Non-Skid Products

Why Non-Skid Products Matter on the Water and on the Road

A wet deck on a boat or a slick step on an RV is more than an inconvenience — it's a genuine safety hazard. Non-skid products are specialty coatings, paints, and treatments engineered to create a high-traction surface on fiberglass, wood, metal, concrete, and gelcoat substrates. Whether you're cruising offshore, navigating a dock in the rain, or stepping in and out of your RV after a downpour, the right non-skid coating can prevent dangerous slips and falls while also refreshing the look of worn or weathered surfaces.

How Non-Skid Coatings Work

Most non-skid products fall into one of two general categories: aggregate-based coatings and homogeneous textured coatings. Aggregate-based formulas blend grit materials — such as sand, rubber granules, or polymer beads — directly into the paint. Most non-slip deck paint uses an abrasive additive to provide grip on slippery decks. Over time, however, coatings with fillers tend to wear through, and the fillers fall out, leaving an unsafe deck that's hard to clean and even harder to re-coat. Homogeneous textured coatings address this by creating grip through the coating's own structure rather than embedded particles, giving them a longer-lasting and more consistent finish.

Two-component (2K) urethane systems represent the premium end of the spectrum, offering exceptional chemical resistance and durability. Single-component water-based acrylics are a popular DIY-friendly choice valued for their low VOC content and easy cleanup. Your choice should be guided by the substrate type, expected foot traffic, and whether aesthetics or maximum grip takes priority.

Key Considerations When Shopping for Non-Skid Products

• Substrate compatibility: Most quality coatings work on fiberglass, wood, metal, and painted surfaces, but always verify the product's technical data sheet before purchase.
• One-part vs. two-part systems: Two-part urethanes cure harder and last longer; one-part products are easier to apply and better for quick touch-ups.
• Texture level: Consider the end use — a gentle pleasure-boat texture differs significantly from an aggressive commercial-workboat finish.
• UV and chemical resistance: Decks face constant sun and saltwater exposure, so UV stability and chemical resistance are critical for long-term color retention and durability.
• Coverage rate: Calculate your square footage carefully before buying to ensure you have enough product for full, even coverage.

Top Non-Skid Product Brands

SEM Products is a leader in the non-skid segment, best known for the GripTide line of marine deck coatings. SEM GripTide features industry-first 2K technology and is a two-component, premium-quality urethane, grip-enhancing textured coating that provides a durable, textured finish on boat floors, boat decks, and other surfaces. SEM is an American manufacturing team that engineers best-in-class products to reduce repair times, steps, and waste for the automotive, aerospace, marine, and industrial markets.

Kiwi (KiwiGrip) brings a completely different approach to non-skid surfaces. KiwiGrip is a water-based acrylic polymer that provides a customizable anti-slip surface for boat decks and other areas requiring enhanced traction, and unlike traditional non-skid coatings, it doesn't rely on aggregates like sand or rubber flecks. By varying the application technique, the texture can be adjusted from a rolled pleasure-boat texture to an industrial aggressive workboat texture.

Pettit Paint is one of the most storied names in marine coatings, with roots dating back to 1861. Pettit Marine Paint is a manufacturer of marine coatings, antifouling boat bottom paint, varnish, and epoxies for consumer and commercial markets. Their non-skid lineup includes products like EZ-Decks and Tuff Coat: Pettit Tuff Coat is a single-component, flexible, water-based product created through a unique process of cross-linking urethanes, acrylics, co-polymers, and recycled rubber granules to create a long-lasting non-skid coating.

Pyi Inc is the worldwide distributor of the KiwiGrip Non-Skid Coating System. PYI is a premier manufacturer and distributor of high-quality marine, boat, yacht, and shipping equipment and supplies. KiwiGrip is a water-based non-toxic acrylic paint that contains no volatile solvents and has a very low VOC, allowing safe application without tenting the vessel or wearing a respirator.