dodger sailboat definition

What Is A Hard Dodger? (And How To Build One)

Last Updated by

Jacob Collier

August 30, 2022

‍ When sailing on your boat, you might come across undesirable wet conditions. Since you are on the water, you will likely be wet unless you have a hard dodger.

Staying dry while sailing is a tough task to accomplish, but it is possible. How would a hard dodger help and how do you build one?

Hard dodgers are enclosed structures protecting you and the cockpit from the elements. With this added protection, you are keeping yourself comfortable, electronics safe, and companionways dry. Building one is much cheaper than purchasing, but will also cost you time and patience.

Building a hard dodger should not be a task that is rushed, as you need to allow time for things to mold and take shape. If you are interested in building a hard dodger, you will see the importance and why it is essential for everyday sailing.

According to boaters university, sailing with a hard top dodger significantly improved the experience. No matter your sailing experience, having a hard top dodger makes the process efficient and more enjoyable.

Table of contents

‍ Basics of a Hard Dodger

There are two different types of dodgers, with one being soft and the other hard. Soft dodgers are typically made up of canvas or vinyl, but these are temporary or used on an as needed basis.

Hard dodgers are meant to be permanent and cost more money up front. The enclosed shell surrounding the cockpit, along with the laminated glass windows, protects your boat and offers a clear view for many years.

Benefits of a Hard Dodger

These dodgers offer the best combination of safety, comfort, and reliability. When sailing, you want to have the best of all three worlds and you want to protect your investment.

Protection Against All Conditions

Hard dodgers offer protection to the cockpit and companionways during inclement weather, high wind, or rough waves. Being protected by a hard dodger will be more comfortable during those situations, especially since you can hide under the hardcover.

Since you are underneath a hard dodger, you will be protected from the sun's rays as they will bounce off the top. As for soft dodgers, these will deteriorate over time with the harsh sun beating down on it, so you will be replacing these every so often if you do not remove them after each use.

Perfect View

Since the cockpit is enclosed and typically used laminated glass, you will have unobstructed views when sailing. In most soft dodgers, your view will be blocked by patches of canvas.

For hard dodgers that use laminated glass, these surfaces are easy to clean. If any mold or mildew attempts to form, it can easily be removed within a few seconds and you are back to clear views.

Reliability

The structure of a hard dodger will offer many benefits for years to come. For example, the structure will serve its primary purpose to protect from weather or rough waves, but it also includes secure handholds to safely step down into the cockpit or when exiting.

In addition, it also provides temporary shelter when riding out tough waves or storms. Getting caught out in a situation when you do not have any dodger is bad enough, but a hard dodger can make rough situations more tolerable.

How Much Does a Hard Dodger Cost?

There are not a lot of hard dodger kits for sale online. Instead, you would need to contact a company that builds them specifically for your boat or do one yourself.

Some websites offer kits for soft dodgers that require a special sewing machine . However, you can see how much money you need to spend just for fancy fabric that you will likely need to replace over time.

When it comes to hard dodgers, doing it yourself will save you tons of money over the long haul. Depending on the size of your boat and the materials that you use, you will be spending anywhere between $2,000 and up.

The reason there is not a price cap is because you can essentially add anything to a hard dodger and use about any materials necessary to get the job done. For a rough estimate, expect to spend around $10,000 on average to have good quality for the long term.

To put this in perspective, you might not want a hard dodger if your boat is relatively cheaper. If you have a $100,000 sailboat, or simply want to improve the value of your current one, it might make sense to protect your investment with a hard dodger.

How to Build a Hard Dodger

To begin the process, it would be best to have a cardboard prototype with measurements of your hard dodger that you want to make. If you have an old dodger handy or something of relevance to the size you need, that is a great start.

Having measurements and something to go by is great, especially since you do not want to obstruct your view of the helm. You also want to allow room for movement in the cockpit and navigating in or out of it.

Making the Shell

Use cardboard or something you can easily bend and cut to help make your mold. You will also need tape and something easily bendable with the use of a heat gun like pvc water pipe for mounting points.

Once you have made the shell, simply apply it to your boat and view from all angles. This way you can see how the rough draft will apply in real time and to get a better picture of things to come.

Cut Plywood

Once you are happy with the shape of your mold, it is time to apply that to the shape of plywood. You can use heavy duty marine grade ⅜ inch plywood or regular construction grade.

If you use marine grade, it will stand up to water better if it ever gets wet. However, it is harder to bend and regular construction grade could work just as well.

Once you have made the cut to your plywood, you should test the fit to make sure it works. Simply make adjustments as needed.

Make Bending Frame

Now is the time to make a bending frame for the plywood core. You could use two 2x12 wooden planks with cross pieces that screw on. The planks should be spaced out roughly a third of the width of the dodger, or your fore-aft distance.

It is important to note that you need a leveler and measuring tape to properly check the cuts. Anything that is off just the slightest could result in a warped or bent dodger when the final product is bolted down.

Cut along the profile of the dodger’s bend into two sections of plywood. You will need to screw in the contour pieces to the planks.

You will also need to cut roughly a dozen or so blocks, but do not need all of them, to help stabilize the dodger core. These could be something like 3x3x1, which you will use to evenly distribute along the contour.

Make a mark that will be easy to see when identifying your center line. This will be useful when bolting everything down when applying the core to the frame.

Now you can apply the core to your frame to see if everything fits. When aligning the center of the core to the contour, make sure you can apply enough pressure to allow it to conform.

Once everything is in line, you can screw the core to the frame. Using your center line from earlier, you can easily see the midline of the core and the midline of the frame.

Apply Dodger to Boat

Once you have built the dodger frame, you can now test it out on your boat. Carefully move the completed frame over to your boat and align accordingly.

Bolt down the dodger to the boat with the aligned holes. After bolting down the dodger, make sure you have everything in line before you attempt to do anything else.

You have two options to consider at this point for the next step. You can either remove the dodger from the boat to finish the process in another location or leave it and do all the work from the boat. Keep in mind that leaving it on the boat will require you to work entirely from the boat for the next several days or longer.

Once you have completed installing your dodger and any additional panels that you see fit, you can move onto the clean up process that will add longevity to the dodger. If there are any small gaps, this is not a big deal assuming it does not interfere with the integrity of your structure.

If you have small holes or gaps, this can be filled later with epoxy or wood filler. Keep in mind that you want something that is going to be easy to sand. You are going to want a smooth surface later to apply a coat of sealant and paint.

In addition, look for areas along edges to apply fiberglass tape, epoxy, and edge reinforcements. This will make the finishing process easier and give it a cleaner look while also stabilizing the frame.

Additional Features

Before you begin adding glass and sealant to your hard dodger, this is a great time to add any additional features such as speakers, opening hatches, solar panels, or anything you desire. Now that you have the frame in place to your liking, it is easier to add these features than after it is completed.

You do not have to have everything a perfectly snug fit. This will all be covered later in the clean up process, so do not stress over small gaps.

If you see an opportunity to make holes bigger for electronics or other features, now is the time to do so. You will have plenty of opportunity to fill everything with paint and epoxy later.

Adding Fiberglass

With the dodger perfectly in place, now is the time to add fiberglass. You should install temporary support systems to avoid any shape distortions wherever you are going to place the fiberglass. This is as simple as using tape, cloth, and your favorite epoxy.

Once you have installed the fiberglass, you need to make sure every corner or gap is filled. Simply continue to use epoxy in places where it is needed and remember that you can sand any excess later.

Sanding, Painting, and Applying Dodger

One of the most rewarding steps is to clean up the dodger. All of the love labor you have poured into this project now gets the flavor to suit your taste.

Finish sanding down the dodger and clean up any areas to provide a smooth surface. You also need to make sure there are not any unlevel spots, so using a fair compound to fill in these areas will need time to cure and sand later.

After you have sanded to perfection, you can paint the dodger to any color of your liking. For simplicity, most people stick to white.

The paint will need to be either an oil-based rust-proof paint or a single-component polyurethane. Whichever one you choose, you need to continue using that specific application or it will not stick properly over time. If you do not like that particular application, you would need to sand it all off and start again.

The easiest to use is an oil-based paint that is marine grade, or at least stands tough in water. This paint also works well when you want to apply a thing coat to give your dodger a fresh look over time.

If you have intentions of standing on top of your dodger, it would be wise to add some form of non-skid. This could be crushed walnut shells or sand over several coats of paint. Without non-skid, your dodger top will be like ice if you plan to step on it.

