Gear Series - Inflatable SUP Storage for Winter

How to Store Your Inflatable SUP for Winter Like a Pro

As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, for some paddlers, it’s time to start thinking about storing your inflatable stand-up paddleboard (iSUP) for the winter. Properly storing your board ensures that when spring rolls around, you’ll be ready to hit the water without any nasty surprises (like mold, cracks, or a deflated board that refuses to cooperate). Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to give your board the off-season TLC it deserves.

1. Give It a Good Clean

Before you even think about deflating your iSUP, it needs a thorough cleaning. Rinse the entire board with fresh water to remove salt, dirt, sand, and any other debris it might have picked up during those summer adventures. If you’ve paddled in saltwater or especially muddy areas, mix in some mild soap. Don’t go overboard here—just a little to help break down any stubborn residue.

Pro tip: Let your board dry completely. Moisture is the enemy when it comes to long-term storage. Any trapped water can lead to mold and mildew, which, let’s face it, no one wants to deal with.

2. Deflate (But Do It Right)

When your board is all clean and dry, it’s time to deflate it. Here’s where people sometimes rush, but trust me, take it slow. Open the valve and let the air out gradually. Doing it too quickly can put unnecessary stress on the seams and the valve.  Some electric pumps have a ‘deflate’ option which will suck the air out of your board, this can be extremely helpful.  

Once it’s fully deflated, you’ll need to roll it up, but don’t go overboard. Rolling it too tightly can create creases or put pressure on the seams. Aim for a loose roll that still fits comfortably in your storage bag.  Lastly, when rolling watch out for the fin box, keep any folds or creases away  from the fin box, this can cause de-lamination around the glue that hold the fin box in place.  

3. Store It Somewhere Cool and Dry

If you take only one thing from this guide, let it be this: your inflatable SUP hates extremes. Too hot or too cold, and the material can degrade. Store your board in a cool, dry place—think garage, basement, or shed. Avoid places that get super cold (like unheated garages in freezing climates) or anywhere exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.

Bonus tip if you can store the board flat, completely deflated. If that’s not possible, loosely rolled works too—just avoid stacking anything heavy on top of it.

4. Don’t Forget About the Valve

The valve is the unsung hero of your iSUP. It’s what keeps the air in and lets it out, and it deserves a little love. Before storage, make sure it’s clean and free from any debris. A little spray of silicone lubricant will help keep the valve from drying out over winter.

5. Keep Accessories in Mind

Your iSUP isn’t the only thing that needs attention. Disassemble your paddle, dry it off, and store it somewhere dry. The locking mechanisms can corrode if they’re damp, so make sure everything’s bone dry before putting it away.  Winter is also a great time to upgrade your paddle as many high end paddle companies offer sales on end-of-year products.  

The leash, pump, and any other accessories also need a clean and dry spot. Stash them somewhere safe so you don’t spend half of next spring hunting them down.

Storing your inflatable paddle board for winter is all about being gentle and taking a little extra time to ensure it’s clean, dry, and stored in the right conditions. Treat your iSUP well, and it’ll reward you with many more seasons of smooth paddling.

If you are planning paddling during the cold months be sure you have all the right equipment to paddle safely, check out the cold weather paddling blog post.