Why Hyside Rafts?
Unmatched Durability & Strength
Hyside rafts are built with premium Hypalon with a high-density nylon base cloth—outperforming standard polyester constructions used by many competitors. The result? Exceptional resistance to abrasion, punctures, and tearing, even in the most demanding river environments. It’s the ultimate raft, delivering an unmatched tear-strength-to-weight ratio.
Best In Class Base Cloth Material
When performance and longevity matter, the material beneath the coating makes all the difference. Hyside’s Nylon base fabric delivers an unmatched strength-to-weight ratio. You get maximum tear resistance while maintaining a raft that’s lightweight, flexible, and easy to pack.
What’s so special about our Nylon?
- Hyside’s Nylon base cloth is braided before its weaved, creating a superior material
- Nylon is 3 times stronger than Polyester
- Nylon’s fibers have higher tensile strength and superior tear resistance, meaning they can withstand greater force before ripping or failing
That strength difference matters—especially on the river. While most other major Hypalon brands build their rafts with a polyester base fabric, we choose high-tenacity nylon for its significantly greater strength, lighter weight, and superior tear resistance.
In real-world conditions, that translates to better protection against sharp rocks, heavy gear loads, and the constant abrasion that comes with running technical water.
Exceptional UV Resistance
Hyside’s Hypalon is engineered to withstand prolonged sun exposure. Even after years on the river, your raft maintains its flexibility, color integrity, and structural strength.
Balanced Performance Options
Whether you choose the versatile Outfitter or the extra-robust Pro model, you’re getting a raft engineered with purpose. We eliminate unnecessary weight while reinforcing the areas that matter most—so you never have to compromise between durability and performance.
Trusted. Tested. Proven.
Trusted by Professional River Outfitters and Private Boaters.
From commercial outfitters running daily rafting trips to dedicated private boaters chasing high water or floating, Hyside rafts are trusted in all conditions. Our reputation is built on repeat customers who depend on their rafts season after season.
Easy to Repair on the River
We know things happen on the river that are unavoidable. Hyside rafts are designed without bladders or complicated zipper systems, making field repairs simple and straightforward. When repairs are needed, they’re quick, durable, and hassle-free.
Superior Design — 40+ Years in the Making
Every Hyside model has been tried, tested, and refined over decades. We’ve adjusted and perfected our designs to perform on rivers of every type across the globe—from technical low-water runs to big-volume whitewater.
Built to Go Anywhere
Packable, Foldable, Easy to Transport
Hyside rafts are known for their unbeatable packability. Lightweight and easy to fold, they’re simple to transport, whether you’re trailering to a launch ramp or hiking gear into a remote canyon. Yet once inflated, they hold their own in big water—tracking cleanly, punching through waves, and handling like a dream.
Superior Construction
Every Hyside raft is precision-built by hand with triple-bonded seams and reinforced components for long-term reliability. Quality craftsmanship means consistent performance, trip after trip.
Premium Components
- C7 Valves for dependable inflation and pressure control
- Removable Thwarts for easy customization and transport
- Heavy-Duty but lightweight D-Rings placed strategically
- Smaller, durable D-Rings for smaller models/interiors placed strategically for paddling, rigging and transport
Check out more information about Why Choose Hyside Rafts here.
The Bottom Line
Choosing Hyside means choosing durability without excess weight, performance without compromise, and craftsmanship backed by decades of river-tested experience. Hyside is the river guide’s choice. It excels in all classes ready for Class I to Class V rivers.
When the water gets pushy and the miles get long, you want a raft you don’t have to think twice about. That’s Hyside.
Learn more about different raft models here.
