The following is a detailed discussion on how to prepare the SUPs for both short and long-term storage, different indoor and outdoor storage methods and tools, factors to consider and tips to keep your boards from damage<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why Store SUP Boards Properly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
SUP boards are an investment; therefore, you must care for them and keep them serving you for longer. Here are the common reasons you should properly store your board:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Theft protection – paddle boards cost a lot of money, especially the solid, epoxy kind made with bamboo, which can be costly. Therefore proper storage ensures you keep your board away from prying eyes. <\/li>
- Heat exposure – keeping your board under the sun or close to hot environments like a water heater or boiler can cause deterioration to the material, delaminated rigidity of the board, or a busted seam if it’s inflatable.<\/li>
- Sun exposure – leaving your paddleboard under the sun for too long can also delaminate the shell of the board’s material, especially if it’s made from fiberglass or epoxy. The sun can also bust seams on your inflatable SUP. Additionally, the sun’s harmful UV rays can discolor, crack, or warp your board’s shell. <\/li>
- Moisture exposure – leaving your board with water creates a conducive environment for mold, mildew, and bacteria to grow. As the mildew infestation grows, it can severely damage the outermost layer\/shell of the SUP board.<\/li>
- Damage from animals\/insects – mites and other insects can feed off your paddleboards, especially those made out of pure bamboo. <\/li>
- Improper handling – if you leave your sup board lying just about anywhere, it could easily get damaged from constant scrubbing, falling, or scratching against surfaces which causes the board to get teats, cuts, and scrapes.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Now that you know why it is vital to store your paddle boards, let’s jump into preparing your SUP board for storage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Preparing Your SUP for Storage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The idea is to clean, dry, and deflate before storage, but you may need to do more for long-term storage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Short Term\/Overnight<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Follow these steps below to prepare your board for short-term storage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Spray your board with clean water to get rid of grime, salts, dirt, and debris.<\/li>
- Dry it using an absorbent towel. <\/li>
- Store it either horizontally or vertically. Either way, keep it away from the ground since it may be cold and could absorb the water that you might have missed from the SUP board. <\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Long-term<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
During the winter season and part of autumn, you could use these methods to store away your paddleboard until the next sunny season. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Wash your board thoroughly using a hose with clean water, a sponge, and a mild cleaning solution or dish soap. The soap will remove all residual and stubborn stains, dirt, grime, and microbes from the saltwater.<\/li>
- Dry the paddleboard using a cloth or let it air dry, so it drips water completely. <\/li>
- Wax\/polish your board’s shell to keep it shiny and clean. Fiberglass SUP boards can easily be waxed but be sure to look through your manufacturer’s recommendations.<\/li>
- Disable your solid paddleboard -detach the fins and the leash.<\/li>
- If the board is inflatable, you can deflate the board. <\/li>
- Store it in a bag or cover it for that last finish. The bag, which should be waterproof like a tarp, will prevent exposure to moisture, the sun, or pests for as long as it’s covered. Ensure you strike a balance between aeration and protection to avoid the accumulation of moisture. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you’re storing the board indoors, you won’t have to store it inside a bag\/cover. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Outdoor Paddle Board Storage Ideas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Outdoor storage is ideal because of extra space, so outdoors would be a great choice if you have more than one paddleboard. Nonetheless, there are a few factors to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Outdoor](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/paddle-board-outdoor-storage.jpg\")
Outdoor rack<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n What to Consider When Storing Outside<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Being in the open creates a leeway for many contaminants to get into contact with your board, including UV rays, heat, and moisture. If you plan to store your SUP board outdoors, here are a few factors to consider. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Moisture and heat protection – to store your board safely away from these elements, choose an outdoor space that may protect the board from heat and water damage. For example, you can store it in a shed, shade, or over your car with a cover over it. <\/li>
- Theft protection – you have limited options as to where to keep your paddle board safely. You can choose to place it beneath a deck, below the roof’s eaves, or under a tarp as those are the safest places. <\/li>
- Seasons – you should never consider storing your board outside during the winter. The climate is too cold and will affect the rigidity of your board, plus snow can impair the board altogether.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Storing outdoors presents many risks ranging from theft, damage from rain or snow, and exposure to the sun’s UV rays. If you must store your board outdoors, make sure you address all these issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Methods of Storage<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are five ways you can store your paddle board. They include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Racks <\/li>
- Hanging\/suspending<\/li>
- Leaning <\/li>
