Choosing the right steering console for your inflatable boat ensures better control, safety, and convenience on the water. This guide covers top-rated steering consoles designed for inflatable boats, pontoon boats, jon boats, and more. Find consoles made from durable materials with features like adjustable mounts and reinforced panels to suit various boat types and sizes.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (Gray) | DeckMate | Rotationally molded plastic, marine vinyl access panel, large removable access panel |
| REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit | REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT | Low profile, super tough poly construction, 5 color options |
| SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount | SFriding | Aluminum alloy, adjustable height, plywood reinforced face |
| RPD Revolution Product Development 1019 Boat Console, Small | REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT | No included steering wheel or hardware, compact design |
| T-H Marine Steering Console Mount | T-H Marine | Durable marine supplies construction, simple mount design |
DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (Gray)
The DeckMate Premium Pontoon Boat Console offers a robust design with rotationally molded plastic construction for durability and water resistance. The access panel is covered with matching 32 oz marine-grade vinyl, enhancing the console’s marine aesthetic and offering protection. Its large removable access panel allows easy access to internal components, simplifying installation and maintenance. Ideal for pontoon and larger inflatable boats, this console supports a variety of setups for steering and controls, making it versatile for recreational boating. The console’s tough plastic build stands up well to aquatic environments without corroding.
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit
This side console kit from REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT features a low-profile, compact design that fits jon boats, skiffs, and inflatable boats with slight modifications. Constructed from super tough polyethylene plastic—the same material used for high-end coolers and kayaks—it delivers excellent durability and resistance to weathering and impact. With five color options, it allows better customization to match your boat. Its plug-and-play design suits easy installation, making it a practical choice for upgrading steering systems on small to medium inflatable boats.
SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount
The SFriding Aluminum Steering Console Mount is designed with a sturdy aluminum alloy frame and a plywood-reinforced face plate commonly used for steering wheel attachment. It provides an adjustable-height mount with a flat top ideal for mounting depth finders or other electronics. This console mount is highly adaptable for most aluminum or fiberglass boats, including inflatable models with reinforced floors. Its blend of lightweight metal and strengthened plywood offers a robust and long-lasting solution, ideal for serious boaters seeking a reliable, customizable helm base.
RPD Revolution Product Development 1019 Boat Console, Small
This compact boat console by REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT is ideal for smaller inflatable boats or jon boats. While it does not include a steering wheel, gauges, or mounting hardware, it serves as a functional base for custom installations. Its straightforward design simplifies adaptations for those who want a minimalistic setup or plan to integrate advanced custom steering and control components. The white finish helps keep the console cool under sunlight and complements most boat colors.
T-H Marine Steering Console Mount
The T-H Marine Steering Console Mount is a simple yet effective steering console mount designed for marine environments. Its sturdy construction ensures it holds up well to seasonal use and exposure to water. Although it features fewer bells and whistles, it’s compatible with most steering wheels and boats, including inflatables that have mounting points supporting aftermarket upgrades. This mount offers straightforward installation for boaters looking for a no-frills steering solution.
Buying Guide for Steering Consoles for Inflatable Boats
When selecting the best steering console for inflatable boats, consider the following key factors to ensure you get a console that meets your needs and provides lasting performance.
Material and Durability
- Plastic vs. Aluminum: Plastic consoles like rotationally molded polyethylene resist corrosion and UV damage, suitable for saltwater. Aluminum mounts are lighter and strongest but may require more maintenance to prevent oxidation.
- Marine Grade Vinyl Covering: Vinyl-covered access panels add protection against moisture while enhancing aesthetics.
Compatibility and Size
- Boat Type: Ensure the console matches your inflatable’s design—pontoon, jon boat, or skiff compatibility is crucial.
- Space Constraints: Smaller consoles fit compact boats better, while larger consoles provide more mounting options for instruments.
Ease of Installation and Access
- Look for consoles with removable access panels or modular kits for easy wiring and steering system installation.
- Adjustable mount heights help tailor your steering console to your posture and visibility requirements.
Additional Features
- Some consoles offer color options for better customization.
- Flat tops or reinforced surfaces allow mounting of depth finders, GPS devices, or other accessories.
- Check if the console includes steering wheels, gauges, or if they must be sourced separately.
Weight and Portability
- Lightweight consoles and mounts simplify installation and reduce the overall weight loaded on your inflatable, improving performance and safety.
By evaluating these factors, you can find the perfect steering console that enhances your boating control, comfort, and functionality.