Practical Sailor's gear and boat reviews take the guesswork out of your buying decisions.

February 1, 2003

Restoring Decks: Nonskid Options
We evaluated four paints, 10 additives, and three mats for slip resistance, ease of application, and appearance. Treadmaster's mat still rules, in our view. West Marine's paint is a Best Buy.

Offshore Log: More Kiwi Companies
Last month, we started a survey of marine manufacturers in New Zealand that are riding, and sometimes creating, the wave of sailing technology that is rolling around the world. Here are a few more.

Seaward 25
A trailerable pocket cruiser introduced in 1984 by Hake Yachts, this pricy plumb-bowed sloop is made for exploring the shallows. It's laid out for a cruising couple or young family.

Clear Plastic Cleaners
All 14 products worked to some degree, but we were most impressed by the Armada 210 and Plexus among the sprays, the Dolphinite among the liquid pastes, and, as a Best Buy, the Mer-maids among the liquids.