Cockpit cushions - 2" or 3" - medium or high density?

[jpeac2]

Hey everyone -

Been reading as much as I can about making my own cockpit cushions and am down to the foam. Going dry fast and debating 2" or 3" and Medium or high density.

Dont have time to order the sample kit and test the different options unfortunately as I am trying to sew these before the trip.

Can anyone speak to bottoming out on the 2" medium or high? Is that inevitable for a 190lb person with any of these?

Coming from some bottomsider/c cushion types which although very hard werent too bad comfort wise.

Thanks for any opinions here.

[JPA Cate]

It's difficult to locate the closed cell foam of which bottom siders were made, but they're great for not absorbing water (the closed cells keep it out). When you talk medium or high density, that is usually open cell, and will absorb water. Those ones get chucked below to not get rained on or seawater.

At 190 lbs. I'd think the high density 3 or even 4 inch would be comfy for you, and also suitable for taking a snooze on. But be warned, it is a real drag to have to stick them below when you'd rather be comfortable.

We never found anything waterproof enough to keep them dry. Sunbrella was good for light mist, but not rain or sea waves. It is a very durable fabric for sun exposure. We made ours with one side white because the darker colors get too hot to walk on barefoot in the tropics.



Ann

[noelex 77]

Dry fast foam is open cell. Outdoor cushions are much better when constructed from closed cell foam. Unfortunately, closed cell foam is expensive.

Most boat interior and exterior cushions are way too thin for adequate comfort, but closed cell foam is denser and more resilient than open cell foam so a couple of inches, or even an inch an half is an acceptable compromise for outdoor cushions.