Winter is a season when many of us take a break to hibernate from outdoor paddling adventures.
It's time to ensure that your equipment is thoroughly checked and maintained to be ready for springtime. If you won't be using your equipment for several weeks, it's essential to understand specific guidelines for storing it properly. Check out our tips!
SURF, SUP AND WINDSURF BOARDS
1. Rinse thoroughly
with tap water and wipe down well to eliminate all traces of damp
2. Store flat
and where possible store it in its own watertight bag
3. Store your board
away from direct sunlight, from frost, exterme heat and big variations of temperature
KAYAK AND DINGHIE
1. Rinse thoroughly
with tap water and wipe down well to eliminate alltraces of damp
2. Check your boat
over so it's ready for your next outing (tighten any loose screws, replace any bungies that have lost their elasticity...)
3. Unscrew the drainage bung
to prevent problems with the double-skin hull
4. store your boat
with the hull upwards (upside down/resting on its deck)
5. Store your board
away from direct sunlight, from frost, extreme heat and big variations of temperature
INFLATABLE SUP AND KAYAK
1. Rinse thoroughly
with tap water and wipe down well to eliminate all traces of damp
2. Deflate & roll
Deflate, then roll or fold leaving the valves open
WARNING FOR SUP: Avoid "rolling" the board once deflated, find a space to store it flat, this will avoid creasing
3. Store your board
away from direct sunlight, from frost, extreme heat and big variations of temperature
HELPFUL TIPS
Cover to avoid damage by rodents or other nuisance animals and to avoid knocks.
Fun fact: Make sure you protect the deck pads from cat flaws, cats are attracted to them by the smell.