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Inflatable Boat Fabric divides into two main types: PVC and Hypalon/CSM fabrics. Both of these materials are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, each has their pros and cons.
PVC
The common material used to make inflatable boats is a plastic called polyvinyl chloride, or PVC for short. It's a tough, lightweight and affordable choice, although it isn't as durable or resistant to UV rays as hypalon and can easily become damaged by rust or corrosion.
Pros: It's easy to clean and can be re-glued for a quick repair.
Con: It can get brittle over time and is less resistant to abrasions than CSM or Neoprene.
Most Mercury, Sea Eagle and Zodiac inflatable boats are made of PVC. Caribe, AB and Achilles were made with Hypalon in the past but Hypalon was discontinued by its manufacturer Dupont and is now sold under a new name: CSM (Chlorosulfonated Synthetic Rubber).
Another option for inflatable boats is a polyurethane coating. While it's relatively new to the boat manufacturing industry, polyurethane has been found to be more durable and abrasion-resistant than PVC or neoprene/CSM.
Currently, many inflatable boat manufacturers offer PVC-covered inflatable boats and CSM-covered inflatable boats. Regardless of which type you choose, it is vital to keep your inflatable boat out of direct sunlight and away from sharp objects. It's also important to use a protective cover on your inflatable boat when it is not in use.
