Boats are the gateways to the endless wonders of the open water and ensure that you never miss a moment of adventure when out there. Buying a boat is more like owning a home where so much thought and money goes into the selection and purchase of this worthy investment. That said, any boat owner will affirm that having a boat is no cheap investment in terms of maintenance and all the other countless accessories that you need to keep it in top-notch shape. One such necessary accessory is a boat cover that helps preserve the life of your boat.
Investing in a boat cover is necessary since there are days or weeks when you park your boat as you wait for the next favorable time for a water adventure. Boat covers help shield your precious investment from damage due to exposure to weather elements such as rain, sun, and snow. The cover also prevents dust, debris, and mold from invading your boat as it sits. With a boat cover, you don’t have to worry about your interior depreciating due to extended periods of exposure to the sun.
Picking the right boat cover for your beautiful investment is not an easy feat and requires careful selection. We have researched widely and brought you some of the best boat covers available in the market that will save you time, money, and ensure your boat is well protected. Let’s dig in.
Top 10 Boat Covers of 2020 Reviewed
1. MSC Heavy Duty Waterproof Boat Cover
Best Heavy Duty Boat Cover
Shield any boat with this best selling heavy duty boat cover from MSC. It’s made of marine grade polyester that has a double PU coating. The waterproof cover is multipurpose and can cover your boat while it’s sitting at the docks or when out traveling on the highway.
It comes with adjustable straps with an elastic cord sewn on the hem to provide a tight and customizable fit. The buckles release quickly and help hold the cover firmly in place. The boat cover comes in different sizes that can fit V-hull fishing boats, runabouts, and ski boats. You will also get a sizeable storage bag to store the boat cover when not in use.
Pros:
- Waterproof with double PU coating
- Adjustable straps and quick release buckle
- Designed for different types of boats
Cons:
- Color fades quickly
- Elastic sides may fray
- No returns if the size doesn’t fit
2. Seamander Trailerable Runabout Boat Cover
Best Trailerable Boat Cover
Keep your boat protected and in good working condition by investing in this high-grade Trailerable boat cover from Seamander. It’s made of high quality 600D marine grade polycanvas material that will keep debris, dust, and other harmful elements away. Its interlocking double stitched seams will not run and will hold firmly in place when stretched.
The cover also comes with an advanced strap system that secures the cover firmly in place for added trailability. The strong shock cord ensures a tight fit that withstands even the strongest winds. This all-weather boat protector will not disappoint and will ensure that your investment is always in good condition. It comes with a two-year warranty and a mesh storage bag to keep it when not in use. You can also choose from 8 marine-friendly colors such as beige, forest green, and pacific blue.
Pros:
- Made of high-grade polycanvas material
- Elastic shock cord for a better fit
- Mesh storage bag
Cons:
- Waterproofing ability could be better
- Needs a support pole
- Size fitting is a headache
3. RVMasking Full-Size Boat Cover
Best Full Size Boat Cover
Your precious boat couldn’t better be protected than with this full-size boat cover that has been made using high-grade materials. It boasts of 3 layer protection with triple corner reinforcement at the front and rear to act as an ultimate shield. It’s made of waterproof 800D polyester that has PU and UV coating to shield your boat from harmful elements. The waterproof strip at the seam also ensures that no water leaks in.
Its moisture guard vent system ensures that the cover is breathable and ensures that no moisture builds up under it. The boat cover also prevents mildew from building up, which helps increase its lifespan. The 11 adjustable straps are long enough for a good tie down and have a durable metallic buckle for a better fit. To make the cover wind proof, it has an elastic sewn seam that’s well stitched and offers a customized fit. Better yet, you get a free cover for the motor. Its available in two sizes; 17-19 feet and 20-22 feet which is good for V-hull runabouts, outboards and bass boats.
Pros:
- Breathable with moisture guard vent system
- 11 adjustable strips
- Includes a free motor cover
Cons:
- Limited sizes available
- Material is a bit harsh and may cause scratches
- Sewn strap doesn’t hold tight
4. Classic Accessories StormPro Heavy-Duty Boat Cover
Best Polyester Boat Cover
The StormPro boat cover from Classic Accessories is just what you need to protect your boat and retain its value. It’s made of 100% polyester that won’t shrink or stretch. The fabric coating technology on the cover is extremely durable and is designed for maximum water repellency. It’s also resistant to UV rays, fights the build-up of mildew, and provides all-weather protection.
