Boat fenders are important equipment for any vessel. They protect the boat’s hull from getting damaged by other boats, dock, and the pier. In other words, they act as cushions, ensuring your vessel’s gel coat and hull stay in good shape.
However, you’ll also need other equipment to protect the hull from this cushioning. And that’s the best boat fender cover that provides an extra protection layer to the vessel. It’s crafted from soft, but tough materials to prevent the bumper from scratching or chafing the vessel’s hard-coated finish.
At the same time, it shields the bumper from weather elements, thus extending its life and saving replacement costs. Unfortunately, finding a reliable and tough fender sock can be a little tricky! But don’t worry! In this guide, we’ve listed some of the most durable and attractive fender socks for protecting your vessel, while making it look stylish.
here’s a Quick round-up table with our top 5 picks:
| Image | Name | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Polyform Blue Cover for F-2, HTM-2, G-5 |
5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
 |
Polyform EFC-A Boat Fender Covers |
5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
 |
Affordura Marine Bumper Covers Fleece |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
| Taylor Made Products Fender Covers |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | ||
| Taylor Made Products Premium Cover |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon |
To read about our product selection procedure, visit the “About” page.
10 Best Boat Bumper Cover Reviews
1. Polyform Blue Cover for F-2, HTM-2, G-5 Boat Fenders
Fender covers should be very strong and tough as they’re made to protect. That’s exactly what you’ll get from this elite fender cover by Polyform. It’ll give your boat and bumper a touch of class. Thanks to the beautiful black fabric with an embroidered Polyform logo in gold thread, giving your vessel a sophisticated look.
To demonstrate its quality, the EFC series cover is crafted from durable woven polyester. The manufacturer used a unique knitting machine to weave this fabric, resulting in a seamless tube. So you don’t have to be concerned about the seams splitting.
At the same time, this will allow the cover to accommodate a heavier yarn content. Besides, this will help the fender sock last for several years to come. Consequently, the premium-grade polyester yarn used to make this cover is resistant to UV exposure and abrasion.
It doesn’t absorb water, hence keeping the bumper manageably light when wet. When it comes to size, the EFC-1 fender sock measures 24” long X 6.5” in diameter. For that, it’s ideal for use in Polyform F-1, G4 as well as HTM-1 bumpers.
However, it’s also available in 11 different sizes. So, make sure you check the size of your boat bumper before you choose a certain cover. All in all, it’s quite simple to install and take off from any of these fenders.
Benefits:
- Comes in 11 different sizes
- Available in 2 different colors; black & blue
- Uniquely woven to produce a seamless tube
- UV, water, and abrasion-resistant
- Durable, premium-grade construction
- Easy to clean & install
Drawbacks:
- Nothing remarkable
2. Polyform EFC-A Boat Fender Covers & Buoy Covers
The EFC-A boat buoy cover is another great option for protecting your vessel. It’s also manufactured by Polyform. You’ll find it protective, simple to use and quality made. Being washable, it’s easy to clean thus extending its durability.
So that indicates extended longevity to serve you for several years to come.
This is demonstrated by its ability to resist various elements, including abrasion, UV rays, and saltwater. For these reasons, it will not fade or change color after years of being exposed to UV rays. On the same note, it remains light even when soaked into water.
To protect your vessel from damage, this sock is made of superior, machine washable polyester yarn. In addition, this material features a heavier, stronger yarn content, extending the durability of the cover further. Better still, the unit has a tough ¼” line drawstring closure instead of the brittle elastic found on most bumpers.
Regarding the color, this particular product has a black boat fender cover fabric. But you can find it in a blue color option as well. Whichever color option you choose, expect this sock to protect your bumper and vessel for a long time!
Benefits:
- Protects the boat’s finish
- Machine washable
- Lasts for many years
- Premium grade polyester fabric
- Easy & quick installation
- Available in 6 different sizes
Drawbacks:
- Made for polyform A-1 Series fenders
3. Affordura Marine Bumper Covers Fleece 8.5″X16″
If you’ve got 6” to 7” fenders, then these covers from Affordura may be the best option for you. And for several good reasons!
To start, the package comes as a set of 2 or 4 covers, yet it’s quite affordable. Each bump cover measures 8.5” diameter X 16” long. However, if you’ve got larger bumpers, choose the 10.5” X 22” size option instead.
