Modern Hypalon or PVC

[model 10]

The Hypalon used in some modern dinks does not seem to be as long lived as it used to be. If so, is Hypalon worth the extra money? Would a cover or a set of Chaps let a PVC dink last as long as a Hypalon model without a cover?

[fstbttms]

Originally Posted by Guy

The Hypalon used in some modern dinks does not seem to be as long lived as it used to be.

How much less long-lived? My current Avon Hypalon inflatable is over 25 years old and is still in great shape.

[Kettlewell]

My current Hypalon Avon inflatable is over 25 years old and is still in great shape.

Well, you have the Hypalon they made 25 years ago. Not sure if what the OP says is true or not, but he is wondering if the Hypalon available today is worth it.

[fstbttms]

Originally Posted by Kettlewell

Well, you have the Hypalon they made 25 years ago. Not sure if what the OP says is true or not, but he is wondering if the Hypalon available today is worth it.

Understood. But unless "modern" Hypalon boats only last 5 or 10 years (which I doubt is the case), they are still far superior to PVC boats.

[model 10]

Well we just retired an APEX 9' rib that was but 10 years old. It looked as if the fabric was seperating from an inner layer and had bubble like splotches that leaked air. From what I heard, they use a Hypalon coated fabric. Several of the new dinks I have looked at have this same look to the tube fabric. Not the look of say an old Avon tube.

[neilpride]

Ask any Zodiac pvc owner here in the caribbean, a epic fiasco ....
My Caribe is 12 years old right now, and for the last 5 years with a sun cover, no holes, seams are still strong, no problems at all, PVC suck in tropical climates , now up there in the cold can last a decent amount of time...

[LakeSuperior]

My hypalon zodiac dinghy was new in 1970. The patch over the mouse chew from c1985 is still holding. That said, it stays in the bag for all but 2 to 3 weeks per year. I am thinking of purchasing a new one because the patch makes me nervous.

[robert sailor]

If your cruising in the Pacific Northwest or other areas well out of the tropics a case can be made for PVC dinks but if your in or going to the tropics PVC dinks are a waste of money.

[Mrider]

I think the PVC does the job fine, if you look after the boat.

If your lazy in maintenence, get the Hypalon, hehe