Rlb8s! That was good, though we agree! We replace Eyra seats on occasion, and the rod pad is vinyl also. Though the rod support pad will usually be supple and soft. Though the seats are hard as weathered leather. The Owner will often comment on wondering why the seats did not hold up as well as they thought, then we point out that the rod base is soft as new. Then they admit to trying some form of a vinyl protectant. They all forget to rub down that rod pad.