Inflatable paddle boards are built tough, but like any gear, they sometimes need a little attention. One of the most common issues new paddlers encounter is a loose or leaking valve. Luckily, it’s an easy fix with just a few tools, a little patience, and the right steps.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• How to identify a loose or leaking SUP valve

• The step-by-step process for tightening and fixing it

• Pro tips to prevent valve issues in the future

• When to reach out for professional support

Whether you’re brand new to inflatables or a seasoned paddler, this tutorial will get your board back on the water fast.

Your paddle board valve is designed to keep air sealed inside the chamber at high PSI. If it becomes loose during shipping, storage, or regular use, you may notice a few clear signs:

1. Hissing Noise Around the Valve
   When your board is inflated, listen closely around the valve area. If you hear air escaping, that’s a giveaway.

2. Bubble Test
   Pour a small amount of water over the valve. If bubbles appear, it means air is escaping through a loose seal.

3. Board Won’t Stay Inflated
   A properly working valve will hold air for days or weeks. If your board deflates quickly after pumping it up, a loose valve is the likely culprit.

⚠️ Don’t ignore these signs. A leaking valve won’t just cut your session short — it can also put unnecessary stress on your board’s seams.

Fortunately, every Glide inflatable paddle board comes with a repair kit that includes the black plastic valve wrench. This is the key tool for fixing a loose valve. You’ll also need:

• Your SUP pump (manual or electric)

• A towel or sponge for the bubble test

• A bit of patience

Follow these steps to get your board sealed tight and ready for the water again:

• Use your manual or electric pump to inflate the board.

• Note: hand pumps typically don’t register PSI until 7–10 PSI, so don’t panic if the gauge isn’t moving right away.

• Once inflated, listen for hissing near the valve or test with water.

• Pour a small amount of water over the valve.

• Look for bubbles rising up — if you see them, the valve is loose and needs tightening.

• Before making adjustments, fully deflate your SUP.

• This removes air pressure from the chamber, making it safe to tighten the valve.

• Find the black wrench in your repair kit.

• Press firmly down around the valve with one hand.

• Insert the wrench into the valve head.

• While holding pressure downward, twist the wrench clockwise until snug.

• Think of it like screwing a bolt into a wall: it should be secure but not forced to the point of stripping.

• Try twisting the outer valve with your fingers.

• If it doesn’t move under light pressure, the valve is tight enough.

• Pump the board back up to your normal PSI (12–15 PSI for most Glide inflatables).

• Listen for any hissing.

• Do the bubble test again to confirm the leak is gone.

✅ If the board holds air without noise or bubbles, you’re ready to paddle!

• Check During Unboxing: Inspect your valve as soon as you open your new board. Shipping jostles can sometimes loosen it.

• Regular Maintenance: Do a quick bubble test at the start of the season. Preventing leaks is easier than mid-session fixes.

• Don’t Overtighten: Valves are tough, but stripping the threads can cause bigger issues. Snug, not forced, is the goal.

• Keep It Clean: Rinse your board after use in saltwater or sandy conditions to prevent debris buildup around the valve.

Most valve issues are solved with a quick tightening. But if your valve continues to leak even after adjustments, the problem could be a:

• Damaged O-ring or gasket

• Cracked valve housing

• Improper factory seal

If that’s the case, don’t worry — Glide backs every inflatable with a 5-year warranty. Reach out to our team at info@glidesup.com

or call 888-927-9405 for expert support.

Hopefully, this article on  fix paddle board valve is helpful. A loose valve may seem like a big problem, but with the right steps, it’s one of the easiest SUP fixes you can do yourself. With just a few minutes of effort, you’ll restore your inflatable paddle board’s airtight seal and get back to doing what you love — gliding across the water worry-free.

At Glide, we’re passionate about making sure your SUP adventures are smooth and stress-free. That’s why our boards come with the durability, repairability, and support you need to paddle with confidence for years to come.