Air Floor Dinghies vs Aluminum Floor Dinghies: Which Inflatable Boat Is Right for You?
When choosing an inflatable boat, one of the most important decisions is the type of floor. In this comparison, we break down aluminum floor dinghies vs air floor inflatable dinghies, highlighting the pros, cons, and best use cases for each so you can choose the right inflatable boat for your needs.
Air Floor: Lightweight, Portable & Easy to Use
Air floor dinghies, also known as air deck boats, inflatable floor boats, or air floor boats, are popular for their convenience and portability.
Why choose an air floor inflatable boat?
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Lightweight and highly portable — ideal if you want a portable boat that’s easy to carry, transport, and store
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Fast setup — easy to inflate with no assembly, making it easy to inflate and get on the water quickly
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Great for calm water use — perfect as fishing boats for fishing on lakes, bays, and protected waters
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Comfortable inflatable boat floor — soft underfoot and forgiving when moving around
Considerations
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Less rigid than aluminum floors for standing
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Must be cautious of sharp objects
- Weather Endurance
Aluminum Floor: Rigid, Stable & Heavy-Duty
Aluminum floor dinghies, often referred to as hard bottom inflatable boats, offer a more solid and traditional boating feel.
Why choose an aluminum floor inflatable boat?
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Rigid and stable deck — aluminum flooring provides a stable, hard bottom feel
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Better weight distribution — ideal for standing, moving around, or carrying gear
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Longevity — durable and heavy duty, all weather resistant
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Excellent for fishing — popular among anglers who want dependable inflatable fishing boats
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Weighs 35 lbs.
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10-minute assembly required
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Must be stored separately
Bottom Line:
If you prioritize portability, quick setup, and easy storage, an air floor inflatable boat is often the best choice. If you want maximum stability, durability, and performance, especially for fishing or heavier use, an aluminum floor dinghy is the better option. Keep in mind that all floors are interchangeable as well.
