Paddleboarding is pure fun—and the versatility of an inflatable SUP is hard to beat. You can take it just about anywhere and enjoy nearly any body of water. After a few adventures, your board becomes more than gear—it becomes a trusted companion.

Want that companion to last for years without losing performance or quality? A little care goes a long way. Here are simple, practical tips to help extend the life of your inflatable paddleboard.

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1) A Clean Board Is a Happy Board

Rinse your inflatable SUP with fresh water after every session—especially after paddling in saltwater. Make sure the valve is closed while rinsing.

Allow the board to air dry when possible or wipe it down with a towel. For stubborn dirt or stains, use a mild soap and a soft cloth. Don’t forget to remove sand and debris from the fin boxes and paddle—it’ll make setup smoother next time and prevent wear.

2) Dry Before You Store

Moisture is the enemy of longevity. Always dry your board before folding or storing it.

Bringing a towel on every paddling trip makes this easy. If your board is slightly damp when packing up, leave the top of the bag open once you get home so it can fully air out. This helps prevent odors, mildew, and unwanted bacteria growth.

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3) Pay Attention to the Valve

Never remove the valve while inflating or deflating your iSUP. If you notice air leakage, gently tighten the valve using the valve wrench included in your repair kit.

Important: Always make sure the board is fully deflated before adjusting the valve. Never tighten or loosen it when the board is inflated.

4) Boards Love Shade

When storing your inflatable SUP, choose a cool, dry, shaded area. Always clean and fully dry the board before long-term storage.

If storing the board inflated, lay it flat with the fin side down and avoid placing heavy items on top. In hot environments, slightly release air pressure to prevent over-expansion. Before your next paddle, simply top it off to the recommended PSI.

5) Don’t Drag Your Board

Inflatable paddleboards are built with durable materials—but dragging them across sand, rocks, or concrete can cause unnecessary wear.

When heading to or from the water, carry your board instead of dragging it. This small habit can significantly extend its lifespan.

6) Protect the Fins & Fin Box

Never stand on your board on land with the fins installed. Doing so can damage both the fins and the fin box.

In shallow water, be mindful of fin contact with the bottom. Move your board to deeper water before stepping on to avoid stress or breakage.

7) Limit Sun & Heat Exposure

While inflatable SUPs are built with UV-resistant materials, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and heat can degrade the outer layer over time.

When not paddling, keep your board in the shade or cover it with a towel. Avoid inflating your board to maximum PSI on extremely hot days—heat increases internal air pressure, and leaving room for expansion helps protect the seams.

Final Thought
Every inflatable paddleboard benefits from a little TLC. With proper care, your iSUP will deliver consistent performance, reliability, and adventure for many seasons to come.

Have questions about caring for your paddleboard? Contact our team →

We love following your paddling adventures and are always happy to help. You can reach us at chat@nixysports.com or call 844-649-9787.