Reticulated Foam (Quick Dry / EZ-Dri / Stay Dry)

What It Is & When You Actually Need It

If your outdoor cushions live in heavy rain, high humidity, or poolside splash zones, you’ve probably heard terms like EZ-Dri®, Quick Dry Foam, Stay Dry Foam, or Reticulated Foam.

They all refer to the same type of material: open-cell, fully permeable foam designed to let water pass straight through instead of soaking in and staying trapped.

Unlike traditional polyurethane foam — which can absorb and hold moisture — reticulated foam is engineered with large, interconnected cells that allow air and water to flow freely through the cushion core.

That means:

• Water drains out quickly
• Air circulates easily
• Drying time is dramatically reduced
• Mold and mildew risk inside the cushion is minimized

This makes it ideal for cushions exposed directly to rain or high moisture environments.

How Reticulated Foam Is Made

Reticulated foam goes through a special manufacturing process that removes cell membranes inside the foam, leaving behind a skeletal structure of interconnected foam strands.

The result:

• Up to 95–100% open cell structure
• High airflow
• Rapid drainage
• Reduced water retention

It’s sometimes referred to as “marine grade” foam because it’s often used in boating applications.

When Reticulated Foam Makes Sense

Reticulated foam is a strong choice for:

• Poolside seating
• Lake or marina environments
• Furniture that stays uncovered year-round
• Humid climates with frequent rainfall
• Cushions exposed to sprinkler systems
• Commercial hospitality settings

It’s especially helpful when cushions cannot be stored or covered regularly.

When It May Not Be Necessary

Reticulated foam is not required for every situation.

If your cushions:

• Live on a covered porch
• Are stored during heavy weather
• Are protected with high-performance fabric
• Are brought inside during winter

Standard high-quality outdoor foam with proper care may be perfectly sufficient.

Reticulated foam is often more expensive and can feel slightly firmer depending on density. The right choice depends on exposure level and lifestyle.

Reticulated Foam FAQ

1) What is reticulated foam?

Reticulated foam is a fully open-cell foam designed to allow water and air to pass through freely. It drains quickly and dries faster than traditional foam.

2) Is reticulated foam waterproof?

No. It is water permeable, not waterproof. Water passes through it rather than being blocked.

3) How fast does reticulated foam dry?

Drying time depends on airflow and weather conditions, but it dries significantly faster than traditional foam because water does not remain trapped inside.

4) Does reticulated foam prevent mold and mildew?

It reduces the risk inside the cushion core because moisture drains out. However, mildew can still grow on surface dirt or fabric if not cleaned regularly.

5) Is reticulated foam more comfortable?

Comfort depends on density and thickness. Some reticulated foams feel slightly firmer than standard polyurethane foam, but they still provide excellent support for outdoor seating.

6) Is reticulated foam better than standard outdoor foam?

“Better” depends on environment. For heavy rain exposure, yes. For covered patios, not necessarily.

7) Is reticulated foam worth the extra cost?

If your cushions regularly get soaked and cannot be dried or stored quickly, it is often worth the investment.

8) Can reticulated foam be used indoors?

Yes, but it’s usually unnecessary unless moisture is a concern.

9) Does quick dry foam eliminate the need for breathable fabric?

No. Cushion performance depends on the combination of:

• Foam
• Fabric
• Proper drainage
• Airflow

High-performance outdoor fabric is still essential.

10) Does water drain out the bottom of the cushion?

Yes — provided:

• The fabric allows drainage
• There is airflow beneath the cushion
• The cushion is not sitting in standing water

11) Is it the same as “marine foam”?

Often yes. Many marine cushions use reticulated foam due to exposure to heavy moisture.

12) Can reticulated foam be used in thick deep seating cushions?

Yes. It is available in multiple thicknesses and densities suitable for deep seating.

13) Does it last longer than regular foam?

In wet environments, it often outperforms traditional foam because it avoids prolonged moisture exposure.

14) Is reticulated foam lighter or heavier?

It is generally lighter when dry, and because it drains quickly, it does not remain heavy after rain.

15) Do I still need to tilt cushions to dry?

Yes. Even with quick dry foam, positioning cushions on edge improves airflow and speeds drying.

16) Will reticulated foam feel different?

Some customers notice it feels slightly more structured or firm depending on density selection.

17) Is it environmentally friendly?

Because it reduces premature cushion replacement in wet climates, it can extend product life — which reduces waste over time.

18) Is reticulated foam the same as memory foam?

No. Memory foam is not suitable for outdoor use and retains moisture.

19) Can I mix reticulated foam for seats and standard foam for backs?

Yes. This is common when seats face heavy exposure but backs are more protected.

20) How do I know if I need reticulated foam?

Ask yourself:

• Do my cushions get soaked frequently?
• Can I store or cover them quickly?
• Do I live in a high-humidity climate?
• Is this a marina or commercial setting?

If the answer is yes to frequent soaking, reticulated foam is worth considering.

Is Reticulated Foam Worth It?

Let’s give customers a quick gut-check section. This is where your honesty shines.

✔ Reticulated Foam Is Probably Worth It If:

• Your cushions stay outdoors year-round

• They regularly get soaked in heavy rain

• You live in high humidity

• Your furniture is near a pool or lake

• You manage commercial or hospitality seating

• You cannot tilt or store cushions after storms

✔ Standard Outdoor Foam Is Usually Enough If:

• Your patio is covered

• You store cushions during bad weather

• You live in a dry or moderate climate

• You use furniture seasonally

• You prefer a softer feel

• Budget matters

The Honest Take

Reticulated foam is excellent — but for many residential patios, it’s simply not necessary.

High-quality standard outdoor foam combined with breathable performance fabric and good airflow will perform beautifully in most environments.

We’d rather help you choose what makes sense for your lifestyle than sell you something you don’t truly need.