- Freestanding Holders under a shade<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Outdoor Racks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are outdoor racks you can use to store your paddle board. Outdoor racks are made especially for the outside because most will have a rust-resistant coating to help protect them from corrosion caused by extended exposure to moisture. The rust-resistant coating can be made from epoxy or powder coating that offers a barrier from humidity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the racking system, you can get a single rack or multiple, where you stack them together and place them away from harmful elements. The racking system is prevalent amongst borders because it’s cost-effective and customizable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the top outdoor SUP storage racks is the Rad Sportz Paddleboard & Kayak Rack Double Stand<\/strong><\/a>. It is all metal, can store up to two boards at the same time. You can place it anywhere, indoor or outdoor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Outdoor](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/outdoor-paddleboard-storage-rack.jpg\")
Rad Sportz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Another both outdoor and indoor storage option is the Sparehand Dual Storage Rack<\/a><\/strong>. It is a heavy-duty freestanding and an easy-to-install rack made of tubular steel for 2 kayaks or SUPs<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Outdoor](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/Sparehand-freestanding-dual-storage-rack-SUPs-Kayaks.jpg\")
Sparehand storage rack<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Onefeng Sports Stand Storage Rack<\/a><\/strong> is yet another outdoor alternative that comes in a unique design. It is a 29\u2019\u2019 tall foldable (very portable) made of aluminum frames with soft-touch saddle and pads. It is ideal especially if you have large paddleboards<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Foldable](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/onefeng-sports-foldable-storage-rack.jpg\")
Onefeng Sports Foldable rack<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Suspended\/Hanging<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you plan to suspend your rack, you can use straps to hold down your paddleboards from either side of your deck or other outdoor areas you plan to store the board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest concern is pressure from the straps; if you strap on too strong, it could damage the outermost coating of the board, so be gentle with it. Alternatively, you can get padded straps\/ DIY webbing straps. Some of our best picks include;<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pelican Double SUP\/Kayak Storage Strap System<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"SUP\/Kayak](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/Sup-storage-strap-system.jpg\")
Pelican Double SUP\/Kayak Storage Strap System<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n It comes with 2 fully adjustable straps for hanging SUPs and Kayaks and 2 loops for holding paddles or oars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heavy duty extra wide 1. 5″ webbing well designed, strong, easy to install and most importantly they don’t damage the kayaks or boards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Easy to use Stainless steel heavy-duty carabiners and D-ring closure system<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another good hanging storage option is the COR Surf Heavy-Duty Padded Wall Storage Sling\/Straps<\/a><\/strong> for Kayaks or Paddleboards<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Paddleboard](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/COR-urf-Paddleboard-Wall-Storage-Sling-strap.jpg\")
COR-surf SUP Sling-strap<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Leaning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Leaning is the easiest storage method since all need is to you lean the board against a wall or any vertical surface. However, be careful of how and where you lean the board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You want to make sure you raise the board a little higher off the ground so the board isn’t constantly scratching and grinding off the ground as this will cause it to damage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ensure that the board is on its tail or side and never the nose. The board should be kept at a good angle not to damage the ceiling or get in the way or people moving around. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can also secure the board as its slippery surface can easily lead to it getting damaged when it slips and hits the ground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unfortunately, leaning won’t apply to all your boards because some boards are as long as 11 feet, so watch out for that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Freestanding SUP Holders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Freestanding is very similar to leaning, but you would use a freestanding rack to keep the board off the ground and keep the board securely in place without falling over or grazing on the floor surface. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Again, with most of the other storage methods, these ideally are workable in shades or decks where the board remains safe from damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A good product for this storage method is Suspenz Double-Up SUP Stand\/holder<\/a><\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Freestanding](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/suspenz-double-up-stand-SUP-holder.jpg\")
Suspenz double up stand<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n it is a lightweight outdoor\/indoor storage for up to two boards. It is made up of epoxy powder-coated aluminum frame and comes with neoprene foam pads to protect the boards from damage<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pros and Cons of Outside Storage<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Outside storage is ideal for storage and probably fast access to your paddleboard. Ideally, it can also look appealing but placing it as a decor would damage the board because of exposure to rain, heat, and UV rays from the sun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
