Red Original 11’0” Sport Purple MSL inflatable paddle board

Paddle Board Maintenance - Get Your Sup Ready For 2023

Written by Luke Green / April 2023

Though there’s nothing stopping you from paddling on through the winter months, the longer evenings and hotter air signal the real start of SUP season. Paddle boards inevitably show signs of wear over time, and whether you’ve been enjoying winter adventures in the cold water or have had your board stowed safely away since last summer, your equipment might need some quick TLC to get in top condition.

All Red paddle boards from 2022 onwards come with a 5-year warranty, but with the correct care you can keep your SUP functioning as it should for many more years to come (we still know of people with our first ever boards made in 2008 going well today). Giving your board a deep clean before a big spike in regular use helps you get ready for the season, but proper paddleboard maintenance after every use is what really counts. With this in mind, here are some key things to remember as you get your SUP ready for 2023.

Store your SUP correctly

One of the reasons that paddle boarding has become so popular and accessible is because of how easy modern SUPs are to store. Most inflatable boards pack up tightly into a handy storage bag and can be conveniently tucked away in your shed or garage when not in use. Take Red’s Compact range as an example, which pushes the boundaries of portability without compromising on durability with our patent-protected MSL-pact technology.

Storing your board correctly will protect its longevity and keep you on the water for many years to come. When you’ve finished your adventure, remember to remove all of the attachments, including the fins and leash (where appropriate), and make sure your SUP is completely dry and deflated when you pack it into its storage bag.

Roll it up properly

When rolling your board up at the end of its use, it can be easy to think that tighter is better. Of course, you will want to make sure that your SUP fits snuggly inside its storage bag, but rolling it up as loosely as possible will help the board to breathe and preserve its outer surface and seams for as long as possible. This will also help you maintain comfort when carrying your board on your back, making reaching your next beauty spot even easier.

Rinse your board properly after use

No matter where you choose to take your board, you’re pretty much guaranteed to come into contact with stuff that doesn’t belong on the surface of your SUP. Salt, sand, seaweed and creepy crawlies all live in or near the water, but they shouldn’t live on your board.

A quick rinse after each use is the easiest way you can care for your Red paddle board. Getting any nasties off the surface of your board before you pack it away will ensure it stays in tip-top condition while in storage and performs how it should. Dirt can build up around the valves, seals and fins, so make sure not to neglect these spots.

Schedule some deep cleaning

If you’re concerned that paddle board maintenance will eat into your precious water time, worry not. There’s no need to spend hours on end scrubbing away at your board.

However, if you notice a stain or know that it might be a while before you unpack your SUP again, it can be good to schedule some deep cleaning. A light soap and fresh water is all it takes, just scrub lightly to keep the top surface in pristine condition and make sure that you rinse the board thoroughly to remove any residue.

Take care if you leave the board inflated

Accidents happen and your board is more likely to get punctured or worn away if you leave it inflated, which is why we recommend that you deflate it as much as you can. However, if you are a frequent paddler, keeping your board inflated will mean you are always ready for the next adventure. If you opt to leave your SUP in go-mode for a couple of days, find a spot away from direct sunlight.

Remember that the air pressure of your board will deflate gradually over time if left inflated. This means it’s always good to top up the air before you get into the water for optimum performance as you glide along.

Following these simple steps will help you to maximise the performance of your SUP and enjoy the delights of your paddle board for 2023 and beyond. If you need any more guidance when it comes to the maintenance of your paddle board, you can always get in touch with us.