You don’t have to be a boat owner to benefit from dock cleats, but if you are interested in purchasing a set of boat cleats, we have a detailed buying guide for that too. Dock cleats are typically used for tying ropes or lines to boats or other vessels. They are mostly made of metal and come in various shapes and sizes. The most common shape is that of a round ring with four prongs. In this article, we’ll be looking at ten of the best dock cleats on the market.
These have been carefully selected according to their durability, ease of installation, and their value for money. Our number one pick is the Dock Edge Dock Cleat with Stainless Steel Button which is easy to install and holds strongly. It is one of the most popular products on the market and comes in a set of four.
| # | Preview | Product | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
 |
Dock Edge 2806-F Dock Cleat,… |
8.45 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
 |
SUNOOM Black Boat Cleats 6… |
8.75 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
 |
Boat Cleat, 4 inch Open… |
9.90 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
 |
4 Pack 6inch Heavy Duty… |
9.85 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
 |
Simplified Living 6” Dock Cleats:… |
8.30 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 6 |
 |
Rainier Supply Co. 2-Pack Bungee… |
8.60 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 7 |
 |
MIZUGIWA Nylon Cleat 6 inch… |
8.45 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 8 |
 |
VEITHI 6 inch 316 Stainless… |
9.35 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 9 |
 |
ZUJARA 6 inch Dock Cleats,… |
9.35 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 10 |
 |
VEITHI Dock Cleats 6 inch… |
8.90 |
Buy on Amazon |
10 Best boat dock cleats Reviews & Buying Guide
If you’re looking to tie off a boat in your backyard, the best dock cleats will secure it to the dock. Cleats can secure a boat to the dock or a trailer to a vehicle. Many boat cleats are also used to secure a trailer to a vehicle.
Boat Dock Cleats
You can secure a boat to the dock with the right boat dock cleats. These secure the boat to the dock and keep it in place.
1. Dock Edge 2806-F Dock Cleat, 6″ Galvanised
Features :
- Series cast iron dock cleats
- 2806-F DOCK EDGE cast iron dock cleats
- Length 6 inches
Additional Info :
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 0.99999999898 |
| Width | 0.99999999898 |
| Length | 5.99999999388 |
| Weight | 0.4 |
| Release Date | 2017-10-19T00:00:01Z |
FinishThis is one of the most popular dock cleats on the market. It is strong and durable and will last in all weather conditions. It is made of galvanized steel that has been powder-coated for rust resistance. The powder coating also makes it easy to paint if you want a different color. It comes in six sizes, ranging from ¾ inches to 2 inches in width.
The 6-inch width is a great size for tying down a canoe or kayak. It is 3 feet long, making it long enough to handle most boats. This dock cleat has a high breaking point. A lot of people tie down boats and then forget about the boats.
2. SUNOOM Black Boat Cleats 6 Inch Nylon Boat Cleat,Boat Dock Cleats,Boat Rope Cleat,Kayak Cleat (4 Pcs) for Docking Boats,Canoe,Pontoon,Yacht,Kayak
Features :
- Quality Material:black boat cleats made of quality nylon,this cleats boating also sturdy,good for salt water environment.these boat dock cleats can serve you for a long time.
- Widely Applicttion:boat cleats 6 inch uses boat docks,decks,piers for tying up small boats, kayaks,canoes,jet ski’s,and great for hanging boat fenders.boat cletes helps keep your ropes secure and organized,good for basic docking or temporary docking.
- Use Scenarios:dock cleats 6 inch suitable for DIY projects as towel hooks,curtain ties,serving trays,drawers,dressers,and cabinets and great for home daily life application.
- Size:nylon boat cleat length:6 Inch(160mm),height:1.18 Inch (30mm),about 1.68 Inch (42mm) center to center measurement of two holes.boat rope cleat can accept up to rope diameter 3/8″ will fit through the base
- Package Includes:these cleats include 4 dock cleats black and 8 stainless steel intallation fasteners,you will receive these kayak cleat to service your daily use and replacement
And much more. These are secure, durable and comes with a 6-inch nylon rope. They are rust-resistant and designed to last longer with its zinc plated steel construction. It is also non-corroding and water resistant. It is a versatile 6-inch rope cleat, you can use it for docking your boat and can be used as a tie-down cleat for your tie-down straps.
