The Benefits of Hypalon vs German Mehler 1.2mm PVC Material
German Mehler 1.2mm PVC is lighter than Hypalon, making the boats easier to handle, pack, and transport. If portability is very imp[ortant.
At a glance
German Mehler 1.2mm PVC is lighter than Hypalon, making the boats easier to handle, pack, and transport. If portability is very imp[ortant.
- Explore the Aerowave range
What we'd put you in
Aerowave Viper 400 Sovereign
1500 GSM / 1.2 mm VALMEX Heavy Plus — the fabric this article is really about.
US$3,167 USD
Delivered to your door, today's rate
- Free freight to United States · local taxes payable on arrival
- 7-year hull warranty
🇺🇸 Shipping to United States · landed price quoted in writing
Yes — we ship the Aerowave Viper 400 Sovereign to United States. Here's the landed price.
1500 GSM / 1.2 mm VALMEX Heavy Plus — the fabric this article is really about.
Aerowave Viper 400 Sovereign
- Boat package (export price)
- US$3,726
- 15% tariff relief credit
- − US$559
- Express air freight to United States
- Included
- Import duty, taxes & customs clearance
- Payable on arrival
- Estimated landed, USD
- US$3,167
Indicative, converted at today's rate, before local duty and tax on arrival. Ask below and we'll put a fixed figure in writing, valid 30 days.
- 7-year hull warranty
- 1500 GSM / 1.2 mm VALMEX® Heavy Plus hull
- CE certified to ISO 6185-3 and EU Directive 2013/53/EU
- Door-to-door, tracked the whole way
Your price, delivered to your door — freight included.
We email the full PDF quote (spec, freight, finance, WavePay) to your inbox in under 60 seconds. No spam — one quote, one follow-up.
See it for yourself
Real boats. Real owners. Real people behind them.
Plenty of what you read online these days is generated. Check us out properly — the factory, the reviews and the owners are all one click away. Why we use AI, and how to check we’re real
How our boats are built
Walk the production line: thermo-welded seams, 1.2 mm VALMEX Heavy Plus hulls, over-pressure relief valves on every chamber.
See the buildGoogle Maps reviews
Real Australian owners, five stars, published on our Google Business Profile with the map — read them there, not just on our own site.
Open Google Maps reviewsOwner stories
Boats in use — offshore, on rivers, on rescue duty. Photos and words from the people who actually own them.
Read owner storiesThe Benefits of Hypalon vs German Mehler 1.2mm PVC Material
- Discover the key benefits of Hypalon vs PVC German Mehler 1.2mm PVC for inflatable boats and choose the right material for your needs.
The Benefits of Hypalon vs German Mehler 1.2mm PVC Material
-
Discover the key benefits of Hypalon vs PVC German Mehler 1.2mm PVC for inflatable boats and choose the right material for your needs.
The Benefits of Hypalon vs German Mehler 1.2mm PVC Material
- Discover the key benefits of Hypalon vs PVC German Mehler 1.2mm PVC for inflatable boats and choose the right material for your needs.
The Benefits of Hypalon vs German Mehler 1.2mm PVC Material
-
Discover the key benefits of Hypalon vs PVC German Mehler 1.2mm PVC for inflatable boats and choose the right material for your needs.
When it comes to choosing an inflatable boat, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right material. At Easy Inflatables, we offer two of the most trusted options on the market: Hypalon and German Mehler 1.2mm PVC. Both materials are high-performance, durable, and engineered for marine environments—but they each bring their own strengths to the water.
In this article, we’ll compare Hypalon vs PVC, diving into what makes these materials stand out, and how to choose the best option based on your needs.
What is Hypalon?
Hypalon is a synthetic rubber developed by DuPont that is known for its exceptional resistance to chemicals, UV rays, and extreme temperatures. Though it’s now technically known as CSM (chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber) since DuPont discontinued the Hypalon name, the marine industry still widely refers to it by its original name.
Benefits of Hypalon for Inflatable Boats:
1. Exceptional Durability
Hypalon is known for lasting 15–20 years or more. It’s resistant to UV degradation, chemical exposure, and abrasion—making it ideal for harsh marine conditions. For frequent or professional use, Hypalon inflatable boats offer long-term reliability.
2. Superior UV and Heat Resistance
If you spend a lot of time in the sun, Hypalon durability truly shines. It can withstand direct UV exposure and high temperatures without cracking, fading, or weakening. That’s why many rescue and military boats use Hypalon.
3. Chemical Resistance
Hypalon resists oil, fuel, saltwater, and a variety of cleaning products. This makes maintenance easier and enhances the boat’s lifespan in industrial or high-use environments.
