Fenders

A fender is any piece of equipment, such as a tire, inflated ball or cylinder, or rope, which, when mounted or inserted between the vessel and another object, will absorb shock and prevent damage or chafing. It is a bumper used to absorb the kinetic energy of a boat or vessel berthing against a jetty, quay wall or other vessel. Fenders are used to prevent damage to boats, vessels and berthing structures.

Historically, fenders were woven from rope in a variety of patterns. Fenders of woven rope are still used today by historic boat owners.