When choosing boat wheels, consider price, ease of installation, intended use, and material. Plastic wheels are cheaper but less buoyant, while inflatable tires have better traction. Wide wheels are better for sand. Consider whether to attach wheels directly to the boat or use a dolly. Overall value and frequency of use should also be considered.
Before choosing a set of boat wheels, there are a few things to consider, including price, ease of installation, and intended use. Perhaps the most important factor is the material of the wheels. Solid plastic wheels are inexpensive and less buoyant, but wheels with inflatable tires often have better traction. It’s also important to make sure the wheels can move smoothly on the sand, so wide wheels may be a better choice than narrow ones that can get stuck. You may also want to consider whether it is better to purchase a dolly for your boat or to attach the wheels directly to the boat.
There are two main types of boat wheels: wheels made of hard plastic, such as polyethylene, and rubber tires. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. When choosing between these materials, you should consider the surface you plan to roll the boat on.
Plastic wheels are generally less expensive than inflatable tires, and may be easier to drop into the water when bringing a boat to shore because they are not buoyant. They work best on hard surfaces like pavement, rocks, and packed sand. However, plastic wheels don’t roll well in loose sand, so beach goers may not find them ideal.
Wheels with inflatable tires, although more expensive, have the advantage of working well on all surfaces. Tires can be purchased with treads to increase traction on slippery surfaces. Some boat owners find that deflating the pneumatic tires allows the boat to roll on the sand more easily.
Surface area is also important when choosing a set of boat wheels. The larger the surface area, the better the wheels will perform in the sand. The narrow wheels dig grooves into the sandy surfaces that make it difficult for a boat to roll, especially a heavier boat.
Boat wheels vary in how they are installed. Some kits bolt directly to the transom or rear area of the boat so they can be flipped or lowered into position when needed. Plastic wheel sets are often removable or attached to a dolly frame. When deciding on a kit, think ahead about how often you’ll be rolling the boat and whether the boat’s size and structure warrant installing a heavy-duty set of wheels.
Overall value is another factor to consider. It is possible to buy used boat wheels online or from some marine equipment dealers, but many boaters opt for new wheels. First, consider whether wheels are necessary for your particular style of boating. Some boats are light enough to carry, so if you’re a casual boater in good health, you may want to forgo wheels altogether. If you are a frequent user of your boat, or prefer ease of transport, it may make sense to invest more in a higher-end set of wheels.
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