Rails on Gunwale (Aluminum vs Plastic)

[allanbranch]

On my new project boat all my teak topside is toast.

I'm trying to get some wisdom around aluminum rails (toe, t etc) vs these plastic teak-like rails.

What are the benefits to aluminum vs plastic?

Honestly I think plastic teak-ish looks better.

Feel free to correct any wrong terminology, this is my first sailboat with railings like this, it's a lot of new nomenclature for me.

[Terra Nova]

Originally Posted by allanbranch

...I think plastic teak-ish looks better...

Then you will be easy to please.

[model 10]

If you have the chance to get aluminum toe rails, go for it. You'll have an unlimited attachment point all along the sides of your boat for rigging stuff. I'm one attack with a sawzall from cutting my teak toe rails off.