Coir Boat Fenders

What is Coir?

Coir rope is strong, durable and water-resistant made with fibres from the husk of a coconut.

It becomes particularly durable and water-resistant once the coconut fibres are processed and twisted into rope. Coir has been popular in marine applications since before written history – famously lightweight, waterproof and resistant to salt water damage.

Coir is inexpensive to make and lightweight, meaning RopesDirect can offer Coir Boat Fenders at a very competitive price – made even lower by the fact that we sell only online, so we're not passing on shop costs to you!

How is Coir Rope Made?

Coir is traditionally made along the coastline of India, where coconut palms are easy to cultivate and process. White Coir fibres from unripe coconuts form most of the world’s Coir production, while the brown fibres from mature coconuts, which are considerably harder and tougher, are used more commonly in matting, sacking and brushes. More than 60% of the world supply of white Coir comes from Pollachi and Kerala State in India, while Sri Lanka produces 30% and takes the crown as the world’s largest exporter of Coir fibre.

To make rope, first the hard external shell of the coconut is cut away, exposing the fibre-covered inner coconut. These husks are soaked or suspended in water to soften the fibres, preparing them for beating and separation, before being cleaned and dried, and finally spun into yarn.

From here, the Coir rope-making process is the same as the weaving and twisting of other types of rope, depending on the ropes you need. Then to make boat fenders, the ropes are knotted and woven together, creating a strong, durable fender that is lightweight, resistant to seawater and strong enough to protect your boat from impacts.

Fender ropes for all boats

Of course, RopesDirect supply fender ropes to suit all boats - from ready-made lengths with eyes spliced in, to any rope of your choice sold by the metre. We suggest synthetic hemp, although we offer a wide range elsewhere on this website - from polyethylene to polyester. It's your choice!