Summer SUP Checklist: Get Your Paddle Board Ready for the Season
Summer is just around the corner, and soon, you’ll be feeling that irresistible urge to hop on your board and glide across the water. But before you launch into a summer of adventures, it's crucial to give your stand-up paddleboard (SUP) a little pre-season love. A few simple actions can ensure your board is in top condition for smooth, safe, and enjoyable paddling all season long. This paddle board maintenance guide will help you get your SUP board ready for summer.
4 Paddle Board Care Tips to Prepare for SUP Season
1. Inspect Your Board (and Don't Forget the Vent Plug!)
After you pull your SUP out of storage, give it a thorough once-over. Check for any scratches, dings, cracks, or punctures. If you notice any significant (or even questionable) damage, do not let your board get wet. This initial paddle board inspection is key for preventing further issues.
For a more detailed inspection, especially for hard boards, you can gently clean your board with a soft sponge and a mild, soapy water solution. Dings, dents, and punctures may be more easily spotted when given the opportunity to lightly bubble from the suds.
This is also the perfect time to inspect your vent plug. Transporting and carrying your SUP during the season can result in the occasional bump off an object—sometimes these bumps can cause the vent plug to move around.
Correct: The vent plug should always be flush with the board. (See Example A: A vent plug that is flush with the board.)
Adjustment Needed: If it’s sticking out, it needs a simple adjustment that we can walk you through. (See Example B: A raised vent plug, which requires an adjustment.)
Repair Needed (ASAP!): If you notice discoloration around the plug, that is going to need repair. (Example C: Discoloration around the plug.)
It is important that boards requiring repair are completely dry to the core. So, it’s wise to make this your first step of the season before putting your board on the water! We invite you to contact us if you notice any damage that requires attention – any cracks, punctures, or discoloration from water damage should be addressed as soon as possible. Leaving them to fester will increase the scope of damage! For all your paddle board repair needs, our team is here to help.
An example of cosmetic damage, no need for repairs!
Example A: A vent plug that is flush with the board (correct!)
Example B: A raised vent plug (adjustment needed!)
Example C: Discoloration around the plug (call us ASAP!)
2. Clean your board and paddle
Once you’ve determined your board is in fighting form, hose your board down with fresh water to remove sand, salt, and any other debris. Give it a gentle scrub with an eco-friendly mild soap (we like diluted Simple Green or Doctor Bronner’s Pure-Castille Soap) and a soft sponge or shammy cloth. If there's dirt caked on your deck pad, simply loosen it with a gentle bristle brush and then rinse it off. For tougher marks like scuffs, paddle dings, tie-down marks, wax, hand prints, and paint from other objects your board may have bumped into, a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser can work wonders. Proper SUP board care includes regular cleaning!
3. Protect your board
Identify where you plan to store your SUP for the season, if different from the off-season. If you choose to purchase a storage solution, we recommend looking at retailers such as Store Your Board that specialize in SUP storage.
When it’s not in the water, it is imperative to keep your board out of direct sunlight for long periods of time – this applies to storage, transportation, and even while in use (e.g., laying on the beach). Sun damage is the worst kind and can cause irreparable harm to your board's integrity and appearance.
If you use a board bag, make sure to leave it unzipped to allow for proper air circulation. We highly recommend purchasing a UV Board Cover instead, which is easier to slide on and off, and not only protects your board from scratches but, most importantly, keeps the interior temperature of your board up to 30 degrees cooler when sitting in direct sunlight. Invest in paddle board protection for longevity.
3. Protect your board
Before hitting the water, inspect your paddle board safety gear to make sure it’s still in good condition. Check your leash and life vest for any wear and tear, and determine if you need any back-up supplies like fin screws or replacement fins.
Also, think about making transporting your SUP more streamlined for yourself! Assess what gear you may need to make the process easier. Whether you decide to invest in a roof rack, grab some rack pads, or get upgraded tie-down straps or a locking system, there’s a ton of paddle board accessories out there online and in our shop to meet your needs and give you an increased sense of ease.
Get Tuned up!
Our team is always here for you if you have questions about your VESL paddle board, or need support with a repair. Accidents happen, and we’re here for you when they do. Send us a pic of your VESL or off-brand board and we will come up with a plan to get you back on the water quickly! Just text us at 603.777.7428!