3: Explore your options.

Study some basic descriptions of boat dock dumpers.

• Truck and trailer bumpers: cushy options to protect you boat in transit on a truck or trailer.
• Torpedo post bumpers: a wraparound bumper that protects the pipes supporting your dock and covers protruding brackets and bolts.
• Dock End Bumpers: pads that fit the ends of your dock for protection in a variety of colors.
• Side Stringer Bumpers: pads that fit the exposed sides of your dock. Particularly useful for slips or edges where people pull up with their watercraft.
• Vertical Bumpers: a long pad that runs perpendicular to the dock for security when water levels fluctuate significantly.
• Heavy Duty Bumpers: extra thick and sturdy materials to protect docks for larger boats.

Step 4: Put it all together.

Simply keeping your boat, your waterway, and your basic options in mind will help you make the best choice in boat dock bumpers. But if you’re looking for more help with the purchase or installation, give us a call!

At Alumi-Span we have over 60 years’ experience with boat docks and accessories, and we can make sure you find answers to all your questions.