Cockpit cushions - foam vs fabric

[Igetit]

I am shopping cockpit cushions for a Hunter 270, and either way I go (foam or fabric covered) the cost is going to be ~ $1k shipped. Anyone have an opinion based on experience with one or the other? The store has two basic options, BottomSiders vs Sunsure Fabric. I'm sure there are less expensive options elsewhere, but I don't like cluttering the cockpit with lots of throwables, pillows, etc. Priorities would be comfort & durability.

 

[Phil Herring]

Before others weigh in let me add a little of our experience: The BottomSiders tend to be slightly more durable, as the Sunsure skins will wear over time. That said, you might to be talking 12+ years vs 10+ years, and even that difference will depend on how you care for and use them.

The Sunsure seems to be preferred in really hot climates, while the BottomSiders are a better solution for places where you get rain. BottomSiders can be quickly and easily wiped dry, the Sunsure catches a little water. But, the Sunsure and its mesh fabric breathe a bit better than the BottomSiders' vinyl coating.

For example, we see that BS are more popular in WA and ME, while Sunsure is the winner in FL. Both have been in production for a long time and IMHO are the best of their respective styles.

 

[Les]

Phil left off one point that you should consider--color. I have BottomSiders (I hate calling them "BS" as it reflects on my character) that are gray. I had on another boat dark blue and they would heat up even here in the northwest. White is good but it tends to get dirty easily.

Another point for BottomSiders is that they are easy to clean. A spray of Z-Clear and wipe down with a microfiber cloth and you're done.

Whatever, good luck on your choice.

 

[Igetit]

Thanks for the replies, guys.

Phil, do you know if the Sunsure covers are machine washable, or are they permanently sewn to the cushion? That sounds like the best option for me from the climate perspective, but ease of cleaning is important also.

 

[Steve Dion]

We just throw towels over our bottom siders during the summer. All of the cushions get HOT in the sun.

You can get the vinyl from BS if you get a tear in the foam.

 

[seadaddler]

Sunsure

Pretty sure mine are sunsure that came from Hunter with my 07 H-36 and just did clean wash them in my driveway with bleach and water mix with scrub brush and did not take the foam out of them too much trouble for me once before.
I rinsed them real good with garden hose in driveway but did leave them out in the sun to dry for many days before returning to boat.
Nick