How Do You Replace the Bungee Cords on a Paddle Board?

To replace the bungee on a paddle board, release the cord lock, unthread the old cord from the deck D-rings, route a fresh bungee through the same anchor points in the same pattern, then feed both ends back through the cord lock and pull to tension. It takes about two minutes and no tools.

The bungee is the elastic cord webbed across the nose of the board, and sometimes the tail, that pins down a dry bag, an extra layer, or a water bottle so nothing slides off when you hit chop. After a few seasons of sun and salt the cord loses its stretch, starts to fray, or the plastic cord lock cracks and stops holding tension. When that happens the fix is a new cord, not a new board.

Here is the routine. First, photograph the existing layout so you know the exact path before anything comes loose. Release the cord lock and pull the old cord out of each D-ring or anchor point. Thread the new cord through those same points in the same crisscross pattern, keeping it flat where it crosses so it lies clean on the deck. Feed both ends through the cord lock, then tension it so the web holds gear snugly but you can still slip a couple of fingers underneath. Trim any extra and knot or clamp the ends so they cannot slip back through.

Length is the one thing to get right. A shorter cord suits the smaller front cargo area on most all-around boards, and a longer cord covers a bigger touring deck. Measure your old cord end to end before you cut, or start with a pre-cut length so the tension lands where you want it.

The NIXY SUP Replacement Bungee Cord comes in a 71 inch and a 92 inch length with a removable adjustable cord lock, so you can match it to your board's cargo area and re-tension it whenever the web goes slack.

Frequently asked questions

What length bungee cord do I need for a paddle board? Measure your old cord end to end first. A 71 inch cord fits the smaller front cargo area on most all-around boards, and a 92 inch cord covers a larger touring deck.

Can you add a bungee to a paddle board that does not have one? Yes, as long as the board has D-rings or deck anchor points to route the cord through. Thread a new bungee across them and secure it with a cord lock.

How do you tighten a loose paddle board bungee? Slide the cord lock toward the deck to take up the slack, or unthread and shorten the cord. Aim for enough tension to hold gear firm while still fitting a couple of fingers underneath.