Once everything is painted, you can add the dodger to your boat if you had chosen to work at another location. Whether you are bolting it down now or previously in the process, make sure your bolts are heavy duty and rated for rough conditions.

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Born into a family of sailing enthusiasts, words like “ballast” and “jibing” were often a part of dinner conversations. These days Jacob sails a Hallberg-Rassy 44, having covered almost 6000 NM. While he’s made several voyages, his favorite one is the trip from California to Hawaii as it was his first fully independent voyage.

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Hardtop Dodgers – The Next Big Thing in Sailing

The Canvas Works crew are professional marine fabricators as well as sailors with significant time on the water. Sailing experience allows us to understand how best to construct a quality dodger and how it will perform in demanding conditions.

What is a Dodger You Might Ask?

If you are a baseball fan, you might stumble upon this post. Unfortunately, you will not learn anything about the baseball team, but don’t be afraid to stick around and learn about the other type of dodger, the sailboat dodger and more specifically, the high performance hardtop dodger .

A Traditional Canvas Dodger vs A Bimini Top – Need Some Clarity?

A bimini top is an open-front canvas top stretched over a metal frame, or bows for the cockpit or deck of a powerboat or sailboat. Most bimini tops can be collapsed or retracted when not in use and returned to their full extension if shade or shelter is needed. Unlike sailboat dodgers, biminis are found on all different types of sports boats, performance powerboats, pontoon boats and sailboats. Biminis provide shade and protect the helmsman from UV rays but they do not provide full protection from the elements.

A bimini can have 2, 3 or 4 bows as the supporting structure. This structure can provide the framework for a boat enclosure on any type of boat. In this blog, we will explore the high performance hardtop dodgers, an excellent alternative to the traditional canvas dodger.

Introducing the Hardtop Dodger

If you are considering a new dodger, look no further. Here, we will explore the main differences between the soft canvas dodger and the hardtop dodger to help you make the best decision for your boat and lifestyle. Both options have their benefits:

Benefits of the Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop dodgers are a perfect choice for functionality, longevity, and overall coverage. Our hardtop’s are designed, engineered, and built for low maintenance, a high strength to weight ratio while maintaining a nice ascetic.

Below are some reasons why you may want to consider a hardtop dodger over a soft, canvas dodger.

The Structure of a Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop Dodger : Our frames and supporting structure are fabricated in 1.25” OD 316 stainless steel tubing. The larger diameter is robust and can withstand higher loads.

Canvas Dodger : Typical construction is with 1” OD tubing. This is a fine size to support the canvas top.

The Surface of a Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop Dodger : The actual hardtop is fabricated with a ¾” foam or balsa core , x-mat fiberglass , epoxy resin and high quality gel coat . It is a 3 inch cambered 90” x 54” x 1” top with a rain lip. Because of these features, The hardtop is very strong, robust and provides a durable surface allowing you to mount solar panels, lighting, sound systems, hand rails and ancillary hardware.

Canvas Dodger : Typically made from durable marine Sunbrella or PVC coated fabric. Canvas dodgers, even when stretched perfectly across their structure, can not accept as much weight as a hardtop.

Side panels and enclosing your Dodger

Both the hardtop and softtop dodgers use canvas constructed side panels. The Hardtop panels tend to be a bit bigger based on the overall size of Hardtops. Panels can be fabricated in either Sunbrella acrylic canvas or PVC Canvas such as Stamoid or Herculite. Window materials vary from polycarbonate, acrylics to clear vinyls. Brands, coatings and thickness vary and can affect both longevity and budget.

Maintenance on a Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop Dodger : The fiberglass hardtop can be easily wiped clean, eliminating possible mold, algae and organic growth. Cleaning the hard top is as straightforward as cleaning the balance of the fiberglass on your boat.

Canvas Dodger : The canvas top is made from fabric, it is susceptible to algae and organic growth and sun damage over it’s life. They must be regularly cleaned in order to minimize degradation of the fabric from the elements.. Often the process of dismantling a dodger to clean the fabric can be a challenging task.

The Abrasion on a Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop Dodger : Because the hardtop surface is precisely molded and rigid, there is no need for a chafe pad to protect from the mainsail canvas rubbing on the top.

Canvas Dodger : Depending on the position of your boom, canvas dodgers often need reinforcement along the top edges to prevent wear and tear where the boom may hit the dodger.

Mounted Handrails on a Hardtop Dodger

Canvas Dodger : While handrails do provide additional support and structure for a canvas dodger, side handles limit the collapsibility of the dodger, can be less sturdy, and are difficult to install or reinstall after maintenance or repairs.

Can My Sailboat Accommodate a Hardtop Dodger?

• Size and type of sailboat
• Width of cockpit and combing
• Depth or coverage of cockpit
• Height profile desired by helmsman
• Overall design and ascetic features

The Canvas Works Hardtop Dodger

Now that you know a little more about the differences between the traditional dodger and a hardtop dodger, you can make an informed decision about which type of dodger is best for you. Whether you find a fabricator in your area or you go with The Canvas Works’ hardtop, here is some additional information to inform your decision. Our fabrication team has the capability to create your dodger from start to finish on site, or we can fabricate just the hardtop to be shipped to you for installation.

How is the Canvas Works Hardtop Dodger Enclosed?

Stanchions and Support Structure : 1-1/4” 316 stainless steel stanchions and supports provide the foundation of the structure. Two sets of handrails on the outer edge of the dodger are mounted opposing one another. The lower set becomes the strut and stanchion attachment point, while the upper rail is a grab handrail.

Windows and Window Frames : Fitted 40 mil Makrolon polycarbonate is semi-rigid, incredibly optically clear and has an industry leading warranty. Covers for the windows are included with each dodger. Serge Ferrari Stamoid Top or Sunbrella Marine fabric window frames add an attractive, finished look and years of service to any dodger panels.

Hardware : Keder welt and track for forward windows which creates even tension along the leading edge of the windows and provides excellent spray and weather resistance. All hardware is top quality hardware, including snaps, lift-a-dot or twist lock fasteners as required by the installation. Whenever possible it is preferable to use a PVC track, welt and zipper attachment system in-lieu of fasteners.

What is the take away from this blog?

While the initial cost of a hardtop dodger is more than a canvas soft top dodger, the difference will be better long term investment for the long life of the hardtop. The Canvas Works designed and engineered our hardtop to serve a variety of boats. With the installation of The Canvas Works hardtop, you will have all of the following to look forward to.

• A dependable structure for peace of mind when cruising
• A strong, robust and durable surface to mount solar panels or hardware
• A low maintenance support structure to withstand harsh weather conditions
• A smooth, cleanable surface that won’t tear, mold or stretch
• A sleek rigid enclosure that provides ultimate protection from the elements

Should you have questions, we welcome the opportunity to hear from you. Give us a call so we can walk you through your next dodger project 413.331.6527 or Inquire Online .

• Call 415.331.6527
• Email [email protected]
• Location The Canvas Works 41c Liberty Ship Way Sausalito, CA 94965

Attainable Adventure Cruising

The Offshore Voyaging Reference Site

• How To Home Build a Hard Dodger For an Offshore Sailboat

After reading about our  dodger , very experienced live aboard voyagers Lane and Kay Finley sent along a detailed description of their hard dodger, complete with photographs. The advantage of theirs over ours is that it is all hard with glass windows; much stronger and pretty much maintenance free. On the other hand, I like the larger expanse of window, fewer blind spots and curved shape of ours. Just goes to show that everything on a boat is a compromise.

Many thanks to the Finleys for sharing the information below:

In the end, we designed and built our own hard top, using foam-cored fiberglass construction to achieve strength and lightness. The finished project is strong, safe to stand on, gives excellent visibility through glass , doesn’t ruin the lines of the boat and provides amazing protection from the weather.

Our navigation electronics now live under the hard dodger where they are protected from the elements and much more user friendly. We have also noticed that we get less ‘salt air’ inside the cabin.

Before undertaking this project, we took pictures of dozens of hard dodgers on boats that we saw sailing in New Zealand waters. The New Zealanders are well aware of the benefits and you can see all sorts of creative designs in every port.

Since we consider our Annapolis 44 to have fairly elegant lines we were very cautious to adhere to a complementary design. After many drafts, we finally drew the final design to scale and then lofted the plans on our garage floor. We built the mould out of MDF plywood with inserts for the windows so that the 10mm safety glass would end up being set-in against a solid fiberglass lip and be flush with the exterior surface of the hard top.

