How to Maintain a Stand Up Paddle Board

There’s nothing more exhilarating than navigating the waters peacefully and freely. But, once back on dry land, don’t forget to take good care of your paddle board in order to enjoy it for the longest time possible.   

Read our Paddleboarding Guide to discover a ton of tips and tricks about this relaxing and fun activity that will allow you to enjoy the summer sun.

How long does a paddle board last?

Generally-speaking, a paddle board lasts almost a lifetime, but there are certain subtleties to consider according to your type of board, whether hard or inflatable.

Hard or solid paddle boards

• Hard boards are difficult to break, as they are made of fibreglass and plastic, but it’s not impossible for them to dent or get damaged if impacted by a rock, for instance.
• In order to preserve them longer, avoid rivers with rapids, rocky water bodies, or places with water depth that is less than a foot (30.5 cm).
• If you’ll be using your board in the winter, avoid icy surfaces. The same goes for an inflatable paddle board.

Inflatable paddle boards

• Inflatable paddle boards are often made up of an internal and external air chamber to keep it floating in the event of a puncture. Should this happen, it will be easier to locate and repair the damage.
• In order to avoid unfortunate incidents as much as possible, navigate in calm waters of sufficient depth.

What to check before and after your outing on your paddle board

• Make sure your paddle board is intact and that there are no visible punctures or damage
• Touch the deck pad. It should still be very rough and allow for good traction between your feet and the board
• Tug on the equipment carrying cables; they should be securely attached to your paddle board
• Have a look at your paddle to make sure it’s still intact

4 steps for maintaining your paddle board properly

1. Cleaning

After each use, clean your paddle board under clear, running water or soapy water. Then, allow it to dry completely before storing it in a bag (inflatable SUP).

The Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks recommends cleaning and drying your board after each trip to prevent the introduction and propagation of exotic invasive species.

2. Protection

Your paddle board’s worst enemy? The sun! Between each trip, keep it in a shady place. Don’t leave it on your balcony, attached to the side of a boat, or on the beach.

You won’t need to coat your board with wax, but you can spray it with a UV protective treatment. This will prevent discolouration, tarnishing, embrittlement, cracking, and chalking.

3. Storage

Once your board is clean and dry, store it in its storage bag (inflatable) or on storage hooks (solid board) after each outing on the water.

Make sure you store it inside your property and, ideally, not in an outdoor shed.

Storing it at room temperature in a dry place is the way to go. Too much heat could damage it, and humidity could cause mold.

If you are storing your board for the winter, you can also remove the fin.

4. Transport

Use the carry case, carrying straps or a support stand for the roof of your vehicle so that it may be transported to the water without undergoing too much impact.

Visit our stores to discover our paddle board selection. Count on the expertise of our sales consultants to get you geared up for your next adventure and find exactly what you need to get out onto the water this summer.

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