It’s one thing to fuss with the hassle of a Bimini top. Once loose from its cover, the canvas must be folded or bunched back into place, wrapped in a boot sleeve, and secured at multiple points across the frame. But it’s another thing to have the entire system automated with the simple push of a button.

The new Self-Boot Power Bimini, the brainchild from Commercial Sewing, turns this level of ease into an attainable reality. The innovative Bimini gives you all of the style and shade coverage of a traditional cover with none of the trouble.

Completely avoiding the need for a traditional zippered boot—which can get lost or dropped into the water—the Self-Boot Power Bimini stows inside a sleek boot box in the frame. The UV-stable box will also protect the canvas significantly longer than a traditional canvas boot, and you can customize the boot box with your boat brand’s logo.

But the most beautiful advantage is that the Self-Boot Power Bimini can automatically gather and boot a Bimini into a UV-stable box. As the Bimini automatically retracts into radar position, the integrated elastic bands gather the canvas and fold accordion-style. Specially designed fingers guide it smoothly into the patent-pending boot box. The box electronically opens to release the canvas to its fully deployed position, and the power actuators ensure a smooth, quiet operation.

“The Self-Boot Power Bimini is a revolution in boating comfort and convenience, giving manufacturers a practical and sophisticated way to elevate the boating experience, increase customer satisfaction, and build loyalty,” said Brett Keating, Commercial Sewing’s vice president of business development. “With its effortless operation, superior durability, and stylish design, the Self-Boot Power Bimini is set to become a staple in the marine industry, offering manufacturers a unique opportunity to delight customers and stand out in a competitive market.”

The PDB staff had the chance back in September to see the new Self-Boot Power Bimini in action at the 2024 IBEX conference, and we were impressed with its ability to completely fold a fully-extended canvas cover into the neat lines of the boot box. We love that it eliminates the need for a traditional, time-consuming zipper boot.

Built to last, the Bimini frame can withstand speeds up to 65 mph because it’s engineered with top-quality aluminum tubing, bronze bushings, and powerful actuators. These actuators are designed to maximize their holding force while deployed, so there is no need for front stanchions. Concealed gas shocks assist the actuators while lifting from the stow position.

Boat owners also will appreciate other details that ensure the Bimini maintains its appearance and performance for years to come. This includes the frame’s curved shape which facilitates rainwater runoff, preventing pooling and potential damage, and the use of high UV-stable materials and solution-dyed polyester fabric specific for marine environments.

The complete structure still looks like a traditional Bimini, but that belies the ease and convenience with which it can be deployed and retracted at the push of a button.

Commercial Sewing, the company behind this innovative Bimini, has been developing products for boats and watercraft for more than 50 years. Their experience making mooring covers, enclosures, and storage accessories has given them insight into products that consumers will love. The Self-Booting Bimini, sold under the trademarked brand OuterArmor, is surely one that will make boaters feel like they have their own Bimini valet aboard.