It is easy to install and is an essential equipment for boating. It is a multi-purpose boat equipment that you can use for your kayak, canoe and other boats. It is easy to install, and you can use it for your boat dock too.
3. Boat Cleat, 4 inch Open Base Dock Cleat, All 316 Stainless Steel Boat Mooring Accessories, Free Installation Accessories Bolts, Nuts and Screws, 2PCS, 4 Inch
Features :
- ▲ Attention: 4 inch is the small Dock Cleat, Size: 4″ Overall length (3.89 in / 99mm), About 0.17lb/80g (Per Dock Cleat), Screws: 8 ( With matching 316 stainless steel screws and nuts for your choice)
- ✔ Anti-Corrosion Materials: Marine dock cleat made of precision cast 316 marine grade stainless steel, heavy-duty open base boat cleat.
- ✔ High quality: Highly polished to a beautiful mirror-like finish.
- ✔ Stainless steel cleat for kayak, boat, and dock.
- ✔ Worry-Free Service: 24-Hour Customer Supports,30-Day Money Back Guaranteed.
Additional Info :
| Color | sliver |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Length | 4 |
The term “boat cleat” is used to define a mooring device used to tie the boat in place. The boat cleat is installed on the deck or sides of the boat. Boat cleats are made of different materials, such as metal, plastic, and wood. The boat cleat that we are featuring in this article is a 4-inch open base dock cleat.
It is made of 316-grade stainless steel, a material that provides rust resistance. It is compatible with ropes and lines from 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch. The features of the boat cleat include a low-profile design to accommodate a variety of lines, including mooring and dock lines.
4. 4 Pack 6inch Heavy Duty Boat Cleat/Galvanized Cast Iron Dock Cleat for Marine or Decorative Applications
Features :
- ☺ Heavy duty rough cast hot dip galvanized iron:Anti rust, corrosion resistant, they can resist the bad weather, so that you can use longer.
- ☺ Wide footprints to enhance strength: The large chassis can support the pushing and pulling of canoes or canoes on the water. Please rest assured that your ship is firmly tied to the dock.
- ☺ Base size is 2.2 inches; mounting hole center to center is 1 inches; horn height is 1.18 inches.
- ☺Simple installation: Hexagonal hole concave groove is easy to install, and bolts are left in proper position when fixing the splint. This eliminates the need to hold the bolt in one hand and tighten the bolt with the other hand. Note: Fasteners are not included-Cleats will fit screw sizes M6 x 60mm or M6 x 80mm. .
- ☺ Versatile: They are suitable for all kinds of ropes and docks, so you can easily attach your boat to the dock or dock; they are also the perfect choice for home decoration, whether they are used as towel rails, curtains, or just to give the interior of your home a sense of ocean – these splints will look great and match your expectations!
These cast iron boat cleats are extremely heavy duty and can handle a lot of weight. They are ideal for hanging boat lines, mooring lines, dock lines and more. They measure 6 inches long and 1. 375 inches wide and are coated in a non-corrosive marine paint.
The heavy duty cast iron construction makes them very durable and they are perfect for outdoor or indoor use. They are designed to be used on a boat or on a dock as a mooring cleat, but they also look nice when used as a decorative accent piece on a wall in a home.
5. Simplified Living 6” Dock Cleats: Rough Cast Hot Dipped Galvanized Iron: 4, 8, 16 Pack (4 Pack)
Features :
- 6-INCH DOCK CLEAT – Safely secure your boat, canoe, kayak, ship, or other water vehicles on our boat dock cleats. These dock tie down cleats ensure your vessel is tied securely to the dock.
- MADE OF GALVANIZED IRON – Rough cast iron metal dock cleats galvanized and hot dipped to hold up against weather conditions. Rust-free dock cleats, weatherproof, and corrosion-resistant.
- ULTIMATE STRENGTH AND SUPPORT – Heavy-duty dock rope cleat hooks for boats with a large base to support the push and pull out on the water, ocean, or lake. They help you tie your boats with ease.
- PERFECT FOR NAUTICAL DECOR – Use these decorative dock cleats for boating, pier edge, wall docking, fishing, as well as for home décor purposes. Use this marine anchor accessory as cabinet pulls, towel hooks or as a coat rack to decorate your summer home with a unique, maritime feel.
