"gel is not supost to be applied out of the mold any way"

Just because the vast majority of gelcoat is used in "female" molding doesn't mean it is not suitable for exterior surface application. You could say it is not amateur friendly, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have its place in hull refinishing.

The obvious problem with gelcoat is that it takes different techniques and equipment that most people are not familiar with. It might not be as "easy" as painting...but it is easier to repair. Most of the really good Polyurethanes like Awlgrip that have high abrasion resistance but can not be "buffed out", so seamless repairs require repainting the entire hull...those paints that can be “buffed out” do not have the abrasion resistance that gel coat gives. A gelcoat finish gives you the best of both...easily repairable and good abrasion resistance. A skilled applicator with proper equipment and product can produce results that rival a brand new boat.

Regards,
Bob