These covers are very easy to install on boat bumpers. They have an elastic string on one end and a drawstring on the other. This makes it even easier to install the cover since you only need to pull the strings tight and tie them off. Moving on to construction, these units are made of unique heavy, long-lasting soft fleece.
This material plays a crucial role in protecting your boat’s gel coat from getting marked up by the fenders. Even better, this fabric holds up well when exposed to UV rays, so it will not fade over time. All things considered, using Affordura marine covers is a great way to protect your boat’s finish. More importantly, it will not leave any mark on the side of your vessel!
Benefits:
- Reasonably priced
- Comes as a set of 2 or 4 boat bumpers
- Withstand UV rays
- Easy to install
- Available in 2 different size options
Drawbacks:
- Limited color options
4. Taylor Made Products 9036 Fleece Boat Fender Covers
Established in 1908, Taylor Made Products is one of the most reputable manufacturers of various boating accessories. More importantly, they’re known to produce top-performing, superior products. Their 9036 fleece boat fender cover is no exception!
For instance, these bumpers provide double protection to your vessel. First, they protect your hull against any scarring and marring. Secondly, they’re specifically designed to protect the Center Rope Tube bumpers.
So, with these units, rest assured that your hull will be protected from any damage.
Another interesting property exhibited by these covers is that they’re made from premium-quality fabric. To be precise, they’re crafted from 100% polyester blizzard fleece. As a result, they have a denser and thick, but soft material, giving your vessel long-term protection.
That aside, these units are available in black and navy. On the same note, they come in 2 different sizes; 10” X 26” and 8” X 20”. Therefore, you’ll easily find the perfect option for your center rope tube fender, either based on size or color.
Besides, these superior fender socks are designed to last for several seasons. Even better, you can extend their durability further by routing washing them in cold water using mild detergent.
Benefits:
- Delivers quality and durability
- Withstand harsh marine elements
- Ideal for center rope tube fenders
- Comes from a reputable brand
Drawbacks:
- May fade over time
5. Taylor Made Products 9206N Premium Fender Cover
Adding this 9206n premium cover to your bumpers will keep your vessel from scratch, dents, and scuffs. Also, it will protect your vessel while docking, helping you avoid costly repairs and damages to the hull.
Here’s how this cover will help you achieve that!
For starters, this cover looks great, thanks to the 100% premium polyester material used in its construction. At the same time, unlike low-quality units, this will help it last you for a number of seasons. When it comes to color options, this cover is available in 2 colors.
That is; blue and navy! Therefore, you can easily choose the color option that will match the exterior of your vessel better. On the same note, the fabric exhibits excellent ability to withstand UV rays, abrasion, and harsh marine elements.
Best of all, it will not stretch over time, which also helps it last longer.
As for sizing, this fender cover is designed to fit most bumpers out there. For instance, it’s available in the following size options; 10.5” X 30” and 10.5 X 26”. However, before you make your final decision, make sure you check the sizing chart first.
Benefits:
- UV-, mildew and abrasion-resistant
- Comes in 2 popular color options
- Made from stronger durable fabric
- Protects the hull from harsh marine elements
- Doesn’t get stretchy over time
Drawbacks:
- It can be ripped off by tough materials like concrete
6. Taylor Made Products Fleece Boat Fender Cover for Center Rope Tube Style Fenders
Specifically engineered to fit Center Rope Tube fenders, this 9031 fleece cover is another great product worth considering. It will ensure that your hull has ultimate protection from the boat bumpers. As a result, your hull’s finish will not have any scratches or marring. Moreover, it will protect the vessel from various damages including color transfer.
The first stand-out feature offered by this unit is that its fabric is crafted from 100% 12 oz. blizzard fleece. Not to forget that you can either find it black or blue.
In addition, the cover has a reinforced grommeted top, while the opposite end features an adjustable tie to ensure a snug fit. Overall, this construction results in a denser cover that is thick and soft. More notably, it’s quite durable, giving your bumpers and vessel long-term protection.
You can also rest assured that these covers will certainly fit perfectly in your Center Rope Tube bumpers. That’s because they’re perfectly sized, seeing that each unit is 20” long X 8’ diameter. As an alternative, the product is also available in a 10” diameter X 26” long size option.
