Preference: Teak vs. Composite

[mdsankey]

I like the composite, i like the modern look and feel, but i can see how people like the classic teak. gotta go with what ever turns YOUR crank.

[ClemsonDave]

Interesting - Nautique has the composite standard and teak as an apx $400 upgrade. Malibu has the teak standard and composite as an apx $400 upgrade.

[bkhallpass]

Teak. I don't know if I would pay extra for it on a new boat. Teak was still the standard when I
bought my last. I've never found teak to be difficult or time consuming to maintain. BKH

[sfjakey]

I like the look of teak, but vow to never own a boat with ANY teak on it again. Way too much work to keep it looking good. I agree, the composite platforms look crappy, but I can't see it from the drivers seat and if you are looking at the back of the boat when skiing, well lets just say you aren't skiing real well anyhow and should worry more about that than your platform.

[lffish133]

Teak looks better in my opinion but the maintaining it does suck, however I find the traction on the new composite decks to be too hard on my feet and arms when getting back into the boat. The new Byerly boat looks sic with the teak deck on it.

[mf01]

Wow, I haven't maintained my teak at all. I've read that they thrive in water. It could look better out of water, but looks good in the water.

[2gofaster]

I picked up my new 196 on Friday and it's got the composite platform. I wasn't sure how I'd like it, but I love it! I've had multiple people slip on the wet teak once it's been oiled. The nautique rubber grip pads on this one is a bit hard, but not so much that it's uncomfortable to me. Plus, the composite platform feels more solid.

[tadelfio]

Teak all the way!

[SquamInboards]

Nate hit the nail on the head - teak is infinitely more durable, repairable, etc. Chip a composite deck and you're doing gelcoat repair. That being said I think certain boats just look better with the fiberglass decks...

[Mikeski]

Teak.

In 2005 Teak was standard. When I showed up to pick up my boat it had a composite platform on it. They had "upgraded" me to composite for free. I said thanks but no-thanks and had them put the teak on. The way I use my boat I would thrash a composite platform. The teak works best for me. I sand it down once a year if needed, just add oil when I am trying to impress somebody...

[gride300]

i am having a strip of the black material that's on the comp. platform lined across the bottom a couple of inches so i don't get scratches when people put on boards or throw em up after a set.