sailboat dodger definition

What Is a Dodger on a Sailboat? (The Answer Revealed)

Are you an avid sailor looking for a way to protect yourself from the elements while sailing? Then you may have heard of a dodger, but do you know what it is? A dodger is a sailboat accessory that provides protection from the sun, wind, rain, and spray, and can be customized to fit different types of boats.

In this article, we’ll explore what a dodger is, the different types available, and the many benefits it provides.

We’ll also provide tips for choosing the right dodger for your sailboat and how to install and maintain it.

Read on to learn more about this essential sailing accessory.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A dodger on a sailboat is a canvas or plastic cover that attaches to the cockpit and extends up and over the passengers to provide protection from wind and spray.

It is often attached to the boom with snaps or zippers and secured to the cockpit coaming with straps or clips.

It can also be equipped with a window to provide visibility and a ventilation opening to allow air to pass through.

What is a Dodger?

A dodger is an essential piece of equipment on a sailboat.

It is a canvas covering that acts as a protective barrier for the cockpit of the boat, shielding sailors from the sun, wind, and rain.

The dodger is usually made of weatherproof fabric and has a waterproof cover, creating a barrier between the cockpit and the elements.

Dodgers can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the design of the boat and the preferences of the sailors.

Some dodgers are small and discreet, while others are larger and more visible.

They can be made of a variety of materials, including canvas, acrylic, and polyester, and can be customized with various colors and designs.

In addition to providing protection from the elements, a dodger can also provide a comfortable place to rest, read, and relax while sailing.

Most dodgers are designed with a section of cushioned seating that can be used to enjoy the view, take a nap, or simply relax while the boat is underway.

Some dodgers also have windows that allow sailors to take in the scenery while sailing and to observe the changing weather patterns.

The dodger’s protective barrier also helps to keep spray from entering the cockpit, making it more comfortable and safer for the crew.

This is especially important in rough waters, when waves of water can easily enter the cockpit and cause a dangerous situation.

The dodger is an essential piece of equipment on any sailboat, and can make the sailing experience much more enjoyable and comfortable.

It is important to select a dodger that is suitable for the type of sailing being done, and that is properly sealed and secured to the boat.

With proper care and maintenance, a dodger can provide years of protection and comfort while sailing.

Types of Dodgers

When it comes to dodgers, there are a few different types available for sailboat owners to choose from.

The two most popular types are the hard dodger and the soft dodger.

Hard dodgers are typically made of rigid material such as metal or fiberglass and are designed to provide maximum protection from the elements.

They are also typically more expensive than soft dodgers.

Soft dodgers are made of fabric such as canvas or vinyl and are much less expensive than hard dodgers.

They are less rigid, but can still provide adequate protection from the wind and rain.

Soft dodgers tend to be more customizable, as they can be shaped and sized to fit a variety of applications.

Another type of dodger is the folding dodger.

These dodgers are usually made of lightweight fabric and can be easily folded or stowed away when not in use.

They are great for those who want the protection of a dodger but dont necessarily need it all the time.

Finally, there are also custom-made dodgers available for those who want something more unique.

Custom dodgers can be designed to fit specific needs and applications, and are typically more expensive than other types of dodgers.

No matter what type of dodger you choose, it is important to make sure it is properly installed and maintained.

Properly installed dodgers can provide protection from the elements and make sailing much more enjoyable.

Benefits of a Dodger

When it comes to sailing, having the right gear can make all the difference.

A dodger is a canvas covering that acts as a protective barrier on the cockpit of a sailboat.

This piece of equipment has many advantages that can improve a sailors overall sailing experience.

First and foremost, a dodger protects sailors from the elements, such as the sun, wind, and rain.

It is typically made of waterproof fabric with a weatherproof cover, and serves as a barrier to keep spray from entering the cockpit.

This keeps sailors safe and dry, even during inclement weather.

In addition to providing protection, a dodger can also provide a comfortable place to rest, read, and relax while sailing.

Its fabric serves as a cozy shelter from the elements, and its shape and size can be customized to the individual boat.

Some dodgers also have additional features, such as pockets to store small items, or a sunshade that can be pulled down to protect from the suns rays.

Finally, a dodger is a great way to extend the life of your boat.

It provides a barrier between the boat and the elements, preventing it from wear and tear that can come from long-term exposure.

This allows sailors to enjoy their boat for longer periods of time, with less maintenance and repairs.

Overall, a dodger is a great addition to any sailboat, and can provide many benefits for any sailor.

With its protection from the elements, and its comfortable shelter, it is an essential piece of equipment for any sailing enthusiast.

How to Install a Dodger

Installing a dodger onto a sailboat requires some basic knowledge of sailing and a few tools.

First, you will need to measure the area of the cockpit where the dodger will be installed.

This will allow you to determine the size of the dodger needed to cover the area.

Next, you will need to find and purchase the appropriate fabric for your dodger.

There are a number of different fabrics available, such as canvas, vinyl, or Sunbrella.

Once you have the fabric, you will need to measure and cut it to the correct size.

Next, you will need to attach the dodger to the sailboat.

This is typically done using grommets and stainless steel hardware.

Grommets are small metal rings that are inserted into the fabric and provide a secure point for the hardware to attach to the sailboat.

The hardware will need to be installed in the correct position on the sailboat, and it is important to ensure that it is tight and secure.

Finally, you will need to attach the dodger to the hardware.

This is typically done by using bungee cords or webbing straps, which are used to secure the dodger to the sailboat.

Once the dodger is installed, it is important to maintain it in order to ensure that it is in good condition and providing the desired protection.

This includes regularly cleaning the dodger to remove any dirt or debris, and checking the straps or bungee cords to ensure they are still tight and secure.

Additionally, you should check the fabric for any rips or tears, and repair them as soon as possible.

Installing a dodger on a sailboat is a relatively simple process, but it is important to take the time to ensure that it is done correctly.

Doing so will ensure that the dodger provides the desired protection and comfort while sailing, and will ensure that the sailboat is safe and sound.

Materials Used to Make a Dodger

When it comes to building a dodger, there are several materials that are commonly used.

The most popular materials are canvas, vinyl, and Sunbrella fabric.

Canvas is a durable and waterproof material that is often used for dodgers due to its strength and weather-resistant properties.

Vinyl is a lightweight and flexible material that is also waterproof and can provide some insulation from the sun’s rays.

Sunbrella fabric is a high-quality material that is designed to be water-resistant and fade-resistant, making it a great choice for dodgers.

In addition to these materials, many sailors opt for more specialized materials such as Kevlar, carbon fiber, and Dyneema for their dodgers.

