Aluminum boats are quite the scratch beater but hey sometimes luck can run out. And a ferocious corner can scratch your beloved boat forever. So, for that extra protection and a guaranteed dent-free boat ride you can use a boat keel protector.
They will ensure that you don’t end up with a hint of despair when you head out in the open with your boat. But wait, just any keel protector will do. You need the best aluminum boat keel protector.
However, it is not easy to find something that will be perfect for you. It is a hard task to get something that you craft in your mind. But hey, we believe that we can help you find the right one or at least something close to it.
Thus, we have listed a total of 10 keel protectors that are the top-rated ones in the market. You can run over their features and benefits and tell us which one suits you. Or pick one for yourself and buy yourself one.
But, if you get lost along the way then fret not. For we have a buyer’s guide. It will show you the path of where to head in order to find the true knight for your boat.
Now, if you are hooked we can go get the engines started.
Aluminum Boat Keel Protector – Our Top Picks
1. Gator Guards KeelShield Keel Guard
Product Overview
First and foremost, we have the Gator Guards KeelShield Keel Guard. This one has made it to the top of our list. And for the right reasons. You see, it has endured a lot to be here. But let’s take a moment to know why it made the cut-
Well, if we were forced to highlight one point we would have to say that this keel guard has multiple sizes. You see, this keel protector has a range of sizes available to you. So, you can choose anywhere from 4 to 12 inches.
Hence, if you have a small boat you can get the 4 ft ones. They cover 12 ft boats quite easily. But if you need something bigger then go for the 12 inches one. The width isn’t too bad. It is 5 inches, in fact.
That will give you a lot of coverage. So, you will be able to ensure that the keel of the boat is covered from head to toe. Plus, the keel protector has been formulated in such a way that it stays on the boat for quite a while.
In other words, it won’t simply peel away once you install it. Speaking of which, it is very easy to install this keel protector. You know, even a newbie who has never used a keel protector will be able to install the protector in its place.
This is because there is no need for mixing or curing with this keel protector. It is simply a process of peeling off the upper layer front of the keel protector and sticking it on.
The highest time duration it will take is an hour. After that, you’re done.
Moreover, the Gator guards keel protector is strong and durable. It will stay on the boat even when the tides are against it and try to pull it apart from its one true love: your boat.
Plus, it is quite versatile in nature. You see, it doesn’t only stick to aluminum boats, it will also stick to boats made of fiberglass. So, you can use it with your other boats, if you have any.
- Can be used on multiple boats
- Sticks to the boat quite well
- Easy to install
- Different sizes are available
- It is quite durable
- Needs immediate application after the adhesion pad is taken off
2. Megaware ScuffBuster Keel Guard
Product Overview
In the second place, we have the one and only Megaware ScuffBuster Keel Guard. Now, this one might be the runner-up but what a competition it gave. Almost made the cut but alas it had to settle for second place.
But what does this one offer?
Before we dive in too deep let’s start by talking about the size. You see, compared to the previous one, this one is pretty smaller. Its dimension is 5.75 by 4.5 inches. Now, this one is customized for all the smaller boats out there.
But it is quite easy to use. All you have to do is bend it a little from the center and make sure it aligns with the center of the boat’s hull. Plus, when it does attach to the boat it sticks on to it quite well.
This is because the keel protector has great adhesion properties. They glue onto the boat pretty fast and stay on there for a long time. And while it does it also ensures that no harm comes in the way of the keel of your boat.
Moreover, the finish on this keel protector is so amazing. It has almost a mirror-like finish. So, when it does go on your boat it makes sure to enhance the beauty of your boat. In fact, you won’t even mind having it on your beast of a boat.
- Easy to use
- Has a mirror-like finish
- Stays on the keel for quite a long time
- Doesn’t corrode with time
- Doesn’t work on hulls with multiple curves
3. Megaware80638 XL Scuffbuster Stainless Keelguard
Product Overview
Thirdly, we have the Megaware 80638 XL Scuffbuster Stainless Keelguard. Now-now, what mystery does this keel guard have for itself? How did it make the cut? Well, if you are curious then you will have to read ahead-
So, this stands out from the rest because of its width. Now, if you are one of those people with a wide boat then this one will be perfect for you. This is because the width of this keel protector is 9 inches.
