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YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO OFF-SEASON STORAGE AND CARE

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO OFF-SEASON STORAGE AND CARE - The Wild Tribe
Paddle board on calm Canadian lake
Paddle Board Care

Your Ultimate Guide to Off-Season Storage and Care

The Wild Tribe Team 7 min read

Preparing Your Board for Off-Season Storage

Cleaning and Drying

Before storing your paddle board, give it a thorough clean to remove any salt, dirt, or debris. Allow it to dry completely to prevent mold or mildew growth during storage. Do the same for all your accessories.

We recommend using a pH-neutral eco-friendly soap to properly wash the paddle board.

Inspect for Damage

Check your board for any cuts, abrasions, or slow leaks before storing. It's much better to repair issues now than to discover them at the start of next season.

Where to Store Your Board

The ideal storage location has:

  • Stable temperature — avoid extreme heat or cold
  • Low humidity — prevents mould growth
  • No direct sunlight — UV degrades PVC over time
  • Protection from rodents — mice will chew through PVC

A climate-controlled basement or indoor closet is ideal. Avoid unheated garages, outdoor sheds, and car trunks.

Rolled vs. Inflated Storage

If you have the space, storing your board slightly inflated (3-5 PSI) is the best option. This prevents permanent fold creases and is easier on the material.

If you need to store it rolled:

  • Roll loosely — don't compress it as tightly as you would for transport
  • Unroll and re-roll every 4-6 weeks to prevent permanent creases
  • Alternate your fold direction each time
Pro Tip

If storing rolled in the bag, leave the bag partially unzipped to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup inside.

Winter Storage

Winters present unique challenges for paddle board storage:

  • Extreme cold makes PVC brittle — never unroll or inflate a board in sub-zero temperatures
  • Temperature fluctuations in garages cause condensation — moisture trapped in a sealed bag leads to mould
  • Bring your board indoors if possible, even a basement corner works perfectly
Shop The Wild Tribe

Athabasca Inflatable SUP

Built with military-grade PVC to withstand Canadian conditions. Adventure-ready with carry bag included.

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Spring Checklist Before Your First Paddle

Before your first session of the season:

  1. Inflate to full PSI and let it sit for 24 hours — check for slow leaks
  2. Inspect all seams, the valve, deck pad, and D-rings
  3. Check your accessories — pump, paddle, leash, and fins
  4. Clean the board if there's any dust or residue from storage

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I store my board in the garage over winter?
Only if the garage is insulated and temperature-controlled. An unheated garage in Canada can drop well below freezing, which makes PVC brittle and can damage seams over time.
How long can my board stay stored without use?
Properly stored, your board can safely sit for 6+ months. Just follow the prep steps and check on it periodically.
Should I store the pump and accessories separately?
You can store them in the same bag, but make sure everything is clean and dry. Remove batteries from electric pumps to prevent corrosion.
What if I find mould on my board in spring?
Clean it with a mixture of mild soap and water. For stubborn mould, use a diluted white vinegar solution. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before use.
The Wild Tribe Team
We're a team of paddle board enthusiasts based in Canada. We test every board we sell on the lakes and rivers we love.
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