When a project demands a balance between hydrostatic pressure resistance and ease of fabrication, the Bluwater range has become a primary specification for professionals.

This guide breaks down the technical profiles of both products to help you determine which textile aligns with your project’s environmental exposure and structural requirements.

What is Bluwater?

Bluwater is a premium, heavy-duty marine-grade fabric engineered specifically for harsh saltwater environments. It is a PVC-coated polyester designed to provide a 100% waterproof barrier, making it the industry standard for boat covers, flybridge enclosures.

Key Technical Features:

  • Total Waterproof Protection: Engineered to withstand significant water column pressure without leakage.
  • UV and Mildew Resistance: Prevents degradation from constant sun exposure and high-humidity marine climates.
  • Ease of Maintenance: The specialised coating allows for easy cleaning and resists staining from salt spray and environmental pollutants.

Understanding Bluwater Lite

As the name suggests, Bluwater Lite is the more agile sibling in the range. While it shares the same high-performance DNA as the original Bluwater, it is manufactured with a focus on flexibility and reduced weight.

Bluwater Lite is often specified when the application requires a material that is easier to handle, fold, or sew, without sacrificing the core waterproof and UV-resistant properties the brand is known for.

Bluwater vs. Bluwater Lite: What is the Difference?

Choosing between these two comes down to the specific demands of your application. Here is how they compare across three critical pillars:

1. Weight and Hand-Feel

The original Bluwater is a robust, heavier material. It offers a substantial “hand” that feels incredibly durable, which is ideal for permanent exterior fixtures. Bluwater Lite utilizes a lighter base cloth and coating thickness, resulting in a more supple fabric that is easier to manipulate around tight corners or complex curves.

2. Durability and Environment

For enclosures or covers that will face high-velocity winds, the higher tensile strength of Bluwater is generally preferred. For lighter applications—such as seating covers that need to be frequently removed and stored—Bluwater Lite provides sufficient protection while being much less cumbersome for the end-user to manage.

3. Fabrication Ease

Bluwater Lite is the “fabricator’s choice” for intricate work. Its thinner profile allows for easier multi-layer stitching and creates less bulk in the seams, resulting in a cleaner, more tailored finish on detailed upholstery projects.

Which Product is Right for You?

Specify Bluwater if:

  • You are creating a permanent boat cover or T-top.
  • The application will be subjected to extreme weather and high mechanical stress.
  • Maximum lifespan and “ruggedness” are the primary goals.

Specify Bluwater Lite if:

  • The end-user needs a lightweight cover that is easy to fold and store.
  • You require a fabric that is easier to sew on standard industrial machines.

 

Both Bluwater and Bluwater Lite represent the pinnacle of marine textile technology from Ricky. By understanding the trade-off between the structural weight of the original Bluwater and the versatile flexibility of Bluwater Lite, you can ensure your project looks premium and performs flawlessly for years to come.