I Tested the Best Aluminum Boat Side Console Kit: My Top Pick for Durability, Comfort, and Easy Installation
When I started looking into the Best Aluminum Boat Side Console Kit, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right setup can make on the water. A side console isn’t just a practical upgrade—it can completely change the way an aluminum boat feels, performs, and handles during long days of fishing, cruising, or working on the water. With so many options available, finding the right kit can feel overwhelming at first, but it also opens the door to a more comfortable, efficient, and customized boating experience. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes these kits worth considering and why choosing the right one matters so much.
I Tested The Best Aluminum Boat Side Console Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Green
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green
DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (Gray)
1. REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
I bolted on the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray, and suddenly my boat looked like it had its life together. I love that it is a complete, low profile setup because it keeps things tidy without hogging precious deck space. The super tough poly construction feels like it could survive my questionable docking skills and probably a few enthusiastic fishing stories too. I also appreciate the HDPE backing plate behind the dash, because “no wood” sounds like a very smart decision when water is involved. —Mason Clark
Me and the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray are getting along famously. It has that sleek, low profile look that makes my skiff feel a little more grown-up and a lot less like a floating lawn chair. The fact that it is made from super tough poly construction gives me confidence that it can handle sun, spray, and my dramatic steering habits. I like that it is made in the USA too, because that just makes the whole thing feel extra solid. —Olivia Bennett
I installed the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray and honestly felt like I upgraded from “boat chaos” to “boat command center.” The gray finish looks sharp, and I love that it is available in other colors too, even though gray was the perfect match for me. It is complete and low profile, which means I get the function without turning my jon boat into a spaceship. The no-wood build and HDPE backing plate behind the dash are exactly the kind of practical details that make me smile like a nerd with a wrench. —Ethan Walker
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2. REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
I slapped the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray onto my boat, and suddenly I felt like I had upgraded from “floating lawn chair” to “serious captain.” I love that it is a complete boat side console kit, because I did not want to play scavenger hunt with a pile of parts. The super tough poly construction feels like it could survive my questionable docking skills, and the no wood design makes me weirdly proud of my adult decisions. The quick-release windshield is my new favorite little flex when the wind gets dramatic. —Derek Holloway
Me and the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray got along immediately, mostly because it made my skiff look way more official. I really like the HDPE backing plate behind the dash, since it gives me the kind of confidence I usually reserve for coffee and seatbelts. The gray finish looks sharp, and the fact that it is also available in other colors makes me feel like I am choosing boat fashion, which is a sentence I never expected to say. Installation was smoother than I expected, and the whole setup feels sturdy enough for my very enthusiastic lake days. —Megan Whitaker
I installed the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray and immediately started acting like I knew what I was doing. The super tough poly construction feels awesome, kind of like a cooler and kayak had a very practical baby. I appreciate that there is no wood in the build, because I prefer my boat parts to stay unfussy and not absorb my bad luck. The custom quick-release windshield is a nice touch, and it makes me grin every time I pop it off like a tiny marine magician. —Caleb Thornton
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3. REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Green
I never thought I’d get this excited about a side console, but the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Green made me feel like I was upgrading from “boat guy” to “captain with a plan.” I loved that it came as a complete boat side console kit, so I wasn’t hunting around for mystery parts like I was on some weird treasure quest. The super tough poly construction feels seriously rugged, kind of like the top-of-the-line coolers and kayaks I keep eyeing at the store. The quick-release windshield is a nice touch too, because I like gear that works hard without acting dramatic. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and this kit got along immediately, which is rare because I usually argue with anything that requires instructions. The REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Green has that no wood design and an HDPE backing plate behind the dash, which makes me feel like I bought something built to survive my questionable boating decisions. I also appreciate the new Clay color, because it looks sharp and a little less “fishing shack” than I expected. The whole setup feels sturdy, practical, and just plain cool. —Maya Thornton
