There’s a particular sound that makes every boat owner’s stomach drop: the heavy *thump* of water cascading into the bilge, followed by the frantic whir of the pump kicking on. For us, that sound came after a week of torrential spring rain. We had diligently covered our 21-foot runabout with a quality cover, thinking it was safe. But the standard-issue, thumbscrew-style support pole we were using had failed. Under the immense weight of the collected water, it had slipped, creating a massive pool that stretched the fabric, stressed the seams, and eventually allowed water to seep through. The result was a waterlogged carpet, a musty smell that took weeks to eliminate, and a valuable lesson learned. A boat cover is only as good as its support system. Without a reliable pole to create a high point and shed water, your expensive cover becomes little more than a giant, destructive water balloon. This is the problem the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 was engineered to solve, and we were determined to see if it was up to the task.
- This very adjustable premium boat cover support pole can be shortened to 23 inches for easy storage while extending to 55 inches. Easy to install.
- Pole is made of heavy gauge anodized aluminum and adjusted with 2 aluminum and stainless patented flip locks. Warrantied to support 170 pounds.
- Scuff-Proof & Secure – TPR rubber crutch tip will not mar, scratch, or scuff floors or decks. Provides a snug, secure grip even on wet surfaces.
What to Consider Before Buying a Boat Cover Support Pole
A boat cover support pole is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for asset protection. Its primary job is to prevent the number one enemy of a stored boat: pooling water. By creating a high “tent” point, it ensures that rain, snow, and morning dew are shed effectively off the sides of the cover rather than collecting in low spots. This simple function prevents a cascade of costly problems, including permanent cover stretching, seam failure, mildew growth beneath the cover, and potential water damage to your boat’s interior. The benefits are profound: extending the life of your boat cover, protecting your boat’s upholstery and electronics, and providing peace of mind during any storm.
The ideal customer for this type of product is any boat owner who stores their vessel outdoors under a non-rigid cover, regardless of the season. Whether you’re dealing with heavy Pacific Northwest rain, dense Midwestern snow, or just daily morning condensation in Florida, a robust support pole is non-negotiable. It’s especially crucial for owners of pontoon boats or runabouts with large, open cockpits where water has a wide area to pool. However, it might not be suitable for those who store their boat indoors exclusively or for those who have a custom-fitted, rigid hardtop that doesn’t require additional support. For those users, focusing on ventilation and moisture control inside the boat would be a better use of resources.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: The pole’s adjustment range is paramount. The Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 offers a versatile 23″ to 55″ range, which is critical for accommodating different boat sizes and creating the optimal pitch. A pole that’s too short won’t create enough of a slope, while one that’s too long won’t fit. You must measure the distance from your boat’s floor to the desired height of your cover to ensure a proper fit.
- Capacity/Performance: This is where most standard poles fail. Look for a tested weight capacity. The Vico pole is rated for 170 lbs, which is a massive differentiator. This isn’t just a number; it’s the assurance that the pole can withstand the crushing weight of wet, heavy snow or a sudden deluge of rain without buckling or slipping.
- Materials & Durability: The marine environment is relentlessly harsh. Look for materials like anodized aluminum, which resists corrosion far better than raw aluminum or steel. The heavy-gauge, heat-treated, and ribbed tubing of the Vico pole provides exceptional strength-to-weight performance. Avoid cheap plastic poles, which become brittle in the sun and cold, and basic aluminum poles with thin walls that bend easily.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The locking mechanism is the heart of the pole’s functionality. Thumbscrew locks are notorious for slipping, stripping, and being difficult to tighten securely, especially with cold or wet hands. The double camlock system on the Vico pole, with its die-cast collars and flip locks, provides a positive, secure lock that is both easy to engage and incredibly reliable. Long-term care is minimal for anodized aluminum; a simple freshwater rinse is all that’s needed.
Finding the right support pole is a critical step in a comprehensive boat protection strategy. It works in tandem with the cover itself to form a complete shield against the elements.
While the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Heavy Duty Ripstop Materia: Made of Thickened 10.2 oz 1200D Marine Grade Polyester(more durable than 900D/600D/420D/300D/210D fabric). Mixed with Upgraded Anti-UV Composite prevents the cover from...
