How to Take Care of Your Hard Paddle Board

Because we love paddle boarding and want you to benefit from the sport as much as we do, we’re sharing some of our favorite tips and tricks on how to keep your board in tip-top shape so that you can enjoy it for as long as possible. 

Our first recommendation for our #TAIGAclub would be to take an Introduction to Paddle boarding class! Although paddle boarding seems easy, it remains a water sport with its share of rules, regulations, and unique maneuvering techniques. Understanding the basics will not only will help you prevent your board from getting damaged, it will also help you avoid injuries, dangerous situations, and more.  

The best way to learn all this is with a pro. Luckily, we are surrounded by SUP experts who are just waiting to share their passion with you! Check out our demonstration centers for a class near you! 

Extreme Temperature        

 

We love the sun, especially when it’s time to go on the water. However, when your board is not in use, like you, it needs protection from UV rays and heat. 

 

By taking care of your board, you’ll avoid: 

 

  • The glue holding the deck pad from melting. 
  • The color of the deck pad from fading. 
  • Bubbles forming under the deck pad. Not dangerous, just less aesthetic. 
  • Cracks or distortions in the construction of the board. We want to avoid this as much as possible. 
  • Delamination. The outer layer of fiberglass could peel away from the inner construction. Your board will still perform well, but it may lose some of its aesthetic. 

Best practices in case of extreme temperatures : 

  • Store your board in the shade when not on the water. 
  • Use a board bag to carry your board. Our board bags are designed to protect your board from UV rays and adverse weather conditions. Why go without? 
  • Avoid leaving your board in your vehicle. The temperature inside can reach 40 C in the summer! Treat it like you would a puppy—if it’s too hot for your furry friend, it's too hot for your board! 

 

How to avoid damage caused by extreme heat :

  • Never leave your board in the sun for a long period of time. Whether this be on the shore, in your backyard or on the top of your vehicule. 
  • Never leave your board in your vehicule. 
  • Never leave your board in a place where it could experience drastic changes in temperature. 

              

Dings, Cracks et Scratches

A rigid board is powerful, but it is also more fragile than an inflatable board. That's why you have to handle it with care and be aware of its width and length when carrying it.

 

How to prevent Dings, Cracks and Scratches

  • Be gentle when putting your board down. Avoid dropping it on the ground abruptly. 
  • Always use rack pads when carrying your board on the roof of your vehicle. Without them, the pressure of the board against the metal of the vehicle could cause a ding on your board. 
  • Keep the fins facing upward when your board is on the ground. The fins are the most fragile part of your board. If they’re facing downwards and someone accidentally steps on your board, the pressure could break them. 
  • Avoid paddling in very shallow waters where your board or fin could run into rocks. 
  • Avoid laying your board on a rough surface such as cement or gravel. 
  • Don't use your board as a bench to sit on (neither on the top nor the sides)! Your SUP is not designed to support that much weight out of the water. 
  • Avoid putting the nose of your board in the sand. 

 

        

Inspection, Repair and Cleaning :

Many SUP expeditions await you in the next few years! Here are a few more ways to care for your board. 

Your checklist for inspecting, repairing and cleaning your board :

  • Always inspect your board before and after use. 
  • Make sure your fins and leash are properly installed. 
  • Check your board for dings, scratches and cracks. 
  • When picking up your board, notice if it feels heavier. If it does, it may be that water has seeped in. 
  • Repair your board as soon as you see a ding to prevent water from getting in. 
  • Clean your board after each use. This is the best way to protect your SUP and your accessories. 
  • Disassemble accessories after each use and rinse them with fresh water to remove sand, salt and dirt deposits. 
  • Disassemble your adjustable paddle to give it the same treatment. 
  • Let your board, paddle and accessories dry off after cleaning and before storing away. 

 

How to avoid having to repair your board : 

  • Avoid leaving your board in a humid environment where mold and mildew can damage it. 
  • To prevent unpleasant odours, avoid leaving a wet board in its board bag too long. Ideally, you always want to dry it off first. 
  • Repair all holes as soon as possible. Leaving a hole unattended can further damage your board as it can absorb water when you’re out paddle boarding. For best performance and efficiency, the inside of your board must stay dry. 

 

For any additional help, we’re here! 

Please do reach out to us at info@taigaboard.com