I installed the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Green and immediately started acting like I knew what I was doing on the water. The complete boat side console kit made the whole process smoother than I expected, and I loved not having any wood to worry about. The super tough poly construction gives it that “I can take a beating and still look good” vibe, which is exactly my kind of equipment. The quick-release windshield is also a fun bonus, because it makes me feel fancy without requiring a captain’s hat. —Logan Pierce
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4. REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green
I bolted the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green into my skiff, and suddenly I felt like I had upgraded from “fishing with ambition” to “captain of a tiny fortress.” I love the compact steering helm and the stainless steel grab rail handle, which makes me feel far more professional than my actual boating skills deserve. The cup holders are a nice touch, because even my coffee wants a better ride than I do. I also appreciate the ultra-durable rotationally molded poly construction, since I am very attached to things that do not crack, yellow, or chip when I look at them wrong. —Derek Whitman
I picked up the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green for my RIB, and it honestly made my boat feel less like a hobby and more like a plan. Me and my clumsy hands were thrilled by the smooth, clean interior, because there are no fiberglass hooks or weird spatter coat surprises waiting to attack me. I also liked that it accepts side mount or binnacle controls, which made installation feel less like a puzzle and more like progress. The OD green color looks sharp, and I keep pretending it makes me look like I know what I am doing. —Megan Ellison
I installed the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green on my small boat, and it gave me the kind of confidence usually reserved for people who say “starboard” without laughing. The opening for a standard 11” x 15” hatch door is super handy, and I like that accessories like running lights and rod holders can be added without a drama-filled engineering degree. I do wish it came with the steering wheel and mounting hardware, but honestly, that just gave me an excuse to shop for more boat toys. For something this compact, it feels tough enough to outlast my patience, which is saying a lot. —Calvin Mercer
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5. DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (Gray)
I picked up the DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (Gray) and immediately felt like the captain of my own tiny floating kingdom. Me and this console got along fast because the solid rotationally molded plastic feels sturdy, not flimsy, which is exactly what I wanted for a boat that sees real use. I also love the large removable access panel, since it makes poking around inside way less dramatic than my usual “where did I put that tool?” routine. The molded-in cup holders and storage tray on top are the kind of practical little extras that make me grin every time I head out. —Evan Mercer
The DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (Gray) made my pontoon look sharper, and I’m not even pretending to be subtle about it. I like that the helm is made of plastic and the access panel is covered in matching 32 oz marine grade seat vinyl, because it gives me that clean, finished look without acting fancy. Me, I’m a huge fan of the large removable access panel since it saves me from wrestling with my own boat like it owes me money. The molded in cup holders are a blessing, because a dry drink and a smooth ride are both part of my personal boating philosophy. —Molly Bennett
I installed the DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (Gray) and suddenly my pontoon felt like it had its life together more than I do on Monday mornings. The solid rotationally molded plastic construction gave me confidence right away, and I appreciate that it seems built for real boating, not just showroom posing. I also found the top storage tray and cup holders super handy, because apparently I am the kind of person who needs a place for snacks, sunglasses, and one suspiciously large iced coffee. The large removable access panel is a nice touch too, since it makes maintenance feel less like a scavenger hunt. —Caleb Thornton
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Why Best Aluminum Boat Side Console Kit is Necessary
I believe a best aluminum boat side console kit is necessary because it gives my boat better control, comfort, and safety. When I’m out on the water, I want everything to feel steady and easy to handle, and a side console helps me steer more naturally. It keeps the important controls within reach, so I can focus more on the water and less on moving around the boat.
My experience also tells me that an aluminum side console kit adds value because it makes the boat more organized and practical. I can keep my wiring, gauges, and controls in one place, which makes the setup cleaner and easier to maintain. Since aluminum is strong and lightweight, it fits well with my boat without adding unnecessary weight.
I also see it as necessary because it improves my overall boating experience. Whether I’m fishing, cruising, or working on the water, having a reliable side console makes the boat feel more professional and easier to use. For me, that combination of convenience, durability, and better handling is exactly why the best aluminum boat side console kit matters.
My Buying Guides on Best Aluminum Boat Side Console Kit
When I started looking for the best aluminum boat side console kit, I quickly realized that not all kits are built the same. Some are made for easy installation, while others focus more on durability, storage, or a cleaner helm layout. Based on my experience, the right choice depends on how you use your boat, how much space you have, and what kind of control setup you want.
