Paddle boards offer a stable surface to paddle, stand, and even do yoga all while on the water. That stability comes from their large size though, and that size can make them difficult to move and store.
Inflatable stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) solve that issue by allowing paddlers to inflate and deflate their boards quickly for easy transport and storage. That’s why we love Inflatable SUPs here at ASO Mammoth and have listed the best inflatable SUP tips below!
Check it out, then stop by the ASO Mammoth shop for the best outdoor gear and rentals in Mammoth Lakes!
Rinse and Dry Before Storing Your Inflatable SUP
Even if you’re paddling in freshwater, rinsing off your inflatable SUP before you store it is always a good idea.
Of course, saltwater left on a board over a long period of time can shorten its lifespan. However, dirt and mud picked up from launching and landing the board can do the same. That’s why you should always give the board a thorough rinse and towel dry before deflating and storage.
Store Your Board Out of Direct Sunlight
Wear and tear typically come from use, but inflatable SUPs can also be damaged from poor storage. Specifically, if an inflatable SUP, or any piece of gear, is stored in direct sunlight then it will wear down faster.
Over time sunlight breaks down the materials that inflatable SUPs are made of. Fortunately inflatable SUPs are designed to be in the sun while they’re being used so you don’t have to worry about damaging them that way. If they’re left in strong sunlight over days, weeks, or months though, then they will wear down faster.
Pay Attention to the Wind Before Launching
Anyone who has spent time on the water knows that wind has a big effect on where you go while you’re on it, and there’s no difference with SUPs.
No matter how familiar you are with paddling strong winds will push you around once you’re on the water. This is especially true when you’re launching and can’t build momentum or are pushing out against waves.
Avoid damaging your inflatable SUP by watching the wind before you launch so you have a smooth entrance to the water!
Look Out for Boaters and Swimmers
You may assume that inflatable SUPs are soft, but the truth is that they are large solid objects which can cause serious harm if used incorrectly.
Of course, you want to make sure you’re easily visible to boats in the area and well out of their path. You also must watch for swimmers since a collision with a SUP while swimming could seriously hurt the swimmer and yourself.
Don’t Forget that Heat Adds Pressure to Your Board
Most inflatable SUPs come with a recommended PSI range for how much air they should have in them. However, you should also remember that heat adds pressure to inflatable SUPS. Heat will generally only add around 2 PSI to your board, but if you over-inflate it and then store it in a hot place your board may be damaged.
You Can Store Inflated or Deflated
One of the best things about inflatable SUPs is their variable nature, and that extends to storage.
You can store an inflatable SUP either inflated or deflated, whatever allows it to fit your storage space better. Neither will damage or strengthen your board more than the other, so it’s up to you!