Upgrading your boat's seating isn't always about swapping out the whole chair. Sometimes the fix is the base that holds the seat, and sometimes it's the cushion that sits on top. The Springfield locking seat pedestal and the Oceansouth hinged bench cushion both fall under deck hardware seating covers, but they solve entirely different problems. Before you spend money, think about what your boat actually needs: a seat that won't hold position, or a bench that's too hard to sit on for long. Answering that question points you to the right product.
The price spread between them is substantial, with the pedestal at $101.99 and the cushion at $35.38. That gap makes the decision even more important: you don't want to overspend on a fix that doesn't address the real issue.
Quick Verdict
If your seat wobbles, won't stay put, or lacks height adjustment, the Springfield pedestal is the structural solution. It's built to mount a seat securely and give you adjustability. If your bench is solid but uncomfortable after a few hours, the Oceansouth cushion is the quick comfort fix. It adds a cushioning layer to the existing seat. The right choice depends on whether you need to fix the mount or improve the seat's feel.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Springfield Locking Seat Pedestal | Oceansouth Hinged Bench Cushion |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 101.99 | USD 35.38 |
| Type | Locking seat pedestal | Hinged bench cushion |
| Material | Aluminum | Foam |
| Dimensions | 20\" H x 9\" Dia. base | 18\" L x 12\" W x 2.5\" H |
| Color | Silver | Gray |
| Condition | New | New |
Where Each Wins
For structural problems - a seat that won't stay in place or a pedestal that has lost its hold - the Springfield is the clear choice. It adds a solid mounting point and returns adjustability to your seat. For comfort problems on a bench that's already positioned correctly, the Oceansouth cushion is the better fit. It adds a layer of cushioning to the existing bench, giving you a softer sit.
Product Notes
Springfield Boat Locking Seat Pedestal
Springfield's part number 1240020-DAL is a second-generation unit designed for a track lock slide or swivel. The base offers six 3/8-inch mounting holes, so it's a substantial piece of hardware. Just be aware that the box doesn't include the mounting hardware or an installation manual. You'll need to supply your own fasteners and either know how to mount a pedestal or be willing to learn. If you're coming from a broken or wobbly pedestal, this restores the secure hold you need. It's a no-nonsense replacement part that does one job well.
Oceansouth Hinged Bench Cushion
The Oceansouth cushion comes as a single cushion with the part number MA 720-1G. It's a hinged design, so you can flip it up when you need to access storage underneath. The set includes just the cushion, which makes it a straightforward add-on. The trade-off is that it's a compact model intended for a short bench or jump seat; if you want to cover a longer bench, you'll want to measure the space and consider whether one cushion is enough. You can place it on the seat and move it as needed.
Final Choice by Use Case
If your seat base is the problem, buy the Springfield pedestal. It's the part that fixes mounting, height, and security issues. If your bench is simply hard and you want the fastest comfort upgrade, choose the Oceansouth cushion. It's a straightforward add-on that sits on your existing bench. If you're still undecided, think about the last time you sat in the boat: was it the seat's height that bothered you, or the firmness of the bench? The right pick depends on whether you're solving a hardware failure or a comfort complaint.
