How to Maintain Your Adult Paddle Board

Last Updated: 07/2025 by Sage Brooks

Your paddle board should last more than one season—it should grow with your adventures. With the right maintenance, your adult paddle board can keep its shape, performance, and durability year after year. Whether you paddle every weekend or just on vacation, a little care goes a long way.

Here’s how to keep your paddle boards for adults in top condition, with product-specific tips for retrospec models like Weekender and Weekender Plus.

 

 

Why Maintenance Matters

Inflatable gear is built to be tough, but it still benefits from regular attention. Clean, well-cared-for boards stay firm, resist damage, and perform better in all types of water activities. From lake cruising to SUP workouts, a maintained board feels better underfoot and lasts longer.

 

 

Clean After Every Use

Rinse your board thoroughly after each session—especially after saltwater, river silt, or muddy lake days. Use fresh water and a soft sponge to wipe down the deck, rails, and fins.

Avoid:

  • Harsh soaps or chemicals

  • High-pressure hoses

  • Leaving debris trapped in the seams

Quick tip: For boards like Weekender, the textured EVA deck holds up well but should be dried thoroughly to prevent buildup or mildew.

 

 

Dry Before Deflating

After rinsing, let your board dry completely before rolling it up. Trapped moisture can lead to mold, especially in creases or tight folds.

  • Stand it on its side or drape over a clean surface

  • Use a towel to speed up drying on cooler days

  • Check valves and fin boxes for water before storage

Even for compact models, always deflate dry.

 

 

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Sunlight and heat can weaken PVC and adhesives. When you’re not paddling, store your adult paddle board in a shaded, climate-controlled space—like a garage, closet, or under-bed bin.

Storage tips:

  • Keep it out of direct sunlight

  • Avoid leaving it in a hot car

  • Fold loosely and rotate fold patterns occasionally

This is key to maintaining an affordable adult paddle board with durable construction over time.

 

 

Check PSI and Avoid Overinflation

Use the included pump with a built-in pressure gauge and follow the recommended PSI (typically 12–15 PSI for retrospec boards). Overinflation puts stress on seams and valves.

Before each session:

  • Check firmness with a quick press of the hand

  • Listen for slow leaks or hissing

  • Inspect valve tightness and fin attachments

Consistent air pressure = consistent performance.

 

 

Protect the Deck

The EVA deck pad is designed for grip and comfort, but you should still treat it right.

  • Paddle barefoot or in soft water shoes

  • Avoid dragging sharp gear across the surface

  • Keep sunscreen, wax, or oil-based products away from the deck

This keeps traction high and your board looking clean season after season.

 

 

Watch Your Fins

Fins play a huge role in how your board tracks through water. Always inspect them before inflating your board.

  • Clean out the fin box after each use

  • Don’t drop or bend your fin when packing

  • Keep a spare in your bag for travel or river paddling

Both Weekender and Weekender Plus include a set of removable fins that slide in and out for easy maintenance.

 

 

Know When to Repair

Minor scuffs are normal, but if you spot:

  • Seam separation

  • Punctures

  • Persistent air leaks

Use your repair kit or reach out to retrospec support for parts or advice. Small fixes early on prevent bigger issues later.

 

 

Adult Paddle Board Safety Tips for First-Time Users

  • Always wear a life vest—retrospec's Bobbin' Life Vests are available in all sizes and made for movement

  • Use your leash in all water conditions

  • Stay close to shore on windy days

  • Carry a dry bag with sunscreen, snacks, and your phone

  • Avoid overloading your board past its weight capacity

Following these tips helps keep both you and your board protected, especially if you’re just starting out.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to maintain your adult paddle board isn’t complicated—it’s about consistency. Rinse, dry, check, and store. These steps will keep your gear working like new, so you can spend less time patching problems and more time paddling.

Weekender and Weekender Plus are two of the most accessible paddle boards for adults out there. With a little upkeep, they’ll keep delivering adventure every time you hit the water.

Want help choosing your first (or next) board? Start with our adult paddle board buying guide for 2025 and get paddling.

 

 

Article FAQ

How do I clean my paddle board after use?
 Rinse with fresh water, wipe down with a soft sponge, and let it air dry completely before storing.

What’s the best way to store my board in winter?
 Deflate it fully, dry it completely, fold loosely, and store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

Can I leave my board inflated between sessions?
 Yes, for short periods. But for long-term storage, deflate to reduce pressure on seams and valves.

What maintenance does an inflatable paddle board need?
 Regular cleaning, correct PSI inflation, proper drying, valve and fin checks, and smart storage practices.

Where can I shop for retrospec paddle boards and gear?
 Explore the full collection of paddle boards and accessories at retrospec.

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