Paddleboarding has quite quickly become one of the UK’s most popular outdoor activities and paddleboards are now a familiar sight across beaches and lakesides around the country.
There are a number of reasons as to why this watersport has suddenly received significant uptake. It is, fundamentally, more easily accessible than surfing since it does not require limited conditions to enjoy. Nor is it restricted to beaches, with many taking their paddleboards to serene lakes and even racing rivers. Paddleboarding also doesn’t necessitate getting into the water, which means that many will feel comfortable taking their board out during the winter too. Perhaps the most significant reason, however, is that paddleboarding has only a small learning curve and those of most ages and physical abilities can soon find confidence on the water.
While many are eager to join others on the water, exploring their local waterscape, there comes a certain responsibility when investing in one’s own paddleboard. Some individuals might be a little surprised to see that their board’s quality and comfort soon dissipate if it is stashed without regard.
As such, we’re sharing everything you need to know about storing your paddleboard.
Environment
For longevity, paddleboards should be kept out of direct sunlight. Not only will direct sun slowly face and colour or design on your board but it will also weaken its surfaces and lead to deterioration or, in the case of inflatable paddleboards, less stability. This is why many will opt to invest in a paddleboard case, protecting it from UV light.
Moisture is also a consideration, especially since boards often remain wet, even when brought home. Paddleboards should be dried off before storage, so as to prevent mould and decay, and kept in a dry well-ventilated environment. If an area gets too hot, this can also lead to issues with a board, potentially causing lamination to wear off more quickly.
Covering
A great way to protect your board from being damaged, either by environmental factors or accidental dings, is to keep it covered. Both inflatable and solid paddleboards have options for covers. Inflatable boards can even be contained within a bag, one that can also double as a backpack, making it easy to transport. Accessories should ideally be covered too, so as to ensure that they remain easy to find and protected.
Cleaning
Most paddleboarders will get into the habit of cleaning their paddleboard once they are out of the water. This is generally good practice and will ensure that sand and salt don’t build up on the board and cause damage over time. Be wary of solvents, however, because while they might be marketed as appropriate for your paddleboard, they can degrade its design and finish more quickly than simple soap.
Pressure & Weight
When placing your board on a rack or leaning it against a wall, be sure to consider where its centre of gravity, pressure points, and weight are. Rails can be useful for lifting a board off the ground but can, over time, lead to weaker areas on the board, even leading to bends in its structure.
