Paints

Four years later, Interlux and Epifanes make the cut.

Seahawk Monterey, Interlux Micron Optima score highest in our test.

Poke your head up the hatch after waking up on board on a crystal clear morning in Port Townsend, WA's Point Hudson marina and...

White bottom paints look good, but can they do the job?

The top paints from previous years, like Micron 66, get split decisions this year. Interlux's Trilux II comes in as the surprise top performer—too bad it's only available in Canada. Pettit's Hydrocoat and a paint from Blue Water did well in both Florida and Connecticut waters.

Epifanes outperforms the glossy all-stars, while Sikkens' Cetol bests all the synthetics, oils, and stains for the top matte finish.

Interlux's Micron 66 takes the laurels this year, with Pettit's Trinidad SR and two E-Paints on its heels—and for less money.

Most of the test samples fared surprisingly well. Some were easier to prepare than others. All will benefit from an occasional sponging-off.

At the end of two years, after a hard life and no protection from the elements, the paints on our 'Bracelet' are given a final rating.

Half a year in New England weather, '03 (cold and wet, followed by dank and muggy) has separated the contestants in the field.