These materials are ultra-durable and lightweight, making them ideal for sailboat dodgers.

Tips for Choosing and Maintaining a Dodger

When it comes to choosing and maintaining a dodger for your sailboat, there are several important factors to consider.

First and foremost, you should select a dodger that is suitable for the size of your boat.

A dodger that’s too large or too small won’t offer the protection you need.

You should also consider the type of fabric the dodger is made of.

A fabric that is waterproof and durable is best, as it will provide the best protection against the elements.

You may also want to consider a dodger with UV protection to protect you and your crew from the sun’s harmful rays.

When it comes to maintenance, it’s important to inspect your dodger regularly for signs of wear or damage.

If you notice any tears or fraying, you should make repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

It’s also important to clean your dodger regularly to ensure that it remains in good condition.

Make sure to use a mild detergent and warm water when cleaning, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

Finally, you should store your dodger when it’s not in use.

This will help prevent it from becoming damaged or faded due to exposure to the elements.

Make sure to store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and where it won’t be exposed to moisture.

Following these tips will help ensure that your dodger provides the protection you need and lasts for years to come.

Different Uses for a Dodger

A dodger has many uses for a sailboat, and can provide both protection and comfort for sailors.

Not only does it act as a shield from the sun, wind, and rain, it can also provide a comfortable place to relax and take in the scenery while sailing.

In addition, it can help keep spray from entering the cockpit and keep the area dry and comfortable.

It is also great for providing shade from the sun and respite from rain.

Furthermore, a dodger can provide an extra layer of insulation and protection from the elements, making it possible to enjoy sailing in colder climates.

Finally, a dodger can also provide an extra layer of security, allowing sailors to enjoy their sailing experience with peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

So, now that you know what a dodger is, how it’s used, and the benefits it provides, you can make an informed decision on how it can be best utilized on your sailboat.

With the right materials and proper installation, a dodger can provide the perfect protective barrier and comfortable place to rest while sailing.

Now it’s up to you to choose the right dodger for your sailboat and put it to use!

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

Recent Posts

Does Your Boat License Expire? Here's What You Need to Know

Are you a boat owner looking to stay up-to-date on your license requirements? If so, youve come to the right place! In this article, well cover everything you need to know about boat license...

How to Put Skins on Your Boat in Sea of Thieves? (Complete Guide)

There is a unique sense of pride and accomplishment when you show off a boat you customized to your exact specifications. With Sea of Thieves, you can customize your boat to make it look like your...

What Is A Hard Dodger? (And How To Build One)

Last Updated by

Jacob Collier

August 30, 2022

‍ When sailing on your boat, you might come across undesirable wet conditions. Since you are on the water, you will likely be wet unless you have a hard dodger.

Staying dry while sailing is a tough task to accomplish, but it is possible. How would a hard dodger help and how do you build one?

Hard dodgers are enclosed structures protecting you and the cockpit from the elements. With this added protection, you are keeping yourself comfortable, electronics safe, and companionways dry. Building one is much cheaper than purchasing, but will also cost you time and patience.

Building a hard dodger should not be a task that is rushed, as you need to allow time for things to mold and take shape. If you are interested in building a hard dodger, you will see the importance and why it is essential for everyday sailing.

According to boaters university, sailing with a hard top dodger significantly improved the experience. No matter your sailing experience, having a hard top dodger makes the process efficient and more enjoyable.

Table of contents

‍ Basics of a Hard Dodger

There are two different types of dodgers, with one being soft and the other hard. Soft dodgers are typically made up of canvas or vinyl, but these are temporary or used on an as needed basis.

Hard dodgers are meant to be permanent and cost more money up front. The enclosed shell surrounding the cockpit, along with the laminated glass windows, protects your boat and offers a clear view for many years.

Benefits of a Hard Dodger

These dodgers offer the best combination of safety, comfort, and reliability. When sailing, you want to have the best of all three worlds and you want to protect your investment.

Protection Against All Conditions

Hard dodgers offer protection to the cockpit and companionways during inclement weather, high wind, or rough waves. Being protected by a hard dodger will be more comfortable during those situations, especially since you can hide under the hardcover.

Since you are underneath a hard dodger, you will be protected from the sun's rays as they will bounce off the top. As for soft dodgers, these will deteriorate over time with the harsh sun beating down on it, so you will be replacing these every so often if you do not remove them after each use.

Perfect View

Since the cockpit is enclosed and typically used laminated glass, you will have unobstructed views when sailing. In most soft dodgers, your view will be blocked by patches of canvas.

For hard dodgers that use laminated glass, these surfaces are easy to clean. If any mold or mildew attempts to form, it can easily be removed within a few seconds and you are back to clear views.

Reliability

The structure of a hard dodger will offer many benefits for years to come. For example, the structure will serve its primary purpose to protect from weather or rough waves, but it also includes secure handholds to safely step down into the cockpit or when exiting.

In addition, it also provides temporary shelter when riding out tough waves or storms. Getting caught out in a situation when you do not have any dodger is bad enough, but a hard dodger can make rough situations more tolerable.

How Much Does a Hard Dodger Cost?

There are not a lot of hard dodger kits for sale online. Instead, you would need to contact a company that builds them specifically for your boat or do one yourself.

Some websites offer kits for soft dodgers that require a special sewing machine . However, you can see how much money you need to spend just for fancy fabric that you will likely need to replace over time.

When it comes to hard dodgers, doing it yourself will save you tons of money over the long haul. Depending on the size of your boat and the materials that you use, you will be spending anywhere between $2,000 and up.

The reason there is not a price cap is because you can essentially add anything to a hard dodger and use about any materials necessary to get the job done. For a rough estimate, expect to spend around $10,000 on average to have good quality for the long term.

To put this in perspective, you might not want a hard dodger if your boat is relatively cheaper. If you have a $100,000 sailboat, or simply want to improve the value of your current one, it might make sense to protect your investment with a hard dodger.

How to Build a Hard Dodger

To begin the process, it would be best to have a cardboard prototype with measurements of your hard dodger that you want to make. If you have an old dodger handy or something of relevance to the size you need, that is a great start.

Having measurements and something to go by is great, especially since you do not want to obstruct your view of the helm. You also want to allow room for movement in the cockpit and navigating in or out of it.

Making the Shell

Use cardboard or something you can easily bend and cut to help make your mold. You will also need tape and something easily bendable with the use of a heat gun like pvc water pipe for mounting points.

Once you have made the shell, simply apply it to your boat and view from all angles. This way you can see how the rough draft will apply in real time and to get a better picture of things to come.

