Schmitt Marine Steering Wheels

About Schmitt Marine Steering Wheels

Few names in the marine industry carry as much weight at the helm as Schmitt Marine. With roots stretching back more than six decades, the company has built an enduring reputation for engineering precision marine steering wheels and helm accessories that stand up to the rigors of life on the water. What began as a family-owned manufacturer of stainless steel marine wheels has evolved into one of the boating industry's most recognized brands — trusted by recreational boaters, commercial mariners, and original equipment manufacturers worldwide.

The company's story took a pivotal turn in 2008, when Schmitt acquired Ongaro Marine, a respected leader in stainless steel horns and windshield wiper systems. The merger united two complementary product lines under one roof and eventually led to a unified rebrand under the Schmitt Marine name, with two distinct sub-brands: Schmitt Steering Wheels for helm solutions and Ongaro Marine for horns and wiper systems. This structure gives boaters a single trusted source for a broad range of helm-area components.

Marine Steering Wheels Built for Every Helm

At the heart of the Schmitt Marine lineup are its iconic stainless steel marine steering wheels — a product category the brand helped pioneer. Crafted from high-grade stainless steel with polished six-spoke designs, these wheels are engineered to resist corrosion in both saltwater and freshwater environments, making them a natural fit for offshore cruisers, sailboats, and serious bluewater sailors. For boaters who prefer a softer grip and contemporary aesthetics, Schmitt's extensive collection of polyurethane and leather-wrapped steering wheels delivers style without sacrificing durability. From sleek all-polyurethane designs suited to ski boats and pontoons to hand-stitched leather-wrapped options with polished spokes, there is a Schmitt wheel to complement virtually any vessel's interior.

Schmitt Marine designs, develops, and tests its products in the United States, and its quality standards consistently exceed marine industry requirements. Many of the company's products are supplied directly to boat builders as OEM equipment — a testament to the confidence that professional manufacturers place in the brand's consistency and craftsmanship.

Ongaro Marine Horns

Beyond the helm, Schmitt Marine rounds out its offerings with the trusted Ongaro line of marine horns. Built from stainless steel inside and out, these trumpet-style horns are waterproof, corrosion-resistant, and engineered to meet the sound output requirements expected of safety equipment at sea. Available in single and dual trumpet configurations, Ongaro horns are a reliable choice for any vessel that demands dependable audible signaling.

A Legacy of Quality, Innovation, and Value

Throughout its history, Schmitt Marine has remained committed to listening to boaters and delivering products that make the on-water experience more rewarding. Whether you are upgrading a weekend runabout or outfitting a custom offshore build, Schmitt Marine's combination of heritage craftsmanship, modern materials, and rigorous testing makes it a go-to brand for helm-area components.