What Features Make an Inflatable Tender a Must-Have Item? Let’s Find Out!

Aug. 7 2025, Published 2:15 a.m. ET
Are you a boater? Do you love recreational water sports or activities? If so, an inflatable tender is a device you must consider investing in. They are easy to store, versatile, and portable.
You can use them as a dinghy for your fishing boat or yacht. Some people also use this tender as a sturdy shore-hopper. Therefore, you must select the correct device. Advancements in technology have led to enhancements in features in tenders.
In this article, we will discuss some of the essential features you need to look for in this product.
Quality of material
The material impacts its longevity. For instance, the PVC ones are lightweight and come at a lower price. Hence, it is a good choice for occasional or casual use. But if you want durability in the long run, you might have to choose a different material. Here, Hypalon is a wise choice as it ensures that your device can resist chemicals, abrasions, as well as UV rays. Today, some advanced models blend in both Hypalon and PVC that offer a robust build and are cost-effective too.
Load and size
There are several sizes in which these tenders are available. Typically, they vary between 6 and 15 feet. So, when you are planning to invest in one, you need to think about the passenger count it will carry daily. That aside, you should also be aware of the type of device or gear required for transportation. If there are 3 to 4 people or a family, then you can opt for a 10-foot tender. Finally, check the tender’s maximum load accommodating capacity so that you don’t overload it.
Power rating and motor compatibility
The majority of these tenders are designed in a way that it is well synced with an outboard motor. This year, an increased number of models are adding electric outboards, which are affordable and quieter. Make sure that the tender you select has the correct horsepower rating and transom strength for the device you intend to use. In case a tender gets overpowered, it can affect its stability and security.
Finally, purchasing this tender needs careful consideration. This is because there are more options and advanced features than before. You need to figure out the storage requirements, boating style, and usage to decide the model best suited for you.
Security features
Safety should be your primary concern, irrespective of the year. Therefore, here you need to search for several air chambers. Three is a good number. This ensures that your boat is floating even if one of the chambers is punctured. A few other vital features to look out for are grab ropes, lifelines, and non-slip floors. There are new models in the market that are available with reinstated kneels for improved handling and tracking.
To know more about this, you can browse through furthercustoms.com and check out the options they offer. It will help you to choose a tender that matches your requirements and budget.

Final words
This tender that matches your requirements helps to enhance your overall boating experience. It also offers the reliability you need and keeps you safe. Therefore, choosing it wisely is essential.