- HARDWARE NOT INCLUDED – Cleats will fit screw sizes M6 x 60mm or M6 x 80mm. Dock cleats come in 4, 8 or 16 pack.
Additional Info :
| Color | Silver |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Weight | 0.000625 |
For a heavy-duty dock post that can hold multiple bikes and heavy loads, we like the Simplified Living 6-Inch Dock Cleat. These heavy-duty posts are made of iron with a rough cast finish to allow for a strong grip with rope, webbing, or even thick and bulky bike cables. The posts can hold up to 1,000 pounds of weight, and they’re hot-dipped galvanized to prevent corrosion for outdoor use.
These posts are 6 inches tall and about 1 inch in diameter. We like that these posts come in a variety pack, so you can choose the number of posts you need.
6. Rainier Supply Co. 2-Pack Bungee Dock Line – 4 ft Stretches Up to 5.5 ft Bungee Docklines – Dock Tie, Dock Rope for Boat, PWC, Jet Ski, Kayak, Pontoon – Black
Features :
- 2 PACK of BUNGEE DOCK LINES – Must have of Boat Accessories available in 4′ that stretches to 5.5 feet
- EASY TO USE: Bungee Dock Lines make tying up your boat or jet ski easier and faster than ever. Simply slip eyelets over both the boat cleat and dock cleat, take up any slack by wrapping in a figure 8 motion on the dock cleat and slide eyelets closed with the sliding adjustment at both ends.
- BETTER ON YOUR BOAT: Bungee Dock Lines act as a built in snubber, automatically relieving the pressure on your boat cleats caused by natural movement of waves at the dock.
- BUMPERS THAT FLOAT: A small foam bumper is included on each side of the bungee dock line to keep your line afloat in case it accidentally goes overboard.
- FLEXIBILITY FOR USE: Each 4 foot bungee dock line stretches to 5 1/2 feet making it easy to make adjustments depending on cleat locations at the dock. Perfectly designed for small to medium size boats as well your as PWC, Jet Ski, Canoe or Pontoon boat.
Additional Info :
| Color | Black |
The Rainier Supply Co. Bungee Docklines are made of high-quality polyethylene, which makes them completely waterproof. They are extremely durable and can withstand the harshest of weather conditions. These bungees are UV-resistant and have a long lifespan. These bungees are easy to store and transport because they can be coiled up and tied together.
They can also be used for securing loads on trucks or trailers. The heavy-duty hooks are rustproof, and the rope can be adjusted to the perfect length. They are versatile and can be used for other purposes besides securing boats.
7. MIZUGIWA Nylon Cleat 6 inch Boat Dock Cleat Black Pack of 4
Features :
- High Impact Nylon Marine Boat Dock Nylon Cleat
- Dock Cleat 6 inch Cleats (152mm) 4pcs, FASTENERS (NOT INCLUDED)
- Nylon Boat Cleats 6 inch made using the highest quality components
- Dock mooring cleats 6 inch, about 1-5/8 inch center to center measurement of the holes
- Black boat cleats 6inch are excellent for kayak, canoe, inflatable boat, dinghy, yacht, mooring deck mount or towel racks, curtain ties,draws,and cabinets.
Additional Info :
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.181102361 |
| Width | 0.787401574 |
| Length | 6.299212592 |
| Weight | 0.44 |
This black nylon dock cleat from Mizugiwa is made of heavy-duty nylon and is UV-resistant and waterproof. It has a breaking strength of 9,600 pounds and comes with plastic grips to make it easier to tie and untie ropes. It has a 6-inch width and can be used to tie ropes to boats, buoys, and docks. A few customers said they received items that looked different from the picture, with ropes that looked like they would break easily.
But most said they liked the product, especially its durability and resistance to water and UV rays. They said it was easy to install and worked well in boats and docks.
8. VEITHI 6 inch 316 Stainless Steel Boat Cleat, Boat Cleats 6inch Open Base (4 Pack), Boat Dock Cleats Include Stainless Steel Screws
Features :
- 316 Stainless Steel Cleats 6 inch – Investment casting 316 stainless steel construction, durable in saltwater environment and good performance,Include 4 boat cleats with 16 stainless steel screws,Rope cleat work for dock lines ,mooring and etc.