Cut Plywood

Once you are happy with the shape of your mold, it is time to apply that to the shape of plywood. You can use heavy duty marine grade ⅜ inch plywood or regular construction grade.

If you use marine grade, it will stand up to water better if it ever gets wet. However, it is harder to bend and regular construction grade could work just as well.

Once you have made the cut to your plywood, you should test the fit to make sure it works. Simply make adjustments as needed.

Make Bending Frame

Now is the time to make a bending frame for the plywood core. You could use two 2x12 wooden planks with cross pieces that screw on. The planks should be spaced out roughly a third of the width of the dodger, or your fore-aft distance.

It is important to note that you need a leveler and measuring tape to properly check the cuts. Anything that is off just the slightest could result in a warped or bent dodger when the final product is bolted down.

Cut along the profile of the dodger’s bend into two sections of plywood. You will need to screw in the contour pieces to the planks.

You will also need to cut roughly a dozen or so blocks, but do not need all of them, to help stabilize the dodger core. These could be something like 3x3x1, which you will use to evenly distribute along the contour.

Make a mark that will be easy to see when identifying your center line. This will be useful when bolting everything down when applying the core to the frame.

Now you can apply the core to your frame to see if everything fits. When aligning the center of the core to the contour, make sure you can apply enough pressure to allow it to conform.

Once everything is in line, you can screw the core to the frame. Using your center line from earlier, you can easily see the midline of the core and the midline of the frame.

Apply Dodger to Boat

Once you have built the dodger frame, you can now test it out on your boat. Carefully move the completed frame over to your boat and align accordingly.

Bolt down the dodger to the boat with the aligned holes. After bolting down the dodger, make sure you have everything in line before you attempt to do anything else.

You have two options to consider at this point for the next step. You can either remove the dodger from the boat to finish the process in another location or leave it and do all the work from the boat. Keep in mind that leaving it on the boat will require you to work entirely from the boat for the next several days or longer.

Once you have completed installing your dodger and any additional panels that you see fit, you can move onto the clean up process that will add longevity to the dodger. If there are any small gaps, this is not a big deal assuming it does not interfere with the integrity of your structure.

If you have small holes or gaps, this can be filled later with epoxy or wood filler. Keep in mind that you want something that is going to be easy to sand. You are going to want a smooth surface later to apply a coat of sealant and paint.

In addition, look for areas along edges to apply fiberglass tape, epoxy, and edge reinforcements. This will make the finishing process easier and give it a cleaner look while also stabilizing the frame.

Additional Features

Before you begin adding glass and sealant to your hard dodger, this is a great time to add any additional features such as speakers, opening hatches, solar panels, or anything you desire. Now that you have the frame in place to your liking, it is easier to add these features than after it is completed.

You do not have to have everything a perfectly snug fit. This will all be covered later in the clean up process, so do not stress over small gaps.

If you see an opportunity to make holes bigger for electronics or other features, now is the time to do so. You will have plenty of opportunity to fill everything with paint and epoxy later.

Adding Fiberglass

With the dodger perfectly in place, now is the time to add fiberglass. You should install temporary support systems to avoid any shape distortions wherever you are going to place the fiberglass. This is as simple as using tape, cloth, and your favorite epoxy.

Once you have installed the fiberglass, you need to make sure every corner or gap is filled. Simply continue to use epoxy in places where it is needed and remember that you can sand any excess later.

Sanding, Painting, and Applying Dodger

One of the most rewarding steps is to clean up the dodger. All of the love labor you have poured into this project now gets the flavor to suit your taste.

Finish sanding down the dodger and clean up any areas to provide a smooth surface. You also need to make sure there are not any unlevel spots, so using a fair compound to fill in these areas will need time to cure and sand later.

After you have sanded to perfection, you can paint the dodger to any color of your liking. For simplicity, most people stick to white.

The paint will need to be either an oil-based rust-proof paint or a single-component polyurethane. Whichever one you choose, you need to continue using that specific application or it will not stick properly over time. If you do not like that particular application, you would need to sand it all off and start again.

The easiest to use is an oil-based paint that is marine grade, or at least stands tough in water. This paint also works well when you want to apply a thing coat to give your dodger a fresh look over time.

If you have intentions of standing on top of your dodger, it would be wise to add some form of non-skid. This could be crushed walnut shells or sand over several coats of paint. Without non-skid, your dodger top will be like ice if you plan to step on it.

Once everything is painted, you can add the dodger to your boat if you had chosen to work at another location. Whether you are bolting it down now or previously in the process, make sure your bolts are heavy duty and rated for rough conditions.

Related Articles

Born into a family of sailing enthusiasts, words like “ballast” and “jibing” were often a part of dinner conversations. These days Jacob sails a Hallberg-Rassy 44, having covered almost 6000 NM. While he’s made several voyages, his favorite one is the trip from California to Hawaii as it was his first fully independent voyage.

by this author

Repairs and Maintenance

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

Daniel Wade

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Similar Posts

How To Choose The Right Sailing Instructor

August 16, 2023

Cost To Sail Around The World

May 16, 2023

Small Sailboat Sizes: A Complete Guide

October 30, 2022

Popular Posts

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

December 28, 2023

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

June 15, 2022

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Top Rated Posts

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. (866) 342-SAIL

© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy

Attainable Adventure Cruising

The Offshore Voyaging Reference Site

• Cockpit Dodger For an Offshore Sailboat

What you see is our third crack at creating the “ideal” dodger and bimini top, at least for us. I can’t say that “design” is the word that I would use, more like “evolution”.

When we bought Morgan’s Cloud she came with a fabric dodger set on heavy duty (1-1/4”) stainless steel bows. When that came to the end of its life we decided to stay with the basic shape and design, since it had worked well, but make the dodger top hard. We also decided to add a bimini top to try to reduce the crop of growing things that dermatologists delight in burning off my (John) skin.

In designing the bimini our first concern was that we not compromise access to winches or other sail handling equipment and to preserve good visibility.

We also decided to end the bimini forward of the wheel since we rarely steer and when we do we like to be able to look up at the mainsail.

Since the existing dodger bows were so substantial, we used them for the basic structure, although with a modification: The curve of the old fabric dodger had required us to keep our heads bent slightly forward when sitting under it. It is truly amazing how uncomfortable this can be on a long watch. To solve this problem we had a short piece of tube welded into the middle of each bow to move the curve outboard by 2 inches. This has had a miraculous effect on our comfort.

Before making this change we made sure that we would still be able to see the oncoming waves and the headsails, while sitting in a comfortable steering position and looking along the side of the dodger.