To sum up, if you want the highest quality cover from a reputable brand, then this 9031 fender cover is an excellent option.
Benefits:
- Designed for Center Rope Tube bumpers
- Made from 100% polyester blizzard fleece
- Adjustable tie on the bottom to ensure a snug fit
- Ultra-soft fabric to prevent marring your vessel’s gel coat
- Premium-grade quality
Drawbacks:
- Only fits center-hole style bumpers
7. BTG Gear Hole in The Middle Boat Bumper Covers
Hole-Through-Middle (HTM) bumpers provide maximum protection in various applications. As an example, they provide a stand-off for large vessels that are between 20 and 50 ft. long.
Unfortunately, finding the best boat fender covers for this type of bumper isn’t that easy. Don’t worry though, since this Hole-In-The-Middle fender cover from BTG Gear is specifically designed for such bumpers.
Like other boat fender covers, this unit will effectively protect your vessel from scuffs. At the same time, it will protect your HTM cushioning from harsh marine elements and damaging UV rays. Moreover, it’s a great way to reduce the annoying ‘squeak’ created by the bumpers while docking your vessel.
Moving on, this cover features an ultra-soft knitted marine-grade fleece/ polyester. On the same note, it comes as a set of 2 navy blue covers designed for HTM bumpers. More notably, the polyester boat fender cover fabric is super soft to ensure the ultimate protection of your bumpers and boat’s hull.
Lastly, this unit ensures a smooth and tight fitment to your HTM bumpers. Thanks to the convenient drawstring included in the bumper cover of each unit.
Benefits:
- Available in 2 size options (10” X 26” & 8” X 20”)
- Comes with 2 covers
- Delivers a smooth and tight-fitting look
- Crafted from super soft marine-grade polyester
- Designed for Hole-Through-Middle bumpers
Drawbacks:
- Comes in one color option only (navy blue)
8. Polyform Navy Color Cover for HTM-2 Fenders
Unlike the Polyform fender covers we’ve reviewed so far, this Fenderfits HTM cover is made from a superior acrylic yard. More importantly, each strand’s ability to resist sunlight has a rating of BS7 Lightfastness. For that reason, the colors of this fabric can last 4 times longer compared to other materials.
Speaking of colors, this unit comes in 4 different color options. This includes; black, navy, and green. In addition, the covers are knitted on innovative machinery, then hand-finished by professional seamstresses.
When it comes to sizing, this particular cover measures 20” long X 8” diameter. On the same note, it’s specifically designed for HTM-2 (Hole-Through-Middle) bumpers. However, this model is available in other sizing options and designs such as HTM-3, HTM-4, F-1, etc.
Lastly, this cover is quite easy and convenient to install on HTM-2 bumpers. Even better, it reduces the ‘squeak’ caused by bumpers, resulting in peaceful mooring. At the same time, it will protect your hull from rub marks and scuffs caused by bumpers.
Benefits:
- Protects HTM-2 bumpers from harmful UV rays
- Reduces hull damage from rub marks and scuffs
- Made from durable polyester yarn
- Easy and convenient installation
- Color tested to BS-7 standards
Drawbacks:
- Only fits HTM-2 bumpers
9. Bumper Buddies Fender Cover for Taylor Made Big B #3
With 10 colors to select from, the Bumper Buddies cover has the most color options on our list. Some of these colors include; gold, hunter green champagne, burgundy, and champagne. Also, it’s available in common color options like black, navy, royal, red, and purple.
That way, you can easily choose the perfect color to match your boating needs.
Better still, this unit comes in 7 different size options, designed to fit Taylor Made bumpers. However, this particular package comes with 2 covers measuring 10” X 26”. For that, they’ll fit perfectly in Big B #3 bumpers from Taylor Made Products.
Regarding the construction, these units are crafted from soft stretchable Lycra cotton. Interestingly, this fabric stretches easily to fit over bumpers of most boats and cars. Best of all, the material is very simple to clean and maintain.
More importantly, it protects vessels and cars from unwanted bumps and scratches.
