Gear Aid Aquasure FD Repair Adhesive
Design & Use
Gear Aid Aquasure FD is a transparent and waterproof adhesive which, when cured, produces a soft, rubber-like and highly flexible finish. It is designed to repair outdoor equipment, boating clothing, neoprene, tents, sleeping pads, rubber materials, vinyl and many types of textiles and plastics. Aquasure FD is resistant to movement and abrasion - i.e. where the adhesive joint is subjected to pressure, bending or stretching, it retains its integrity.
One tube contains about 28 grams of glue - enough for several repairs depending on size and depth.
Characteristics
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transparent / colorless | Yes |
| Flexible, rubber-like finish | Yes |
| Watertight | Yes |
| Attaches to | Neoprene, rubber, nylon, vinyl, canvas, many plastics |
| Curing time | Normally 8-12 hours; can be accelerated (see "Quick preparation & advice" below) |
| Lifetime after opening the tube* | Best with proper storage (see below) |
* Store tightly closed and cool - preferably in the freezer when not in use - to maintain its properties over time.
Ideal use
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Repairs to waders, dry suits or neoprene equipment where the material bends a lot.
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Repairing holes or wear and tear on sleeping pads / air mattresses - both textile and mixed materials.
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For tears in tent fabrics or tent floors, especially when stronger support is needed than a thin seam sealing adhesive can provide.
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Shoes, boots, bags or other equipment with rubber or vinyl details that must withstand flex and abrasion.
Quick preparation & advice
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Clean the surface thoroughly (remove dirt, grease, etc.).
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Apply at temperatures above about 10-15°C for best results.
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Allow the adhesive joint to fully cure before loading or contact with water.
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Keep the tube tightly closed; when not in use, keep it cold (preferably in the freezer) to delay hardening in the tube.
Aquasure FD vs Seam Grip WP - what to choose?
| Aspect | Aquasure FD | Seam Grip WP |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency / thickness | Thicker, fuller 'mass' - creates robust patches with volume. | Thinner, liquid/brushable liquid - optimal for seams and superficial joints. |
| Movement & abrasion | Very good - ideal where materials are pulled, bent or heavily abraded. | Good, but thinner adhesive joint; may wear faster under high mechanical stress. |
| Use on seams | Can be used, but requires more product and more work to get a thin and even joint. | Specialized for seams and sealing - easier to apply thinly and evenly. |
| Compatibility of materials | Wide - neoprene, rubber, vinyl, nylon etc. | Similar base material, but some versions of Seam Grip (e.g. SIL) are needed for silicone fabrics. |
| Quick use / minor repairs | Requires more product and more preparation. | Faster and easier for small tears, seams and leaks. |
Who should choose which one?
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Choose Aquasure FD if you need maximum strength and flexibility in the repair, especially on parts that bend, move or are subject to pressure and abrasion. If you have holes, tears or major damage where the adhesive joint needs to be thicker and able to withstand stress - Aquasure FD is the first choice.
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Choose Seam Grip WP if you have leaking seams, thin joints or need to make quick seals that are not subjected to rough mechanical stress. It is ideal for tents, tarps, rainwear, backpack seams, etc. when you want a thin and relatively discreet glue joint.
Conclusion
Gear Aid Aquasure FD is a very strong and versatile repair adhesive for those who want repairs that really last - especially in tough conditions and where the material moves a lot. If your primary challenge is leaking seams or small cracks and you want something quick and thin, Seam Grip WP may be more appropriate.
With the right product selection, careful preparation and proper curing, you can extend the life of your equipment, avoid interruptions to your adventures and save money.
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