Cordura vs. Sunbrella: Choosing the Right Fabric for Custom Boat Gunwale Mats

A gunwale boarding mat is specifically designed to protect a boat from marks and scratches. Custom gunwale mats offer the ability to add your own personal touch to your boat with your choice of an embroidered boat name, text, design or logo. 

One of the first design choices you’ll have to make is choosing between Cordura and Sunbrella fabric. While both fabric options offer benefits such as durability and resistance to fading, there are some differences between the two to consider. 

Cordura and Sunbrella Materials for Marine Use

Even though Cordura and Sunbrella are typically available in the same colors, each fabric differs in construction and performance. Cordura is constructed out of high-tenacity nylon bands. Because of this, it offers exceptional strength and flexibility, which makes it ideal for marine accessories like gunwale mats.

Sunbrella is a solution-dyed acrylic fabric that is engineered to withstand excessive sun exposure and marine conditions. It offers high UV resistance, which is perfect for environments like boat gunwales which are exposed to direct sunlight and saltwater on a regular basis. 

Key Differences Between Cordura and Sunbrella 

Because of the constant moisture, UV rays and saltwater exposure, the marine environment creates unique challenges for boat accessory materials. Because of this, it’s important to weigh some of the differences between Cordura and Sunbrella to ensure your boat stays protected and looks great season after season:

• Durability and flexibility: Cordura and Sunbrella are designed for outdoor use, Cordura is more lightweight and flexible, making it easy to contour around curved gunwales. Sunbrella is a more durable, stiff material, which makes it a better option for mats that will experience more foot traffic.
• Cost: Cordura is usually more budget-friendly, making it a great option for boaters who need high-performance mats without a high price tag. Meanwhile, Sunbrella offers a few additional premium features and extended longevity, making it a great investment.
• UV and weather resistance: Even though both fabrics are designed for outdoor use, Sunbrella provides exceptional UV resistance. Even if your gunwale mats will be in full sun for most of the boating season, you won’t have to worry about it fading. Meanwhile, daily sun exposure will cause Cordura to lose some of its color over time. 
• Maintenance and cleaning: Both Cordura and Sunbrella are easy to care for and keep clean with a gentle soap and water. Sunbrella tends to be a bit more stain-resistant and mold/ mildew-resistant than Cordura, but both can stay looking good as new with the right maintenance and care. 

Customize a Cordura or Sunbrella Gunwale Mat

When you choose Matworks, you can trust that you’re investing in a gunwale mat that will enhance your boat’s function and appearance. No matter what kind of boat you have, we can craft a custom gunwale mat that will make your boat stand out on the water. 

Check out our gunwale options and give us a call at 770-663-0040 if you have any questions.