This was a ‘female’ mould, so the interior surface was sanded smooth and then waxed to prevent the fiberglass resins from sticking to the mould. We laid up the required layers of fiberglass cloth and resin in the mould, and then placed the foam core (30mm medium density) over the fiberglass layers. At this point we laid up more fiberglass to the design specifications and ‘sandwiched’ the foam in place.

High Modulus, a composite engineering company in Auckland, made some recommendations for the engineering specifications.

The finished product, which also includes a dome light and reading lights in the ceiling, was fibreglassed in place and we re-painted the deck to finish it off. It has proven to be an excellent addition to the boat and cost approximately US$3000 in materials to build. Of course that does not count our labour. However, it was an interesting winter project and one that we are very proud of.

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More Articles From Cockpit Enclosures and Dodgers:

• Cockpit Dodger For an Offshore Sailboat
• A Sailor’s Cockpit Enclosure—Part 1
• A Sailor’s Cockpit Enclosure—Part 2

We are venturing out on our first cruise at the end of this year. San Diego to Annapolis VIA Panama Canal BVI. I am considering a hard dodger, but am probably going to do the work myself due to quality craftsmanship, and design. Any pics and instructions explaining your process would be a real help. I truely believe there is a growing interest in hard dodger design and home fabrication. You’d surely get internet traffic if you posted your process. Thanks in advance. Darrell

Hi Darrell, I guess I feel like Lane and Kaye have already given some pretty good information on how to build a dodger in this post. That is probably about as far as we or them can go for free. (Internet traffic does not put food on the table.)

I would recommend that if you want a detailed design as well as specification for the materials that you contact Ed Joy . Not only will you learn how to build the dodger from him, you will also get a dodger that fits the lines of your boat and enhances her resale value.

I built a hard dodger for Jenain, my steel Ebbtide 36, a few years ago. I used commercial Hexacor g.r.p panels, which are cored with cored with pvc honey comb, 10mm tempered glass for the fixed windows and 12mm polycarbonate for the opening window. I built it using the stitch and glue technique and West Epoxy. In my case, it has to be removable as I could otherwise not remove the engine. This was an easy project, finished in two weeks, and very strong, good looking and practical. Off course in hind sight, it could be improved on, by moulding in wire conduits for example, but overall I am very happy with it. It provides great protection, is light, and compliments the boat’s lines. I have a lot of photos if anyone is interested.

That sounds like a great way to build a hard dodger and much easier than building a mold. Thanks for sharing your experence. Also, really good point about the importance of being able to remove the dodger to get the engine out of most sailboats.

I know what you mean about hindsight improvements, I made exactly the same omission!

hey bill i would be interested in some pictures of your dodger. i have a goderich 37 ‘ steel hull (libro vent), and i need to get her ready for travel. thanks jonathan miller

hey bill i would like to see some pictures of your dodger. i have a 37′ steel hull (libro vent). i need to get her ready for travel. thanks jonathan

If it ever stops snowing, I am going to replace my Sunbrella covered dodger and bimini with something rigid. I would love to see some detail pics of your stitch and glue technique with the Hexicore also how you deal with the edges. Sounds like the best way to go.

Would you send me some picture as well? I’d like to make one for my pocket cruiser S2 9.2c sounds like a good way to go. Captain Den

If I had your email address, I could send you the info!

Bill, please send pics of your dodger. Thank you.

Hi Bill, Please send pics of your dodger Thank you, Ed Rudetsky

Hello bill, Could you please send me your dodger pictures? Clive @ earrame.net Thanks in advance.

Hello Bill, Another request for dodger pictures! Would love to build one for my Niagara 35. Thanks in advance for sharing the photos.

Regards, Barry

This is a very old post and thread. Also since this is not a forum, but rather comments to post in WordPress, Bill is not being informed of your request, so I don’t think this is going to work for you.

I am building a hard dodger for an O’Day 35, I want to move the traveler from the deck forward of the companionway to the aft end of the dodger–out of the way. The main arch at the very rear which will be the load bearing part, has a base (entire top ) of 1/2″ cell modulus (NICORE) with one layer of fiberglass matting on the bottom and three on top, laminated. In addition, across the top inside will be two beams two feet apart and 65″ wide made of six 2″ strips of 1/4″ plywood laminated into a curve with an apogee of 6″. On the sides in the area of the traveler there will be a 1/2″ aluminum plate bolted to the side just above the deck with a straight piece of the laminated plywood connecting to the top beam with bolts, a 10″ x 10″ gusset and a aluminum “T” bar where the “T” is 1 full inch as is the cross part. This will be screwed to the wood piece and then the outer part. will accept the side structure on top of the aluminum plate and inserted into the notch in the aluminum upright that is connected to the wood upright. The sides will be a layer of fiberglass with under a 1/2 ” piece of Nicor and two or more layers of fiberglass inside. I’m going to make a deck casting out of fiberglass to mount the sides in and the whole thing will be smoothed and faired with more fiberglass, resin, etc. the casting will ne bolted to the deck. I don’t need to go further since the question is: Do you think this construction will be sufficient to handle the load of the traveler and it’s sheet?

I started to answer this, but it got long and ended up being an article. Look for it in a week or so.

Hello Denny

It’s not clear to me whether the hard dodger will be removable. Regardless, if ever you plan to move the boat via road, a non-removable dodger may not meet height restrictions. I recently had to remove an arch and all stanchions when transporting my Niagara 35. Barry

Standardizing dodger design and fabrication

When designing each dodger, Iverson’s Design considers the uniqueness of each sailboat. Clients specify the height they want and how far back into the cockpit they want the dodger to extend. They also choose from a variety of colors and materials.

Jason Iverson is passionate about his business. It is obvious when he talks about the details of his designs and how he works with his customers. He has been able to combine two of his passions—product design and sailing—to launch Iverson’s Design Inc., a successful business designing dodgers and accessories for sailboats.

“When you are passionate about something it is a given you will succeed,” Iverson said. “This business is not just a job, it is my life.”

Iverson likes to make business fun, too. The “extreme product tests” featured on his company website include videos of him getting in a front-end loader and dumping 600 gallons of water on a dodger for a wave test, and conducting a wind test by racing his product down an airport runway at 90 miles an hour.

Iverson got involved in the upholstery business early. His first job at 15 was sweeping floors after school at an upholstery shop in his hometown of Centralia, Wash. After a while, he told his boss he wanted to try selling and patterning. His boss gave him the chance, and Iverson discovered he was good at it and enjoyed it. “Once you are an upholsterer, you are always an upholsterer,” he said.

Jason Iverson started Iverson’s Design Inc. and created the i-Top dodger to combine the benefits of standardized design with the flexibility and responsiveness that the customers demand. Photo: Iverson’s Design Inc.

After high school, Iverson went to the University of Washington in Seattle where he pursued his interest in design and earned a bachelor of arts degree in industrial design, along with a bachelor of fine arts in interdisciplinary visual arts. During school, he continued to work in several different upholstery shops and lived his other passion—his home during those years was a sailboat on Lake Union and Puget Sound.

At the time, however, he really wasn’t thinking about making anything to do with sailing or upholstery his life’s work. Iverson assumed that like many college grads, he’d find a job with a corporation once school was over. But as he interviewed for jobs, he assessed what he really wanted in life and realized the artist in him didn’t want to spend his days in a cubicle. He wanted to be his own boss and he wanted to create his own product.

If you build it, they will come

Jason Iverson and his crew travel nationwide to accommodate customer needs. “The key to our success is our reputation,” he says.

Now Iverson’s passions for design and sailing came together. He explored a number of possibilities for the product he wanted to create. Through his years working in upholstery shops, Iverson saw an opportunity to design dodgers. He thought by taking advantage of manufacturing efficiencies not traditionally used in marine fabrication, he could manufacture a high-quality product by standardizing it. Iverson also understood what would be appealing to consumers—in short, he felt he could build a better dodger and set out to do just that.

Working in his garage, Iverson did a lot of drafting and prototyping until he created his signature product, the i-Top dodger, a proprietary design protected by law. The design combines a modular canvas soft top with a framing structure to create a dodger that protects from the elements with style. He founded his company, Iverson’s Design Inc. in 2000.

Design combines form and function

Specific details, like the sailboat’s style and lines, are incorporated into the dodger to compliment the boat. “Our dodgers are highly serviceable, but they are also works of art,” Iverson said. “The beauty of our products is in the balance we strike between functionality, style, comfort and safety.”

