How to Care for Your Inflatable Paddle Board
A quality inflatable paddle board is a proper investment. Look after it well and it will last for years. Neglect it and you will be replacing it far sooner than you should.
The good news is that caring for an inflatable SUP is straightforward. Here is what you need to know.
Rinse After Every Session
Salt water, sand, and grit are the enemies of your board's material and valve. After every session in the sea, rinse your board thoroughly with fresh water. Pay particular attention to the valve, the fin box, and any bungee attachment points where salt and grit tend to collect.
If you have been paddling in fresh water, a rinse is still a good habit to get into. It removes any mud, algae, or debris that could degrade the surface over time.
Dry Before Storing
Never pack your board away wet. Moisture trapped inside the bag can lead to mould and mildew, which damages the material and creates an unpleasant smell that is very hard to shift.
After rinsing, leave the board inflated in a shaded spot to dry fully before deflating and packing away. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight for extended periods as heat causes the air inside to expand and puts stress on the seams.
Store It Properly
Store your board deflated and loosely rolled in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sharp objects. A garage, shed, or cupboard works well. Avoid storing it in a car boot for long periods, especially in summer, as temperatures can get very high.
If you have space, storing the board partially inflated (around 5 PSI) rather than fully deflated can help it keep its shape over time. Just make sure it is not in a position where it could be damaged.
Check the Valve Regularly
The valve is the most common source of slow leaks. Check it regularly by inflating the board and applying a small amount of soapy water around the valve. If you see bubbles, the valve may need tightening or replacing.
Most valves can be tightened with the valve tool included with your board. If the valve itself is damaged, replacements are widely available and straightforward to fit.
Inspect the Seams
Run your hands along the seams of the board periodically to check for any signs of delamination or wear. Catching a small issue early is much easier than dealing with a larger repair later.
How to Fix a Puncture
Small punctures are a normal part of owning an inflatable board and are easy to repair. Your board should have come with a repair kit including patches and adhesive. Here is the basic process:
- Deflate the board fully and locate the puncture. Soapy water applied to the surface will bubble at the leak point.
- Clean and dry the area around the puncture thoroughly.
- Cut a patch slightly larger than the puncture, with rounded edges to prevent peeling.
- Apply adhesive to both the patch and the board surface. Allow to become tacky before pressing together firmly.
- Leave to cure for at least 24 hours before inflating.
For larger repairs or seam damage, contact us and we can advise on the best approach.
Clean the Surface
If your board develops stubborn marks or stains, a mild soap and a soft brush will deal with most of them. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as these can damage the PVC surface and affect the grip of the deck pad.
Look After Your Accessories Too
Your paddle, leash, pump, and dry bag all benefit from the same basic care. Rinse with fresh water after salt water use, dry before storing, and check for wear regularly.
A changing mat is worth using every session to keep sand and grit off your board and wetsuit when you are getting changed.
Shop Replacement Accessories
Browse our full range of paddle board accessories including pumps, leashes, bags, and everything else you need to keep your kit in top condition. Free UK delivery in 1 to 3 days.