boat covers?

[slick2526]

I need a boat cover for my 87 alumacraft competitor 16.5ft. How well do the universal fit ones do that you can buy at fleet farm? Will they hold up or work well when pulling the boat down the road? should I get a custom fit one instead?

[jquittum]

After trying both universal and "custom" fit covers; my vote would be to get one custom made. You bring your boat in, leave it for a few days, and leave with a very nice cover for your boat. Two "custom" fit covers will pay for the real deal.

[Capt. H (Ret.)]

I would't recommend a "universal fit". Friends of mine have had these covers and they don't hold up going down the road plus when they start flapping there goes the paint. I had one made at the local tent and awning many years ago and it was a good cover. If it developed a hole I had it repaired to prevent any further damage. I've always wanted a snap on cover but just couldn't see the benefit of rivets that they install.

The last cover I bought I actually got from my Alumacraft dealer and it has been a good cover.

Mike

[langford]

Try Cover Quest. I would recommend semi-custom or custom fit.

[slick2526]

thanks for the info

[SkunkedAgain]

When you drive down the road and see covers acting like sails on a boat, there are typically two reasons:

1) Universal fit cover

2) Custom cover but the owner doesn't know how to use it properly

The universal fits just aren't as good for trailering. Some work well in the beginning but will not hold up well in rains or high winds. I say all that despite the fact that I'm a no-cover guy

[Walleye Guy]

Most of the universal fit covers are storage covers and are not not very good when traveling down the road. You get what you pay for when it comes to boat covers.