How Material Innovation Supports Performance, Reliability and Compliance
In the marine sector, safety is engineered through hundreds of individual components working together as one. While hardware and buoyancy systems often take centre stage, webbing is one of the most critical—and most overlooked—materials in life-saving and onboard equipment. Its performance can significantly influence the reliability and effectiveness of the final product.
At Bowmer Bond, we manufacture high-performance woven webbing and assemblies designed specifically for the challenges of the marine environment. As a UK manufacturer with ISO 9001 certification, we supply leading global OEMs with materials trusted in lifejackets, buoyancy aids, jackstays, marine covers, harness assemblies and onboard working systems.
Why Webbing Matters in Marine Safety Equipment
Marine environments create a demanding combination of conditions—saltwater, UV exposure, abrasion, variable loads and constant movement. Webbing for life-saving and onboard systems must therefore offer a blend of mechanical and environmental performance.
Key Technical Requirements
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High strength for load-bearing components such as harnesses, lifejackets and jackstays
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Lightweight construction to reduce bulk and improve wearer comfort
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Low water absorption for predictable performance in wet conditions
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Buoyancy for specific polypropylene constructions
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UV and abrasion resistance to withstand long-term outdoor exposure
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Controlled elongation to maintain stability in working systems
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Mildew resistance for equipment frequently exposed to moisture
Bowmer Bond webbings are engineered with these characteristics in mind, supporting the durability and dependability required in marine environments. Our marine portfolio includes polyester, polypropylene and nylon options, with breaking strains from 200 kgf to 2400 kgf, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of applications.
Certified Quality: EN ISO 12402-7:2020
For manufacturers of lifejackets and PFDs, material compliance is non-negotiable. Bowmer Bond offers a selection of webbings independently tested and certified to EN ISO 12402-7:2020, providing full assurance for load-bearing lifejacket components. Test reports are available upon request.
These certified solutions give OEMs confidence that their equipment meets the latest safety requirements while delivering long-term performance in real-world conditions.
Typical Marine Applications
Our webbings are already in service across a wide range of marine and water sport equipment:
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Lifejackets, buoyancy aids & flotation devices (PFDs)
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Harness assemblies & jackstays
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Sail ties & toe straps for dinghies and sports boats
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Marine covers & biminis (reinforcement and structural support)
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On-deck working systems and tie-down applications
We also support customers with custom design, product development, printing, cutting and sewing, producing bespoke solutions aligned to your design and manufacturing needs.
Smarter Material Choices Drive Better Marine Safety
Selecting the right webbing has a direct impact on product performance, compliance and user safety. High-quality materials help manufacturers:
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Improve long-term reliability
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Enhance user safety through predictable performance
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Reduce warranty claims
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Differentiate through product innovation
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Streamline certification processes
At Bowmer Bond, we believe smarter material choices create safer marine products. With more than two centuries of weaving expertise and a strong commitment to continuous improvement, we support OEMs looking to enhance the safety, durability and functionality of their equipment.
Meet Us at METSTRADE
Two members of our commercial team will be attending METSTRADE in Amsterdam. If you’d like to discuss our Marine Range—including EN ISO 12402-7:2020 certified webbings—or discuss a project, we’d be delighted to meet. Get in touch to arrange an appointment.
Posted 14th November 2025 by Bowmer Bond