Owning a paddleboard opens up so much opportunity for exploring and adventure. Paddle boards come in many shapes and sizes and can be taken on any body of water. Caring for your board appropriately will lengthen its life!
- Storing You Paddle Board
When it comes to storing your paddle board, you want it to be in a safe place. Paddle boards are a pretty large investment in relation to other outdoor sports equipment so ensuring that they are safe from theft is key. It is not advised that you leave your board on the roof of your car all season long, unless your car is parked in secure locations at all times. Even though there are locking mechanisms on the market, theft can still occur with a good pair of bolt cutters.
Store your board in a dry place out of the sun. Prolonged sun exposure is the leading cause of warping in paddle boards. The garage is ideal, but a shed, or under a deck also works. - Cleaning Your Paddle Board
It is important to clean your paddle board regularly, not only for extending the life of your paddle board but also for the environment. May bodies of water are home to invasive species like zebra muscles and milfoil. Cleaning your board after each use is quick and easy and will decrease the spread of invasives. You can use a diluted bleach solution in a spray bottle or vinegar for a non toxic option. Simply spray your board when you return home and let dry before storing your board. This is the same for rigid and inflatable paddle boards. Cleaning your boards will also help avoid mold on the deck pads and rot on inflatable board materials. - Be Gentle
While your paddle boards are durable, it is best to be as gentle as possible. When launching and landing your board try not to scrape the board on the bottom. Avoid hitting docks and other objects as best as possible. If you acquire a ding in your board, get it out of the water ASAP and have it repaired. If you have an inflatable, your inflatable board should come with a patch kit. If you find that you have a whole, get your board out of the water ASAP and have the whole patched.
I hope these tips are helpful and make your paddle board last a lifetime of adventures!
