Can I Leave My Paddle Board Inflated? Expert Answer
If you're a paddle board enthusiast, you might have wondered, "Can I leave my paddle board inflated?" The answer to this question can impact both the longevity of your equipment and your convenience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll address this and more.
Can I Leave My Paddle Board Inflated?
Yes, you can leave your paddle board inflated for short periods, but it's essential to regularly check its condition and inflation level.
How Long Can I Leave a Paddle Board Inflated?
You can generally keep an inflatable paddle board inflated for a short duration, ranging from a few days to a week, particularly if you use it frequently. However, leaving it inflated for extended periods could lead to gradual wear and tear.
How Often Should I Check the Inflation Level If I Leave It Inflated?
If you decide to leave your paddle board inflated, it’s advisable to check the inflation level every two to three days. Environmental factors like temperature fluctuations can affect the pressure, necessitating periodic adjustments.
Should You Leave Your Paddle Board Inflated?
Wondering whether you should leave your paddle board inflated between uses? Learn the pros and cons of leaving it inflated.
Pros:
- Convenience: Keeping your paddle board inflated means it's always ready for action, saving you both time and the effort of inflating it before each use.
- No Repeated Inflation: By leaving the board inflated, you avoid the repetitive inflation and deflation process, which can strain and wear out the valve system over time.
Cons:
- Potential for Damage: Extended periods of inflation can lead to minor deformities in the board's structure, or even result in tears, particularly when exposed to high heat or cold.
- Space: An inflated paddle board naturally takes up more room in your storage area, making it less convenient if you're tight on space.
So is it ok to leave paddle board inflated? It is generally not advisable to leave your inflatable paddle board inflated for long periods of time when not in use, especially in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
The Right Way to Store Your Inflatable Paddle Board
Here's how to store your inflatable paddle board (SUP) the right way:
- Fresh Water Rinse: Clean your inflatable SUP with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and other debris.
- Dry Completely: Make sure to dry your board entirely with a towel or let it air-dry before proceeding to the next steps.
- Partial Deflation for Warm Climates: If you're storing the board in a non-climate-controlled space during warmer months, deflate it to 3-5 PSI to minimize risk of deformation.
- Full Deflation: If space is an issue, you can fully deflate the SUP. Open the valve and let all the air out. Make sure the board is clean and totally dry before doing so.
- Roll, Don't Fold: Rather than folding the board tightly, roll it up gently. This can prevent creases and potential damage to the board.
- Strap Tightness: If you're using straps to secure the board, ensure they are tight enough to hold the SUP securely but not so tight that they could cause the board to deform.
- Bagging: Place your rolled-up SUP in its storage bag for added protection.
- Cool and Dry Location: Store your inflatable SUP in a cool, dry place to prevent any damage from heat or moisture.
However, If you still choose to leave your paddle board inflated, make sure to follow these:
- Off the Ground: Elevate the board slightly off the ground to avoid moisture buildup or potential punctures.
- Even Weight Distribution: If you're storing your SUP while it's inflated, ensure the weight is evenly distributed. This is especially important if you're suspending it or leaning it against a wall to prevent pressure point deformities.
- Avoid Sharp Objects: Keep the area free of sharp or abrasive objects that could potentially tear or scratch the board.
- Cover Up: Consider using a board bag or cover to shield it from dust, dirt, and any other potential damaging elements.
Tips for Caring for Your Inflatable SUPs
Taking good care of your inflatable stand-up paddle board (SUP) can extend its lifespan and improve your experience on the water. Here are some essential tips to help you maintain your inflatable SUP in top condition.
- Frequent Checks: Regardless of whether your paddle board is inflated, regular examinations for wear and tear like minor rips or loose parts are essential for maintaining its condition.
- Thorough Cleaning: Rinse the board with clean water and gentle soap after every use to eliminate salt, dirt, or other substances that could harm the material.
- Pressure Adjustment: Keep a pump accessible to tweak the pressure when necessary, as temperature changes can impact the board's inflation.
Get Ready to Hit the Water with iROCKER
So, can you leave a paddle board inflated? Yes, the answer is positive, but there are some important qualifications to note. However, if you're leaving it inflated for an extended time, be mindful of potential wear and tear. Proper care and maintenance are key to the longevity of your paddle board. Learn how to take care of your paddle board with our enthusiastic staff at iROCKER!
FAQs
How inflated should paddle boards be?
The recommended inflation level for most inflatable paddle boards is between 12 to 15 PSI, but always consult your board's manual for specific guidelines. Using a reliable pump with a gauge will help you achieve the correct pressure. Keep in mind that temperature changes can affect the board's PSI, so it's good to check before each use.
How long does it take to inflate a paddle board?
Inflating a paddle board's time varies based on the pump type and board size. A manual hand pump typically takes 5-10 minutes to reach the suggested PSI, while an electric pump can achieve this in 3-5 minutes. Always consult the pressure gauge to confirm you've hit the recommended PSI for your board.
Do I need to deflate my paddle board after each use?
Deflating your SUP board isn't absolutely required, especially if you'll be using it again in the near future. However, deflation does offer advantages such as saving storage space and minimizing the risk of long-term inflation damage.
Does constant inflation and deflation affect the paddle board’s lifespan?
Frequent inflation and deflation can strain the valve system, potentially reducing the board's lifespan. That's why some prefer to leave it inflated if they use it regularly.
