Rinse, dry, store and patch: the right habits to add years to your paddle board’s life.
Well cared for, a paddle board lasts years. Badly stored, it yellows, warps or leaks. Here are the right habits — a companion to our paddleboarding guide.
After every outing
- Rinse with fresh water. Especially after salt or murky water: salt and sand wear the material and the fin.
- Dry in the shade. Prolonged direct sun weakens inflatable PVC and yellows hard boards. Never store wet (mold).
Storage (the most important)
- Inflatable board: deflate, dry, then roll without tight creases or pressure on the fin. Store indoors, at a stable temperature, not in a hot car.
- Hard board: store flat or on edge, in the shade, in a bag. Don’t leave it in the sun or resting on the fin.
How long does an inflatable board last? With good care, 5 to 10 years or more. The worst enemy isn’t water — it’s heat and wet storage.
Inflation and pressure
Always inflate to the recommended pressure (12–15 psi): too little and the board is soft and slow; never exceed the stated maximum. In strong heat, deflate a little if you leave it in the sun (air expands).
Fixing a puncture
Quality inflatables are easy to patch: clean the area, apply the glue and patch from the included kit, let it cure 24 h. Always keep the repair kit with the board.
Paddle and leash care
Rinse the paddle (especially adjustable parts), check the leash and velcro for wear. A dry bag also keeps your gear clean and dry between outings.
A few maintenance essentials below.
