How to Store Your Paddle Board in Winter
As winter approaches, stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is more or less reaching its off-season. Unless you’re a die-hard paddle board enthusiast who doesn’t mind frigid conditions, you’re probably looking to store your board away for the coming months. But what’s the best way to do so? How do you make sure your board is in pristine condition when spring rolls around? If you’ve been asking yourself these questions, don’t worry – here’s how to store your paddle board in winter.
Location, Location, Location
Arguably, the most important aspect of SUP storage is finding a good spot. You’ll need to find a place free from moisture in order to minimize the risk of freezing during the winter. It’s also important to find a place where your board won’t be exposed to direct sunlight, as this can also cause damage over time. Finally, make sure that the temperature in the storage location doesn’t drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keep It Clean
Once you’ve found a suitable place for storage, give your paddle board a thorough cleaning before you put it away. Things like sand and algae will damage your board if left on the surface for prolonged periods of time. Water and mild soap are enough to do the trick, but you can also use an environmentally-friendly, non-toxic cleaning solution. Make sure the board is completely dry before going into storage in order to minimize the risk of mold.
Other Things to Consider
You may want to invest in a simple wall or ceiling rack for your paddle board, since keeping it off the floor is a good way to avoid damage. If your board has removable fins, consider taking them out – not because it’s detrimental to the board while being stored, but simply to save space. Finally, if your board is inflatable, rest easy – it’s not necessary for you to completely deflate it before going into storage. However, it is recommended to let out a few PSI just to compensate for air expansion when temperatures start rising again.
Now that you know the basics of how to store your paddle board in winter, make sure you’re taking care of that board – because at Canyon Voyages, we’re the authority in Utah SUP expeditions! Whether you’re looking for a paddle board trip in Moab or you’re more interested in kayaking and canoeing, we can help you plan your next excursion. Contact us today and we’ll get you started.
