Sunbrella vs Sharkskin... how to choose

[jennis9]

Well, we are finally ready to get the bimini for our 20' starcraft openbow. This one is my decision. First, let me say I have no problem spending money on something that's worth the price, but I also like a bargain.

This is our first boat together - not sure how long we are going to keep it (I have boat envy already...). So my first thought is to try the sharkskin - I did get some advice from the iBoats Customer Service Rep and he was quite informative. But there's nothing like a recommendation from someone who has used the materials.

So what are the pros and cons I may not have thought of? We are on the boat about three times a week - but this is our first season... I am sure of our situation changes and there may be three of us by next boating season, I may not be out on the lake as much.... or our needs for a different boat may change. But we would really like a bimini.

I am also a bit torn on where to mount it since we have a two part custom cover - bow cover and a windshield back cover that wraps over the sides of the boat. Would love to see pics of folded and stored -- or suggestions for the best mount placement.

 

[Boatist]

Re: Sunbrella vs Sharkskin... how to choose

I have not used Sharkskin but will tell you
Sunbrella is very very Good.
It does not Fade, Strech, Rot, or Tare.
If no water stands on top of the cover then it does not leak.
Last it breaths so do not find boat covered in mildue.
It holds up in the sun great.
It is not cheap.

 

[thurps]

Re: Sunbrella vs Sharkskin... how to choose

One of the friends that I slope glide with is an absolute artest at upolstry. He swears by sharkskin but, in my opinion it's just as important who does the job as the materials used.

 

[jeffnick]

Re: Sunbrella vs Sharkskin... how to choose

In the boat COVER world, Sharkskin often has the same warranty period as does Sunbrella. I've had a Sharkskin cover on my boat for over 5 years now and still can't see the need to spend extra for Sunbrella. YMMV.

 

[jaxnjil]

Re: Sunbrella vs Sharkskin... how to choose

i think sunbrella is the gold standerd in covers and tops. every thing else gets comparied to them. we just had a morring cover made for our boat and used sunbrella.
i think the type of thread you use to have it sewn will make a bigger difference than the materal.
the sunberla camper encloser and biminis on our boat are 20 years old and still in good shape. the seams are getting to need resewn though.

 

[cmcpherson]

Re: Sunbrella vs Sharkskin... how to choose

If you use anything but Sunbrella, you will be sorry. It is simply the best product out there for boats covers of all types. The construction methods do make a difference, but they don't make up for quality of the fabric, period end of story.

 

[thurps]

Re: Sunbrella vs Sharkskin... how to choose

You might also check out the "Top Gun" and "Herculite" materials.