- Universal Boat Cover: Trailerable and designed to fit a range of boat types, including V-hull fishing boats, V-hull Tri-hull runabouts, bass boats, Fish and Ski boats, and Pro-style bass boats....
- 【Fade & Tear Resistant Fabric】We use extremely durable marine grade 600D solution dyed polyester fabric. Thicker material and double stitching ensure our T-top boat covers are durable Compared...
First Impressions: This Isn’t Your Marina Store’s Flimsy Pole
Unboxing the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 immediately set it apart from the countless flimsy poles we’ve handled over the years. The first thing we noticed was the sheer substance of the components. The anodized aluminum tubing has a reassuring heft without being overly heavy, and the ribbed profile is a clear indicator of its structural integrity. There was zero play or wiggle between the telescoping sections. But the stars of the show are the double die-cast camlocks. Unlike plastic friction collars or simple thumbscrews, these patented aluminum and stainless steel flip locks engage with a solid, satisfying *snap*. The action is smooth yet firm, inspiring confidence that once locked, it’s not going anywhere. The package includes the pole itself and the 3-in-1 tip system. We made sure to check for all the pieces, as we’ve seen user reports mentioning missing components, though our test unit was complete. The grey TPR rubber crutch tip on the base feels robust and slightly tacky, a promising sign for its grip on a wet deck. From the moment we held it, it was clear this was a piece of serious marine hardware, not a flimsy afterthought. You can immediately see the premium construction and thoughtful design that went into it.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional Load Capacity: Warrantied and tested to support up to 170 lbs, far exceeding standard poles.
- Superior Double Camlock System: Provides an incredibly secure, slip-proof lock that is easy to adjust.
- Robust Materials: Constructed from heavy-gauge, anodized, heat-treated aluminum for maximum strength and corrosion resistance.
- Versatile & Safe Design: Features three interchangeable tips for universal compatibility and a non-marring TPR rubber base that protects boat surfaces.
Limitations
- Premium Price Point: Higher initial cost compared to basic thumbscrew-style poles.
- Packaging Inconsistencies: Some user reports indicate that included accessories, like alternate tips, may occasionally be missing from the package.
A Deep Dive Into the Vico Pole’s Performance
A support pole might seem like a simple device, but its performance under pressure is what truly matters. We put the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 through a series of real-world tests over several months, encompassing heavy rainstorms, intense sun, and even a simulated snow load. Its performance wasn’t just good; it was a game-changer for how we approach boat storage and protection.
The Heart of the System: A Deep Dive into the Double Camlock Mechanism
The single most significant feature of the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 is its locking system. If you’ve ever battled with a traditional thumbscrew pole, you know the frustration. They require immense grip strength to tighten properly, often slip under load, and the plastic threads can strip over time, rendering the entire pole useless. Vico Marine has utterly eliminated these issues with their patented double camlock mechanism.
Our hands-on experience with this system was revelatory. Adjusting the height is effortless. You simply flip the two stainless steel levers open, slide the inner pole to the desired length, and snap the levers closed. The action is positive and immediate. There is no guesswork about whether it’s “tight enough.” Once those cams are engaged, the pole is locked solid. We tested this repeatedly. We set the pole, and I, weighing 190 lbs, put a significant portion of my body weight onto it. It didn’t budge. It didn’t slip a single millimeter. The two die-cast collars work in tandem to distribute the clamping force evenly around the pole, preventing any single point of failure.
Where this design truly shines is in adverse conditions. On a cold, rainy day, with wet hands, trying to tighten a small plastic thumbscrew is infuriating. The Vico’s large, easy-to-grab flip levers are a godsend in these scenarios. You can operate them easily even while wearing gloves. This ease of use encourages proper setup every single time, which is critical for effective protection. The double-lock design also provides a level of redundancy and security that no other pole we’ve tested can match. It’s an over-engineered solution in the best possible way, providing absolute confidence that it will hold its position no matter what the weather throws at it.
