Hydro-Turf Traction Mat Sheets

EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) is a closed-cell foam that does not absorb water, providing excellent non-slip traction even when wet. It is significantly cooler underfoot than bare aluminum or fiberglass, UV stable across all colors, and does not harden or become slippery in cold weather. EVA foam is the industry standard material for marine traction mats and boat decking.

All Hydro-Turf standard and Pro sheets are 5–6mm thick with a Shore C hardness of approximately 50 degrees — similar to the rubber sole of a shoe. This provides a firm, confident grip surface that holds up to heavy use. SUP sheets are softer at approximately 40 Shore C for barefoot comfort on stand-up paddleboards.

Hydro-Turf manufactures three sheet sizes for different applications. PWC Sheets (SHT40) measure 37" × 58" and are designed for personal watercraft traction installs. Boating Sheets (SHT86) measure 43" × 83" and cover approximately 24.7 square feet each — the standard choice for jon boats, bass boats, pontoons, and fishing platforms. Pro Sheets (SHTPR) measure 40" × 80" and feature CNC-cut patterns with a premium knurled finish.

A single Boating Sheet (43" × 83") covers approximately 24.7 square feet. For a 14–18 foot boat, plan on 2–4 sheets. For a 19–20 foot boat, plan on 5–6 sheets. Always round up. Sheets ship rolled and may need time to flatten — place weights on the sheet and allow it to relax before cutting and installing.

Hydro-Turf offers six cut patterns across its sheet lines. Cut Groove features parallel channels spaced approximately 3/4" apart. Cut Diamond has a crossed diagonal pattern. Molded Diamond is the most durable pattern with a raised three-dimensional surface. Cut Waffle combines horizontal and vertical grooves for maximum grip. Wide Groove has channels spaced approximately 2" apart for a cleaner look. Flat is a smooth sanded surface with no pattern.

Hydro-Turf sheets are available in over 40 color options. Solid colors include Black, Dark Gray, Gray, White, Red, Royal Blue, Deep Blue, Light Blue, Lime Green, Orange, Pink, Purple, and Yellow. Camo patterns include Blue, Green, Lime Green, Red, Snow, Yellow, Duck, Swamp, Brown, and Gator. Marble options include Black, Purple, and Royal. Two-tone combinations pair contrasting colors like Black on Red, Black on Blue, and Gray on Black. Boating sheets also offer exclusive options like Cobblestone, Gator Green, Dull Brown, and Woodgrain.

Boating Sheets (SHT86) always include PSA (Pressure Sensitive Adhesive) — a peel-and-stick backing for easy installation on smooth surfaces. PWC Sheets (SHT40) are available with or without PSA; adding PSA is an option at checkout. For textured surfaces like diamond-plate aluminum, rough non-skid paint, or bare wood, Hydro-Turf recommends using DAP Weldwood contact cement in addition to or instead of PSA for the strongest bond.

Install in temperatures above 70°F and out of direct sunlight. For smooth fiberglass, gelcoat, or aluminum surfaces, clean with acetone, let dry, then apply the PSA-backed sheet directly. For textured or painted surfaces, lightly sand the surface, wipe with isopropyl alcohol or acetone, apply contact cement, let it tack for 15–30 minutes, then press the sheet firmly into place. Allow 24 hours of curing out of direct sunlight before use or water exposure.

Surface preparation depends on your boat's deck material. Smooth fiberglass or gelcoat requires only an acetone wipe before applying PSA. Smooth aluminum needs IPA or acetone cleaning. Diamond-plate or textured aluminum needs light sanding plus contact cement. Rough non-skid paint or spray-in liner needs sanding, solvent wipe, and contact cement. Plywood or bare wood must be sealed first, cured, lightly sanded, then bonded with contact cement. Always remove existing carpet or old mats completely and scrape away old adhesive with acetone and a plastic scraper.

With proper care, Hydro-Turf EVA foam sheets last 5+ years. Molded Diamond is the most durable pattern. To maximize lifespan, clean with non-abrasive cleaners like Dawn dish soap or Simple Green, rinse after saltwater exposure, avoid close-range pressure washing, and cover your boat when not in use. All colors are UV tested, though lighter colors will stay cooler and darker or red/camo tones may show fading earlier with prolonged sun exposure.

Yes. Hydro-Turf sheets are made from closed-cell EVA foam, which means they do not absorb water at all. Water beads on the surface and the foam itself cannot become waterlogged, making EVA ideal for marine applications. The material maintains its traction, cushioning, and structural integrity whether wet or dry, in fresh water or salt water.

Yes. While designed for marine use, Hydro-Turf EVA sheets are popular for truck running boards, tool box liners, cooler pads, trailer decks, golf carts, kayaks, and other applications where non-slip traction and cushioning are needed. The material's water resistance, UV stability, and durability make it suitable for any surface that gets wet or needs grip. Contact Hydro-Turf at (727) 685-3500 for custom sizing.

Hydro-Turf has manufactured marine-grade EVA foam products in the United States for over 30 years. Every sheet is produced in Clearwater, Florida using closed-cell foam with consistent density, professionally applied PSA adhesive, and precision-cut patterns. Low-cost imported sheets often use lower-density foam that degrades faster under UV exposure, thinner adhesive that peels in marine conditions, and inconsistent manufacturing quality. Hydro-Turf's decades of experience mean reliable material that professional riders and boat builders trust.

Yes. Hydro-Turf ships worldwide. Domestic orders over $75 ship free within the continental United States. Standard sheets typically ship within 1–2 business days. Pro sheets ship within 3–5 business days. For international shipping rates and delivery estimates, contact Hydro-Turf directly at (727) 685-3500 or email dealer@hydroturf.com. Import duties may apply depending on your country.

Yes. Hydro-Turf offers material samples so you can see and feel the product before committing to a full sheet order. EVA foam samples and Pro Series samples are available through the website with free domestic shipping. Samples do not include adhesive backing. This is recommended before ordering, especially when choosing between colors or cut patterns.