Ideally, we would have liked to make the whole dodger rigid including the windows. However this would have necessitated going to glass or plastic windows without curves, which would have compromised the boat’s looks to a level we could not tolerate. We did enquire about a custom curved laminated glass windshield; however, when the $10,000 figure was mentioned by the manufacturer, that was the end of that discussion.

For our first hard dodger and bimini top we went to a mass producer of fiberglass tops for both. This was not a success. The fiberglass laminate was too thin, resulting in alarming flexing underfoot. Since being able to stand on the dodger to furl the mainsail or tie in reef points was a lot of the reason for going with a hard top in the first place, this was not acceptable, although it did last four years before developing cracks.

The other problem was that the extrusions provided to attach the fabric sides and front were really chintzy and poorly designed so it was impossible to keep the joint between the hard top and fabric sides waterproof. Aside from the discomfort of having constant drips, we navigate on deck under the dodger so leaks resulted in soggy charts and publications—very irritating.

For our third iteration we stayed with the same design but had a custom fibreglass shop build the hard dodger top using a balsa core sandwiched with fiberglass. This resulted in a very stiff and relatively light structure, albeit expensive. After the custom shop finished their part, we covered it with Treadmaster, painted it with Allgrip and added good quality plastic extrusions, glued with Plexus adhesive, tucked well under the edge to prevent leaks.

At the same time we laminated a piece of ¼” plywood to the underside of the bimini, to stiffen and strengthen it, as well as adding Treadmaster to the top.

Finally, we had the new dodger front and sides fabricated in one piece with no zippers. We think that zippered windows in dodgers are a mistake since they result in blind spots and they will inevitably leak. Of course, those in hot climates may disagree, but we have never found the heat under the dodger excessive, even in the Caribbean. For fabric we went with Stamoid rather than the Sunbrella that we had used on previous versions.

These have proved to be good changes and combined with the well recessed tracks have made the dodger completely waterproof, even when punching to windward with the spray flying.

We have considered solar panels but are loath to add them since the clutter would make the bimini much less functional to stand on when sail handling.

The devil is in the details. Note how the hard top overlaps the fabric top edge, which slides into a plastic extrusion on the front. To attach the sides, there is a light fiberglass batten in a pocket that is through bolted to a rabbited-out lip, to clear the bows, on the underside of the hard top.

Further Reading

• Lane and Kay Finley from New Zealand have built their own hard dodger for their sailboat Mai Tai and shared the process with us here .
• We have two full chapters on our new cockpit enclosure—yes, we changed our minds— starting here .

Please Share a Link:

More Articles From Cockpit Enclosures and Dodgers:

• How To Home Build a Hard Dodger For an Offshore Sailboat
• A Sailor’s Cockpit Enclosure—Part 1
• A Sailor’s Cockpit Enclosure—Part 2

Beautiful dodger. Who built it. I have an Apogee 50 and am thinking about a new dodger. Thanks! Lex

I moved your comment so you will now find the complete story of our dodger in the post above. Hope it helps.

Sorry if this is noted somewhere and I just haven’t managed to find it but what material have you used for the windows. There seems to be debate as there i with many things that float, about what is the best way to go. We are about to change our window material on Onegin. thanks Geoff

We have a two chapter series starting here that covers our current thinking: https://www.morganscloud.com/2016/10/10/a-sailors-cockpit-enclosure-part-1/

Standardizing dodger design and fabrication

When designing each dodger, Iverson’s Design considers the uniqueness of each sailboat. Clients specify the height they want and how far back into the cockpit they want the dodger to extend. They also choose from a variety of colors and materials.

Jason Iverson is passionate about his business. It is obvious when he talks about the details of his designs and how he works with his customers. He has been able to combine two of his passions—product design and sailing—to launch Iverson’s Design Inc., a successful business designing dodgers and accessories for sailboats.

“When you are passionate about something it is a given you will succeed,” Iverson said. “This business is not just a job, it is my life.”

Iverson likes to make business fun, too. The “extreme product tests” featured on his company website include videos of him getting in a front-end loader and dumping 600 gallons of water on a dodger for a wave test, and conducting a wind test by racing his product down an airport runway at 90 miles an hour.

Iverson got involved in the upholstery business early. His first job at 15 was sweeping floors after school at an upholstery shop in his hometown of Centralia, Wash. After a while, he told his boss he wanted to try selling and patterning. His boss gave him the chance, and Iverson discovered he was good at it and enjoyed it. “Once you are an upholsterer, you are always an upholsterer,” he said.

Jason Iverson started Iverson’s Design Inc. and created the i-Top dodger to combine the benefits of standardized design with the flexibility and responsiveness that the customers demand. Photo: Iverson’s Design Inc.

After high school, Iverson went to the University of Washington in Seattle where he pursued his interest in design and earned a bachelor of arts degree in industrial design, along with a bachelor of fine arts in interdisciplinary visual arts. During school, he continued to work in several different upholstery shops and lived his other passion—his home during those years was a sailboat on Lake Union and Puget Sound.

At the time, however, he really wasn’t thinking about making anything to do with sailing or upholstery his life’s work. Iverson assumed that like many college grads, he’d find a job with a corporation once school was over. But as he interviewed for jobs, he assessed what he really wanted in life and realized the artist in him didn’t want to spend his days in a cubicle. He wanted to be his own boss and he wanted to create his own product.

If you build it, they will come

Jason Iverson and his crew travel nationwide to accommodate customer needs. “The key to our success is our reputation,” he says.

Now Iverson’s passions for design and sailing came together. He explored a number of possibilities for the product he wanted to create. Through his years working in upholstery shops, Iverson saw an opportunity to design dodgers. He thought by taking advantage of manufacturing efficiencies not traditionally used in marine fabrication, he could manufacture a high-quality product by standardizing it. Iverson also understood what would be appealing to consumers—in short, he felt he could build a better dodger and set out to do just that.

Working in his garage, Iverson did a lot of drafting and prototyping until he created his signature product, the i-Top dodger, a proprietary design protected by law. The design combines a modular canvas soft top with a framing structure to create a dodger that protects from the elements with style. He founded his company, Iverson’s Design Inc. in 2000.

Design combines form and function

Specific details, like the sailboat’s style and lines, are incorporated into the dodger to compliment the boat. “Our dodgers are highly serviceable, but they are also works of art,” Iverson said. “The beauty of our products is in the balance we strike between functionality, style, comfort and safety.”

