Inflatable paddle boards offer unmatched convenience and portability for adventurers and water enthusiasts alike. Their collapsible design allows for easy transport to your favorite waterways, while their durable construction provides stability and performance comparable to traditional hard boards.
Yet, the key to maintaining these benefits lies in proper stand up inflatable paddle board storage. Safeguarding your board from the elements and ensuring it remains in peak condition is essential for maximizing its lifespan.
We'll show you how to store an inflatable paddle board effectively, ensuring it's always ready for your next journey. And when it's time to upgrade your water toys, the perfect inflatable stand up paddle board is just a few clicks away at Splash Sports, offering the best options to suit your aquatic adventures.
Why Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board Storage Cannot Be Taken Lightly
First things first - why is proper stand up inflatable paddle board storage so important? The longevity and performance of your board hinge on the conditions in which it's kept when not slicing through the waves.
Exposure to extreme temperatures, whether sweltering heat or freezing cold, can wreak havoc on the board's material, leading to a compromised structure and reduced lifespan.
UV radiation is another insidious foe. Prolonged sunlight can fade and weaken the board, diminishing its integrity and vibrancy. This is why you should never store a SUP outdoors in the sun.
Proper storage is not only about preserving the board's appearance and functionality, though. It's also about safety. A well-maintained board ensures predictable handling and reliable buoyancy, crucial factors when you're out on the water.
An improperly stored board might develop deformities or undetected damage, which can lead to unexpected performance issues that could endanger your safety.
In essence, investing time in correct storage practices pays dividends in extending the life of your inflatable paddle board and ensuring it remains a trustworthy companion on your aquatic explorations.
By following the detailed guidance we provide below on how to store inflatable paddle boards, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to protect your investment and enjoy countless adventures on the water.
How to Store an Inflatable Paddle Board
As you can see, storing an inflatable paddle board correctly is essential to maintain its performance and extend its lifespan. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to store an inflatable paddle board to make the most of this investment.
Pre-Storage Cleaning and Inspection
It’s crucial to clean your thoroughly before storing it. Rinse off any saltwater, chlorine, sand, and debris with fresh water. Use a mild soap and a soft brush or cloth for a more in-depth clean, focusing on areas where dirt tends to accumulate.
After cleaning, dry the board completely with a towel to prevent mold and mildew growth. This is also a good time to inspect the board for any damage, such as punctures or seam tears.
If you find any issues, repair them before storage to avoid further deterioration. Check the valve to ensure it’s tight and in good working order, as a loose valve can cause air leaks over time.
Deflation and Proper Folding Techniques
Once the board is clean and dry, you can deflate it. Do you need to deflate the board after every use? If you’re done with it for the day but intend to use it the next morning, not necessarily. If you have the space to store it indoors fully inflated, that is fine.
BUT - for long-term storage, you should definitely deflate the board all the way. This helps you make the most of storage space.
Release the air slowly and evenly to prevent stress on the seams. When the board is fully deflated, start folding from the nose end towards the fin boxes to push out any trapped air.
Avoid tight folds or creases, as these can cause damage over time. Roll or fold the board loosely, following the natural seams and lines to minimize stress on the material.
Choosing the Right Storage Space
Just as with the best way to store pool floats, select a storage space that is cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures and UV exposure can degrade the material of your paddle board.
If possible, store the board indoors in a climate-controlled environment. Avoid places with sharp objects or chemicals that could damage the board. A shed, garage, or any other indoor facility is your best bet.
Avoid areas with high ozone levels, such as near motors or generators, which can degrade the material over time. Also, steer clear of places where rodents or pests might be tempted to nest or chew on your board.
Utilizing Paddle Board Storage Bags and Covers
Invest in a high-quality storage bag or cover to protect your inflatable paddle board. These accessories provide an additional layer of protection against dust, moisture, and UV rays. Look for bags with padded straps for easy transport and reinforced seams for durability.
The Role of Desiccants in Moisture Control
To further protect your board from moisture, consider using desiccants like silica gel packets. These can be placed inside the storage bag to absorb any residual moisture and prevent mold and mildew from forming.
Ensure the desiccants are not in direct contact with the board’s surface to avoid any potential chemical reaction.
Positioning Your Paddle Board for Storage
When storing your board, avoid placing heavy objects on top of it, as this can cause deformation.
If you're storing the board for an extended period, it's best to store it flat or suspended to distribute weight evenly and prevent bending or folding at any particular point.
If space is limited and you must store it vertically, ensure the board is resting against a smooth, flat surface and that the fin boxes are not bearing the weight.
Long-Term Storage Tips
For long-term storage, particularly over the winter months, there are additional considerations. If you choose to store your board inflated, make sure to reduce the pressure slightly to accommodate for any air expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
Conversely, if you're storing it deflated, avoid folding it in the same place repeatedly to prevent creasing. Instead, alternate the fold lines or roll it loosely.
Preparing Your Inflatable SUP After Storage
When you're ready to use your paddle board again, take the time to prepare it properly. Unpack the board and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear that might have occurred during storage. If you used a desiccant, check that it hasn't leaked or caused any damage to the board's surface.
Inflate your paddle board slowly, checking the firmness and making sure it's at the recommended PSI for optimal performance.
Inspect the valve once more to ensure it's still tight and secure. If the board was stored deflated for a long time, it might take a little longer to inflate as the material adjusts to being expanded again.
Lastly, give your board a quick clean with a damp cloth to remove any dust that may have settled, and it's ready for the water. And there you have it - everything you need to know about how to store inflatable paddle boards!
More Tips on Maintaining Your Inflatable SUP
Beyond proper inflatable paddle board storage, we want to leave you with a few tips on maintaining your SUP for longevity and performance.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Create a routine maintenance schedule for your SUP. After each use, take a few minutes to inspect the entire surface for scratches, dings, or punctures.
Pay special attention to the seams and the area around the valve, as these are common spots for potential leaks. Check that the fin and its attachment points are secure and undamaged.
Addressing Minor Repairs Before Storage
If you discover any small issues, such as a puncture or loose seam, address them before you store your board. Most inflatable SUPs come with a repair kit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to patch up any damage.
Ensure the repair area is clean and dry, and allow sufficient time for any adhesive to cure fully before deflating and storing the board.
Optimizing Inflation and Deflation Cycles
Inflating and deflating your board repeatedly can cause wear over time, especially at the seams. To minimize this, try to keep your board inflated if you're using it regularly. If you must deflate it between uses, be gentle and consistent in your method, and avoid pulling or stretching the material.
Using the Right Pump
Always use the recommended pump for your inflatable SUP. A high-quality pump with a pressure gauge ensures that you inflate your board to the correct pressure, which is crucial for performance and durability.
Overinflation can stress the material, while underinflation can lead to sagging and poor paddling dynamics. The sweet spot in the middle is important to find.
Wrapping Up Our Guide on How to Store an Inflatable Paddle Board
That concludes our comprehensive guide on how to store an inflatable paddle board! We hope you feel confident in your next steps for proper stand up inflatable paddle board storage. If you still have questions, though, don’t hesitate to reach out. After all, Splash Sports is your trusted source for the best inflatable stand up paddle boards!
We also have inflatable pool floats, inflatable floating dock, inflatable towable tubes, inflatable water trampolines, inflatable lounge chairs for the pool, and a whole lot more. Our passion for the outdoors is reflected in our commitment to providing you with the best products and world-class customer support every step of the way.
So, take what you’ve learned in this guide to storing inflatable paddle boards and put it into practice so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re protecting your investment for the long haul. Or, shop at Splash Sports today and upgrade your SUP to give your clients the incredible aquatics experience they deserve!