That’s where the cons come in; outdoor storage presents many risks and so many ways your paddleboard could get damaged, not to mention stolen. Outdoor storage offers a vast space for storage but limited areas for storage, in that you can only store it in shades or hidden spots where you’re assured they won’t get direct exposure to damaging elements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
That’s said, outdoor storage is okay, and as long as you can find ways to keep your paddleboard safe, then it’s an ideal storage choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Indoor Storage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Indoor storage presents multiple choices from the basement, garage, extra rooms in the house, or the living room, which is why it’s the best type of storage because it offers the most protection from harmful elements like moisture, heat, and the sun’s UV rays. Nonetheless, there are a few factors to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Indoor](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/sup-indoor-storage-wall.jpg\")
Indoor storage<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n What to Consider When Storing Inside<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Before fixing a rack in the house to store your board, consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Space – your indoor space may be very limited, especially if you stay in apartments or small homes. <\/li>
- Humidity – while the interior protects the board from obvious elements like rain and the sun, the accumulated moisture from inside could also damage the rack.<\/li>
- The number of boards – one SUP board used fine, but an entire collection would be hard to store inside unless you have secluded storage space inside the home. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Ways to Store Them Indoors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are several ways to store your paddle board inside the house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- On a ceiling rack<\/li>
- On a wall rack<\/li>
- On a vertical rack<\/li>
- On a hoist\/rafters<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Ceiling Rack<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Ceiling racks are overhead racks mounted on the ceiling for additional storage. There are many options for ceiling racks like steel frames, straps, single or multiple racks, and assisted ceiling racks with push or pull mechanisms. These racks are secured on the house’s ceiling, to safely hold your boards high above the ground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A good example StoreYourBoard’s Double SUP & Surf Ceiling Storage Rack<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Ceiling](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/StoreYourboard-ceiling-storage-rack.jpg\")
StoreYourboard ceiling rack<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n It is a space-efficient two-sided overhead rack that can holds 2 paddleboards at home, garage, or paddle shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The center column can adjust from 10″ to 18″ tall to provide you the storage thickness that fits your space and storage needs; remove the arms with the push of a button.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wall Rack <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Wall-mounted racks can be placed anywhere, from the basement, bedroom, and living room, as additional decor. These wall racks are anchored securely on the wall using studs or bolts to keep it sturdy and stable. You can configure these storage racks whichever way you like, including using a wall cradle for one board or multiple boards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wall-mounted racks are great where you have enough wall space because the boards can lie horizontally comfortably hence no likelihood of damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended products<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SPAREHAND Wall Mount Rack<\/a><\/strong> with Angled Padded Arms for Surfboard or SUP Paddle Board double storage<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Wall-mount](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/Sparehand-wall-mount-SUP-rack.jpg\")
Sparehand wall-mount Rack<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Best Marine Kayak Storage Racks<\/a><\/strong>. Premium Wall Mount Accessories for Kayaks and SUP Paddle Boards. Two Indoor\/Outdoor Kayak Hangers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Best](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/wall-mount-sup-board-storage-hangers.jpg\")
Best marine<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Rad Sports Kayak\/Paddleboard Storage Hooks<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"SUP\/Kayak](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/Rad-sports-Storage-hooks.jpg\")
Rad Sportz storage hooks<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n The Rad Sportz hooks are constructed from sturdy powder-coated steel and equipped with nylon holding straps and clips. The foam-padded hooks can be mounted right into your wall studs to safely boards up to 125-pounds<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Freestanding Indoor Racks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
These are same as the outdoor racks. The difference is that they can only be used indoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Steve’s Rack Shack<\/a><\/strong> is one of the best freestanding indoor storage options. It is 3-level, 31″ tall, and made of premium wood.
It comes with protective foam on the arms to promote safe and simple storage as well as a place to repair dings and work on boards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Indoor](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/indoor-wooden-freestanding-sup-storage-rack.jpg\")
Steve’s Rack Shack<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Vertical Rack <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A vertical rack uses vertical space in your home to store your boards. The storage is freestanding but raised from the ground to prevent damage. These vertical racks are space-saving very versatile, and you can use them for display.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/SUP-kayak-vertical-storage-rack-SPAREHAND-Glacik.jpg\")
![\"SUP](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/SUP-hoist.jpg\")
![\"SUP\/Kayak](\"https:\/\/aquaticglee.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/StoreYourboard-storage-hoist.jpg\")