The frame design utilizes compression and tension to counterbalance forces inflicted on it, enhancing its structural integrity. It is connected to the deck with hinge points that pivot to absorb any flex or shock to the canvas dodger and reduce sheer on these connecting points. It is designed to be more aerodynamic to reduce windage and add to the structural integrity of the frame.

The tensioned canvas skin on the i-Top is an integral component of the structure and its flexibility helps reduce or cushion the initial impact of a force such as a wave or wind.

The rigid nature of the i-Top’s windows creates a distortion-free and wrinkle-free appearance with the clarity of glass. They are made of 60 mil., aircraft-grade UV/scratch-resistant polycarbonate window material. The windows wear well, remaining dimensionally stable with exposure to solar heat. The window configuration provides a greater wrap-around view from the helm.

Iverson says the fact that his company is not a custom canvas shop sets it apart from the competition. “We do one thing well,” he says. Iverson has won awards for his designs regionally, nationally and internationally, including awards from the Industrial Fabrics Association International.

His business model has standardized his company’s processes to the point that he and his staff are able to travel nationwide to provide the product. Their normal service area is Washington, Oregon and California, but they have customers as far away as Miami and Lake Michigan.

It also has enabled his company to provide exceptional customer service, something that Iverson feels is essential to his company’s success. “The key to our success is our reputation. Our customers’ experience needs to be something more than they expect,” said Iverson.

That experience includes every contact from the initial phone call to the point when the product is delivered. Customers can begin by using the company’s extensive website where all the details of manufacturing each dodger are explained, along with options for color choices, frames and accessories.

Iverson’s Design uses expert teams to complete each task in the process: A road crew specializes in the design and patterning of a project, a layout team prepares the patterns, and a sewing team stitches together the canvas top. If welding is necessary for the project, a welding team is on the job. Unless there are issues with the scope of the project or the weather, installation generally takes place within two weeks of the initial consultation.

“It’s really about building trust. We do what we say we will do and we keep our customers in the loop,” said Iverson. “The sailboat industry is a culture,” he explained. “When people like your work, word spreads through conversations, online and through social media.”

Julie Swiler is a freelance writer from St. Paul, Minn.

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Chafe Protection for Dock Lines

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Make a Mini Dodger

Cheap protection doesnt have to look cheap..

A companionway slider and hatch boards are the most common type of cabin entry on sailboats. Its seaworthy, lightweight, and inexpensive. Unfortunately, you can’t leave the hatch open when it’s raining without getting water below. Swapping the hatch boards for a hinged door is a popular upgrade, but in many boats there simply isn’t space for an opened door.

A dodger or hard top is another possibility, but dodgers increase windage, disrupt movement on deck, interfere with line and sail handling, partially block the view forward, and are expensive and heavy. Many sailors simply don’t sail in the rain often enough justify the downsides. However, after just one steamy evening below during a summer thunderstorm, buttoned up tight, and you’ll give your eye teeth for a little more air.

For my new-to-me boat, a Corsair F 24 trimaran, I envisioned a streamlined mini-dodger that would offer protection from spray and rain from forward or straight down. Access would be fast and it would not interfere with sailing, or add windage or weight.

The answer was a mini-dodger fabricated from a sheet of fiberglass shower-liner material. It snaps into the slider grove in seconds, and by virtue of being cut slightly wider than the opening, it flexes into a cone-shaped arch, tapering down to nothing at the forward end of the slider and providing a small overhang on the cockpit end.

Although the arch is not tall enough to enter the cabin standing, we can either crouch or sit on the sill and slide in. In the rain you can leave the slider open, with some or all of the boards left out, according to the wind direction. A screen inside blocks the bugs. With a small cabin, this is enough ventilation in the rain. Three ties secure it to the slider handle. The ties, combined with a tight fit, have made it secure in all winds.

The tie points are reinforced with a second layer of fiberglass to insure durability, and a rubberized extension on the forward edge makes for a good seal. Best of all, it can store flat under the V-berth mattress, taking no space and easily forgotten until it rains.

Making the Mini-Dodger

Measure the slider opening, including the width, and the length of the groove with the boards in and the hatch adjusted in the ideal open position (see below). Decide how much overhang you like. Depending on the angle of the companionway boards, six inches is typically enough. Decide how much arch you like, and estimate that arch with a tape measure. You want enough camber to spring it into the track. If camber is than 4 inches or more than 10 inches, it could slip or pop out of the track.

If there is a handle on the top of the slider, determine how far the slider must be open for the handle to clear the mini-dodger. This handle will provide secure tie-down points. If there is no handle, you can create a pair of hold-downs at the aft end of the companion way, or by a tight strap over the top.

Cut a test piece of posterboard similar to the shape you think will best fit. Test the fit, adding cut-outs, locating tie points, and adjusting for a custom fit. Once a final outline is selected, cut from 2.2 millimeter (.09-inch) thick fiberglass shower surround material. It can be cut to fit with a cut-off disk in an angle grinder or cutting with a razor utility knife (box-cutter), using the score-and-snap method. We found a 48-inch by 8-foot Smooth White Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Wall Panel from Lowes Home Store for $65.

All of the corners, inside and outside, should be rounded to avoid stress concentrations. The schematic drawings for the mini-dodger are posted along with this article at www.practical-sailor.com.

Add reinforcement patches for the tie points and exposed corners by cutting scraps to fit and bonding them using epoxy thickened with colloidal silica or microfibers (prepare the surface by wiping with acetone and sanding). Taper the patch edges and wipe the epoxy smooth to provide smooth transitions. For the corner and edge patches, overlap the edge slightly and then trim away with a disk sander when cured. Sand all edges with 200-grit paper to eliminate splinters.

Drill holes for the tie-down cords; I used three on the slider handle only, both for security and to create the camber. You can also install ties at the aft corners of the overhang to connect to hooks or eyes in the cabin top. Trim the aft edge as needed to be certain you can remove the hatch boards with the mini-dodger in place.

Secure the cords to the dodger with stopper knots, seal the holes with a dab of polyurethane caulk, and cover the holes and knots with scrap Sunbrella ovals (ask your local canvas shop) bonded with polyurethane. This gives it a clean look. There are many other ways to attach the lines. The trick is to keep any holes watertight.

I left the pebble finish-face up for several reasons; it is more difficult to bond the reinforcements, the smooth surface should repel dirt better, and it’s shiny. I have used the same material for window covers for many years. It resists UV very well ( Practical Sailor DIY Fiberglass Hatch Covers , Mach 2016).

Our observations suggest this is a drop-in fit for Catalinas, Beneteaus, J-boats, and some Hunters and Pearsons. If your boat doesn’t have a track that will work, suitable aluminum track is available at hardware stores such as Home Depot and can be added above or outside of the existing track. Water will drain into the track, so it must be angled and sloped to allow drainage.

If your slide runs on top of the companionway, the dodger could also be secured without a track, using ties, or studs with knobs. This won’t fit all boats, but maybe we have given you a starting point for your own invention.

The result is a sleek dodger, reminiscent of the sleek cabintop of an Open 60 (or a Contessa 26). The cost is less than $70 (with lots of material left over), it weighs only five pounds, and it stows under the mattress, ready to be installed in a minute whenever rain threatens. It’s a simple, inexpensive, companionway solution that should last as long much longer than any canvas dodger.

Avid sailor and ice-climber, Drew Frye is a technical editor at Practical Sailor. He has a background in chemistry and engineering blogs about cruising products at www.sail-delmarva.blogspot.com .

Two often we look at marine stores for solutions to our boat problems. This simple fix uses a flexible fiberglass shower panel that is relatively cheap and easy to work with.

As with many projects involving cutting and fitting a new component, it is best to start with a template made of cardboad or stiff posterboard. This gives you plenty of opportunity to make adjustments to the fit and the placement of the tie-downs.

1. Test the fit, first with posterboard, and then with your finished shape before drilling holes for the tie-downs. 2. The reinforcement layers of scrap fiberglass at the tie points are bonded in place using epoxy thickened with colloidal silica or microfibers. 3. The underside of the cover, showing the reinforcing patches is ready for the final trim to fit. 4. A strip of Sunbrella wrapped around the edges and bonded with polyurethane epoxy protects the relatively think edges. 5. The installed dodger lashes down on the sliding hatch. In the event weather gets really wild and we need the hatch closed for safety, it can be removed in a matter of seconds.