Built to Last: Analyzing the Heavy-Gauge Aluminum Construction
The raw strength of this support pole is its second defining characteristic. The claim of supporting 170 lbs is bold, and we were keen to understand the engineering behind it. The pole is constructed from heavy-gauge, heat-treated aluminum. This process significantly increases the metal’s strength and rigidity. Furthermore, the tubing is anodized, creating a hard, corrosion-resistant outer layer that is essential for surviving in a salt or freshwater environment. This isn’t the flimsy, raw aluminum you find in cheap camping gear; it’s a purpose-built marine-grade material.
The ribbed profile of the tubing is another clever design choice. Much like corrugated cardboard, these subtle ridges dramatically increase the pole’s resistance to bending and buckling under compression, all without adding significant weight. During our testing, we simulated a heavy load by placing sandbags on the boat cover directly over the pole. It didn’t flex, creak, or show any signs of stress. This structural integrity is what gives us the confidence to recommend it for boaters in regions with heavy snowfall. A cubic foot of wet snow can weigh over 20 pounds, and it’s easy to get several hundred pounds of accumulation on a boat cover. The Vico pole is one of the very few on the market truly built to handle that kind of punishment, a feature that really sets it apart from the competition.
This commitment to quality materials and manufacturing, based out of their Wisconsin operations, ensures a product that isn’t a disposable accessory but a long-term investment in protecting your boat.
Versatility in Action: The 3-in-1 Tip and Non-Marring Base
A support pole is useless if it can’t interface properly with your cover or if it damages your boat’s deck. Vico addressed both concerns with an intelligent and versatile design at both ends of the pole. The top features a clever 3-in-1 tip system. The standard configuration is a snap tip, designed to click directly into a female snap often found on custom or semi-custom boat covers for a secure connection. If you remove that snap tip, you’re left with a simple plug tip, a blunt, rounded end that works well for pressing against the underside of any cover. Finally, by reversing the top pole section, you can use the swedge tip, a tapered point designed to fit securely into a cover’s grommet. This triple-functionality ensures near-universal compatibility right out of the box.
Just as important is the base. The Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 uses a fully synthetic TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) crutch tip. We were incredibly impressed with this component. We placed it on various surfaces, including smooth, wet gelcoat, non-skid decking, and marine-grade vinyl flooring. Even on a wet, slick surface, the grey rubber tip provided a secure, snug grip and refused to slide. Critically, it is completely scuff-proof. After weeks of use and intentionally trying to make it mark our boat’s white deck, it left absolutely no trace. For any boat owner who meticulously maintains their vessel’s finish, this non-marring feature is a massive benefit that prevents frustrating black scuffs and scratches often left by cheaper poles with hard plastic or black rubber bases.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive experience with the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 is strongly echoed in the broader user community. The prevailing sentiment is one of satisfaction with the product’s robust build quality and reliability. One user perfectly summed up the value proposition, noting that while it “works great a little pricey,” they acknowledge that “all marine items are.” This aligns with our assessment that you are paying a premium for a genuinely marine-grade product that is built to last, not a cheap substitute that will fail in a year.
On the critical side, we did take note of feedback regarding accessories. One user reported, “Says it comes with both tips but it didn’t come with the tapered tip.” While our test unit arrived with all components as advertised, this feedback serves as a valid reminder for customers. We recommend inspecting the package upon arrival to ensure all parts of the 3-in-1 tip system are included. This seems to be an infrequent packaging or fulfillment issue rather than a flaw in the product’s design or quality itself, but it is worth being aware of.
How Does the Vico Pole Compare to the Alternatives?
While the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 is a best-in-class support system, it’s designed to work with a boat cover, which is the first line of defense. Understanding how it pairs with different types of covers is key. Here’s a look at how it complements some popular cover options on the market.
1. YimSting Waterproof Boat Cover
- Heavy Duty Ripstop Materia: Made of Thickened 10.2 oz 1200D Marine Grade Polyester(more durable than 900D/600D/420D/300D/210D fabric). Mixed with Upgraded Anti-UV Composite prevents the cover from...