4. Easy Repairs
Although Hypalon requires a two-part adhesive, the repairs are permanent and reliable. Even in extreme conditions, patches adhere firmly.
5. Premium Look and Feel
With its matte finish and rugged texture, marine-grade Hypalon gives boats a more professional and high-end appearance.
What is German Mehler 1.2mm PVC?
German Mehler PVC refers to high-quality, multi-layer PVC fabric manufactured by Mehler Texnologies, a trusted German company. The 1.2mm thickness offers excellent resistance to punctures, stretching, and abrasion.
This material is widely used for commercial and recreational PVC inflatable boats because of its excellent performance at a more affordable price point.
Benefits of German Mehler 1.2mm PVC:
1. Cost-Effective and High Quality
PVC inflatable boats are generally less expensive than Hypalon models, making them perfect for casual boaters or first-time buyers. But don’t be fooled—Mehler PVC is one of the most trusted and long-lasting PVC options on the market.
2. Lightweight Design
German Mehler 1.2mm PVC is lighter than Hypalon, making the boats easier to handle, pack, and transport. If portability is important to you, this is a big advantage.
3. Weldable Seams
Unlike Hypalon, which must be glued, PVC seams can be heat welded, creating an airtight and watertight bond. This can result in lower maintenance and fewer leak risks over time.
4. Resistant to Abrasion and Punctures
Thanks to the 1.2mm thickness and multi-layer construction, Mehler PVC offers excellent protection from sharp objects, rough beaches, and debris.
5. Smooth and Sleek Appearance
PVC boats usually have a glossy finish, giving them a clean, modern look. They’re also easier to clean after each trip.
Hypalon vs PVC: Which One is Right for You?
To help make the decision easier, here’s a quick PVC vs Hypalon comparison across key features:
| Feature | Hypalon | German Mehler 1.2mm PVC |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 15–20+ years | 5–10 years |
| UV Resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Cost | Higher | More affordable |
| Repair Process | Two-part glue | One-part glue or heat weld |
| Appearance | Matte, textured | Glossy, smooth |
| Portability | Moderate | Excellent |
| Suitability | Professional, frequent use | Recreational, light use |
Easy Inflatables: Built on Quality
At Easy Inflatables, we pride ourselves on offering top-tier inflatable boats built from both Hypalon and German Mehler 1.2mm PVC. Whether you’re heading out for a fishing trip, exploring coastal waters, or looking for a durable tender for your yacht, we’ve got you covered.
Our commitment to quality means every boat is constructed with premium fabric, expert engineering, and a focus on real-world performance. We only use materials we trust—materials that meet the needs of Australian adventurers and boating enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Hypalon and PVC comes down to how you plan to use your inflatable boat. If you’re looking for long-term durability, superior weather resistance, and professional-grade performance, Hypalon is the clear winner. But if you’re after a lightweight, budget-friendly solution that still performs well, especially for recreational use, German Mehler 1.2mm PVC is an excellent choice.
No matter which material you choose, Easy Inflatables ensures you get a product that’s reliable, safe, and ready for adventure.
Ready to Launch Your Next Adventure?
Explore our full range of Hypalon inflatable boats and German Mehler 1.2mm PVC boats at Easy Inflatables. Whether you’re a weekend explorer or a seasoned boater, you’ll find the perfect match built for performance and reliability on the water.
Share the post now
Set Sail with Easy Inflatables
Experience the ultimate freedom on the water with our top-quality inflatable boats and accessories. Easy Inflatables is your trusted partner, providing everything you need for a safe and unforgettable adventure.
Categories
- Accessories & Gear (84)
- Adventure Destinations (63)
- Boat Accessories & Setup (25)
- Boat Comparisons (7)
- Boat Trailers (12)
- Boating Safety Gear (5)
- Catamaran Boats (12)
- Customer Stories & Experiences (4)
- Inflatable Boat Guides (47)
- Inflatable Boats & Kayaks (149)
- Inflatable Catamarans (12)
- Maintenance & Care (114)
- Outboard Motors (53)
- Outdoor Activities (26)
- Product Comparisons & Reviews (108)
- Setup & Safety Tips (52)
- Special Offers & Promotions (2)
- Sustainability Tips (13)
- Types of Boats (47)
Related Post
Your Guide to the Best Waterproof Battery Box of 2026
Sea Trail Boat Trailers A Complete Australian Guide
Choosing the Best Electric Trolling Engine: 2026 Guide
Read the full guide at easyinflatables.com.au
Explore the Aerowave range
Weekend-Proof Score 17 questions · about 2 minutes
Will the boat you're about to buy survive an Australian summer?