That is quite high if you compare it to the rest of the keel protectors out there. However, the length isn’t quite that high. It is 8.75 inches, to be exact. Almost like a square.
Besides, like the previous one you will also have to bend this keel protector by keeping the hull at the center. And then slowly attach the keel protector over the keel of your boat. Voila! You’re done.
Moreover, this one also has a mirror-like finish. So, you won’t regret sticking it on the boat. It will look shiny and new on your treasured boat.
Furthermore, you won’t see any roller marks or any sign of scratches once the keel projector has been installed properly.
- It is quite wide
- Looks great when applied
- Protects from scratches and scuff marks
- Needs to be a perfect size or else won’t fit
4. XCEL Extra Large Weather Resistant Keel Guard
Product Overview
Moving on, we have the XCEL Extra Large Weather Resistant keel Guard. This one too has many untold stories that are waiting for you to discover. So, come on let’s go through its side of the story together-
You see, unlike the other items so far this one is a sheet. It is a giant roll of keel protector that is quite long. The length of this protector is 60 inches. Hence, you will be able to get great coverage.
It will be long enough to cover even the largest boat out there. In fact, you might have some leftovers.
Besides, these rolls are quite buoyant. Thus, if you put this on the keel of your boat it will ensure that your boat stays afloat. Plus, they are non-absorbent in nature. Hence, they will not soak up the water and become heavy.
Moreover, this keel guard can be used for different purposes. This is because it has a lot of features that can be used elsewhere. For instance, it has thermal resistant properties which makes it great for places like the cabins of a boat.
- Have multiple uses
- Ensures that the boat stays afloat
- Large enough to cover large boats
- Needs extra glue for better adhesion
5. PereGuard Kayak Keel Guard
Product Overview
The last item on our list is the one and only PereGuard Kayak Keel Guard. We decided to go out with a bang. Thus, we have a very interesting item at the end of the list. Here have a ready and find out why it’s so amazing-
Truth be told this one is great for a number of reasons. One of which is the fact that is quite smooth. By that, we mean the surface. The surface of this keel protector is quite smooth. Thus, it doesn’t create any space for friction.
Hence, the water doesn’t hamper the performance of the boat. Besides, the keel protector is quite versatile in nature. You see, it works on thermoformed, fiberglass, roto mold plastic, aluminum, and boats made of other materials.
Besides, the edges of the Pereguard’s keel protector are tapered. Because of this, the keel protector sticks onto the boat for quite a long. And for this very reason, it also ensures that dirt doesn’t find many chances to get onto the boat.
Moreover, the length of this keel guard varies. The one that we have today is only 60 inches long. However, there are other keel protectors with longer lengths. Hence, you can choose other ones if you need more of the protector’s help.
- Come in varying sizes
- It doesn’t attract dirt
- Reduces friction of water
- Tape is very difficult to separate after use
Buying Guide
Yes, a keel protector is not like a phone or laptop that you have to dig into to know which ones are the best. It is quite a simple but handy item to have. However, there are still certain things that you need to be aware of.
Without primary knowledge of the keel protectors, you will just go and buy any. And while it may work and protect your boat from a few scratches but it might not be the optimum solution.
Thus, you have to ensure that you buy the right thing. And for that, we are here to help you out. You see, we have dug deep and found out the main things you should focus on while buying an aluminum boat keel protector. Here they are-
Compatibility Of The Keel Protector
The first and most important factor that you have to ensure is the fact that the keel protector is actually compatible with the aluminum boat or not. You see, there are many keel protectors in the market.
But not all of them are for aluminum boats. The majority of the time keel protectors are made for fiberglass boats since they are quite fragile and prone to scratches. However, don’t be disheartened, there are some that work on aluminum.
Now, it is difficult for keel protectors to stick to the aluminum surface. This is because the aluminum oxide that is present on the surface of boats does not let the protector adhere to the surface properly especially if the aluminum surface is painted.
