If you're choosing a new inflatable tender, one of the first decisions you'll hit is the tube material - PVC or Hypalon. Both are well proven, both are used across the marine industry, and both will give you a boat you can rely on. The right choice really comes down to how, and where, you'll be using it.
Here's a straightforward look at the differences, so you can pick with confidence rather than guesswork.
PVC tubes
PVC is the more budget-friendly option and, thanks to advances in modern coatings, performs impressively well for most owners. It's easy to clean, resistant to fuel and oil spills, and the seams are heat-welded, giving a strong, consistent bond. The trade-off is UV resistance - PVC will degrade faster under prolonged, intense sun exposure, so it suits boats that are used regularly and stored under cover, or fitted with a proper tube cover when not in use.
- Lower upfront cost
- Excellent resistance to oils, fuels and everyday grime
- Heat-welded seams for a reliable bond
- Best suited to moderate climates, or boats that are covered or stored when not in use
Hypalon tubes
Hypalon (a synthetic rubber, also known as CSM) is the premium option, and it earns that reputation. It's far more resistant to UV degradation, salt water and extreme temperatures, making it the material of choice for boats that live outdoors, see heavy use, or spend time in hotter climates. Seams are glued rather than welded, and when properly finished, they're every bit as strong - many owners find Hypalon ages more gracefully over the years, holding its colour and flexibility long after PVC would start to show its age.
- Superior UV and weathering resistance
- Handles extreme temperatures and prolonged sun exposure better
- Glued seams, built to last the lifetime of the boat
- Higher upfront cost, but often lower cost per year of ownership
PVC vs Hypalon at a glance
| Factor | PVC | Hypalon | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Lower | Higher | |
| UV resistance | Good, degrades faster in strong sun | Excellent, built for prolonged exposure | |
| Seam construction | Heat-welded | Glued | |
| Resistance to oil and fuel | Excellent | Good | |
| Best suited to | Regular use, covered storage, moderate climates | Outdoor mooring, heavy use, hot climates | |
| Typical lifespan | Good, shorter in high UV conditions | Longer, ages more gracefully |
So, which should you choose?
If your tender will be stored undercover and used seasonally, PVC offers excellent value and performance for the price. If it's going to live on a mooring, spend long spells in the sun, or you simply want the longest possible lifespan from your tender, Hypalon is worth the extra investment.
Not sure which suits the way you'll use your boat? Contact Morgan Marine Chandlery - we're happy to talk it through based on your mooring, storage and how often you'll be out on the water.
FAQs
Can I get any tender in either PVC or Hypalon?
Most models in our ranges are available in both materials, though this varies by boat. Check the individual product page for the options available on that model.
Does the tube material affect performance on the water?
No - PVC and Hypalon tubes perform the same way once inflated. The difference is entirely in durability, longevity and how the material holds up to UV exposure over time, not handling or ride quality.
How long do PVC and Hypalon tubes typically last?
With good care and proper storage, PVC tubes commonly last well over a decade, and Hypalon tubes often longer still. Real-world lifespan depends heavily on UV exposure, storage conditions and how well the boat is looked after.
Is Hypalon really worth the extra cost?
For boats kept outdoors, used heavily, or in sunnier climates, yes - the extra UV and weathering resistance tends to pay for itself over the life of the boat. For boats used seasonally and stored under cover, PVC often represents better value.