- Dock Cleats 6 inch Multi Purpose – These stainless steel cleats is high polished surface for mirror-like appearance to match marine uses watercraft/boat/yacht,boat docks, decks, piers for tying up boats, kayaks, jet ski’s,etc.
- 6 inch Boat Cleats Open Base – These stainless steel boat cleats easy line tie-off for any boat have four holes for attachment.
- Stainless Steel Dock Cleats Size & Hardware – 6-inch L x 1-1/8-inch H, base measures 1.75-inch x 0.6-inch; mounting holes 2.25-inch center to center,stainless boat cleat with hardware, M6x30mm (1.18in) stainless steel screws, perfect size to fit any use.
- Home Nautical Decor – These cleats for boats make your home stand out; perfect for maritime, beach, garden, pool, coastal decorations; use them as cabinet pulls, boat cleat hooks for towels, rustic coat hanger, curtain tie-backs, nautical coat hooks,boat cleat stainless steel,dock cleats stainless steel.
Additional Info :
| Color | Silver |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.181102361 |
| Width | 1.7716535415 |
| Length | 5.905511805 |
| Weight | 0.68 |
With washers, designed to be used on wooden docks, concrete and masonry.
9. ZUJARA 6 inch Dock Cleats, 5-Pack Galvanized Iron Boat Cleat for Marine or Decorative Applications
Features :
- 6-inch Boat dock cleats; Marine hardware fits to boat, canoe, kayak or dock; Classic horn style
- Simple to install; Hexagonal hole recess for easy fitting; Sturdy base ensures secure craft tie down
- Heavy-duty rough cast hot dipped galvanized iron; Rust, corrosion and weather resistant; Open-based
- Base measures 2 inch by 0.75 inch; Mounting holes 1.25 inch center to center; Horn height 1.25 inch
- Attractive finish; Suitable for crafting and nautical-themed home decor; Fastenings not included
The dock cleats come in a pack of five, and each one measures 6 inches by 1. 5 inches by 1. 5 inches. They are made of galvanized iron to ensure durability, which means they can bear the brunt of a strong current without breaking or rusting. It’s easy to install the hooks as they come with pre-drilled holes.
The holes are rounded so that it’s easy to screw in the screws. The holes are also designed to be watertight, which will prevent the screws from rusting over time. The cleats work well as a decorative element in the bathroom since they’re not very bulky and make it easy to hang a towel or robe.
10. VEITHI Dock Cleats 6 inch 4 Pack – Hot Dipped Galvanized Boat Cleats, Rope Cleat, Anchor Line Cleat, Boat Dock Cleats Ideal for Boat Docks, Decks, Piers for Tying up Boats, Kayaks, Marine Decor
Features :
- Rough Cast Hot Dipped Galvanized Iron -These are well durable galvanized cleat, 100% protected against rust. include 4 boat cleats with 8 bolts and nuts ready to use indoor and outdoor.these can hold their own against the weather.
- Hexagonal Hole for Easy Installation – Boat tie down cleats bolt will stay in place when securing the cleat. no more holding the bolt with one hand and tightening with the other.
- Wide Footprint for Strength – Boat dock cleats 6 inch large bottom footprint for additional strength,perfect as cleat hook for boat docks, decks, piers for tying up boats, kayaks and jet ski’s.
- Size&Hardware- These dock cleats 6 inch L x 1.3 inch H ,base measures 2.2 inch x 0.9 inch; mounting holes 1.25 inch center to center,boat cleats with hardware – M6x 3.25 inch(83mm) bolts and nuts included, perfect size to fit any use, bolts can be cut if needed.
- Home Nautical Decor- Galvanized boat cleats 6 inch make your home stand out; perfect for maritime, beach, garden, pool, coastal decorations; use them as cabinet pulls, boat cleat hooks for towels, rustic coat hanger, curtain tie-backs, nautical coat hooks.
