FOULFREE™ MULTI-SURFACE SYSTEM WINS 2026 IBEX INNOVATION AWARD 

SUMMARY

Propspeed's Foulfree™ Multi-Surface System has won a 2026 IBEX Innovation Award in the Boat Care and Maintenance category, recognizing its clear, biocide-free foul-release protection for a wide range of non-metal underwater components.
 

ABOUT

Propspeed® is proud to announce that the Foulfree™ Multi-Surface System has been recognized with a 2026 IBEX Innovation Award in the Boat Care and Maintenance category, presented at the Industry Breakfast during IBEX 2026 in Tampa, Florida. 

The IBEX Innovation Awards are managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and honor manufacturers and suppliers bringing new, innovative products to the marine industry. Winners are selected from hundreds of new products by a panel of expert judges from Boating Writers International (BWI).

“The Foulfree Multi-Surface System builds on what Propspeed has done for protecting exposed metal underwater,” said Judge Tony Esposito. “It delivers protection for 20 non-metal surfaces on underwater components like transducers, interceptors, and bow thrusters that can be fouled to failure by bio marine growth with its non-toxic, three-step process that provide dealers and boatyards with an additional value-added revenue stream.

“This recognition from experts across the marine industry is a strong validation of what we set out to achieve with Foulfree Multi-Surface,” said Marcus Hamilton, CEO, Propspeed. “We wanted to create one coating system for the non-metal operational components below the waterline, regardless of the substrate they are made from. That ambition came directly from listening to our customers and understanding the opportunity across the value chain, from OEMs and boatbuilders to marine businesses and boat owners. Foulfree turns that insight into a purpose-built system that protects the components delivering confidence, comfort and performance on the water. At the same time, it gives marine businesses an opportunity to create greater value on every boat, backed by a trusted brand, proven products and in-field technical support.” 

FOULFREE MULTI-SURFACE SYSTEM: THE AWARD WINNING INNOVATION 

Propspeed expands its industry-leading foul-release technology with the introduction of the Foulfree™ Multi-Surface System, an innovative biocide-free coating engineered to protect non-metal underwater components. Designed for today’s modern vessels, the new system delivers long-lasting foul-release performance on painted aluminium, plastics, composites, carbon fibre, Hypalon®, PVC, and other marine grade materials.

Marine growth on underwater components creates drag, reduces fuel efficiency, impacts boat speed and can compromise the performance of critical equipment such as outboard lower units, stabilising systems, thrusters, stabilising fins, foils, and RIB tubes. Foulfree helps keep these components clean, allowing boats to perform at their best while reducing maintenance and operating costs. The coating system also gives more boat owners a biocide-free alternative to traditional antifoul coatings while simplifying maintenance and improving overall performance.

Engineered for durability in both saltwater and freshwater environments, the clear coating provides invisible protection without altering a vessel’s appearance. The system is quick to apply, making it an ideal solution for both DIY* boat owners and professional applicators. It is available in small (5.4ft² coverage) and medium (21.5ft² coverage) kits, each containing all required preparation materials, coating components and application tools for a professional finish, along with step-by-step instructions for fast, effective application. 

The Foulfree Multi-Surface System extends Propspeed’s industry-recognized coating systems to the full range of operational components and running gear below the waterline, excluding the hull. With Foulfree Multi-Surface for non-metal components and Propspeed for bare underwater metals, boatbuilders, shipyards, marine businesses and boat owners have one trusted brand to protect the components that power performance. Learn more about the product here.

MULTIPLE COMPONENTS. MANY SUBSTRATES. ONE PROTECTIVE COATING SYSTEM.