Benefits:
- Suitable for most small & large vessels
- Available in 10 different colors and 7 size options
- Crafted from soft cotton
- Stretches easily to fit most bumpers
- Comes with 2 pieces of fender socks
Drawbacks:
- Dark colors tend to fade over time
10. Bumper Buddies Fender Cover for Taylor Made Big B #2
Similar to the Bumper Buddies cover above, this package comes with 2 covers. The only significant difference between this product and the previous unit from this brand is that they’re different sizes. Specifically, these covers measure 8” diameter X 20” long each.
Other than that, they are similar in many other aspects.
For instance, these fender socks are crafted from stretchable Lycra. For that reason, they can easily fit over the bumpers of most boats and cars. On the same note, this makes them ideal for protecting both small and large boats and cars.
Interestingly, despite being stretchable, this fabric is incredibly durable and soft. This will ensure that your boat’s hull always looks as good as new. Thanks to its ability to protect the boat from unwanted bumps and scratches.
Another factor that makes this fender sock a great option for marine applications is that it’s easy to clean and maintain.
As for the color options, this product is available in 8 different colors that you can choose from. They include red, purple, hunter green, black, chocolate, gold, champagne, and burgundy.
Benefits:
- Fits most large and small cars & boats
- Includes 2 pieces of fender socks
- 8 colors to choose from
- Stretchable, soft cotton material
- Made in the United States
- Designed for Center Rope Tube bumpers
Drawbacks:
- Made to fits 8″x20″ Taylor Made Big B #2 sizes
Boat Fender Cover Buying Guide
With so many boat fender covers in the market, choosing the best one for your vessel can turn out to be a very challenging task. However, certain aspects will help you make the right decision. Some of these factors include;
Number of Pieces
Most fender cover sets come with a single piece of cover that you can install on only one fender. However, some kits come with more than one piece, probably 2 or 4 pieces. Whichever the case, this decision will be informed by the number of your boat bumpers. As an example, if your boat has at least 2 bumpers on each side, the best set should at least have 4 covers.
Size
Boat fenders are available in different sizes and designs. For instance, some covers are 20” X 8”, while others are larger as 32” X 24”. For that, it’s important to consider their size before you settle on a certain cover. Otherwise, you can easily end up with a cover that doesn’t fit well with your boat bumpers.
Material
Choosing a cover that is crafted from durable materials will help you use it extensively and for a long period. In addition, the materials should have excellent resistance against mildew, UV rays, abrasion, and scratches.
In that regard, the best materials for fender socks include durable fabrics like polyester, fleece, and leather. Alternatively, the unit may be made from stretchable materials like Lycra, helping it fit in most bumpers.
All these fabrics are soft, lightweight, and washable. More importantly, they protect your boat from scratches, bumps as well as harsh marine elements.
Maintenance
Since you’ll be using these covers around your boat, they’ll eventually get dirty over time. For that reason, it’s important to look for a washable cover that is easy to clean. That way, you can easily wipe it off with a damp rag once it gets dirty. Interestingly, some options are even machine washable.
Conclusion
Although the best boat fender cover may not seem that important, it’s a crucial piece of tool for your vessel. It will act as protective gear, helping you take proper care of the boat. And as you’ve seen above, there are some incredible options of fender covers available in the market.
So, it’s now up to you to check them out and choose the best deal based on the type, size, and number of bumpers around your boat!
You may also like: The Best Boat Cover Support System Reviews
FAQs
1. Are boat fender covers necessary?
Boat fender socks provide an extra protection layer between the hull and the bumper. This protects the boat’s exterior finish, ensuring that it remains attractive for several years to come.
2. What is the best material for boat fender covers?
A boat blanket, which is a non-woven thick polyester, is considered the best material for boat fender socks. This is because it is simple to sew, mildew-resistant as well as chemical & UV-resistant. Also, it’s easier to work with since it does not fray when cut.
3. Where can I find a personalized boat fender cover?
Personalized boat fender covers have unique features like a custom logo, an embroidered design, or a boat name. You can get such covers online on various sites like Amazon, ahoycaptian.com, defender.com, etc.
4. When should you put fenders on your boat?
Before you put fenders on your boat, determine the current and wind direction. Next, prepare the stern lines and bow, then put the fenders in place.
5. Do fender covers scratch paint?
Most fender socks are made from soft materials like nylon and cotton, which cannot scratch the paint of the boat’s hull. However, allowing dirt and dust to accumulate around them will certainly scratch the paint. To prevent that, make sure you clean the covers regularly.