The Slightly Cheeky Guide to Evaluating a Used River Raft
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(Because no one wants to buy a lemon... that floats)
Start with the Basics
Check for an HIN (Hull Identification Number).
Like a birth certificate for boats. No HIN? That's sus.
Ask who's loved it before you.
Original owner? Great! They know its life story. Multiple past owners? You’re dating a mystery raft.
Inspect That Skin, Baby
Look for cracks, sun damage, and fading If it looks like it’s been tanning since the '90s, keep walking. Touch test: Is it smooth and flexible? If it feels like beef jerky, it’s probably past its prime.
Is It Full of Hot Air (in a Good Way)?
Inflate it fully—every chamber. You want a puffy raft, not a sad, half-deflated pool toy. Spray it with soapy water. Bubbles = leaks. Leaks = future you swearing on the riverbank.
Patch Patrol
Check patch quality: solid and rounded edges = good. Square, crusty, or flapping in the wind? Yikes. How many patches? A couple’s okay. A patchwork quilt? Maybe not.
Valve Vibes
Valves open/close smoothly and don’t hiss when sealed? Are they a common brand? Weird mystery valves = future scavenger hunts for parts.
D-Rings, Handles & Seams (aka the Grip Zone)
All D-rings present and attached like they mean it? Handles aren’t hanging on by a thread (literally)? Seams and seam tape look tight and tidy Flaky tape = flaky raft.
Bonus Round
Floor feels firm and intact (especially drop-stitch). No strange smells or mildew? If it smells like a swamp witch, pass.
Stored indoors, covered outdoors, inflated, and loved? Or was it baking in a driveway for 5 years? Extras included?
Frame, oars, pump, beer cooler rack? Ask what's in the bundle.
Reality Check
Compare price to similar rafts in similar shape Just because someone loved it doesn’t mean it’s worth a mint.
Bottom Line: A little diligence goes a long way. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, take your time inspecting, and walk away if something doesn’t feel right. The river will always be there—but that sketchy Craigslist raft? Maybe not worth the swim.