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Have you any more photos? I can’t envision what it looks like. Thank you – Dennis

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> > Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on Cruisers Forums. 03-07-2011, 05:21   Boat: Morgan 321, BELIEVE on our 321. While she thinks it should be a soft (frame / cloth) I favor a hard (fiberglass w/ core) to support my weight when I need t attend to the sail or other business at the end of the boom. Having had experience with neither we would appreciate info from those who have. Thanks- Duke 03-07-2011, 15:11   Boat: 15 foot Canoe was always a bit of a gymnist thing to do for a tween (between 65 and 70) so I like the ability to just fold the soft dodger out of the way and stand on the seats to take care of the boom. Advantage of the hard dodger is that you can mount things permanently on it. for example. kind regards, 03-07-2011, 15:20   321. While she thinks it should be a soft (frame / cloth) I favor a hard (fiberglass w/ core) to support my weight when I need t attend to the sail or other business at the end of the boom. Having had experience with neither we would appreciate info from those who have. Thanks- Duke 03-07-2011, 16:46   on it too. Go with a soft dodger if you want to and also keep giving to the sail lofts to or replace them every few years. 03-07-2011, 16:53   Boat: Morgan OI 413 1973 - Aythya for 27 years after 13 years spent with no more protection than hats and sunsceen. Much depends on your reach and configuration. I have no difficulty managing tasks on my boom with the soft cover, but then I have mounted items on my mizzen and davit. I have only removed the dodger to alleviate windage for hurricanes or to facilitate the exchange of a or . If your design really requires a hard top for mounting and boom access, then it could be worthwhile, but not for me. I think the will dictate the need. 03-07-2011, 17:14   Boat: 63 ft John Spencer Schooner on it too. Go with a soft dodger if you want to and also keep giving to the sail lofts to or replace them every few years. 03-07-2011, 19:09   Boat: Pearson 365 Sloop and 9' Fatty Knees. of the ...But then again...you're in pretty good shape 99% of the way to the sole...       03-07-2011, 19:16   Boat: Albin Vega 27' . A hard one is just too permanent so you really have to get it right, it could be unaesthetic, in your way or affect resale value. Also once you have the SS frame you could have a several soft covers made for what a hard one would cost you. Just my $.02s. Glenn 03-07-2011, 19:28   Boat: Pearson 365 Sloop and 9' Fatty Knees. Glenn 04-07-2011, 01:37   Boat: Morgan 321, BELIEVE configuration on BELIEVE we only have about 18" between coach roof / and the boom. Also, the boom is end sheeted with the traveler mounted on the bridge . If anyone has a dodger mounted with a similar arrangement a picture would help us visualize what BELIEVE could look like. Thanks - Duke (& Princess-di) 04-07-2011, 02:45   Boat: F&C 39 # And for soft dodgers examples, the more beautiful to my eyes are here: For sure you will find somthing here that fits your boat. JuanJo 04-07-2011, 04:28   Boat: Morgan 321, BELIEVE 04-07-2011, 04:59   Boat: Simpson, Catamaran, 46ft. IMAGINE catchment system too. I was surprised at how much rain can be caught in a small area......... is not always a slick magazine cover! ..No single one of is as smart as all of us! 04-07-2011, 05:19   Boat: cape dory 30 MKII would be better for that. 04-07-2011, 05:28   Boat: J40 #33 since 1987 top, 1 1/2" SS bows, windows, Stamoid , and it all unzips/disassembles as necessary. You can stand on it to work on the boom, but I have mounted solar panels on the rails for more deployment flexibility.   Thread Tools Rate This Thread : Posting Rules post new threads post replies post attachments edit your posts is are code is are are are No Threads to Display. - - - - - - - Privacy Guaranteed - your email is never shared with anyone, opt out any time. --> Welcome to Iverson's Design Incorporated, the exclusive manufacturer of the Iverson's brand  i-Top canvas dodger design and the Iverson's cockpit enclosure design system for sailboats. The Iverson's i-Top canvas dodger is a proprietary design protected by law that has received 11 international awards for its excellence in craftsmanship and overall design. Our mission is to provide our clients with a quality brand product that is distinctly unique and detailed, unparalleled by any other. Each canvas dodger is manufactured using durable materials to ensure structural integrity and years of performance. When designing the i-Top dodger to fit a sailboat ,  our design team focuses on the characteristics of the boat, it's lines, style, and detail. They then incorporate these characteristics into the dodger so that it compliments the beauty of a sailboat. We feel strongly that a canvas dodger should become an element of good design, a work of art, an asset to your boats appearance. Our attention to the dodger's aesthetic detail is harmonized with it's functional requirements to assure a balanced design that adds style, comfort, and safety to your boat.   Iverson's Design Inc. is not a general canvas shop or repair shop.  We are a design and manufacturing company  that strictly focuses on the production of our products.  We do not provide repair services or custom made canvas accessories.  We only manufacture our products and customize them to fit on your sailboat. The Iverson's i-Top dodger design is constructed with a unique proprietary stainless steel fitting system that was designed and developed by Jason Iverson himself. Through years of research and prototyping Jason was able to make his fruition come to life bringing the Iverson's brand dodger to a whole new level of excellence. There really is no other when it comes to the level of detail, innovation and distinguishing characteristics of the Iverson's brand i-Top dodger design. The high quality 316L stainless steel fitting system enhances the structural integrity of Iverson's dodgers making them the ultimate in tensioned canvas structure design. Ask our crew how you can make your new Iverson's i-Top dodger a glow in the dark dodger. ". . No problem... Iverson's design team travels. We service Washington, Oregon, and California. We can also travel to other locations as well. If your sailboat is located on the east coast or Alaska and you are affiliated with a yacht club or another type of sailboat organization, find out if others in your club, marina or association are looking to get a new dodger. We now offer service from San Francisco Bay area down to San Diego, including Alameda, Sausalito, Oakland, Dana Point, Newport Beach, Marina Del Rey, Long Beach and more... If your sailboat is located anywhere in California, to learn how you can get an Iverson's dodger. The "Road Crew" at Iverson's is on the go, constructing dodgers on sailboats of all makes and styles between Portland, Oregon and Washington. With their efficient design and manufacturing methods you can have a new custom canvas dodger in as little as a week*. *Please note that the Iverson's Dodger waiting list can be 2 to 4 months out, upon scheduling. Once Iverson's begins the canvas dodger construction it can be completed in as little as 7 days. Save big $ when you bring your boat to Olympia!!! Bring your boat to Olympia to get outfitted with a new Iverson's i-Top dodger and/or other canvas work and save big time! There are many things to do and see within walking distance of Olympia's Swantown Marina guest docks. Great restaurants, farmers market, antique shops, art galleries, quilting shops, etc.. Also, within walking distance is a full service boat yard just south of Swantown marina guest docks. Coordinate to have other work done to your boat while you are here making it a one stop shop experience. Come see us at the Seattle Boat Show in January or September. Then in April, come see us at the Strictly Sail Pacific show in Oakland, California and Strictly Sail Long Beach, California. We will also be at the San Diego Boat Show. We really enjoy participating in these shows because it gives us the rare opportunity to reconnect with many of our previous clients. Through their continual compliments to the quality and design of our canvas dodger's, it is reassuring to know that we are providing a product that is For those of you Do-It-Yourself enthusiasts who don't have the tools necessary to produce your own quality dodger frame or for those of you who's local canvas shop doesn't offer dodger frames with welded on grab rail sets, and 1-1/4" diameter stainless steel tubing. We are now offering our quality brand Iverson's dodger frames, custom fabricated and shipped directly to you. INTERACTIVE BUILD-A-FRAME A tool that helps you conceptualize how you can equip your new dodger frame. We offer many options to help equip your canvas dodger for offshore use. With a few simple measurements we can fabricate a quality Iverson's dodger frame equipped with our optional grab rail sets and ship it directly to you. A great option for those of you located outside of our coverage area. INTERACTIVE BUILD-A-DODGER A tool that helps you conceptualize a color scheme for your new canvas dodger. We offer a large variety of color choices in acrylic canvas, binding, and material overlay. Have fun! For a complete list of colors take a look at the . --> --> --> --> --> To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In Definition of dodger chiseller confidence man fraudster [ chiefly British ] sharpy Examples of dodger in a Sentence These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dodger.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples. Word History 1568, in the meaning defined at sense 1 Phrases Containing dodger corn dodger draft dodger Dictionary Entries Near dodger Cite this entry. “Dodger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dodger. Accessed 30 Aug. 2024. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free! Can you solve 4 words at once? Word of the day, mise-en-scène. See Definitions and Examples » Get Word of the Day daily email! Popular in Grammar & Usage Plural and possessive names: a guide, 31 useful rhetorical devices, more commonly misspelled words, why does english have so many silent letters, your vs. you're: how to use them correctly, popular in wordplay, 8 words for lesser-known musical instruments, it's a scorcher words for the summer heat, 7 shakespearean insults to make life more interesting, birds say the darndest things, 10 words from taylor swift songs (merriam's version), games & quizzes. Sailcovers, dodgers & Sailboat biminis 1-800-639-9907 Cruising Sails Racing Sails Sail Service Specifications Using H2ube Request a Quote Wash Service D&M Distributors Sailboat Covers & Enclosures A bimini for your sail boat is the perfect protection against the elements; wind, rain, sun or mosquitoes. Be comfortable in your yacht at anytime, anywhere. We proudly offer high quality Bimini’s that are specifically designed for your boat using fabrics such as Stamoid and Sunbrella that are not only durable but also waterproof, flexible, mildew resistant and available in many colors! Frames fabricated by our Trademark, Patented H2ube or the option of the stainless steel tubing. Hallett Canvas & Sails, Inc. has 26 years experience manufacturing various designs of dodger’s suitable for each individual customer and their boats. Hallett dodgers are carefully built ensuring structural integrity as well as years of performance. Dodgers will add the comfort, protection and style to your boat. Custom design your own dodger or see our dodger design page for some potential options that fit you and your sailboat. Dodger Order Form Get out of the sun for the afternoon. This cover protects the cockpit from light rain and sun without the use of bows. Awnings can also help ventilate your boat in an array of weather conditions allowing hatches and companionways to be open and covered from rain or sun. Awnings work well with dodger and bimini’s. It is easy to use, just zip the front to the dodger and insert an awning pole in the back and your done! All awnings are made using the finest outdoor fabrics such as Sunbrella and Stamoid and more. Sail Covers All sails should be protected from U.V. rays which, rapidly breakdown any sail cloth, taking years off the life of the sail. Standard Sail Cover We provide a front zipper, vinyl protection for winches or cleats and twist snaps for easy on and off. Options of Lazy Jack cut outs if it applies to your boat. Hallett Zip-Top Sail Cover Hallett Zip Top Sail covers are integrated to a lazy jack system to allow the mainsail to drop into the cover, then zip the top up and you’re done. It’s that easy! The cover is independent of the sail which allows for easy installation and taking off at the end of the season. Horse Blanket The loose luff, flaked mainsail on boom Sunbrella sail cover that simply is laid and fastened. Interior Luxury Foam including EZ Dry, Quality fabrics and construction will make your boat worth living on for years to come. Winter Covers We can build covers for any custom projects. We will work around special rigging or unique designs to bring it all together for the perfectly finished look. Many times the up front cost of a winter cover is substantially high, however if you keep your boat for more than three to five years the cost becomes much lower than shrink wrapping. Also the quality and functionality of the cover is much greater than the standard blue and green polyethylene tarps. A quality winter cover is important in preserving your upholstery from rain, snow, and harmful UV rays. Now using more and more, the H2ube frame for sturdy, easy use, easy to clean covers. Sail boat enclosures. Our custom fit sail boat enclosures allow boaters to use the outdoor space in all weather and get full use of boat. This in turn can also lengthen the boating season all together allowing you to launch earlier in the spring and to stay warm on a beautiful late fall evening sail. Enclosures are designed to provide maximum visibility built with Strata Glass, Makrolon Polycarbonate or Crystal Clear glass while using Sunbrella or Stamoid for the panels. Custom Covers Hallett can design and fabricate any in-house custom upholstery or canvas work that you may need. Some of these projects include, winch covers, helm covers, mooring covers, fender covers, boom tents, wheel covers, hatch covers and much more. You tell us what you would like and we will go the extra mile to meet your needs. Privacy policy Terms of Use Hallett Canvas produces the very best cruising sails, racing sails, sailboat canvas, powerboat canvas, commercial canvas and sail rigging products in Maine. [[html title]] 2-Bow 1" Dodger Frame Kit with Rigid Supports & Hand Rails 84" x 40" x 40" (Stainless Steel) Discontinued Create New Wish List Correlated Items Product details. Description Specifications Shipping Restrictions Questions & Answers Build it yourself! This 2-Bow Dodger Frame Kit includes everything you need to build a dodger frame with rigid supports and handrails. A dodger top, or spray hood, offers shelter from rain and spray and is a great way to protect yourself from the harsh rays of the sun. Building your own dodger lets you affordably customize the design for your boat. This 2-bow frame kit includes the frame tubing, fittings, rigid supports and handrail (grab rail) hardware. It does not include fabric or supplies to make the dodger skin. To create a complete dodger, pair this kit with a Dodger Skin Kit (sold separately). The included rigid support struts and handrails on both the port and starboard side are used to support the frame bows. The rigid support system (with handrails) provides optimal frame strength and increases your ability to tension the dodger’s fabric, reducing wrinkles. Rigid supports provide almost twice the strength and skin tension when compared to a traditional webbing supported dodger. This adjustable 2-bow frame is made from 1-inch, Type 304 stainless steel tubing with a Super Buff finish. All tubing bows are pre-bent with Sailrite’s custom jig. To lower shipping costs and allow for greater customization, the bows are cut just beyond each bend, making it possible to reduce the width and height of each frame. Make width adjustments by cutting the crowned center tubing. The "hockey stick" section of each bow is fitted with Type 304 stainless steel splines and riveted into the appropriate place. This dodger frame kit also includes Universal Deck Hinges, made from Type 316 stainless steel that features pivoting hinges to adjust for many different deck angles. Determine the desired width, height and spread (fore and aft) of your dodger. Compare to the specifications below to ensure our kit will adequately fit your boat. Our specifications are maximum dimensions for a frame with a normal set, with primary bow set at roughly a 65-degree angle to the waterline and the secondary bow at less than 90 degrees from the primary. Orientation can be adjusted—for example, the height can be increased, but it will decrease the spread. Frame kits can be cut down from listed sizes in both height and width. To cut the tubing, use a hacksaw with a blade that has 24 teeth per inch. A rivet tool and common tools are required for assembly, but not included. Stainless Steel Care & Cleaning: With proper care and cleaning, stainless steel can be maintained for a lifetime in excellent condition. Many people are surprised to learn that in the presence of chloride salts, free chlorine or sulfide gases, stainless steel can take on a brownish tint, also called a patina, oxidize or even corrode. These elements are present in various environments, including ocean spray, salted highways, chemical treatments added to swimming pools and groundwater in numerous coastal areas. The stainless steel tubing manufacturer recommends the following to properly maintain your stainless steel: Wash regularly with fresh water and a high-quality detergent Clean with a car chrome polish Wax with either a car or fiberglass wax Do not clean with chlorinated cleaners (no bleach) or scouring powders Do not use sandpaper or abrasive cleaners on buffed or mirror-finished metals Do not clean with muriatic or hydrochloric acids Kit Includes 12 Eye Ends 316 Stainless Steel 1" 4 Jaw Slides 316 Stainless Steel 1" 2 Flat Mount Plates 316 Stainless Steel 2 Universal Deck Hinges 316 Stainless Steel 1 (5PK) Phillips Pan Head Screw #10 x 3/4" 1 (5PK) Stainless Steel Phillips Oval Head Tapping Screw #10 x 1-1/4" 2 (2PK) Grooved Rivets Stainless Steel (for Bimini & Dodger Frames) 1 Filament Strapping Tape 4 Sliding Side Mounts 1" Stainless Steel (set screws & head bolt included) 1 4-foot piece 1" Stainless Steel Tubing (for handrails) 2 3-foot pieces 1" Stainless Steel Tubing (for rigid supports) 2-Bow 1" Type 304 Stainless Steel Frame with Type 304 Stainless Steel Splines This item is of a size or length that requires additional shipping fees. Lithium Ion Tools can ONLY be shipped Ground to the 48 contiguous United States. Flammable items can ONLY be shipped Ground to the 48 contiguous United States. Lithium-Ion Batteries can ONLY be shipped Ground to the 48 contiguous United States. Free Ground shipping is not applicable to this item. Adding this item to your shopping cart will eliminate any air transportation shipping methods. Adding this item to your shopping cart will eliminate the Post Office as a shipping selection. This item cannot ship to California due to state restrictions. Customers Also Purchased 3-Bow 1" Bimini Frame Kit & Fittings 106" x 84" x 44" (Stainless Steel) 3-Bow 7/8" Bimini Frame Kit & Fittings 106" x 84" x 44" (Stainless Steel) 2-Bow 1" Bimini Frame Kit & Fittings 106" x 42" x 60" (Stainless Steel) 2-Bow 7/8" Bimini Frame Kit & Fittings 106" x 42" x 60" (Stainless Steel) Tall 1-Bow for 1" Frame (Stainless Steel) Stay in the loop never miss sale announcements, how-to blogs, new product launches, helpful tutorials and more. Forums New posts Unanswered threads Register Top Posts Email What's new New posts New Posts (legacy) Latest activity New media Media New media New comments Boat Info Downloads Weekly Quiz Topic FAQ 10000boatnames.com Classifieds Sell Your Boat Used Gear for Sale Parts General Marine Parts Hunter Beneteau Catalina MacGregor Oday Help Terms of Use Monday Mail Subscribe Monday Mail Unsubscribe Dodger height Thread starter drazlou Start date Oct 27, 2015 Catalina Owner Forums Catalina 30 My original 1994 dodger finally fell apart. The height of the dodger was always a pita. I'm 5'-10" and the top of the dodger was always at the height of my vision so I had to duck or stand on my toes to see under or over it. I have 8" clearance between the bottom of the boom and the top of the dodger so I was consider making the frame 4" taller and have the new dodger made so I can see through the window unimpeded. Anyone see any reason not to do this? The top of the dodger is 64" from the cockpit deck. I don't know if this is the standard height or even if there is such a thing as a standard height. Thanks for any input.   