When using an inflatable paddleboard , proper handling and equipment management are essential to maintain a healthy and reliable board over time. The deflation phase is crucial for correctly storing your SUP.
In this article, we'll answer the question: how do you deflate and store your paddleboard? We'll also address potential problems and how to avoid them. We'll start by discussing the equipment, then the procedure itself, and give you a few tips along the way.
1. Preparation
To store your paddleboard, you will need the following equipment:
- The storage bag ,
- a rag
- as well as your hands.
To deflate and store your paddleboard while protecting your equipment, it is essential to follow these steps during your preparation:
As preparation, find a suitable location, avoiding areas where your paddleboard could fly away or be damaged. Ideally, use a large mat or carpet on the ground to protect your SUP.
Next, make sure you have everything you need within easy reach.
2. Preliminary steps before deflation
- Before deflating your paddleboard, start by using your cloth to wipe it down and thus protect it from mold, sand that could damage it and odors.
- Then, remove your fin to lay the SUP flat on the ground.
- Dry and store your fin.
3. Deflate the inflatable paddleboard
We finally come to the most important part, deflating the paddleboard .
To do this:
- Open the inflation valve cap, then open the valve by pressing the central button and lock it in the open position with a quarter turn before releasing.
- Let the paddleboard release its air.
- While the air is escaping, stow or remove the paddleboard leash in whatever way suits you best. Removing it prevents it from dangling once the paddleboard is folded.
4. Fold and store the inflatable paddleboard
We will now begin rolling the paddle:
- Position yourself at the back. The SUP is right-side up.
- Start by making a forward fold so that the three fin boxes are visible.
- Next, fold the rearmost wing box over the other two, pulling it towards you.
- Finally, resume rolling in the initial direction. Fold the paddleboard, applying pressure to expel any remaining air from the SUP.
Once folded, put it in its bag and close the bag.
For storage, choose a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight.
SROKA's tip
- The first piece of advice would be to be wary of algae, which can react with materials and could stain them, so make sure to rinse your paddleboard properly, especially if you are storing it for a long time.
- Regarding storage in the garage, avoid putting weight on your paddleboard and ideally, store it vertically, not flat.
- Finally, and although it seems logical, avoid deflating your paddleboards in the water, because even if it prevents sand, it would be disastrous to let water get inside your SUP.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pay attention to the place you choose to deflate your paddle, make sure it is as clean as possible when storing it, especially for long-term storage, and above all, learn our homemade folding technique to avoid damaging your fin boxes.
All you have to do now is enjoy our paddleboards which, we assure you, if you take care of them, will last you a long time.
How do you deflate a paddleboard? Now you have the answer. Always take good care of your equipment; it's the best way to ensure it lasts a long time! All that's left is for you to go and enjoy yourself on the water. Many other items are available on our website to help you with your paddleboarding, so feel free to take a look!
If you still have questions about this, or for any other inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us !