Dinghy Digest: the Lowdown on the Lowly Dinghy

A great set of dinghy chaps is one of the best ways to protect your inflatable and keep it looking sharp season after season. Dinghies work hard — tied to docks, dragged up beaches, and exposed to sun and salt every day — so giving them a layer of protection makes a real difference to their lifespan.

Sunbrella "Captain Navy" and "Oyster"

One of the most important things to know before making dinghy chaps is the material your inflatable is made from. Many high-quality inflatables are built from Hypalon, while others are made from PVC. Each material requires different adhesives, preparation, and techniques to ensure everything bonds properly and performs the way it should. Knowing the difference is key to a durable, long-lasting result.

Sunbrella "Charcoal Grey"

For the chaps themselves, we use trusted Sunbrella® marine fabric. It’s incredibly tough, highly UV resistant, and built to handle life in the harsh marine environment. That means your inflatable gets excellent protection from sun damage, scuffs, and everyday wear.

Our team takes real pride in the details. Every handle, hook, rope, and fitting is carefully patterned so the chaps fit snugly and neatly around your dinghy. The result is a smart, tailored finish that stays secure and performs exactly as it should.

Sunbrella "Basil"

We also reinforce key wear areas with tough PVC patches, helping protect against abrasion where the dinghy meets docks, davits, and beaches. Velcro closures make the chaps easy to remove while still holding securely in place. UV-Pro binding finishes the edges, adding extra durability and excellent UV stability so the chaps keep performing and looking great for years.

Come and chat to the team about what we could do for you!