The frame design utilizes compression and tension to counterbalance forces inflicted on it, enhancing its structural integrity. It is connected to the deck with hinge points that pivot to absorb any flex or shock to the canvas dodger and reduce sheer on these connecting points. It is designed to be more aerodynamic to reduce windage and add to the structural integrity of the frame.

The tensioned canvas skin on the i-Top is an integral component of the structure and its flexibility helps reduce or cushion the initial impact of a force such as a wave or wind.

The rigid nature of the i-Top’s windows creates a distortion-free and wrinkle-free appearance with the clarity of glass. They are made of 60 mil., aircraft-grade UV/scratch-resistant polycarbonate window material. The windows wear well, remaining dimensionally stable with exposure to solar heat. The window configuration provides a greater wrap-around view from the helm.

Iverson says the fact that his company is not a custom canvas shop sets it apart from the competition. “We do one thing well,” he says. Iverson has won awards for his designs regionally, nationally and internationally, including awards from the Industrial Fabrics Association International.

His business model has standardized his company’s processes to the point that he and his staff are able to travel nationwide to provide the product. Their normal service area is Washington, Oregon and California, but they have customers as far away as Miami and Lake Michigan.

It also has enabled his company to provide exceptional customer service, something that Iverson feels is essential to his company’s success. “The key to our success is our reputation. Our customers’ experience needs to be something more than they expect,” said Iverson.

That experience includes every contact from the initial phone call to the point when the product is delivered. Customers can begin by using the company’s extensive website where all the details of manufacturing each dodger are explained, along with options for color choices, frames and accessories.

Iverson’s Design uses expert teams to complete each task in the process: A road crew specializes in the design and patterning of a project, a layout team prepares the patterns, and a sewing team stitches together the canvas top. If welding is necessary for the project, a welding team is on the job. Unless there are issues with the scope of the project or the weather, installation generally takes place within two weeks of the initial consultation.

“It’s really about building trust. We do what we say we will do and we keep our customers in the loop,” said Iverson. “The sailboat industry is a culture,” he explained. “When people like your work, word spreads through conversations, online and through social media.”

Julie Swiler is a freelance writer from St. Paul, Minn.

Related Posts

Wisconsin governor recognizes boating’s economic impact

Patrick Clysdale joins Herculite Products Inc.’s direct sales team

Alaska congresswoman lauded by NMMA

Meijer donates $250,000 to Detroit-based Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center

Advanced Textiles Association

1801 County B Rd W, Suite 100 Roseville, MN 55113

+1.651.222.2508 Textiles.org

hardtop dodgers and biminis

A little history: tartarooga goes back to 1977, Jacques built the first hardtop dodger for his sailboat. It was a Dragon Class sloop, a sleek racer. The purpose was to keep the boat’s dog, Mister Eddy, out of rain and spray.

The first incarnation of our hardtop dodger became quite popular among Dragon racers. It essentially consisted of a hard top salvaged off an 1959 MG-A roadster. The rear window was now facing forward, pretending to be a windshield. Mister Eddy stayed dry. Everybody and their cousins decided that they needed a dodger “just like that one”.

By mid-1978, Jacques had bought all the junkyards out of hard tops. There were only two choices, quit making hardtop dodgers, or manufacture them from scratch.         – more below –

In 1983, Jacques went into business, starting his own custom boat building company. What became known as the Samish River Boat Shop built a number of one-offs. Up to 42′ in length, to the most exacting standards of engineering, aesthetics and finish.

Bea became our resident Sail- and Canvas maker from day one. She produced sail inventories and canvas items of all descriptions. Her workmanship and dedication to detail are unsurpassed by anyone in the industry. Everything coming from her shop is extremely well thought out and finished. She has participated in the completion of over 600 tartarooga Hard Dodgers.

The first commercially sold hard dodger, under the tartarooga label, was installed in 1983. With every dodger made, we have improved on the concept and refined details. Today tartarooga can be viewed as a truly mature product, often copied, but unmatched by anyone.

Our Main Goals are Seaworthiness and Seakindliness

When you put to sea in a boat, you will be exposed alternatively to hot or cold. There will be calm or stormy conditions, with rain and spray.

It is our declared purpose to provide optimal protection from these extreme conditions. Our structures are so strong you can depend on them in any kind of sea conditions. With our products your entire crew will  arrive in port feeling fresh and rested. (See below)

Our Products

tartarooga hardtops are hand laid-up in our proprietary molds, using high-tech materials.

tartarooga Hard Dodgers and Biminis have integral structural members and downturned edges fore- and aft.

tartarooga means engineered for ultimate strength and impact resistance, while keeping weight low.

tartarooga Hard Dodgers come with stainless steel frame and a pair of lateral handrails.

tartarooga tops have a finish of high-grade marine gelcoat, inside- and out.

tartarooga Hard Dodger windshields will release, under pressure, to yield to possible wave impact. (see report below)

tartarooga products are fabricated with canvas of the well-known SUNBRELLA or TEMPOTEST brands.

tartarooga windows are made of STRATAGLASS ™ or TUFFEK ™.

All tartarooga canvas work is sewn with UV-proof TENARA ™ thread.

Experience TARTAROOGA at Sea!

Hi there! It’s Lee Youngblood. – I thought we try to track you down to say thank you, thank you! Thank you very much for a wonderful job! – Hum, we hit a stack in the middle of the night. It dropped – uh – several tons of water on us. I think the whole boat shuddered to a stop. Most of it went between the mast and the cockpit. And, – uh – blew the windows out of the dodger. And filled the cockpit to about 4 inches below the top of the coaming. And, – uh – John stuck his head up and asked “are you still here?” I said “yeah! everything OK!” – hum – I asked “can we do anything about the windows?” “Just snap them back up! Jacques said they’re supposed to blow out when hit by green water”. So, I just wanted to say thank you for a great dodger! (Transcript from our voice mail)

Explanation: our hard dodgers incorporate an added feature that allows the windshield to release under pressure when impacted by a massive amount of water. This prevents the dodger from getting torn away by a surge of green water on deck. When the water has drained away, the windscreen can be “snapped back up”.

Sailcovers, dodgers & Sailboat biminis

1-800-639-9907

• Cruising Sails
• Racing Sails
• Sail Service
• Specifications
• Using H2ube
• Request a Quote
• Wash Service

• D&M Distributors

Sailboat Covers & Enclosures

A bimini for your sail boat is the perfect protection against the elements; wind, rain, sun or mosquitoes. Be comfortable in your yacht at anytime, anywhere. We proudly offer high quality Bimini’s that are specifically designed for your boat using fabrics such as Stamoid and Sunbrella that are not only durable but also waterproof, flexible, mildew resistant and available in many colors!

