Strataglass vs. Makrolon — Which Boat Window Is Right for You?

Clear windows make boating more enjoyable, but not all panels are created equal. Two of the most popular marine window materials are Strataglass and Makrolon. Both offer great visibility and protection, but they have different strengths depending on how you use your boat.

Strataglass: Flexible and Clear

• What it is: A premium, flexible vinyl panel.

• Best for: Enclosures, roll-up panels, and boats that need versatility.

• Benefits: Excellent clarity, UV-resistant coating, and flexibility that allows easy storage when rolled. Strataglass is also scratch-resistant compared to standard clear vinyl.

Makrolon: Rigid and Durable

• What it is: A hard, polycarbonate panel (like glass, but lighter and tougher).

• Best for: Semi-permanent enclosures and larger boats where rigidity matters.

• Benefits: Superior strength, long-lasting durability, and nearly glass-like clarity. Makrolon panels won’t wrinkle or distort, but they cannot be rolled—only removed.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose Strataglass if you want flexibility, easy roll-up storage, and a softer panel that works well on smaller to mid-sized boats.

• Choose Makrolon if you want maximum durability, crystal-clear visibility, and a more “glassy” look that holds up in harsher marine environments.

Pro Tip from Robie Canvas

Many boaters combine both! Strataglass for roll-up side panels, and Makrolon for front windshields. That way, you get flexibility and durability where you need them most.