The boat protector comes with a support pole that helps prevent pooling and further preserves the cover. The dual rear vents also prevent the build-up of mildew. The vents come with built-in stiffeners that reduce wind pressure while allowing any moisture to escape.
The cover also has an elastic cord that gives a customized fit that will hold it firmly in place. The solid buckle system allows better fitting and makes trailering easier. It also has a full cut that provides more room for other accessories such as bow rails and running lights. Other features include a durable storage bag and a five-year warranty on the product.
Pros:
- Dual rear vents fight off moisture
- Stiffeners to fight the build-up of moisture
- Includes a support pole
Cons:
- Better stitching needed
- May fade fast
- Substandard waterproofing
5. Budge Sportsman 1200 Denier B-621-X7 Boat Cover
Best Denier Boat Cover
Budge is one brand that has been in the car and boat cover industry since 1940, where it has continued to provide its customers with reliable and dependable products. One such product is the Sportsman B-621-X7 that is made of heavy 1200 Denier fabric that is capable of withstanding harsh weather elements such as heavy rain and snow. It’s 100% waterproof and is UV coated to prevent fading due to extended exposure to sunlight.
It’s sewn in straps help preserve the boat cover and allow added convenience during trailering. The fully elastic hem is well stitched and fits snugly all-round the boat. The seams are also taped to prevent water from getting in. The cover also boasts of pocket vents to allow moisture to escape and prevent the build-up of mold and mildew. The cover is available in multiple sizes that will fit a wide variety of boats such as V-hull boats, deck boats, and fishing boats.
Pros:
- Heavy waterproof Denier fabric construction
- UV coated to prevent fading
- Fully elastic hem for a better fit
Cons:
- Fabric may give way easily
- The seams may leak
- Some straps are flimsy
6. AmazonBasics Boat Cover
Best Boat Cover for V-Hull Runabouts
If you own a V-Hull Runabout boat, then this boat cover from AmazonBasics will meet and exceed your expectations. It’s made of 100% polyester and is designed to fit V-hull runabouts measuring 20-22 feet. The boat cover won’t shrink or stretch and has a long-lasting, secure fit. The cover comes in an outdoor-friendly beige color that easily cleans in warm water. It’s also backed by a one-year limited warranty from AmazonBasics.
Pros:
- Quality polyester construction
- Outdoor friendly color that doesn’t fade
- Easily cleans in warm water
Cons:
- Available in only one size
- Not waterproof
- Straps are too short
7. Leader Accessories Trailerable Runabout Boat Cover
Best Breathable Boat Cover
Expertly crafted is the way to describe this trailerable boat cover from Leader Accessories. It’s made of heavy-duty 600D marine grade polyester with a Urethane coating. Its seams are double stitched to ensure that water doesn’t pass through. Additionally, each of the seams has been reinforced with poly-web straps for a long haul. The bottom hem has an elastic cord that helps the cover to fit snugly.
The rear has air vents that let moisture escape which helps prevent the buildup of mold and mildew. For it to fit easily, it has an adjustable buckle and straps that release quickly. It comes in six models with different sizes and five colors, including black, grey, and green. The package includes a mesh bag to store the boat cover.
Pros:
- Reinforced Straps
- Rear air vents to let moisture out
- Double stitched to prevent water leaking in
Cons:
- Straps may be too short for some boats
- Doesn’t include a support pole
- Some colors may fade
8. North Captain Trailerable Boat Cover
Best Boat Cover for Windy Areas
North Captain brings you this heavy-duty boat cover that will protect your boat from harsh weather elements and debris. It’s made of 600D polyester material which is UV resistant and resistant to tears and mildew. It’s double stitched with a waterproof strip that ensures water doesn’t leak in. The rear boasts of dual air vents that help reduce wind pressure and let moisture out.
The boat cover can be used for storage and trailerbility as you cruise the highway. It’s equipped with 11 adjustable straps that are held in place by a strong windproof buckle. You can select from the three available sizes that accommodate different lengths. You can also choose between black and grey and store the cover in the provided bag when not in use.
