How to Store your Inflatable Paddle Board, Utility Dock, or Kayak During the Winter

As temperatures drop and the first snowflakes of the year hit the ground, it’s time to start thinking about how to store your inflatable paddle board, utility dock, or kayak to ensure it is safe and ready for when the weather warms up (looking to store your solid board? Click here to learn more). Here are some tips and best practices:

1. Clean and Dry: Make sure it’s completely dry before storage. If you’ve recently used your inflatable product in salt water, we recommend rinsing it off with fresh water and then ensuring it is completely dry before storing. It’s also a good idea to wipe off any obvious dirt or debris.
   
   
2. Protect from the Elements: We recommend storing your inflatable in a place that is protected from elements, such as snow and rain. Ideally this would be a garage, shed, or inside of your home.
   
   
3. Inflated vs. Deflated: If it’s going to be stored in a space that is COLD (unheated garage, cabin, or shed), we don’t recommend having it rolled or folded tightly. To avoid the potential forming of creases or fold marks, it is recommended that you leave it unrolled, very loosely rolled, or even partially inflated (4-6 psi). Otherwise, if it’s going to be stored in a temperature-controlled environment (inside of your home, heated garage, etc.) then keeping it rolled up and in a storage bag is okay. 

Properly storing your inflatable paddle board, utility dock, or kayak will ensure you’re ready to get back out on the water as soon as the ice melts.