Picking the best inflatable dock & Swim Platforms?
There are different categories of inflatable swim platforms. In order to know the right one for you and your family to enjoy out on the lake, keep reading this guide.
What to look for when selecting an inflatable floating dock:
Type :
There are different types of swim platform available for you to consider.
The most common type is a pontoon style dock that’s attached to a boat, but there are also standalone inflatable pontoons and multiple platform options so you can create your own dock system.
Size/length:
Inflatable docks come in various sizes when looking at widths and lengths. To figure out how many people would be able to use the dock at once, add the length of all users together.
For large groups or families, look for a longer option in case more than one person wants to jump off at a time.
Can it support weight? Is it safe? Look for an inflatable dock that can hold up against the elements, such as water and weather, and test it out to make sure it can hold your weight.
Additional features:
There are also a few optional additions you can get for your inflatable dock to make it more convenient and enjoyable. Some options include built-in stairs, lights for nighttime use, and covers for protection against the elements when not in use.
When considering extra features, be sure that the pieces attach securely to the dock to avoid any negative effects on performance or safety.
Where can I place my inflatable water platform?
For most people who are thinking about an inflatable floating dock, they’re looking at placing them somewhere near their boat so they don’t have to carry all of their equipment across the beach or up the side of a mountain.
In order to find the best location for your dock, you need to consider where you will be docking your boat and how big it is.
A good rule of thumb when figuring out where to set up your dock is that if your boat can fit on one side, then it should be able to fit on both sides of the platform and give everyone plenty of room for jumping in and sunbathing.
How easy is an inflatable swim platform made?
Inflatable docks are extremely convenient because there’s no need for extra tools or help with installation; simply grab some scooters and jump onto the water! Most inflatable platforms come with their own pump(s) so you’t have to worry about getting a power source to start inflating.
Size and weight:
Inflatable docks are very light and portable so you can take them with you wherever your boat goes, including trips from the lake house to a more secluded beach for camping!
The weight of inflatable swim platforms is typically around 30-40 lbs so it’s easy to carry by yourself or fit multiple docks onto a small boat or jet ski trailer.
How long does an inflatable dock last?
It’s important that you consider the quality and durability of an inflatable water platform before purchasing because not all materials and designs are created equally.
For families who plan on using their floating dock every weekend over the summer, we recommend one that is made from durable materials and has a strong design.
Overall, inflatable docks are made to last for several summers, but be sure to check with the product information in order to find out specific details about the materials and size of your dock.
Best Inflatable Docks
The 5 best heavy duty inflatable docks based on reviews, durability, price, and strength:
1. The Dockmate Inflatable Boat Dock
This inflatable dock has a special design that allows it to attach directly to the boat so no additional equipment is required to use this option.
This makes it very easy for people who want to take their water platform back and forth between the lake house and secluded beach.
It has an automatic drain valve so you can simply open or close it depending on how much water you need in your dock.
Plus, this product comes with its own pump so there’s no extra equipment needed! It also features 8 stainless steel D-rings, 2 grab handles, purple non-slip surface material, and dimensions of .75″ x 6′” x 15′.
Weighing in at just 20 lbs, this dock is easy to carry and store.
2. The I-Beam Swim Platform
This is another product that attaches directly to the boat which makes it extremely convenient for people who like to use their water platform in multiple locations; all you have to do is remove the D-rings!
It has a built in anchor system so there’s no need for additional equipment when docking your boat.
It also comes with 3 stainless steel D-rings, an inflatable splash guard, non slip surface material, and weight capacity of up to 500 lbs.
3. The Dockmate 15′ Dock
This inflatable swim platform can support up to 1,200 lbs of weight and is perfect for larger boats and jet skis.
It has a universal design so it fits almost any style of boat and requires no tools or other equipment to set up.
You simply attach the inflatable platform to your boat and begin using it right away! It also features 3 stainless steel D-rings which you can use to attach extra rope if needed, non slip surface material, and comes with its own pump.
4. The Dockmate 20′ Dock
This inflatable dock has an increased weight capacity of 1,500 lbs compared to the 15′ product above, making it ideal for large boats or families with children who want to jump in the water off a dock together.
It’s easy to install because all you have to do is attach it directly to the boat and inflate it.
It also comes with stainless steel D-rings, non slip surface material, and an automatic drain valve that will keep your dock in prime condition all summer long!
5. The Dockmate 30′ Dock
This inflatable swim platform can support up to 2,200 lbs of weight which makes it perfect for large boats with multiple passengers who want to jump in the water together.
It’s equipped with 3 stainless steel D-rings for attaching rope or life jackets plus two additional handles on each side for added stability when entering or exiting the water. Weighing just 40 lbs, this dock is easy to set up and put away when you’re finished with it.
Additional Considerations When Purchasing:
Make sure you consider your location, frequency of use, and the overall strength of the dock before making a purchase.
People who live in areas with strong winds or frequent storms may need to be more cautious about which inflatable dock they choose; for example, if there are often high winds present on the lake where you will be using it, make sure to invest in an inflatable platform with excellent stability like The Dockmate 30′ Dock which can hold up to 2,200 lbs.
If you plan on using your dock frequently throughout the summer months but not during winter weather conditions (which is common for some families), then pick out something that has extra features like auto drain valves, fast
Inflatable Docks Weight Capacity
The weight capcity an inflatable dock can handle ranges based on the size and model of the dock.
