· Aquafarer Team · Guides & Tips · 2 min read
Preparing Your SUP for Summer 2026 — Maintenance Tips for Peak Season
Get your inflatable SUP ready for heavy summer use with this maintenance guide covering UV protection, valve care, pressure management, and storage.
Summer-Ready in 30 Minutes
Peak paddling season is here. Follow these maintenance steps to keep your Aquafarer SUP performing all summer long.
UV Protection: Inflatable PVC boards are susceptible to UV degradation. Rinse your board with fresh water after saltwater use and store it out of direct sunlight when not in use. A UV protectant spray applied monthly extends the life of your board significantly.
Valve Care: The inflation valve is the most failure-prone component on any inflatable. Check that the valve core is tight (a valve tool is included in your repair kit). Apply a drop of silicone grease to the O-ring annually. If air leaks from the valve, replace the core — They are inexpensive and available from any Aquafarer dealer.
Pressure Management: Inflate your board to 12-15 PSI for optimal rigidity. In hot weather, pressure inside the board will rise — Check pressure after the board has been in the sun for an hour and release air if it exceeds 15 PSI. Never leave an over-inflated board in direct sun.
Storage: Deflate and roll your board loosely for storage — Tight rolls can crease the PVC. Store in a cool, dry place away from rodents and sharp objects.
Following these steps will keep your SUP Explorer 11 or SUP Tour 12 performing through the busiest summer season.
