Paddleboarding is a thrilling sport that combines adventure, fitness, and the serenity of being on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just beginning your journey, one crucial aspect of enjoying this sport is maintaining and protecting your paddleboard. Proper care not only extends the life of your board but also ensures safety and optimal performance during your paddling sessions. Here’s a guide on how to protect your paddleboard effectively.
**1. Handle with Care:**
The first step in protecting your paddleboard begins with how you handle it. Always lift your board by the edges rather than dragging it across the ground. Dragging can cause scratches, dings, or even severe damage to the bottom surface. When carrying your board, use a board bag or a carry strap to distribute its weight evenly and make transportation easier and safer.
**2. Use a Board Bag:**
Investing in a good-quality board bag is one of the best ways to protect your paddleboard from physical damage and UV exposure. Board bags come with padding which helps shield the board from impacts and scratches during transport or storage. Additionally, the bag protects the board from sun damage when not in use, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can weaken the material of your board.
**3. Rinse After Use:**
Saltwater and even freshwater can have damaging effects on your paddleboard if not rinsed off after each use. Salt can corrode metal components and degrade the board material over time. Ensure you thoroughly rinse your board with fresh water after every session, paying special attention to the deck pad, fins, and any metal fixtures.
**4. Storage Solutions:**
How and where you store your paddleboard significantly impacts its longevity. Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or in places with extreme temperatures. Heat can cause the board material to delaminate or warp, while cold can make it brittle. Ideally, store your paddleboard in a cool, dry place, preferably on a rack that allows it to sit evenly without pressure points.
**5. Regular Maintenance Checks:**
Regularly inspect your paddleboard for any signs of wear or damage. Check for cracks, dings, loose fittings, or any signs of wear around the seams. Early detection of such issues can prevent them from worsening. If you find any damage, repair it immediately or take it to a professional repair service to ensure it’s done correctly.
**6. Sun Protection:**
While a board bag offers excellent protection from the sun, there are additional steps you can take. When not in use and out of its bag, ensure your board is not exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. You can also apply a UV protectant spray specifically designed for paddleboards to add an extra layer of protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
**7. Avoid Rocky or Shallow Areas:**
When paddleboarding, try to steer clear of areas where you might encounter rocks, coral, or shallow reefs. Collisions with these can cause significant damage to your board. Be mindful of your environment and if you must cross such areas, carry your board over them instead of paddling through.
**8. Proper Transportation:**
Transport your paddleboard securely strapped to a roof rack with the deck down and the fins up front, ideally in a board bag for added protection. Ensure the straps are tight enough to hold the board in place but not so tight as to cause pressure dents or damage. Also, be mindful of the driving conditions and the impact of wind resistance on your board during transportation.
**9. Use a Soft Rack:**
If you don’t have a permanent roof rack, consider using a soft rack. These can be easily attached to most vehicles and provide a padded surface to protect your board during transit. Make sure the board is secured tightly to avoid any movement that might cause damage.
**Conclusion:**
Protecting your paddleboard requires a combination of proper handling, maintenance, and awareness of environmental factors. By following these tips, you can enjoy many years of paddling adventures with your well-maintained board. Remember, a little effort in protection goes a long way in extending the life and performance of your paddleboard.