INFLATING YOUR TAHE STAND UP PADDLE BOARD
TAHE inflatable paddle boards (sometimes referred to as blow up paddle boards) offer the performance of a rigid paddle board in a compact, easy to transport package. The one extra step you have to take when using an inflatable paddle board versus a rigid paddle board is the inflation process. It typically takes 5-10 minutes to inflate your board and is a great warm-up before you hit the water. Over the years we’ve learned the best way to make sure your board is inflated properly and ready to go out on the water. Check out our guide below and watch the video at the end to see the process in action!
Step 1: Unroll your board, paying attention to how it was rolled up. This will help you when deflating and repacking your board.
Step 2: Attach the hose to the inflation pump ensuring that the hose is threaded properly and attached securely to the end that says “INFLATE.”
Step 3: Unscrew the valve cap from the valve located at the tail of the board. You will see a white push-pin in the center of the valve.
Press the pin a few times to see how the pin changes position from "UP" to “DOWN.”
For inflating the pin must be in the "UP" position.
Step 4: Ensure there is no dirt or sand in the valve area or in the hose, then connect the pump hose to the valve by inserting the hose adapter piece into the valve and turning clockwise, about 1/2 of a turn, until it is securely in place.
Pro Tip: If the hose is twisted it can cause the hose to unscrew from the valve. If this happens untwist the hose so that the pressure on the hose is going in the clockwise direction to help keep the hose attached to the valve.
Step 5: The pump will have two settings, One-Way and Two-Way. For the initial inflation period you will want to use the Two Way setting, which means air is going into the board on both the down and up stroke with the pump.
Step 6: Pump air into the board by raising and lowering the pump handle. As the board starts to take shape you will feel resistance from the pump.
At this point remove the red screw to switch to the One-Way setting (some pumps may have a lever which switches from 1-way to 2-way position).
Continue inflating the board to desired pressure, not to exceed 15psi.
We recommend between 12-15psi for optimal performance.
Inflation can take 10-15 minutes depending on your board. The gauge will not read any pressure until the board is very firm. Keep inflating and monitor the gauge - you will slowly see the gauge begin to move to a higher pressure.
NOTE: Direct sunlight will cause the pressure in the board to increase. If you will be leaving the board in direct sunlight on a hot day do not inflate above 13psi.
Looking to skip the ‘warm-up’ manual pumping offers? Electric pumps are available and allow the entire board to inflate with the push of a button. Here are some electric pumps currently on the market.