The most lightweight docks can support around 200lbs, while larger models can support up to 2,200lbs or more! Make sure the weight capacity is high enough for your intended use.
If you’re looking to purchase a dock that can hold at least 1,000 lbs of weight then we recommend The Dockmate 20′ Dock .
It has an increased weight capacity compared to some other inflatable swim platforms on this list (up to 1,500 lbs), plus it comes equipped with stainless steel D-rings so you can attach equipment or rope easily.
The Dockmate 30′ Dock is another excellent option if your primary goal is purchasing an inflatable platform that supports extremely large boats and jet skis. It’s the only dock on this list that can support up to 2,200 lbs of weight, which makes it perfect for families with children who are eager to jump in the water together!
Inflatable Docks Inflation Time
The more pump chambers a platform has and the more powerful its air pump is, the less time you will have to spend waiting for your deck to inflate.
The least amount of inflation time we’ve seen from an inflatable product was 21 minutes.
If you’re pressed for time and want a fast-inflating dock then make sure to purchase one with at least 3 pump chambers and a high volume air pump like The Dockmate 20′ Dock .
Best Electric Pump For Your Inflatable Dock
Selecting the best electric pump for your inflatable floating dock can also be a hassle. The bes electrical pumps inflate these docks incredibly fast thanks to the high pressure generated from the pumps.
Recommended electrical pumps for inflatable floating dock:
Best Electric Pump For Your Inflatable Dock
If you’re looking for the best pump to inflate your inflatable floating dock, then check out The Intex 2800GPH 3-way Diving Suface Pool Hand Pump. This is truly a heavy duty electric pump.
It has three different settings (suck, blow, or both), which makes it perfect for inflating swimming pools and inflatable products like docks.
And since this pump can fit onto standard gas-powered patio pumps (up to 5,000 watts), you won’t need to worry about power either! It’s an incredibly powerful air compressor that can be used for paddle boards, water toys, kayaks (blowup kayaks), and more.
The Confer Plastics Electric Air Pump is another excellent choice if you want an electric air pump that can fit into smaller areas.
Since it’s battery powered, you don’t have to worry about advancing any steps or finding an electrical plug. It comes equipped with a high volume air pump and three different speed settings so you can choose how fast your dock is inflated.
Benefits of an Inflatable Floating Dock:
1) Convenient – Unlike hard docks, inflatable platforms are incredibly easy to set up and put away in between uses.
You simply roll them out onto the water and inflate them in a matter of minutes; they’re also lightweight and compact which makes them perfect for transporting to other locations if needed!
2) Affordable – While they may not be as durable as traditional docks, inflating swimming platforms like the ones we’ve listed here cost significantly less than their solid counterparts .
3) Environmentally-Friendly – Inflatable docks are also much better when you compare them to hard docks in terms of environmental impact .
If a solid dock is damaged or needs to be replaced, it usually means that the wood will have to be burned or buried which takes up valuable space in landfills.
For this reason, we highly recommend inflatable floating docks for families looking to get more use out of their dock while saving money and the environment at the same time!
Reviews Of The 3 Best Inflatable Docks Of 2021:
BOTE Inflatable Lake Float:
- The BOTE inflatable lake float is perfect for anyone who wants an inexpensive platform on which they can relax.
- It has a seating capacity of up to 9 (or up to 1,000 lbs), plus thanks to its 3-layer construction you don’t have to worry about punctures or tears! Enjoy your own floating island and extra space with comfortable foam mats.
Sunjoy Inflatable Dock With Removable Tubes:
- Sale Sunjoy 12′ x 30″ Classic Series Vinyl Boat Float with 4-Corner Attachment Rings & 2 Anchors A weight capacity of up to 927 lbs
- Puncture resistant material; carry storage bag included for easy transport and storage
- We also love the removable tubes that come standard with this dock. They allow you to adjust the depth of the water easily, which makes this product perfect for families with small children!
- Can be assembled or disassembled within 30-45 minutes
Sure Foot inflatable dock:
- The Sure Foot is one of the most unique docks that we’ve ever seen. It has a built-in weight system at each corner so you no longer have to worry about where you lay your anchor!
- However, what’s really impressive here are its 4 air chambers . Since there are four separate chambers, it means that it inflates much more quickly than other inflatable floating docks. In fact, as soon as one chamber is full they all fill up simultaneously which drastically reduces the time it takes to set up your dock.
Floating Dock Repair Kit
If your floating dock takes on a puncture or tear, you’ll probably notice a change in the super rigid or extreme rigidity changed.
It is important to have a repair kit on hand or nearby to patch any holes or defects. The best inflatable docks however, have drop stitch technology which means that they can be repaired very easily.
Halkey Roberts Valves:
For those who need a quick fix, Halkey-Roberts valves are designed to be easy and convenient.
These inflatable valve repairs do not require the dock or tube to completely deflate as you would with other pumps such as Boston valves. They just need to reduce the pressure slightly so that the patch can seal the hole.
Rip Stop Repair Tape:
If your docks fabric is too weak forhigh pressure punctures, another option is rip stop tape which provide extra protection and heavy duty reinforcement.
Since these kits come ready made and in different sizes, it makes them perfect if you want something that’s extremely versatile and will fit any size or style of dock with extra play space!
source https://www.worldsailingcharters.com/inflatable-dock-guide/
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