- Additional Reinforcements Makes the Boat Cover Stronger: All seam areas are Triple Folded and Double Stitched, strong and tear-resistant; We especially added Extra Layers of Reinforced Protection at...
- Unbreakable Windproof Straps: Equipped with Adjustable and Detachable Thick High-Density Straps and thickened 5mm quick-release windproof buckles which allow you to lock the cover with your boat and...
The YimSting cover is a heavy-duty 1200D canvas option designed for larger boats like V-hulls and runabouts up to 18.5 feet. A cover of this size and weight has a large, unsupported surface area, making it highly susceptible to pooling. This is a perfect pairing for one or even two Vico poles. The immense 170 lb strength of the Vico pole is necessary to support the weight of the heavy canvas itself, plus any significant rain or snow load. The YimSting cover’s durability would be completely undermined without a support pole strong enough to maintain proper tension and pitch across its wide span, making the Vico an essential companion accessory for it.
2. Classic Accessories StormPro Boat Cover 12-14 ft
- TRAILERABLE BOAT COVER: Fits boats 12' - 14' L, beam width to 68" W without windshield (including V-hull fishing boats and others)
- MARINE GRADE BOATING ACCESSORIES: Won't shrink or stretch, designed for extra durability, fabric coating technology for max water repellency, UV protection, mildew resistance and all-weather...
- INCLUDES SUPPORT POLE: Prevents water from pooling and helps preserve the cover while dual rear air vents with build in stiffeners reduce wind pressure and allows inside moisture to escape
The Classic Accessories StormPro is a popular choice for smaller fishing boats and utility boats in the 12-14 foot range. While the overall surface area is smaller, these boats often have bench seating and open layouts that still create low points for water to collect. For a boat of this size, a single Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 would be the ideal solution. Its wide adjustment range ensures it can fit perfectly in a smaller vessel, while its robust camlock system guarantees the cover stays taut, preventing the StormPro fabric from stretching and ensuring water sheds properly, maximizing the cover’s lifespan.
3. Budge T-Top Boat Cover 24-26ft
- ALL-WEATHER PROTECTION: Built from heavy-duty 600 denier polyester, this waterproof boat cover shields your vessel from rain, sun, snow, dust, tree sap, and more, while UV resistance helps prevent...
- SECURE, TRAILERABLE FIT: Integrated straps, buckles, and a full elastic hem create a snug fit that stays in place in storage or on the road, giving you peace of mind while trailering
- BREATHABLE FABRIC: Promotes airflow to reduce heat buildup under the cover, helping to protect your boat’s surfaces and keep it in ready-to-use condition
Even specialized covers like the Budge T-Top model can benefit from a high-quality support pole. While the T-top itself provides some structure, large open areas, particularly in the bow seating area forward of the console, are still prone to sagging. Placing a Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 in the bow section would create a high point to effectively shed water away from the boat. This prevents stress on the cover’s seams around the T-top cutout and stops water from pooling and potentially leaking onto the bow cushions. For an owner investing in a specialized cover for a large boat, adding a Vico pole is a smart, relatively small additional investment to ensure that cover performs perfectly.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Vico Marine Support Pole Worth It?
After extensive hands-on testing, we can say without hesitation that the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole 23″-55 is the best boat cover support pole we have ever used. Its strengths are not just marginal improvements; they are fundamental upgrades over nearly every other pole on the market. The double camlock system is a masterclass in functional design, providing unwavering stability and effortless adjustment. The heavy-gauge, anodized aluminum construction provides the raw strength needed to stand up to the crushing weight of snow and rain, while the thoughtfully designed tip and base protect both your cover and your boat’s delicate finish. Yes, it comes at a premium price, but this is a clear case of getting what you pay for. You are not just buying a pole; you are investing in superior protection and peace of mind. For any serious boat owner who stores their boat outdoors, this pole is not a luxury—it’s an essential piece of gear that will pay for itself by extending the life of your cover and preventing costly water damage. If you’re tired of flimsy, unreliable support systems and want a solution that is truly built to last, we wholeheartedly recommend you check the latest price and availability of the Vico Marine Double Camlock Support Pole today.
Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API