Folding cockpit cushions

[Paul Cossman]

I have a Hunter P42 (center cockpit) and it's time to replace the cockpit cushions. For ease of stowage, I'm thinking of replacing the long cushions (that orient for'd/aft) with either two separate pieces, or one piece that would fold over with some kind of connecting piece.

I keep anti-skid material under the entire set of cushions, so it doesn't seem like these would be more prone to slippage than one longer piece.

Has anybody done this? If so, could you share any of the problems/disadvantages you encountered?

 

[Steve Dion]

Paul:

I think this is an excellent idea. If you get some cushions like BottomSiders they can probably provide the material and glue to create a hinge.

 

[sinnettc]

My only thought is that if they get wet you'll want to store them fully or partially open until they dry, otherwise you're likely to get mildew between the "bottoms"

 

[sailingdog]

Depends on whether the hinge is on the top or bottom. With the hinge on top, the cushions will tend to pop up if you sit on the hinge, but the bottoms will be exposed when folded for storage and there's no gap in the cushions. With the hinge on the bottom, they'll be more stable, but there will be a gap between them, and the bottoms will be hidden when folded.

Personally, I like having the hinge on top, since the tops will be protected from more wear and tear that way when stowed.

My only thought is that if they get wet you'll want to store them fully or partially open until they dry, otherwise you're likely to get mildew between the "bottoms"

 

[zeehag]

i was given some of the 60 dolllar folding seat type cushions--i store them hanging in my cockpit--lol--boat is large enough to do that and still have room for more than i need to store there, and still get around..lol--they are great----improves the comfort factor greatly but they do not wet well....might have to try thompsons water seal on them....

 

[larryw]

Two years ago I had a local upholstery guy replicate the old flat mesh cockpit cushions with thicker foam. They work great, held in place with snaps on tabs, but then I got two of those blue folding padded seat things that can go flat. Put the new set of cushions down below and only use them now for parties and such, never sail with them anymore. those blue things and a couple of throwable cushions seem to do it.