Seventeen straight questions about where you'll use it, what you'll ask of it and the boat you're weighing up. You get a score out of 100, the exact weak points in your plan, and the one boat that genuinely fits.
Free · your result shows on screen · no email required
So which one is yours?
Pick how you'll actually use it and we'll take you straight to the right hull.
I want to fish it
Open bow, rod holders, deck space you can stand and cast from.
Viper Sport 400Family, diving and the beach
3.8 m Series 3 catamaran — low bow to climb back in wearing fins or a tank.
WaveRunner 380Tender / one-person launch
3.3 m hard-floor boat that packs into a bag and still takes a beach landing.
Viper 330Shop gear featured in this guide
Aerowave WaveRunner 380 Series 3 Catamaran Package
The WaveRunner 380 Series 3 is a premium 3.8m inflatable catamaran package built for Australian and worldwide families, fishing, and coastal day boating — ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing — offering serious stability and premium German Valmex® construction.
Free freight to United States · local taxes payable on arrival
Aerowave Viper 400 Sovereign
Flagship 4m enclosed-bow inflatable catamaran. German VALMEX® 7321 Heavy Plus 1.2mm commercial-grade fabric, 10 PSI high-pressure drop-stitch air deck floor with VALMEX non-slip surface, LockPro wheels, full Bimini and FREE express delivery Australia-wide included. Winter special — save $1,000 until 31 August 2026.
Free freight to United States · local taxes payable on arrival
Aerowave Viper 365 Open Bow
Premium 3.65m Inflatable catamaran — built the same way as our flagship Viper 400 sports boat, just 35cm shorter. German VALMEX® 7321 Heavy Plus 1.2mm commercial-grade fabric, 10 PSI high-pressure drop-stitch air deck floor with VALMEX non-slip surface, LockPro wheels, full Bimini and FREE express delivery Australia-wide included.
Free freight to United States · local taxes payable on arrival
Not sure which suits you? Talk to a real boat owner.
Before you spend a cent
Buying from Australia, delivered to United States
You have never heard of us, we are on the other side of the world, and the internet is full of fakes. Fair enough. Here is everything you would need to check us out, in one place — no forms, no chat bot.
Australian designed business
Easy Inflatables, Avoca Beach NSW 2251. ABN 96 856 548 613. International orders ship from our Hong Kong hub.
222 owner reviews, 4.8 average
Read them in full, good and bad, on our reviews page.
CE certified, 7-year hull warranty
ISO 6185-3 and EU Directive 2013/53/EU. Warranty honoured worldwide.
Tracked, insured, door to door
FREE freight to United States · local tax/duty on arrival.
- Who am I actually buying from?
- Easy Inflatables, Avoca Beach NSW 2251, Australia. ABN 96 856 548 613. Sean is the owner and skipper, Gary Stewart handles sales on +61 2 4335 1603, Karen Matthews handles email. The boats are Australian designed; international orders ship from our Hong Kong dispatch hub so your landed price stays competitive. Phone us before you pay a cent — a real person answers.
- Is this really an Australian product?
- Yes — Australian designed and engineered on the NSW Central Coast. Manufacturing is done offshore to our spec, and international orders ship direct from our Hong Kong dispatch hub. If we routed every boat through Australia first, the freight alone would roughly double or triple your cost for the same hull.
- What do I pay, and what is not included?
- The delivery and import terms depend on your country. EU, UK, New Zealand and named Asia/Pacific lanes include duty and tax; US freight is free but US buyers pay import charges on arrival. Other destinations show their terms before payment.
- How do I pay safely?
- Card through Stripe (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Apple Pay, Google Pay) or bank transfer. Card payments carry your bank's own dispute protection. We never ask for crypto, gift cards or payment to a personal account.
- What if it arrives damaged?
- Every boat ships fully tracked and insured door to door. Photograph the carton and the boat on arrival and email us — transit damage is claimed and replaced through us, not left with you and the courier.
- Is the warranty real outside Australia?
- Yes. The 7-year hull warranty on 1.2 mm VALMEX Heavy Plus and Orca Hypalon hulls applies wherever you are. Replacement parts are held in Australia and at our overseas hub and go out by express courier to your door.
- Is the boat actually certified?
- All Aerowave catamarans are CE certified to ISO 6185-3 and EU Directive 2013/53/EU. Certification paperwork is supplied with the boat — ask and we will send it before you order.
Ready to set sail?
Premium German-fabric inflatable catamarans, built to order and delivered to your door. Talk to our team or browse the fleet.
Like this guide? Get the next one in your inbox.
Owner-tested tips, gear deep-dives and Aussie boating know-how — no spam.
