Fenders: Painted or Unpainted?

[FLUndertaker]

Planning on replacing my painted max tow fenders with new Rubi fenders. I’m strongly considering going with unpainted to match my unpainted (Black) hard top.. However looking around it seems just about everyone now runs painted fenders. I do like the look of my gator fenders but it would be an added expense to get the new fenders painted. IDK, what are your thoughts?

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[TJDave]

If you off road frequently in wooded areas, I would go for the unpainted. I have a nice scratch on top of my fender from branch on a narrow section of trail. The body made it through ok, but the front fender didn't. It is barely noticeable at a distance, but I can definitely feel it when I run my hand across it. I am not sure how it would look if it was a painted fender.
I'm not too worried about as I am sure there will be more to come. Character flaws!

 

[SuburbanGP88]

I prefer unpainted but all the Gladiators at dealers locally come painted so I got mine that way.

 

[Bantam]

I like my unpainted fenders. Personal preference as I think it looks better, but also should one get knocked around I don’t have to worry about paint matching a replacement.

 

[Higher_Ground]

Honestly it's one of the few things I am split down the middle on. I have the unpainted fenders but I like the look of the painted ones too. You gonna put them on the market?

 

[aldo98229]

I’m a big fan of painted fenders and top. Gives a more premium look overall.

Painted fenders are also much easier to clean and maintain, and I’ve found the clear coating makes them more resistant against scratching by tree branches and overgrowth.

 

[Mac]

My preference is unpainted fenders and top, I like the contrast and that it matches the bumpers also looked for rugged to me.

 

[tabrods]

I like unpainted fenders because if I damage them I can just go buy a new pair and replace them myself. A lot cheaper than replacing a painted fender. My Gator with unpainted fenders...

 

[Sky Soldier]

Black fenders match top and handle desert pin stripping better.

 

[JTpoor]

Looking now for painted. I think the risk of scratching a painted fender is worth the color continuity. Looking for Sting Grey Rubi fenders and getting bids on painting my black hard top.

 

[BamaJeepTruck]

I specifically picked mine based on fenders being unpainted. I think the painted look less masculine, less aggressive. I also think the same about body colored tops.

 

[RodRecket]

I like the looks of painted but went with unpainted so I wouldn't hate myself for scratching the hell out of them on the trail

 

[LostWoods]

I'm a black fender fan through and through but I just don't like the look of the black on gator.

But as was said, fenders are sacrificial/wear parts and the black ones handle pinstripes better and are cheaper to replace if you don't want to do aftermarket and really damage one.

 

[Davekayc]

Black 100%

 

[blau iii]

I just factory ordered a hydro blue JTR with painted top and black fenders. I liked the look of the blue with the painted top but know better than to wheel with painted fenders here in wooded PA.

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