A RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) can be fitted with inflatable tubes made from either Hypalon (a synthetic rubber) or PVC (a type of vinyl polymer). The choice between these materials significantly affects the boat’s durability, performance, and lifespan in different conditions.
Walk along any marina and you’ll hear the same sentence over and over: “We’re going out in the inflatable. It’s a RIB.”Sometimes that’s true. Often, it’s not. In everyday language, people mix up “inflatable boat” and “RIB” as if they were the same thing. In reality, a RIB is a very specific kind of inflatable – one that combines a rigid hull with inflatable tubes. That design detail is exactly what gives a RIB its performance, safety, and price tag. This article explains:
Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) are sought-after for their stability, performance, and versatility. Whether you're looking for a compact tender or an offshore powerhouse, understanding RIB pricing is key. Aluminum-hulled RIBs have gained popularity for their durability and value, and this guide will focus on these models (like those from Hedia).
Introduction: Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) are known for their versatility and toughness, combining a hard hull with inflatable tubes (also called “collars”). In particular, aluminum-hull RIBs (such as those made by Hedia) are prized for strength and low weight. But a common question among boat dealers and informed buyers is: How long do the inflatable parts of an RIB last?