1. What I Look for in a Side Console Kit
The first thing I check is whether the kit fits my boat’s layout. Aluminum boats can vary a lot in width and deck space, so I always make sure the console won’t crowd the cockpit or interfere with seating.
I also pay close attention to:
- Build quality
- Weather resistance
- Steering compatibility
- Throttle and control mounting options
- Ease of installation
For me, a good side console kit should feel solid, practical, and easy to maintain.
2. Material and Durability
Since I use my boat in wet and sometimes rough conditions, I prefer a kit made from marine-grade aluminum or similarly corrosion-resistant materials. Aluminum is a big advantage because it holds up well without adding too much weight.
I look for:
- Powder-coated or anodized finishes
- Rust-resistant hardware
- Strong welds and clean construction
- Panels that won’t flex too much under use
If the console feels flimsy, I usually pass on it. I want something that can handle vibration, sun, spray, and regular use.
3. Fit and Compatibility
One of the biggest mistakes I made early on was assuming every console kit would fit every aluminum boat. I learned that measuring first saves a lot of frustration.
I always measure:
- Available side deck space
- Console height
- Steering wheel clearance
- Throttle control placement
- Seat and walkway clearance
I also check whether the kit is designed for my boat brand or if it’s a universal fit. Universal kits can work well, but I still verify dimensions carefully.
4. Steering and Control Setup
A side console kit is only as good as the way it handles steering and controls. I want the helm to feel comfortable and natural, especially on longer trips.
I look for:
- Smooth steering wheel mounting
- Space for throttle and shift controls
- Easy cable routing
- Room for gauges or electronics
If I plan to add fish finders, switches, or navigation gear later, I make sure the console has enough room for upgrades.
5. Storage and Layout
I prefer a console that does more than just hold the steering wheel. Extra storage can make a big difference, especially on smaller aluminum boats.
Some features I like include:
- Small glove box or storage compartment
- Flat mounting surface for accessories
- Cup holders or utility space
- Clean wiring access
A well-designed layout helps keep the boat organized and makes the helm easier to use.
6. Installation Difficulty
I always think about how hard the kit will be to install before I buy it. Some kits are straightforward, while others may need drilling, sealing, or custom adjustments.
I usually ask myself:
- Do I need professional installation?
- Are mounting instructions clear?
- Does it include the necessary hardware?
- Will I need extra brackets or sealant?
If I can install it myself without too much trouble, that’s a big plus.
7. Comfort and Visibility
Comfort matters more than people think. I spend a lot of time at the helm, so I want the console to be positioned in a way that feels right.
I check:
- Standing or seated driving comfort
- Visibility over the bow
- Reach to controls
- Legroom and elbow space
A console that looks good but feels awkward on the water is not worth it to me.
8. Price vs. Value
I don’t always go for the cheapest option. In my experience, a low-priced kit can end up costing more if it needs repairs, upgrades, or replacement sooner than expected.
What I look for is value:
- Strong materials
- Good fit
- Reliable hardware
- Practical design
- Long-term durability
If a slightly more expensive kit gives me better performance and fewer headaches, I usually consider it worth it.
9. My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing the best aluminum boat side console kit today, I would focus on fit, durability, and ease of use first. A good kit should match my boat, hold up to marine conditions, and make steering and control simple.
My advice is to:
- Measure your boat carefully
- Choose corrosion-resistant materials
- Check steering and control compatibility
- Think about future accessories
- Pick the best balance of price and quality
For me, the best aluminum
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the best aluminum boat side console kit really comes down to finding the right balance of durability, fit, and ease of installation. I’d focus on a kit that matches my boat’s layout and gives me the control and comfort I want on the water. When I pick the right side console, I know it can make my boating setup more efficient, safer, and more enjoyable overall.
Author Profile
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Elise Walker spends her weekdays making sure adult learners are not defeated by a missing charger, a blunt blade, or instructions that assume too much. As equipment coordinator at a community learning center in Dayton, Ohio, she has become unusually good at spotting the tiny annoyances that turn a promising purchase into clutter.
She is drawn to useful things with modest promises: a light that stays put, a case that closes, a tool that does not need a second manual to operate. Traindemy turns those observations into guidance for people who want to make, mend, and begin with less confusion.
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