Before the first SUP paddle of the year – Take care of your inflatable paddleboard

Check your SUP for the season. It's almost here!

The SUP season is approaching with lots of great days on the water. To make sure you don't have any unforeseen mishaps, we at Onwater have put together a guide. A good quality inflatable paddle board doesn't need much maintenance, so you don't have to worry about it taking any longer.

1. Start by pumping up your board for a visual inspection. Look for any cracks or other damage that may have occurred. If the mat has come loose, simply apply a thin layer of the included adhesive and press it back into place.
2. Listen for a hissing sound, which is an indication of a leak. If there is no sign of a leak, you should leave the board overnight and check the next day to see if the board has lost pressure. All boards lose pressure over time, but if you notice that the board has softened, it may be that a hole has formed somewhere on the board. In such a case, it is recommended that you first start by examining the board's pump valve. In most cases, your repair kit will include a valve key that you attach over the valve. Tighten the valve clockwise by hand. It is important not to use excessive force here as this will damage the valve's plastic threads. Mix water with soap and pour into a spray bottle. The same bottle you use to spray water when ironing clothes usually works well. Spray plenty of water over suspected leaks and see if the water bubbles. Valves and seams are the most common places. We will soon post an instruction in our knowledge base on how to fix a leaking sup.
3. If the board is tight, it's time to make sure you have control of the rest of your equipment. In your SUP bag you should have a pump, paddle fin with the accompanying fin screw and nut, repair kit and a leash.
4. Examine the paddle: If you have an aluminum paddle, you should check that it is still straight. Look for dents in the metal, which can mean a significant weakening of the material. If you have a composite paddle, you should instead look for any cracks in the material. Examine all locks and make sure that the paddle's adjustment options work as intended without any major friction. Don't forget to look over the paddle blade for cracks and the attachment between the blade and the shaft. Also feel over the paddle handle to make sure it is securely attached.
5. Repair kit: It is not common to need to repair an inflatable SUP. Should an accident occur, you do not need to be devastated as it is usually no more difficult than fixing a bicycle puncture. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you have a complete kit in your bag. The most common kits contain repair patches in a couple of different colors, glue and a valve key.
6. Fin: Make sure the fin is straight and has no cracks. The SUP fin should fit tightly in the fin box for the best paddling experience possible. The most common fin boxes are the so-called US-box model where the fin has two protruding plastic or metal spikes that protrude at the top, at the front of the fin. Make sure that these spikes protrude approximately equally on both sides of the fin. If you have plastic spikes, this is normally not a problem. Some boards do not have a removable fin and then you do not need to worry about this point. In such a case, check that your fixed side fins are straight. Otherwise, you may need to pour hot water on them to bend them straight again.
7. The pump: A pump should not be perceived as dry. The pump contains O-rings that require some lubrication. The easiest way to get the longest possible life out of your pump is to regularly lubricate the aluminum piston that comes out of the pump when you pull it to its outermost position. Feel free to use Vaseline. Most lubricants work but be careful in your choice so that you don't choose something that will stain your board.
8. The leash: Perhaps the most important part of the board that many people neglect. Take a close look at your leash to make sure it looks intact. At the slightest risk of cracking, you should immediately replace it with a new one. After all, it is the cheapest life insurance you will ever buy. Don't forget to look at the cord that sits between the leash and the board so that it doesn't need to be replaced.
9. The bag: Shake out any leftover sand and debris from the previous year. Check the zippers and straps. If your bag has wheels, you may need to clean them. Nothing vital perhaps, but it's nice to have the stuff looking clean and nice.