The keel protectors need to be specially designed so that they can be stuck to the surface of the boat. Otherwise, you will see the keel protector coming off quite easily leaving the boat out in the open for any scratches.
Adhesion Property Of The Protector
Another thing to consider is the adhesion property. If you didn’t know already this is the amount of sticking power a keel protector has. Now, in this case, you do want a strong adhesion. This is because the boat will be going underwater.
Thus, the pressure it will feel from the water colliding against it will be quite high. Hence, you want the keel protector to stick to your boat. Thus, it is important to have something quite powerful to overcome the tides themselves.
Appropriate Size To Cover A Boat
One more factor that does play significant importance when choosing the keel protector is its size. You see, the size of the keel protector has to be the right amount otherwise it will not cover the boat.
And quite often we look for something that can cover the boat from all angles. This way, the boat stays well-protected from all angles.
So, how much aluminum keel protector do you need for your boat?
Well, we wish that the answer was straightforward. But the thing is the amount needed actually depends on the boat’s size. Plus, the width and length of keel protectors vary.
However, to give you a general idea we have prepared a list. This shows the length of keel protectors needed for boats of various sizes.
| Keel Protector’s Length | Maximum Boat Coverage Size |
| 4 ft | 14 ft |
| 5 ft | 16 ft |
| 6 ft | 18 ft |
| 7 ft | 20 ft |
| 8 ft | 22 ft |
| 9 ft | 24 ft |
| 10 ft | 26 ft |
| 11 ft | 28 ft |
| 12 ft | 30 ft |
Easy Installation Factor
Lastly, check to see if the keel protector is easy to install or not. Sometimes people have trouble setting up the protector. And after a certain point, they become frustrated and simply give up.
So, we would suggest that you check how to install a keel protector before buying it. Usually, the keel protectors have one simple way of being applied. But then again it never harms to check, right?
FAQs
How to install an aluminum boat keel protector?
To install a boat keel protector you have to first mark the place. Then clean it using alcohol. After that, position the keel protector and bend it over a bit. Lastly, remove the liner to adhere the protector to the boat.
Should I put a keel guard on my aluminum boat?
It is a given fact that aluminum boats are quite scratch-resistant. However, a little extra protection can never go wrong. So, with a keel protector, you can keep the aluminum guard safe from all first scratches and dents.
Do keel guards affect performance?
No, the keel guards do not hamper the performance of a boat in any way. They, in fact, help to increase the speed and handling capacity of the boat sometimes.
Do I need a keel guard on my boat?
In general, a keel guard is not necessary on a boat. However, there are some boats – such as centerboard boats – where a keel guard is required to protect the propeller from hitting the ground while the boat is dockside.
If you’re unsure whether or not you need a keel guard, it’s best to consult with your boating dealer or manufacturer.
What are the 3 types of the keel?
There are three main types of keel: a flat keel, a bar keel, and a duct keel. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
A flat keel is the simplest type of keel and is usually found on smaller vessels. It’s just a narrow strip of metal that sits on the bottom of the boat and helps to keep it from floating. Flat keels are generally less stable than other types of keels, so they’re typically only used on smaller boats.
A bar keel is similar to a flat keel but has an extra support structure along one side. This makes it more stable than a flat keel, which makes it ideal for larger boats. Bar keels also tend to be more efficient in water because they help prevent the boat from bouncing around.
A duct keel is unique because it doesn’t have either a flat or bar surface. Instead, it has several small tubes running along its length. These tubes help to create more lift and make the boat more stable in water. Duct keels are usually only found on larger vessels because they require more support to stay afloat.
To Sum Up
That’s about it for the best aluminum boat keel protector. We hope that by now you got an idea of what to expect from a keel protector. Make sure you choose the right one for you.
No one wants a return trip to the departmental store at the end of the day. So, best of luck guys. And we hope to see you again on another blog. Till then, stay safe. Adios!
I’m Liam Jackson, the proud owner and driving force behind KayakPaddling.net. Born somewhere in the expansive beauty of the United States, I’ve nurtured a lifelong passion for kayaking and fishing that has led me to explore the far corners of our nation’s waterways.
