Seat mounts and slides are essential components for installing, moving, and adjusting helm seats on boats. These devices securely attach the seats to the boat's structure, while also allowing the seat position to be adjusted for improved comfort and functionality.
On-Board Seat Supports
Seat supports are the bases or structures on which onboard seats are mounted. They are designed to ensure stability and safety, withstanding the stresses typical of a marine environment (waves, vibrations, exposure to salt, etc.).
Types of Seat Supports for Onboard Vehicles
Fixed support
Features : These mounts are fixed, meaning the seat is securely anchored in a specific position. They are ideal for boats where there is no need to move the seat.
Advantages :
Simple to install.
They provide a stable base for the seat, reducing the risk of unwanted movement.
Disadvantages :
They do not allow for adjustment of the seat position, so they may not be comfortable for all types of riders, especially on boats used by multiple people.
Adjustable support
Features : These supports allow you to adjust the seat position, both forward/backward and tilt. Some models also offer height adjustment.
Advantages :
They allow the seat position to be adapted to the driver's specific needs.
They offer greater versatility, as they can be adjusted for different people or situations.
Disadvantages :
They can be more expensive and require a little more maintenance than fixed mounts.
Suspension support
Features : These mounts are designed to reduce impacts and vibrations caused by waves or sudden maneuvers. They typically feature suspension systems that help absorb shocks and reduce stress on the driver's back and joints.
Advantages :
Excellent for boats that sail in rough water, such as speedboats, racing boats or fishing boats.
They improve comfort and reduce fatigue while sailing.
Disadvantages :
They tend to be more expensive.
They may require more maintenance to ensure the suspension system functions properly.
Sleds for on-board seats
Seat slides are mechanisms that allow the seat to move easily along a base (usually the base of the boat). They can be used in conjunction with seat supports, allowing the driver to easily adjust the seat position.
Types of Seat Sleds
Linear slide
Features : This type of slide allows the seat to move back and forth in a straight line. It is one of the simplest and most common configurations for seat movement.
Advantages :
Easy to install and use.
It offers a basic adjustment for the seat position.
Disadvantages :
Adjustment is limited to forward and backward movement; there is no tilt or height adjustment.
Adjustable tilt sled
Features : Some more advanced sleds also allow for seat tilt adjustment, in addition to forward and backward movement. These systems are particularly useful for ensuring greater comfort by better adapting to the rider's posture.
Advantages :
Greater customization in seat position.
Ideal for improving comfort and ergonomics while sailing.
Disadvantages :
More complex and expensive than linear slides.
Suspension sleds
Features : Like suspension mounts, suspension slides help reduce shock and vibration, improving comfort and seat stability when navigating rough waters. The seat moves along a suspended base, absorbing vibrations and impacts.
Advantages :
Excellent for reducing physical stress while sailing on the open sea.
Ideal for racing boats, speedboats and other fast or sporty vessels.
Disadvantages :
As with suspension mounts, suspension sleds tend to be more expensive and require maintenance.
Important Features of On-Board Seat Supports and Slides
Corrosion-Resistant Materials : Because boats are exposed to salt and moisture, it is essential that brackets and slides are made of corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or specially treated materials, to ensure long life.
Safety : Supports and slides must be designed to keep the seat securely in place while underway, even in rough seas or during sudden maneuvers. It is essential that they are equipped with secure locking mechanisms to prevent unexpected movement.
Ease of adjustment : The adjustability of the supports and slides allows you to adapt the seat position to different people and situations. Some models offer simple adjustments, while others require a little more time or effort but offer greater precision.
Comfort : Adding suspension or tilt systems significantly increases comfort, especially on long trips. These systems absorb impacts, reducing the risk of physical fatigue.
Considerations in Choosing Supports and Sleds
Boat Type : For smaller boats or fishing boats, fixed mounts or linear slides may be sufficient. For pleasure boats, speedboats, or racing boats, a more advanced system with multiple adjustments and a suspension mount may be necessary.
Cruising Duration : If you plan to cruise in rough waters or for long periods, a suspension stand or sled is a better choice for improved comfort and safety.
Available Space : Ensure that the chosen support or slide system fits properly within the boat's structure without compromising safety or accessibility.
In short, seat supports and seat slides are key elements for ensuring comfort, safety, and convenience while sailing. The choice between the various models depends on the specific needs of the vessel, its intended use, and the driver's personal preferences.