Frames fabricated by our Trademark, Patented H2ube or the option of the stainless steel tubing.

Hallett Canvas & Sails, Inc. has 26 years experience manufacturing various designs of dodger’s suitable for each individual customer and their boats. Hallett dodgers are carefully built ensuring structural integrity as well as years of performance. Dodgers will add the comfort, protection and style to your boat. Custom design your own dodger or see our dodger design page for some potential options that fit you and your sailboat.

Dodger Order Form

Get out of the sun for the afternoon. This cover protects the cockpit from light rain and sun without the use of bows. Awnings can also help ventilate your boat in an array of weather conditions allowing hatches and companionways to be open and covered from rain or sun. Awnings work well with dodger and bimini’s. It is easy to use, just zip the front to the dodger and insert an awning pole in the back and your done! All awnings are made using the finest outdoor fabrics such as Sunbrella and Stamoid and more.

Sail Covers

All sails should be protected from U.V. rays which, rapidly breakdown any sail cloth, taking years off the life of the sail.

• Standard Sail Cover We provide a front zipper, vinyl protection for winches or cleats and twist snaps for easy on and off. Options of Lazy Jack cut outs if it applies to your boat.
• Hallett Zip-Top Sail Cover Hallett Zip Top Sail covers are integrated to a lazy jack system to allow the mainsail to drop into the cover, then zip the top up and you’re done. It’s that easy! The cover is independent of the sail which allows for easy installation and taking off at the end of the season.
• Horse Blanket The loose luff, flaked mainsail on boom Sunbrella sail cover that simply is laid and fastened.
• Interior Luxury Foam including EZ Dry, Quality fabrics and construction will make your boat worth living on for years to come.

Winter Covers

We can build covers for any custom projects. We will work around special rigging or unique designs to bring it all together for the perfectly finished look. Many times the up front cost of a winter cover is substantially high, however if you keep your boat for more than three to five years the cost becomes much lower than shrink wrapping. Also the quality and functionality of the cover is much greater than the standard blue and green polyethylene tarps. A quality winter cover is important in preserving your upholstery from rain, snow, and harmful UV rays. Now using more and more, the H2ube frame for sturdy, easy use, easy to clean covers. Sail boat enclosures. Our custom fit sail boat enclosures allow boaters to use the outdoor space in all weather and get full use of boat. This in turn can also lengthen the boating season all together allowing you to launch earlier in the spring and to stay warm on a beautiful late fall evening sail. Enclosures are designed to provide maximum visibility built with Strata Glass, Makrolon Polycarbonate or Crystal Clear glass while using Sunbrella or Stamoid for the panels.

Custom Covers

Hallett can design and fabricate any in-house custom upholstery or canvas work that you may need. Some of these projects include, winch covers, helm covers, mooring covers, fender covers, boom tents, wheel covers, hatch covers and much more. You tell us what you would like and we will go the extra mile to meet your needs.

• Privacy policy
• Terms of Use

Hallett Canvas produces the very best cruising sails, racing sails, sailboat canvas, powerboat canvas, commercial canvas and sail rigging products in Maine.

• New Sailboats
• Sailboats 21-30ft
• Sailboats 31-35ft
• Sailboats 36-40ft
• Sailboats Over 40ft
• Sailboats Under 21feet
• used_sailboats
• Apps and Computer Programs
• Communications
• Fishfinders
• Handheld Electronics
• Plotters MFDS Rradar
• Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
• Anchoring Mooring
• Running Rigging
• Sails Canvas
• Standing Rigging
• Diesel Engines
• Off Grid Energy
• Cleaning Waxing
• DIY Projects
• Repair, Tools & Materials
• Spare Parts
• Tools & Gadgets
• Cabin Comfort
• Ventilation
• Footwear Apparel
• Foul Weather Gear
• Mailport & PS Advisor
• Inside Practical Sailor Blog
• Activate My Web Access
• Reset Password
• Customer Service

• Free Newsletter

Pearson Rhodes 41/Rhodes Bounty II Used Sailboat Review

Hallberg Rassy 42

How to Perform Your Own Pre-Buy Inspection

Beneteau 323 Used Boat Review

How Does the Gulf Stream Influence our Weather?

Can You Run a Marine Air-Conditioner on Battery Power?

Preparing Yourself for Solo Sailing

Your New Feature-Packed VHF Radio

Practical Sailor Classic: The Load on Your Rode

Anchor Rodes for Smaller Sailboats

Ground Tackle Inspection Tips

Shoe Goo II Excels for Quick Sail Repairs

What Oil Analysis Reveals About Your Engine

An Unusual Sailboat Shines a Light On A Sustainable Future

Is It Time to Get an Electric Dinghy Motor?

Bottom Paint 30-Month Update

Battle of the Teak Cleaners — Snappy Teak-Nu vs. Star Brite

New Seacocks for the Offshore Sailor

Bottom Paint Care

Are E-bikes Worth the Extra Weight and Cost?

How to Handle the Head

How to Select Crew for a Passage or Delivery

Preparing A Boat to Sail Solo

Re-sealing the Seams on Waterproof Fabrics

Waxing and Polishing Your Boat

Reducing Engine Room Noise

Tricks and Tips to Forming Do-it-yourself Rigging Terminals

Marine Toilet Maintenance Tips

Learning to Live with Plastic Boat Bits

• Boat Maintenance
• Sails, Rigging & Deck Gear

Make a Mini Dodger

Cheap protection doesnt have to look cheap..

A companionway slider and hatch boards are the most common type of cabin entry on sailboats. Its seaworthy, lightweight, and inexpensive. Unfortunately, you can’t leave the hatch open when it’s raining without getting water below. Swapping the hatch boards for a hinged door is a popular upgrade, but in many boats there simply isn’t space for an opened door.

A dodger or hard top is another possibility, but dodgers increase windage, disrupt movement on deck, interfere with line and sail handling, partially block the view forward, and are expensive and heavy. Many sailors simply don’t sail in the rain often enough justify the downsides. However, after just one steamy evening below during a summer thunderstorm, buttoned up tight, and you’ll give your eye teeth for a little more air.

For my new-to-me boat, a Corsair F 24 trimaran, I envisioned a streamlined mini-dodger that would offer protection from spray and rain from forward or straight down. Access would be fast and it would not interfere with sailing, or add windage or weight.

The answer was a mini-dodger fabricated from a sheet of fiberglass shower-liner material. It snaps into the slider grove in seconds, and by virtue of being cut slightly wider than the opening, it flexes into a cone-shaped arch, tapering down to nothing at the forward end of the slider and providing a small overhang on the cockpit end.