Additional Info :
| Color | silver |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.3779527545 |
| Width | 0.9842519675 |
| Length | 5.905511805 |
| Weight | 1.8518830008 |
, nautical rope lines, moorings, tethers, anchor lines, buoys and perimeter fences. Veithi Dock Cleats 6 Inch 4 Pack – Hot Dipped Galvanized Boat Cleats, Rope Cleat, Anchor Line Cleat, Boat Dock Cleats Ideal For Boat Docks, Decks, Piers For Tying Up Boats, Kayaks, Marine Decor, Nautical Rope Lines, Moorings, Tethers, Anchor Lines, Buoys And Perimeter Fences. These are great cleats and work as described.
The zinc coating has held up well in the harsh marine environment. I installed these on my dock and so far, so good.
Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best boat dock cleats
Material
When shopping for boat dock cleats, consider the material and its durability. Dock cleats are usually made of plastic or stainless steel. Plastic is lighter and easier to install, but it may not withstand extreme weather or wave conditions. Stainless steel dock cleats are stronger and can withstand rougher conditions.
Size
Dock cleats should be the proper size for the boat dock tie-downs. It’s important to choose the correct size to prevent injury and damage to the boat and dock. Measure the width and length of the boat dock to ensure the correct size dock cleats.
Mounting Type
Dock cleats are usually either fixed or floating. Fixed dock cleats are mounted directly to the dock, and the boat tie-down rope runs through them. Floating dock cleats are attached to the dock with a rope or chain, and the boat tie-down runs through them. Floating dock cleats allow the boat to move slightly while it’s secured to the dock to prevent damage.
Operation
Consider how easy the boat dock cleat is to operate when shopping. Fixed dock cleats are easier to use because the rope runs directly through the device. Floating dock cleats may require a chain or rope to attach them to the dock, and operating them may require more effort.
Additional Features
Some boat dock cleats have features like rope rings and swivel heads to improve their functionality. Rope rings allow the dock cleat to attach to a longer rope for floating dock cleats. Swivel heads allow the boat tie-down rope to spin freely, which can help prevent the boat from moving too much.
When shopping for boat dock cleats, consider the material, size, mounting type, and operation. Also, look for features like rope rings and swivel heads to improve functionality.
How to Use a Boat Dock Cleat
When securing a boat to a dock, follow these steps to use a boat dock cleat:
1. Attach the dock cleat to the dock with a chain or rope.
2. Run the tie-down rope through the dock cleat.
3. Attach the boat to the tie-down rope with a suitable tether.
4. Release the boat from the dock by pulling the tie-down rope.
5. Repeat the process for additional tie-downs.
How to Install a Boat Dock Cleat
Installing
People Also Ask (FAQs)
-
How many cleats should be on a dock?
In most cases, one is enough. If a boat drifts into a dock and bobs around, it can get snagged on cleats and cause damage. If a boat swings toward the dock and is going fast enough, it can simply plow through the dock and cause even more damage.
Who’s responsible for that damage The marina if it’s posted no wake or the boat owner if it’s not.
-
What kind of cleat is best for a boat dock?
There are three kinds of cleats you can use on a boat dock: Fixed (or permanently attached) cleats Spring-loaded (or rotary) cleats Rolling cleats Fixed (or permanently attached) cleats Fixed cleats are screwed or bolted into the dock. They can be recessed or surface mounted.
-
What should a boat dock have for cleats?
Well, first of all, the dock should be at a marina with a good mechanic. Cleats are important because they keep the boat from sliding around when the wind is blowing hard. Also, you don’t want your boat to slide off the dock and crash into someone else’s boat.
When you’re buying a boat, you want to make sure the marina has enough cleats to support your boat.
-
How do I choose a boat dock cleat?
The most common type of dock cleat is the rope cleat. A rope cleat is a loop of metal on a post that is secured to the dock. A post may also be referred to as a bollard.
A rope cleat designed for a boat is different from a dock cleat for other purposes. For boats, many people prefer a mushroom post.
-
What is the best boat dock cleat to use?
Conclusion
Boat cleats are the metal parts that you screw into the deck of your boat to secure lines. These are important for safety and having the right ones can make docking and undocking a whole lot easier. Our top choice is the Boat Blokz line of boat cleats. These are easy to install and come in a range of sizes to fit your boat’s needs.
They also have a unique design that keeps the lines from accidentally slipping off. If you’re looking for a unique design with a good price, we recommend the Goplus Boat Cleat. It’s simple, but it gets the job done.