What types of inflatable boats are there? UpMall spoke about the types and types of inflatable boats

An inflatable boat is a convenient vehicle that is easy to fold and carry overland. According to the international classification, such boats are classified as pleasure craft. If you have never used an inflatable before, this article is for you. You will learn everything about what kind of inflatable boats there are - UpMall talked about the types and types of inflatable boats in an accessible way even for an inexperienced user.

What types of inflatable boats are there?

Choosing the right inflatable boat is the key to successful movement on the water surface. To do this, you need to know what inflatable boats are: their types and types. Let’s list the main ones:

1. Rowing boats. Movement in them is carried out using oars. Such models are used for fishing or short walks.
2. Motor rowing. Such devices provide the possibility of installing a low-power motor that slightly increases the speed.
3. Motor. Such watercraft have protruding sides and a transom where the motor is located. The latter is quite powerful, so movement through water is accelerated.
4. With RollUp bottom. Such models have the ability to be completely twisted together with the bottom, making it easier to store and transport the vessel. The downside is that it is impossible to install a powerful motor on them.
5. With Air Deck bottom. They have a flexible keel and a durable transom, so the weight of such structures is low. They are simply transported and folded.
6. Reinforced PVC. These models are the best for frequently used boats. The material is very resistant to sunlight and temperature changes.
7. Unreinforced PVC. Less durable designs, suitable for infrequent use; it is also not recommended to swim to great depths.
8. With rubberized fabric. They require careful care and drying to avoid mold formation.
9. Made from composite materials. Hyparon and neoprene are commonly used. Such models are durable and resistant to external factors.
10. RIBs. Combined structures with a hard bottom made of aluminum or plastic and inflatable sides. They have the highest seaworthiness and speed qualities.

How to choose an inflatable boat based on its characteristics?

What should you pay attention to first when choosing a watercraft? Let’s list the important points:

• seams on PVC structures – soldered (better) or glued (worse, “float” at high temperatures);
• the bottom is hard and makes the structure heavier and stronger; all boats without flooring are inconvenient to use;
• hinged transom - models have the ability to equip the craft with a motor, but they can also be used for rowing;
• boat length - up to 250 cm are intended for one person, 250-360 no more than two with equipment, more than 360 cm are used for large companies;
• carrying capacity - this includes the weight of passengers and all equipment placed on the boat, it is recommended to make a reserve of 20-30%;
• diameter of cylinders - for light models the diameter is 30 cm, for heavy ones - more than 45 cm;
• fastening of benches - they are placed permanently (rigidly installed) or on lifting ropes (can be moved);
• color – inflatable boats come in light colors, which is preferable because they heat up less in the hot season, and camouflage is great for hunters;
• equipment - depending on the purpose for which the watercraft is purchased, its equipment also changes;
• keel - can be rigid or inflatable, with its help you can increase speed and save fuel for motorized watercraft.

Now you know what types of inflatable boats there are - UpMall talked about the types and types of inflatable boats suitable for different situations. Make your choice on the website upmall.ru and purchase a high-quality floating device!