Choosing the Best Fabric for Cockpit & Cabin Cushions

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When outfitting your boat, selecting the right fabric for your cockpit and cabin cushions is essential. Unlike fabrics used on land, marine fabrics must withstand harsher conditions. However, the considerations for cockpit cushions (above deck) and cabin cushions (below deck) are different. In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors in choosing the best fabric for each area of your boat, ensuring durability, comfort and long-lasting performance.

Choosing the Best Fabric for Cockpit & Cabin Cushions

Cockpit vs. Cabin Cushion Fabrics

Cockpit Cushion Fabrics

Cockpit cushions are constantly exposed to moisture, UV rays and other environmental stressors. The primary goal when selecting a cockpit cushion fabric is durability in the elements. Look for materials with strong UV resistance and water resistance.

Your choice of fabric should also depend on the type of foam used in your cushions:

Closed-cell foam like CushionRite® Flotation Foam is waterproof, so any fabric can be used.
Open-cell foam like CushionRite® Dry Fast Foam allows water and air to pass through. A waterproof fabric is not ideal for this foam.

For cockpit cushions, we recommend these marine-grade fabrics:

Marine Upholstery Vinyl & Faux Leather: Durable and water resistant. Top brands include Morbern™, Naugahyde® and EverSoft™.
Marine Canvas Upholstery Fabric: Resistant to sun and moisture. Trusted options include Sunbrella® Marine Grade and Sattler® Marine Grade.
Vinyl Mesh Fabric: Allows water to drain, making it ideal for wet environments. Choose Textilene® or Phifertex® Plus and Stripes.

Pro Tip: Ensure your fabric choice complements your foam type for maximum performance. For more guidance, click to read our Foam Series blogs.

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Cabin Cushion Fabrics

Cabin cushions are shielded from direct sun and rain, so UV and waterproofing aren’t top concerns. Instead, focus on mildew resistance and comfort.

Mildew Resistance

Since boats are humid environments, preventing mildew growth is crucial. Avoid natural fibers like cotton and opt for synthetic materials such as acrylic (e.g., Sunbrella® Upholstery, Outdura®), olefin or polyester. These fibers resist mildew, ensuring your cushions stay fresh and long-lasting.

Comfort & Style

If you spend extended time on your boat, comfort is key. Many boaters prefer soft, breathable woven fabrics or luxurious vinyl and faux leather for their cabin interiors. Great options include:

Outdura and Sunbrella Upholstery (soft yet durable)
Nauga Soft and EverSoft™ (high-end faux leather)
Ultraleather® (plush and elegant)

Home Décor Fabrics? If choosing one, ensure it’s made of 100% synthetic materials and has a double rub rating of 20,000 or higher for durability.

Read our blog "How to Choose the Best Fabric, Foam & Zippers for Boat Cabin Cushions" to learn about the materials we recommend for long-lasting, durable and comfortable marine interior cushions.

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Final Thoughts

While cockpit and cabin cushions serve different purposes, they both allow for durability, performance and customization. By selecting the right marine upholstery fabrics, you’ll ensure your cushions look great and perform well for years to come. Start your fabric search today and upgrade your vessel with quality materials from Sailrite.

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