So you’ve picked up your new inflatable SUP — now what? Whether summer’s ending or you just want to make sure your board lasts more than a single season, proper storage is key.
Here’s everything you need to know to keep your paddle board in top shape — straight from a Canadian shop owner who’s seen it all.
✅ The #1 Storage Mistake: Over-Folding and Sun Exposure
Most paddle boards don’t die from use — they die from bad storage habits. Folding them tightly, cramming them into hot garages, or leaving them fully pumped in direct sun is the fastest way to blow a seam or warp the material.
🔧 The Best Way to Store Your Board Long-Term? Slightly Inflated Indoors.
If you’ve got the space, storing your SUP slightly inflated (2–3 PSI) is one of the best things you can do. Here's why:
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No hard creases = no seam stress
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The board maintains its natural shape
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No wear and tear from constant deflating/repacking
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Ready-to-use when the season starts again
Just make sure it’s:
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Not in direct sunlight
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Away from extreme heat or freezing cold
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Stored flat or loosely leaning — not crushed behind stuff
For most people, that means a cool basement or spare room, not the garage.
🧼 Before You Store: Clean & Dry Is Mandatory
Always rinse off lake water, sand, and dirt. Let the board fully dry before storage to avoid mold, mildew, and smell.
Quick checklist:
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✅ Rinse with clean water
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✅ Let it air dry (don’t trap moisture in the bag)
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✅ Wipe the valve area clean
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✅ Remove the fin and leash
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✅ Slightly deflate to 2–3 PSI if storing inflated
❄️ Can I Store My SUP in the Garage During Winter?
You can — but it’s not ideal. Extreme temperature swings (especially freezing) can cause materials to shrink, expand, and weaken over time. Cold isn’t as dangerous as heat, but you’ll still get longer life by storing it inside.
🚫 NEVER Leave It Fully Inflated in the Sun
This is where most first-time owners mess up. If you leave a board pumped to 12+ PSI in hot sun — on a driveway, dock, or beach — it can literally burst from the expanding air inside. Sun + pressure = boom.
Even in summer, deflate your board if you're not using it for more than a few hours.
🛠️ Off-Season Pro Tip: Inflate Every Few Months
If you're storing it folded for winter, it’s a good idea to:
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Unpack it mid-winter
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Inflate it lightly
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Let it breathe for 24 hours
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Then refold loosely and store again
This keeps seams healthy and prevents deep creasing.
💬 Final Word: A Little Effort = Years of Use
Treat your board right, and it’ll give you years of smooth paddling. Whether it’s a premium setup or a budget-friendly model, proper storage makes a massive difference.
If you ever need help patching, cleaning, or choosing a board built to last — we’ve got your back.
Looking for new paddle boards or want expert advice?
Come visit us at Sun Sand Surf in Calgary, or browse our latest inventory online.