What material is typically used as chafing gear for mooring lines?

Chafing gear is specifically designed to protect mooring lines from wear and tear caused by friction against rough surfaces or sharp edges. Canvas or other protective materials are commonly used for this purpose because they offer durability and flexibility, allowing them to conform to the contours of the mooring line and the surfaces they encounter. This material effectively absorbs impacts and reduces the potential for damage to the mooring lines, extending their service life and ensuring safer mooring operations.

While other materials might provide some level of protection, they may not offer the same combination of durability, flexibility, and effectiveness as canvas or similar fabrics. For instance, plastic sheeting lacks the toughness required under heavy loads, metal strips could potentially cut through or damage the lines rather than protect them, and rubber padding, while useful in some contexts, does not provide the same level of abrasion resistance as canvas. Therefore, canvas or other protective materials are the standard for chafing gear in maritime applications.