Although the arch is not tall enough to enter the cabin standing, we can either crouch or sit on the sill and slide in. In the rain you can leave the slider open, with some or all of the boards left out, according to the wind direction. A screen inside blocks the bugs. With a small cabin, this is enough ventilation in the rain. Three ties secure it to the slider handle. The ties, combined with a tight fit, have made it secure in all winds.

The tie points are reinforced with a second layer of fiberglass to insure durability, and a rubberized extension on the forward edge makes for a good seal. Best of all, it can store flat under the V-berth mattress, taking no space and easily forgotten until it rains.

Making the Mini-Dodger

Measure the slider opening, including the width, and the length of the groove with the boards in and the hatch adjusted in the ideal open position (see below). Decide how much overhang you like. Depending on the angle of the companionway boards, six inches is typically enough. Decide how much arch you like, and estimate that arch with a tape measure. You want enough camber to spring it into the track. If camber is than 4 inches or more than 10 inches, it could slip or pop out of the track.

If there is a handle on the top of the slider, determine how far the slider must be open for the handle to clear the mini-dodger. This handle will provide secure tie-down points. If there is no handle, you can create a pair of hold-downs at the aft end of the companion way, or by a tight strap over the top.

Cut a test piece of posterboard similar to the shape you think will best fit. Test the fit, adding cut-outs, locating tie points, and adjusting for a custom fit. Once a final outline is selected, cut from 2.2 millimeter (.09-inch) thick fiberglass shower surround material. It can be cut to fit with a cut-off disk in an angle grinder or cutting with a razor utility knife (box-cutter), using the score-and-snap method. We found a 48-inch by 8-foot Smooth White Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Wall Panel from Lowes Home Store for $65.

All of the corners, inside and outside, should be rounded to avoid stress concentrations. The schematic drawings for the mini-dodger are posted along with this article at www.practical-sailor.com.

Add reinforcement patches for the tie points and exposed corners by cutting scraps to fit and bonding them using epoxy thickened with colloidal silica or microfibers (prepare the surface by wiping with acetone and sanding). Taper the patch edges and wipe the epoxy smooth to provide smooth transitions. For the corner and edge patches, overlap the edge slightly and then trim away with a disk sander when cured. Sand all edges with 200-grit paper to eliminate splinters.

Drill holes for the tie-down cords; I used three on the slider handle only, both for security and to create the camber. You can also install ties at the aft corners of the overhang to connect to hooks or eyes in the cabin top. Trim the aft edge as needed to be certain you can remove the hatch boards with the mini-dodger in place.

Secure the cords to the dodger with stopper knots, seal the holes with a dab of polyurethane caulk, and cover the holes and knots with scrap Sunbrella ovals (ask your local canvas shop) bonded with polyurethane. This gives it a clean look. There are many other ways to attach the lines. The trick is to keep any holes watertight.

I left the pebble finish-face up for several reasons; it is more difficult to bond the reinforcements, the smooth surface should repel dirt better, and it’s shiny. I have used the same material for window covers for many years. It resists UV very well ( Practical Sailor DIY Fiberglass Hatch Covers , Mach 2016).

Our observations suggest this is a drop-in fit for Catalinas, Beneteaus, J-boats, and some Hunters and Pearsons. If your boat doesn’t have a track that will work, suitable aluminum track is available at hardware stores such as Home Depot and can be added above or outside of the existing track. Water will drain into the track, so it must be angled and sloped to allow drainage.

If your slide runs on top of the companionway, the dodger could also be secured without a track, using ties, or studs with knobs. This won’t fit all boats, but maybe we have given you a starting point for your own invention.

The result is a sleek dodger, reminiscent of the sleek cabintop of an Open 60 (or a Contessa 26). The cost is less than $70 (with lots of material left over), it weighs only five pounds, and it stows under the mattress, ready to be installed in a minute whenever rain threatens. It’s a simple, inexpensive, companionway solution that should last as long much longer than any canvas dodger.

Avid sailor and ice-climber, Drew Frye is a technical editor at Practical Sailor. He has a background in chemistry and engineering blogs about cruising products at www.sail-delmarva.blogspot.com .

Two often we look at marine stores for solutions to our boat problems. This simple fix uses a flexible fiberglass shower panel that is relatively cheap and easy to work with.

As with many projects involving cutting and fitting a new component, it is best to start with a template made of cardboad or stiff posterboard. This gives you plenty of opportunity to make adjustments to the fit and the placement of the tie-downs.

1. Test the fit, first with posterboard, and then with your finished shape before drilling holes for the tie-downs. 2. The reinforcement layers of scrap fiberglass at the tie points are bonded in place using epoxy thickened with colloidal silica or microfibers. 3. The underside of the cover, showing the reinforcing patches is ready for the final trim to fit. 4. A strip of Sunbrella wrapped around the edges and bonded with polyurethane epoxy protects the relatively think edges. 5. The installed dodger lashes down on the sliding hatch. In the event weather gets really wild and we need the hatch closed for safety, it can be removed in a matter of seconds.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Have you any more photos? I can’t envision what it looks like. Thank you – Dennis

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Videos

The No Expense Spared Antigua 60 Cruising Sailboat Soolaimon

How To Buy Sails – With Joe Cooper

Bavaria C42: What You Should Know | Boat Tour

Universal Diesel Engines – What You Should Know

• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Online Account Activation
• Privacy Manager

• Have any questions?
• 905-278-2891
• [email protected]

Dodgers, Biminis & Enclosures

“We are very pleased with the bimini and full enclosure panels you installed on our Jeanneau 35 last summer. The fit is remarkably precise, and the quality of materials and workmanship are both very high. Many thanks for making the treks to Collingwood to measure the boat and install the canvas!” – John, Jeanneau 35

Dodgers (Sailboat & Powerboat)

Our Natty Dodgers are built to stand the test of time.

You might call it expertise or experience, but at Genco we simply think of it as being dedicated to our craft. Our robust Natty Dodgers are built to last, by master craftsman. On premises.

We’ve seen styles come and go since we first opened our business in 1965, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the attention to detail we use in creating our superior sailboat and powerboat dodgers We still use the same rugged, colourfast Sunbrella for all of our dodgers along with stainless steel arches, top of the line stainless fittings and YKK zippers. You simply won’t find a higher quality dodger anywhere.

Our Natty design is the product of years of experience, 45+ years to be precise! In over four decades, we’ve covered literally thousands of sailboats and powerboats in our premium quality canvas products. And while we don’t want to take the air out of our competition’s sails, we can honestly say there isn’t a lot that Genco doesn’t know about canvas for your boat.

