If you own a paddleboard, then you know they are not easy to store. They take up a great deal of space, awkward to maneuver, plus they can easily be damaged if not stored properly.
Many paddleboards are made of fiberglass and weigh in the range of 13 to 20 pounds, therefore they can be dented or “dinged” easily. Whether you have invested in a quality SUP or a more economical one, storing them out of the way while keeping them safe from damage is a worthwhile investment.
In order to prolong the life, keep it in good condition, and maintain the value of your SUP, you will want to take care of it properly. After each use you should wash and dry it prior to storing. Make sure it is not stored near heat, including direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. With a few easy and regular procedures, you will avoid damaging your paddleboard and keep it looking new for years to come.
Few paddleboard owners know how to store their SUPs properly or where to store them so that they are not damaged by the elements or carelessness. As you know paddleboards are very long, wide, and take up a great deal of space. Many owners will lean them against either an outside wall or inside a garage wall. Outdoor elements will deteriorate a paddleboard no matter what it is made of. Below we have shared a list of ways to store your paddleboards that will protect your purchase from damage.
Cover Your Paddleboard
Covering your SUP will help preserve the board. Since you are looking into or have invested in a paddleboard, it is worth purchasing a cover made specifically for that board. If you purchase a cover from a third party, make sure it properly fits the SUP. Covers are designed to protect the paddleboard from scratches, weather, and sunlight. Before putting your SUP in the cover, fully clean it with a gentle soap and water. Let it completely dry before putting it in its cover. If you don’t have time to let it completely dry, you may place it in the cover and leave the cover slightly unzipped. Now, your SUP is ready to be stored.
Ways to Store a Paddleboard
Lean It Under a Shade
If you don’t have wall space inside, then storing outside is your only option. Hopefully, this option is short-term. Once your SUP is covered, lean it on its rail (side) under some sort of shade. This could be a patio or lanai. Make sure it is out of extreme heat, cold, and direct sunlight. These elements can damage your paddleboard.
Ceiling Racks
When you don’t have wall space to store your paddleboard, you may want to consider a rack system that mounts to the ceiling in your garage. This is better than storing it on the ground or outside. The upside to storing it on the ceiling is that your SUP will be protected from scratches and damage. Although, the downside to storing it this way is that you will need a second person and a ladder to stow it or get it down from the ceiling racks. This is better than storing it outside.
Wall Racks
The most convenient way to store your paddleboard is by mounting racks on a wall. This type of storage racks cradles the board on the rail for safe storage; in addition to taking up less space by keeping the SUP against the wall. Wall storage racks suspend the paddleboard on a wall to keep it up, out of the way, and safe from falling over. SUP wall racks also allow you to stow or remove the SUP by yourself. Manta Racks offers a quality wall rack system made of aluminum, powder-coated, and has a soft EVA pad for cushioning. They bolt to a wall so that the paddleboards lay on the rail horizontally.
To sum it up
Whether you own or plan to purchase an economical or expensive paddleboard, storing is something you should consider prior to purchasing one. Take a moment to look around your home for a spot that can house a 10’ to 12’ paddleboard. Whichever storage option you choose, clean and dry it after each use. Store your paddleboard away from extreme temperatures and out of direct sunlight.
You can find a variety of Wall Rack options at Manta Racks. visit our website for more information or give us a call by dialing 1-888-622-0225.
