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Rail Guard Tape
Tom Halsted
Jun 7 #29351
As a newly-minted member of the Flex club, I would like to better protect my new boat from my errant paddle-smacks.
What do y'all recommend that I get to protect the rails/gunnels of my 'ski?
In the past, I've used black “Christy” tape, but it tends to move and wear.
I applied the clear, stiff guard panels that came with the boat, but then discovered that I like to hit the boat closer to myself (especially when tired).
I've seen “helicopter” tape suggested, and now also see that it comes in different mil thicknesses.
Ideas?
Sources?
John Rybczyk
Jun 7 #29353
Hey Tom, I'm sure you'll get many opinions. Kite, Paddle and Surf down at Squalicum Marina sells clear tape that they use to protect SUPs. I've found it to be bomb-proof and long-lasting.
Tyler Irwin
Jun 7 #29354
I really like the thick vinyl pipe wrap that you can get at Hardware Sales. I think it comes in 5 mil and 10 mil thicknesses.
-Tyler
Michael Lee
Jun 7 #29355
I’ve had good luck with this stuff. Some call it paint protection film others “helicopter tape”.
Amazon.com: 3M Scotchgard Clear Paint Protection Vinyl Film (6 Inch x 60 Inch): Automotive
Tom Halsted
Jun 7 #29356
Cool, I'll take a look
Larry Bussinger
Jun 7 #29358
Tom, I found the best way is to put vinyl tape on the edge of the paddle, not the boat. I use electricians tape.
Larry Bussinger
Tom Halsted
Jun 7 #29362
Aside from a more pleasing “thump”, instead of harsh, plastic to plastic “clack”, does the tape actually reduce hull damage?
And does it also affect laminar flow, turbulence, and tip vortices while the blade is doing its work in the water?
Larry Bussinger
Jun 7 #29367
I don’t see any damage. Actually i see no damage to the paddle either.
Larry Bussinger