We offer an extensive list of patterns and templates for a wide variety of boats and we’re always on the lookout to expand the options available to our customers and continually come up with new designs for new boat models. No matter what kind of boat you have, whether it’s a classic you’ve cherished for years or it’s the latest boat on the market, Genco has you covered. Request a quote today or stop by one of our locations to discuss how we can help you. We look forward to working with you and meeting your boating needs.

The Natty Dodger System

Biminis & Enclosures (Sailboat & Powerboat)

Our Biminis and Enclosures share the same long history as our Dodgers. Since 1965, thousands of uncompromising boaters have made Genco a premiere choice for biminis and enclosures. We’ve learned and refined the best ways to protect boaters from the elements.

Although we have seen styles and designs come and go over the years, at Genco we still use the same Sunbrella for all of our boat covers. Why? Because we don’t believe in changing something that has proven it can withstand the test of time. Each of our high quality covers is produced from rugged, coloufast Sunbrella and features stainless steel framework, fittings and fasteners with YKK zippers. The result is a high quality product that will provide you with years of comfort and protection. Whether you’re sailing the high seas or taking a pleasure cruise, our biminis and enclosures will stay right on course with you.

Whether your boat has been part of the family for years or you have recently acquired one of the latest designs, at Genco we have your bimini and enclosure needs covered. We offer an extensive list of patterns and templates for a wide variety of boats. Each year we expand that catalog as we develop new designs based on new boat models. No matter what type of boat you may have, it’s safe to say we can cover your needs.

Send us a message to receive your quote today!

• To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

Definition of dodger

• chiseller
• confidence man
• fraudster [ chiefly British ]
• sharpy

Examples of dodger in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dodger.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1568, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing dodger

• corn dodger
• draft dodger

Dictionary Entries Near dodger

Cite this entry.

“Dodger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dodger. Accessed 15 May. 2024.

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More commonly misspelled words, your vs. you're: how to use them correctly, every letter is silent, sometimes: a-z list of examples, more commonly mispronounced words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), popular in wordplay, birds say the darndest things, the words of the week - may 10, a great big list of bread words, 10 scrabble words without any vowels, 12 more bird names that sound like insults (and sometimes are), games & quizzes.

Shohei Ohtani hits solo home run, RBI double as Dodgers pound Giants 10-2

Shohei Ohtani had a solo home run and an RBI double among his three hits, and the NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers pounded the rival San Francisco Giants 10-2

SAN FRANCISCO -- Shohei Ohtani had a solo home run and an RBI double among his three hits, and the NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers pounded the rival San Francisco Giants 10-2 on Tuesday night.

Ohtani's 12th homer highlighted a four-run fourth inning that was capped by Gavin Lux's RBI triple. Teoscar Hernández doubled home a run and Max Muncy hit a sacrifice fly in the inning, backing Gavin Stone (4-1). Hernández later contributed a two-run triple.

Ohtani’s 446-foot drive landed above the brick facade in right-center for the longest home run at Oracle Park in nearly two years — since Christian Walker connected for a 461-foot drive against Alex Cobb on Aug. 15, 2022.

“You don’t see many guys hitting the ball (to) that part of the ballpark that far. Fortunately I played with one here,” manager Dave Roberts said of home run king Barry Bonds. “That was pretty impressive. ... That’s Barry territory.”

Ohtani thought he might reach the water of McCovey Cove like he watched Bonds do all those years.

“I thought I hit one today,” Ohtani said, “but I was disappointed it didn’t go over.”

Will Smith hit an RBI single in the fifth in the Dodgers' sixth straight victory in the series dating to last year. Los Angeles has won 14 of 17 at Oracle and 10 of 12 overall against the Giants since being swept at home from June 16-18, 2023.

Heliot Ramos hit an RBI single in the sixth for the Giants, but the Dodgers added on in the seventh when Mookie Betts tripled and scored on Ohtani's double.

Ohtani's new teammates with the Dodgers are loving his fast start at the plate.

“This is the first year where he’s really got to focus on hitting so it’ll be a lot of fun to watch,” Stone said.

Miguel Rojas added an RBI double in the ninth for the Dodgers.

Stone allowed one run and five hits over six innings to win his second consecutive start and fourth straight decision. The Dodgers extended a franchise record by allowing four runs or fewer in 21 straight games, winning 17 of them.

Giants starter Keaton Winn (3-6) allowed five runs and five hits in four-plus innings. The right-hander gave way to Randy Rodriguez with two aboard and no outs in the fifth.

Athletic trainer Dave Groeschner and manager Bob Melvin came out to the mound to check on the rookie right-hander, who lost his third straight start.

TRAINER’S ROOM

Dodgers: OF Jason Heyward (back) had three at-bats for Triple-A Oklahoma City at Sacramento and got through it healthy, according to Roberts. Heyward was hoping to get to the ballpark and check in with the club. ... RHP Bobby Miller will throw two simulated innings in Arizona on Wednesday. He was placed on the 15-day injured list Saturday with shoulder inflammation.

Giants: An MRI exam of OF Jung Hoo Lee's dislocated left shoulder showed he has structural damage after crashing into the wall Sunday. He met with team doctors Monday night and now will seek a second opinion with Dr. Neal ElAttrache on Thursday in Los Angeles. ... LHP Blake Snell (strained left inner thigh) will pitch Friday for Triple-A Sacramento and then rejoin the Giants. ... Jorge Soler (strained right shoulder) hit live pitching and if he is fine afterward will then join Sacramento for a rehab game. ... C Patrick Bailey was placed back on the seven-day concussion list retroactive to Sunday. He came off the concussion list Saturday but was scratched the past two days with symptoms of a cold.

The Dodgers will have a bullpen game as the Giants start RHP Logan Webb (3-4, 3.38 ERA) in the series finale as San Francisco concludes a 16-day stretch without a day off.

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Trending Reader Picks

Greene pitches 7 sharp innings, Reds beat Diamondbacks 6-2 after ugly loss

• May 15, 12:18 AM

Nola fires 4-hitter in 4th career shutout as MLB-best Phillies blank Mets 4-0 for 2-game sweep

• May 14, 4:23 PM

LeBron James back in Cleveland for Celtics-Cavaliers Game 4

• May 13, 9:49 PM

Lakers fire coach Darvin Ham after two seasons

• May 4, 10:59 AM

LeBron James shows up to watch son Bronny play at NBA draft combine

• May 15, 3:58 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events