Is My Boat Hypalon or PVC?

We often get asked this question. It is important to know when repairing your craft what it is made of. Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) pre 2015 were mostly PVC but since then Hypalon has become the most common material used.

How To Check If Your Boat is Hypalon or PVC

PVC Fabric Hypalon Fabric

If you can see the inside of the tube, either through the valve or through a rip or tear (you may need a torch). Hypalon is generally dark grey or black on the inside. PVC tends to be the same colour inside as it is outside (allowing for some fading).
Lightly sand the outside of the tube. Hypalon will matt down and produce a fine dust. PVC with just scratch.
If the seams are heat welded (as opposed to glued), then it is PVC. Hypalon cannot be heat welded.