We all want our inflatable paddleboards and kayaks to last as long as possible, but this requires some basic care. Should you leave your inflatable board inflated after your adventures? Should you leave it out, ready for your next adventure? How do you protect it from damage?

In this article, we will cover some essential tips to extend the life of your inflatable paddleboard or kayak and avoid damage. If you have any questions not covered here, please feel free to call or email us—we're happy to help!

Post-Adventure Care

After a great day on the water, what should you do when you come back to shore? The first thing you should do is rinse your inflatable. It might seem obvious, but many people skip this step, thinking, "I'll rinse it next time. I'm using it again next week, so it's no big deal." However, it is a big deal. Salt and other residues can accelerate the deterioration of your board.

So, rinse it every time!

Storing Your Inflatable

Now that your board is rinsed, it's time to put it away. But what if you're at your cabin or on vacation and plan to use it the next day or later? You might not want to deflate it completely every time, unless you enjoy the extra workout. Here's a tip for storing your inflatable when it's still inflated:

Deflate it a little bit. Don't leave it fully inflated, especially in the sun. Why? Because air expands when it gets hot. If your kayak or paddleboard is fully inflated and left in the sun, the chances of it bursting are high. Even high-performance inflatables with better construction can be at risk when temperatures soar above 30°C or they are in direct sun. Even when it doesn’t feel very hot, direct sunlight can make your inflatable overheat. By partially deflating your inflatable, you reduce the risk of damage from heat expansion.

Yes, we have a decent number of customers who come to our store asking if we can fix a paddleboard that has exploded. Often, we end up helping them get a new paddleboard. The more you invest in an inflatable, the better the construction and the lower the chances of damage. However, as a precaution, always deflate it a little, especially if some sun exposure is unavoidable.

Proper Packing and Storage

If you aren't going to use your inflatable soon or you need to transport it home, rinse, dry, and pack it. Do not pack your inflatable soaking wet. This will prevent mold and other unwanted issues.

Storing Your Inflatable:

• Packed Storage: If you are packing it up, store it in its bag in a cool, dry place.
• Inflated Storage: If you are keeping it inflated (but not fully), ensure it's kept away from direct sunlight. The PVC material will degrade faster with direct UV exposure. Storing it in a garage or basement is ideal. Always remember to rinse and dry it before storing.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure your inflatable paddleboard or kayak remains in great condition for years to come. Enjoy your adventures with the peace of mind that your equipment is well cared for!

If you have any further questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help