The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Dock Line
When it comes to boating, securing your vessel to the dock is an essential step. A good dock line will keep your boat in place, preventing any unwanted movements or accidents. However, with so many options available, choosing the right dock line can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you select the best dock line for your needs.
Transient vs. Permanent Dock Lines
Before you start shopping for a dock line, it’s important to understand the difference between transient and permanent dock lines. Transient dock lines are used for temporary docking and are usually shorter in length. Permanent dock lines, on the other hand, are used for long-term mooring and are typically longer in length. It’s important to have both types of dock lines on hand for different boating scenarios.
What to Look for in a Quality Dock Line
Material
Dock lines come in a variety of materials, including nylon, polypropylene, and cotton. Nylon is the most popular material due to its strength and durability. However, polypropylene is more lightweight and floats in the water, making it easier to retrieve if it falls in the water. Cotton is a more traditional material that is often used for permanent dock lines, but it’s not as durable as nylon or polypropylene.
Eyelet
Eyelets are loops at the end of some dock lines that are used to quickly secure to cleats, whether on your boat or the dock. Look for a dock line with eyelets on both ends for added versatility and ease of use.
Chafe Guard
Chafe guards are tubes placed toward the ends of lines to help them resist fraying. Look for a dock line with a chafe guard to help prolong the life of the line.
Top Dock Lines on the Market
Innocedear Premium Navy Blue Dock Line Two-Pack
What you need to know:
This durable double pack is made of double braided military-grade nylon that is treated to withstand the damage of salt and fresh water, weather and sunlight. It comes in three sizes to fit any boat’s needs.
What you need to know:
What you’ll love:
The Innocedear Premium Navy Blue Dock Line is made of tough nylon, so you can rest assured that your boat won’t be going anywhere. It’s also treated to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring it will last for years to come.
What you’ll love:
What you should consider:
The nylon and treatment make this line feel a little slick in the hand. A few consumers received a different size than they ordered.
What you should consider:
Where to buy:
Sold by Amazon
Where to buy:
Airhead Bungee Dock Line
What you need to know:
It’s a short line that’s great for quick tying.
What you need to know:
What you’ll love:
The Airhead Bungee Dock Lineicioui
What you’ll love:
The Airhead Bungee Dock Line comes in 4-, 5- or 6-foot lengths and has an internal bungee cord that gives it some stretch and snap back. It also has eyelets at both ends for easy and strong security, and foam chafe guards protect the line and float in case it falls in the water.
What you should consider:
This line is best used for short-term transient docking rather than permanent security. It can wear out after a few months if used heavily.
What you should consider:
Where to buy:
Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Where to buy:
SeaSense Solid Braid Dock Line
What you need to know:
This line has a medium length and diameter for a low cost.
What you need to know:
What you’ll love:
The SeaSense Solid Braid Dock Line is 15 feet long and a half-inch in diameter. It’s made of multi-filament polypropylene for durability and flexibility, and has a chafe guard and eyelet on one end. It floats for easy retrieval, and it ships in a recyclable storage box.
What you’ll love:
What you should consider:
A few purchasers had issues with fraying. Others reported a tendency for wood posts to leave splinters in the line.
What you should consider:
Where to buy:
Sold by Amazon
Where to buy:
Dock Line FAQ
1. How should I maintain my dock lines?
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Maintaining a dock line involves proper storage and cleaning. Make sure to store your dock line in a cool, dry place and clean it regularly to remove any dirt or debris. This will help prolong the life of your line.
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2. How much should I expect to spend on a dock line?
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The cost of a dock line can range anywhere from $10 to a few hundred dollars. Short and thin lines shouldn’t cost more than $15, while the average line costs $15-$30. Lines costing $50 or more are extra long and thick.
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3. How long does a dock line last?
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The lifespan of a dock line depends on how well you maintain it and how often you use it. If you maintain it properly and use it sparingly, it should last for two or three years on average. If you use it heavily and constantly, it may only last for roughly six months.
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4. What size dock line do I need?
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The size of dock line you need is dependent on the length of your boat. As a general rule, you should have a minimum diameter of one-eighth of an inch for every 9 feet of boat length. For example, if your boat is 45 feet long, you should have a line that’s five-eighths of an inch thick.
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5. What material is best for a dock line?
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The best material for a dock line depends on your individual needs and
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