We had our dodger lowered 4" for the same reason and guess what, it never made one ounce of difference visually, the dodger was still in the way, BUT, entrance into the boat was hampered quite a bit....   Stu Jackson Don S/V ILLusion Every dodger we've ever had included the option of zipper opening any glass panel. Retrofitting is easy. It may not change overall height but does make seeing forward much easier. An unintended feature is better ventilation in the cockpit.   stu, how tall are you? granted i'm only 5'7", but my boom is way above my head. so is my factor dodger.   Thanks for the input, all. Stu, I understand what you mean about looking through the glass. My front glass is zippered and unless it's really cold out I always unzip the window and roll it up. If it were 4" taller I would be able to see out the opening unobstructed. And yes, I always hit my head on it if I go down into the cabin in a hurry. Making it short enough to see over would just make this worse .I don't really see any downside to making it taller. The guy who is quoting a new dodger for me says "they're always in your way, just deal with it". Sage advice maybe but I'm hard headed. Doing something stupid just because "they're always in your way" doesn't seem like a sensible answer.   When I bought my B323, I looked at another one for the canvas that was provided by the dealer (locally made, though). I did not like it's arrangement, so made my own. The bimini front bow is just high enough that I can walk under it. The dodger, I followed Dan from Sailrite's store and made it with the zippered panels. I can stand under the dodger.   hv baker, looks like you upgraded to a garhauer traveler. like i said about my set up, looks like you still have lots of clearance under your boom. i don't but that's why i have no problem with my dodger height. i'm pretty sure my dodger came from the factory since it's on the original bill of sale.   well I'm 5' 10" and have the same issue on a 1985. you originally asked about raising the dodger and likely had no intention of ever lowering it for all the reasons above and then some. you can most likely not raise your dodger because when it was designed they likely made it as high as possible. the boom needs a considerable amount of vertical travel as well as the obvious horizontal travel.   i dunno. my boom barely, and i mean barely, clears my doger top and i have had no problems in ten years. am i missing something? what vertical travel down? i do, howevever, have decent room under the dodger. at least i've never noticed not, nor have any guests.   that's pretty much how my dodger looks but on a catalina 30 and with somewhat less window area, and i pretty much have the same bimini with a window on top to see the sails.   I was at the boat this weekend getting ready to pull it for the winter. As I removed the dodger from the frame I noticed that the frame just cleared the traveler and the mainsheet blocks which hang from the bottom of the boom as I pivoted it forward onto the cabin top. If I made it any taller it would no longer be possible to lay it down like this I guess this is why it was made the height it is. Morty, can your dodger frame pivot forward and lay on the cabin top? What do you do with it in the off season?   drazlou, i never collapse my dodger/bimini in season. in the winter i remove the canvas for cleaning and repair and leave the frame. part of my almost uniqueness is that i have a large destoyer wheel and con the boat from the railing so visibility thru the dodger is not a big issue since i'm looking forward outside the boat. i guess at least part of the reason i have no problem is that the dodger was on the original bill of sale from the factory who i presume had lots of exprience making exactly the perfect dodger for a catalina 30 vs. various after market suppliers who probably aren't so familiar with our boat. i sorta don't understand why you want to lay the dodger on the deck.   aha, drazlou, i think i understand better. when i collapse the frame i need to move boom outboard temporarily to clear the underside of the boom. once done i can rotate the boom back.   This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn more… ABBREVIATIONS BIOGRAPHIES CALCULATORS CONVERSIONS DEFINITIONS   Vocabulary       What does Dodger mean? Definitions for dodger ˈdɒdʒ ər dod·ger, this dictionary definitions page includes all the possible meanings, example usage and translations of the word dodger ., princeton's wordnet rate this definition: 0.0 / 0 votes. dodger, fox, slyboots noun a shifty deceptive person corn dab, corn dodger, dodger noun small oval cake of corn bread baked or fried (chiefly southern) Wiktionary Rate this definition: 0.0 / 0 votes dodger noun One who dodges. A small windscreen and cover device, to protect personnel from driving rain or weather. ChatGPT Rate this definition: 0.0 / 0 votes A dodger is a person who deliberately avoids or evades something, such as responsibilities, obligations, duties, or challenging tasks. In sports like baseball, "Dodger" can also be the name of a team, like the Los Angeles Dodgers. Similarly, in the context of sailing, a dodger is a protective screen or shield on a boat. Its meaning can vary depending on the context. Webster Dictionary Rate this definition: 0.0 / 0 votes Dodger noun one who dodges or evades; one who plays fast and loose, or uses tricky devices a small handbill see Corndodger Wikidata Rate this definition: 0.0 / 0 votes A dodger is a frame-supported canvas structure providing a helmsman and other occupants of a sailboat partial protection from harsh weather and seas. It covers part of the cockpit and the entrance into the interior of the sailboat. One can usually stand under a dodger and be protected from rain, spray and snow travelling straight down or from the front/fore of the craft. There is little protection afforded from elements moving from aft to fore, but since the boat is usually moving forward or anchored by the bow and therefore facing into the wind this is seldom a problem. A similar type of shelter on a boat, without the forward and side protection, is called a Bimini top. Matched Categories Usage in printed sources from:  . 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Alex US English David US English Mark US English Daniel British Libby British Mia British Karen Australian Hayley Australian Natasha Australian Veena Indian Priya Indian Neerja Indian Zira US English Oliver British Wendy British Fred US English Tessa South African How to say Dodger in sign language? Chaldean Numerology The numerical value of Dodger in Chaldean Numerology is: 7 Pythagorean Numerology The numerical value of Dodger in Pythagorean Numerology is: 8 Examples of Dodger in a Sentence Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena : I’m so happy to be here, because, man, these guys helped me so much, it’s emotional because I’ve gone through a lot… and these guys in this clubhouse, man, they’ve surrounded me, the fan base has surrounded me, it’s been just a special start to, I think, a wonderful Dodger career. Steve Yeager : World Series was tough. I wanted to play and felt like I could still play, i was very bitter. I wouldn't watch a ballgame( on TV). I wouldn't go to Dodger Stadium. Giancarlo Stanton : My Pops took me to my first Dodger game, showed me how to have love for this game and now we’re here, look at us, it’s just incredible. Laura Ortiz : I voted yes to strike because I often have to pick up shifts at the Rose Bowl just to try to make ends meet, i love working at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles and know that our company can do better. Stan Kasten : Don Newcombes presence and life established him as a role model for major leaguers across the country, he was a constant presence at Dodger Stadium and players always gravitated to him for his endless advice and leadership. The Dodger s meant everything to him and we are all fortunate he was part of our lives. Popularity rank by frequency of use ^  Princeton's WordNet http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=Dodger ^  Wiktionary https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Dodger ^  ChatGPT https://chat.openai.com ^  Webster Dictionary https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Dodger ^  Wikidata https://www.wikidata.org/w/index.php?search=Dodger ^  Usage in printed sources https://books.google.com/ngrams/graph?content=Dodger Word of the Day Would you like us to send you a free new word definition delivered to your inbox daily. Please enter your email address: Citation Use the citation below to add this definition to your bibliography:. Style: MLA Chicago APA "Dodger." Definitions.net. