Your SUP is a precious investment in not only your fitness levels, but also your summertime enjoyment and overall wellbeing. Regardless of whether you’re a beginner just discovering the joys of paddling along the water or are a seasoned paddler, you will want to keep your SUP in top condition.
There are many things that can harm the condition of your SUP over time.
These include, but are not limited to:
- UV sunlight
- Extremely high heat
- Too much moisture
- Improper paddleboard storage methods
- …. among others.
The following tips will explain how to protect your SUP and continuing to provide lasting amounts of paddling enjoyment for many years to come.
1. Use a High-Quality Protective Bag for Your Paddleboard
First, and important, keep your paddleboard in a bag or sock cover when it’s not in use. This will protect it from scratches, dings, and excess sunlight, which might damage your board over time. Another benefit of a high-quality bag is that it makes it easier to carry your SUP to and from the water. Use a bag whenever your board isn’t in use, even when you store in on top of your car after use.
2. Clean Your Paddleboard After Each Use
It is vital to the longevity of your SUP to clean it with fresh water after every use, without fail. Giving it a quick rinse will help keep it in top shape. Every so often, use a cleaning solution that is lightly deluded with water to help keep odors away. Many of these cleaning solutions can be purchased and are highly affordable. If you suspect that your board is starting to smell, this is a sure sign that it’s time for a deeper clean.
3. Like Your Skin, Protect Your Board from Excessive Sunlight Exposure
Although your SUP is made for your outdoor enjoyment, too much exposure to the sun over longer periods of time will damage your board. Also, avoid laying your board on any surface exposed to ongoing sunlight, such as hot sand. Use a bag whenever it’s not in use while outdoors.
4. Inspect for Dings and Holes After Each Use
Even small holes or scratches can harm your board’s integrity and can lead to further damage if left untreated. There are easy DIY methods available for repairing minor dents if you decide to go that route. It is especially important to inspect around the fin box areas of your board, as they are most vulnerable to minor damage.
If you feel your SUP getting noticeably heavier over time, it could be taking in water through a pin hole. In cases such as this, take it to a professional board repairer to restore the structure of your board as well as give it a great-looking finish!
5. Tie Down Your SUP While Transporting It
More than likely, you’re driving to and from your launching site. During the ride, make sure it’s tied properly to your vehicle. Use large cinch straps that are at least 2” wide. Tie the straps tight enough to secure the board, but avoid over-tightening, as that will result in marks and/or cracks to your board.
6. Evenly Distribute the Weight of Your SUP When Storing It
Uneven weight distribution can cause your board to deform. Use a padded rack or wide nylon straps to support the weight of your SUP during storage.
7. Avoid Pressure Points During Long-Term Storage
When your SUP is being stored overnight or during lengthy period time such as during the winter, avoid contact with your board’s pressure points. Unlike on your car, you do not need to use straps to secure it. Anytime you store it, such as on a rack or in a garage, avoid pressure points whenever possible.
8. Invest in a Security System for Your Board
Options such as locks that fit through the fin box and/or leash plug are available that protect your SUP from theft. Many of these locks are highly affordable and are effective in keep your board secure. Make locking up your board part of your ongoing board storage routine.
Like many other things in life, upkeep and protection
of your SUP is crucial for making sure you get the maximum enjoyment out of it.
Following these tips will help keep your board in the best shape possible for
years to come!