Pros:
- Made of 600D polyester
- Has eleven adjustable straps with windproof buckle
- Dual rear vents
Cons:
- Can be small for some boats
- No windshield
- Limited color options
9. iCOVER Jon Boat Cover
Best Boat Cover for Small, Trailerable Boats
Protect your boat with this boat cover from iCOVER that’s made of 300D polyester that’s waterproof. It has a heavy elastic cord sewn around the hemline to keep it secure and ensure it has a snug fit. It has adjustable straps and a strong buckle that holds everything firmly in place. It’s extra roomy with extra stitching on the seams to ensure it serves you for long.
Pros:
- Heavy elastic cord on the hemline
- Adjustable straps
- Extra roomy
Cons:
- Sizing is wrong
- Weak material
- Not 100% waterproof
10. Brightent-Boat covers
Best UV Resistant Boat Cover
Ensure that your boat is well protected with this heavy-duty cover from Brightent. It’s made of 600D polyester that’s UV resistant, water resistant and doesn’t allow the growth of mildew. It also comes with an 18-meter extra belt that ensures the cover remains firmly in place from the front to the rear of the boat. It has a set of 9 belts with 4 upper ones and 4 lower ones for a secure fit. The cover is available in three different sizes and comes with a free bag for storage.
Pros:
- Extra-long belt
- Made of 600D polyester
- Available in three sizes
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a cover for the motor
- Better waterproofing ability necessary
- Doesn’t have a snug fit
How to Choose the Best Boat Cover: The Ultimate Buying Guide
Boats are a great way to explore and enjoy the endless wonders of open water. In all honesty, boats don’t come cheap and is an investment that will cost you thousands of dollars. Given an option, boat owners could spend their entire lives out in the water, but that’s difficult, especially in extreme weather. At some point, your boat will need a break and sit out for some time before the next adventure. During these moments of rest, it’s important to cover your investment with a quality boat cover so that it doesn’t depreciate.
Why Invest in a Boat Cover?
Leaving your boat our in the open can cause damage on it due to several elements out there. Here are some reasons for covering it up;
- Keeps debris and dust from settling on the boat
- Most covers are waterproof which repels water and moisture
- Prevents growth of mold and mildew which may make your boat lose value
- Helps prevent fading due to extended exposure to sunlight
- Helps extend the life of different parts of the boat
What Type of Cover is Best for your Boat?
Boat covers come in a variety of types and sizes which are designed to cater to the different boat models out there.
Trailering versus Storage covers- The two main types of boat covers that you will come across are storage and trailering covers. Storage boat covers have a loose fit and are mostly used to protect your boat as it sits out in the dock. Trailering covers are designed to fit snugly with exceptional ability to withstand strong winds and rigorous driving on the highway.
Choosing the Right Fabric for a Boat Cover
The material used to make a boat cover plays a major role in its efficiency in protecting your boat. You will come across three main types of materials when it comes to boat covers; polyester, nylon, and cotton blend. When picking the fabric to go for, the weather in the area where the boat will sit plays a major role in your decision. Generally, the fabric should be water repellant, UV resistant, durable, breathable, and stain resistant.
For humid areas, the fabric should be highly breathable, which will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew. If the boat sits in an area that has heavy rain or snow, then the fabric should be 100% waterproof. For boats docked in dry or hot areas, the boat cover used should be UV coated to prevent fading and cracking due to sun rays.
Keep in Mind….
The following are some more points to keep in mind as you shop for an ideal boat cover for your boat. They include;
Sung Fit – It’s important to ensure that the cover will fit snugly around the boat. Having an elaborate strap system with a buckle ensures that the cover remains firmly in place. A loose fitting cover will do some damage to your boat since it will let water in and letting wind rub against your boat. The best way to know the right fit for a boat is to measure it and use the manufacturer’s sizing chart to pick the appropriate size of the boat cover.
Type of Boat – Different covers are customized to fit specific types of boats. You have to ensure that your choice is designed for the boat you have invested in. Whether it’s a bass boat, V-hull boat, fishing boat or any other boat out there, you will get a cover for it.
Conclusion
Having spent thousands of dollars investing in a boat, it’s important to take good care of it so that you can enjoy many years of adventure. Having a good boat cover will protect your boat from any damage and help retain its value. Hopefully, you have spotted the best boat cover in this review that will perfectly fit your boat and meet your expectations.
