Acknowledgments

Introduction

Chapter 1 Inflating History

The Dead Pig Theory

The Inflatable Boat in Ancient History

The Modern Inflatable

Chapter 2 How Inflatable Boats Are Made

Neoprene and Hypalon

Polyvinyl Chloride

Fabrics

Color

The Future Is Yet to Come

Construction Details

Chapter 3 Why an Inflatable?

Types of Inflatable Boats

The Uses of Inflatable Boats

Chapter 4 Selecting a Boat

Do I Really Need an Inflatable?

How Will I Use the Boat?

Where Will I Keep the Boat?

How Much Do I Want to Spend?

Buying a Used Inflatable

Buying a New Inflatable

Chapter 5 Outboards, Oars, and Other Options

Outboard Motors

Tiller Extensions

Wheel Steering

Oars and Paddles

Launching Wheels

Air Pumps

Other Options

Chapter 6 Operating an Inflatable

Safety

Rowing and Paddling

Poling

Sailing

Powering

Towing the Inflatable

Stowing the Inflatable Dinghy on Deck

Stowing the RIB Dinghy

Inflatables as Towboats

Anchoring

Security

Chapter 7 Storage, Trailers, and Transportation

Winter Storage

In-Season Storage

Trailers

Covers

Chapter 8 Inflatable Maintenance

Preventive Maintenance

Checking for Leaks

The Hard Parts

Bottom Paint

Registration Numbers and Boat Names

Chapter 9 Repairs You Can Do Yourself

Minor Damage

Leaking Seams

Catastrophic Damage

Permanent Repairs

Repairs to Ancillary Equipment

Appendix A: Sources of Supply

Appendix B: Inflatable Boat Companies

Index