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 30 Aug. 2024. < https://www.definitions.net/definition/Dodger >. Discuss these Dodger definitions with the community: Report Comment We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe. If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly. You need to be logged in to favorite . Create a new account. Your name: * Required Your email address: * Required Pick a user name: * Required Username: * Required Password: * Required Forgot your password?    Retrieve it Are we missing a good definition for Dodger ? Don't keep it to yourself... Image credit, the web's largest resource for, definitions & translations, a member of the stands4 network, free, no signup required :, add to chrome, add to firefox, browse definitions.net, are you a words master, be present at (meetings, church services, university), etc., Nearby & related entries:. dodgeballer dodgegallery dodgem noun dodger blue dodger, the artful Alternative searches for Dodger : Search for Dodger on Amazon 435 IMAGES Standardizing dodger design and fabrication Award of Excellence in sailboat dodgers category: Traditional dodger How To Make A Sailboat Dodger Hardtop Dodgers Sailor-friendly sailboat dodger designs Dodger on adapted sailboat VIDEO The Massive Dornier Do X: A Flying Boat That Barely Took Flight Sailboat Meaning Free 30' sailboat! Offshore Prep! Dodger Repair, New Cushions, Radio Install, Oil Change and more! SDOC Jay Gibbons carrer Highlights 1080/720P HD Sail Life COMMENTS Dodger (sailing) Dodger (sailing) A dodger (also known as a spray-hood) is a frame-supported canvas (usually with clear vinyl windows) structure partially protecting a helmsman and other occupants of a sailboat from harsh weather and seas. It covers part of the cockpit and the entrance (or "companionway") into the interior of the sailboat. One can usually stand ... What Is A Hard Dodger? (And How To Build One) Building a hard dodger should not be a task that is rushed, as you need to allow time for things to mold and take shape. If you are interested in building a hard dodger, you will see the importance and why it is essential for everyday sailing. According to boaters university, sailing with a hard top dodger significantly improved the experience. Traditional vs. California Dodger Dodger Size & Shape. The first difference to consider is size. Traditional dodgers are generally more compact, both in height and depth, than California dodgers. This style won't shelter the companionway as much because it's not as deep from front to back, but it may be easier to see over. The Super-compact Sailboat Dodger The Super-compact Sailboat Dodger. John Stone and Far Reach sail toward a squall line during a homeward passage from St. Martin to North Carolina. This first pram-hood, which offered modest protection from rain and spray, was later upgraded to a larger design. Sailing in general, but especially offshore, can sometimes be a wet experience ... How to Build a Hard-top Dodger Finishing the dodger. The next step is to fiberglass the entire dodger. With the dodger in place, install temporary cross-members to eliminate shape distortions and then put the dodger in a convenient place for fiberglassing. I used standard 9oz tape and cloth, and West System epoxy. All corners and gaps need to be filled and rounded. Hardtop Dodgers A traditional dodger, also known as a spray hood, is an enclosed structure that protects you and the cockpit from waves, wind and weather.Ideal for both day sailors and offshore cruisers, dodgers feature frame-supported canvas on the top, sides and front. It covers the forward section of the cockpit and the companion way of the sailboat. Solving the Dodger Dilemma S tainless steel tubing and hardware make up the skeleton over which fabric takes shape. The bow-shaped tubes and interconnecting clamps, joints and stanchion bases transfer dodger/Bimini loads to the sailboat's deck. The challenge lies in creating the right combination of support for a given square footage of canvas. DIY: Installing a Dodger DIY: Installing a Dodger. Arguably, there are few items on a cruising boat more oriented to your sailing comfort than a dodger, especially in Maine, where cold water rules. Bashing to windward, pushing to get somewhere in a cold downpour or just keeping the crew happy, the dodger plays a major role. A couple of years ago we brought our cockpit ... Sailor-friendly sailboat dodger designs A dodger is an important feature of a sailboat that can greatly enhance the sailing experience. It is an essential component in providing protection from the elements for the companionway and cockpit area. When done correctly, it will complement the overall look of the boat and function well. When done poorly, it can be an eyesore and a nuisance. Hard Dodger (Sprayhood) Illustrated Guide Example #1 SVERIGE Boat = Bristol 40 Yawl 1970 Hard Dodger Custom Build This boat SVERIGE has a hard dodger. I asked the owner about that dodger and how much it cost to fabricate or purchase.Here is his reply: SVERIGE Owner: "It took me 80hrs. A Trojan 32ft fish boat with a fly bridge. Used cored flybridge deck and about 20ft hull plate midships. It's solid composite with green Solex Laminated ... E35: How to Build Your Own Dodger for a Sailboat Current position: Lat: 8.910629 Lon: -79.525725If you want to support me, check out my Patreon account (thank you so much!!) patreon.com/windhippieFor more r... How To Home Build a Hard Dodger For an Offshore Sailboat We laid up the required layers of fiberglass cloth and resin in the mould, and then placed the foam core (30mm medium density) over the fiberglass layers. At this point we laid up more fiberglass to the design specifications and 'sandwiched' the foam in place. High Modulus, a composite engineering company in Auckland, made some ... Standardizing dodger design and fabrication When designing each dodger, Iverson's Design considers the uniqueness of the individual sailboat. Clients specify the height they want and how far back into the cockpit they want the dodger to extend. They also choose from a variety of colors and material choices. Specific details, like the sailboat's style and lines, are incorporated into ... Make a Mini Dodger Making the Mini-Dodger. Measure the slider opening, including the width, and the length of the groove with the boards in and the hatch adjusted in the ideal open position (see below). Decide how much overhang you like. Depending on the angle of the companionway boards, six inches is typically enough. Decide how much arch you like, and estimate ... Soft Dodger or Hard Dodger Getting up on top the dodger was always a bit of a gymnist thing to do for a tween (between 65 and 70) so I like the ability to just fold the soft dodger out of the way and stand on the cockpit seats to take care of the boom. Advantage of the hard dodger is that you can mount things permanently on it. Solar panels for example. kind regards, Custom Dodgers Built by Iverson's Designs The "Road Crew" at Iverson's is on the go, constructing dodgers on sailboats of all makes and styles between Portland, Oregon and Washington. With their efficient design and manufacturing methods you can have a new custom canvas dodger in as little as a week*. *Please note that the Iverson's Dodger waiting list can be 2 to 4 months out, upon ... Dodger Definition & Meaning The meaning of DODGER is one that dodges; especially : one who uses tricky devices. How to use dodger in a sentence. Are DODGERS really necessary? Dodgers are necessary to round out the National League West. I sail from March through October and would much prefer to have a dodger those two months, but the rest of the time it would just get in the way, as noted. Also, the buttons are unattractive and a pain in the tush if you sit on one. Sailcovers, dodgers & Sailboat biminis Dodgers. Hallett Canvas & Sails, Inc. has 26 years experience manufacturing various designs of dodger's suitable for each individual customer and their boats. Hallett dodgers are carefully built ensuring structural integrity as well as years of performance. Dodgers will add the comfort, protection and style to your boat. 2-Bow 1" Dodger Frame Kit with Rigid Supports & Hand Rails ... Building your own dodger lets you affordably customize the design for your boat. This 2-bow frame kit includes the frame tubing, fittings, rigid supports and handrail (grab rail) hardware. It does not include fabric or supplies to make the dodger skin. To create a complete dodger, pair this kit with a Dodger Skin Kit (sold separately). Dodger height Oct 27, 2015. #1. My original 1994 dodger finally fell apart. The height of the dodger was always a pita. I'm 5'-10" and the top of the dodger was always at the height of my vision so I had to duck or stand on my toes to see under or over it. I have 8" clearance between the bottom of the boom and the top of the dodger so I was consider making ... Dodger Dodger (sailing), a sailboat part; Other uses. Dodger, by Terry Pratchett "Dodger" , a television episode; Dodger, British children's television series, inspired by the Artful Dodger; See also. Draft dodger, someone who tries to avoid being drafted into the military; Dodger Dog, a hot dog named after the Los Angeles Dodgers What does Dodger mean? Definition of Dodger in the Definitions.net dictionary. ... or challenging tasks. In sports like baseball, "Dodger" can also be the name of a team, like the Los Angeles Dodgers. Similarly, in the context of sailing, a dodger is a protective screen or shield on a boat. ... A similar type of shelter on a boat, without the forward and side ... catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht