If you're thinking about getting an inflatable paddle board but wondering whether it’s harder to stand on compared to a hard board, you're not alone. This is one of the most common questions from first-time paddlers.
Navigating the sea of inflatable paddle boards on the market can feel like deciphering a complex puzzle, especially with the influx of options ranging widely in quality. As the SUP world continues to expand, distinguishing a high-caliber inflatable paddle board from a subpar one is essential for ensuring both your enjoyment and safety on the water. Let's dive into the telltale signs of a poorly constructed inflatable paddle board and arm you with the knowledge to make an informed choice. Key Highlights: Material Quality: Look for boards with multi-layer heavy-duty PVC and woven drop-stitch construction for enhanced durability and rigidity. Seam Inspection: High-quality boards feature heat-welded or fusion seams for superior durability and leak resistance. Avoid boards with inconsistent welds or visible glue. Valve Integrity: Check for robust valves made from durable materials like stainless steel, ensuring they operate smoothly and do not leak. Fin and Accessory Quality: Evaluate the fins and accessories for compatibility and quality, indicating the overall craftsmanship of the board. Performance and Brand Reputation: Test the board’s performance on water for stability and maneuverability. Opt for reputable brands that offer comprehensive warranties to back their products.
Inflatable paddle boards have surged in popularity, offering a convenient and portable alternative to their hardboard counterparts. Yet, amidst their many benefits, potential users often wonder: Can inflatable paddle boards really burst? Let's delve into this concern, exploring the factors that can lead to overinflation, the risks involved, and how to safely manage and prevent such incidents. Key Highlights: Overinflation Risks: The primary cause of paddle board bursting is exceeding the recommended PSI, which puts undue stress on the materials and seams. Temperature Variations: Understand how changes in temperature can affect air pressure inside the board, potentially leading to overinflation if not adjusted. Material Wear and Tear: Regular use and exposure can weaken the board's structure; inspecting for damage is crucial for maintaining integrity and safety. Safe Inflation Practices: Always use a pump with a pressure gauge and follow the manufacturer's guidelines to maintain the right pressure levels. Environmental Adjustments: Inflate the board considering the day’s temperature and sun exposure to accommodate air expansion or contraction.
Inflatable paddle boards, especially those from Glide, are a fantastic investment for enthusiasts of water sports, thanks to their versatility and ease of storage. However, properly storing your inflatable SUP is crucial to maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. Here, we guide you through the best practices for storing your Glide inflatable paddle board, whether for short bursts or longer periods. Key Highlights: Deciding Between Inflation and Deflation: For long-term storage, it's advisable to deflate your board to preserve the PVC material and reduce required space. The Deflation Process: Thoroughly clean and dry your board before deflating. Remove all accessories to prevent mold and mildew. Proper Rolling and Storing Techniques: Roll your board tightly from the nose and store it in a Glide carry bag to protect its shape and integrity. Choosing the Right Storage Location: Store your deflated board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prevent damage. Short-Term Storage Solutions: If storing inflated for short periods, slightly deflate in hot conditions to accommodate air expansion and avoid direct sunlight.
Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards (iSUPs) are a fantastic investment for water enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, durability, and convenience. The lifespan of an iSUP greatly depends on its construction quality, usage frequency, and maintenance. Here’s a comprehensive look at what you need to know before making your purchase. Here's our answer to your questions. Key Highlights: Construction and Durability: iSUPs are typically made using single layer, double layer, or fusion techniques, affecting their longevity. Expected Lifespan: With regular use, basic models last about three years, while high-quality options like those from Glide can last over seven years. Comparison to Hard Boards: iSUPs offer benefits such as portability and safety, making them a preferable choice for many paddlers over hard paddle boards. Investment Value: Beyond durability, iSUPs provide a unique way to enjoy nature and stay active, offering more than just their monetary worth. Maintenance Tips: Proper care, including storage and handling, can significantly extend the life of an iSUP.
There's nothing that will fill you with dread faster than seeing air bubbles and hearing the hiss of air escaping from your inflatable paddle board while you're out paddling around. Except seeing a great white tailing you; that would be worse. The good news is that inflatable paddleboard repair is so much easier than fixing dings on a hard paddle board. We'll review the repair process here and explain different techniques for locating leaks and applying patches to get rid of those pesky leaks once and for all. Don't fret- small holes are an easy fix. Key Highlights Identifying the Leak: Start by inflating your SUP and applying a soapy water solution to spot persistent air bubbles indicating leaks. Preparing the Surface: Thoroughly dry and clean the leak area with rubbing alcohol before any patch application. Patch Application: Apply PVC glue to both the patch and the SUP, press firmly to adhere without gaps, and allow to cure overnight for best results. Using Self-stick Patches: For quick, minor repairs, self-stick patches offer a convenient, no-mess solution. Valve Maintenance: Tighten the valve with the included wrench to prevent air from escaping. Regular checks ensure the valve remains tight and functional. Post-Repair Testing: After repairs, re-inflate and recheck the area with soapy water to confirm the leak is sealed.
Both the inflatable paddle board and inflatable kayak will help you stay in shape while letting you reconnect with nature. The decision over which one to purchase will come down to what you are looking for in a vessel in terms of the muscles you want to work, the ease of learning and of transport, safety, and versatility. Here's the breakdown to help you decide which to pick. Key Highlights Muscle Engagement: Paddle boards offer a full-body workout by engaging your core, arms, and legs, while kayaks focus more on the upper body. View and Experience: Standing on a SUP provides a better view of your surroundings and wildlife, enhancing the paddling experience. Speed and Efficiency: Kayaks are typically faster and more energy-efficient, but SUPs can catch wind to aid their speed. Versatility: SUPs are more versatile, suitable for a variety of activities including yoga and surfing, whereas kayaks offer more specialized uses. Learning Curve and Safety: Kayaks may be easier for beginners due to their stability, but SUPs offer a quick learning curve in calm conditions and easier re-mounting after falling off. Transportation and Storage: Both are easy to transport and store, but SUPs often edge out in ease due to their slimmer design.
We understand that getting a new paddle board can be nerve-racking during the set up. We suggest you practice a few times in your home before you take it out. Watch our video and follow along! Key Highlights Prepare the Area: Start by finding a clean, flat surface near water, free of sharp objects, to unroll your board. Valve Check: Ensure the valve is in the closed position to prevent air escape during inflation. Pump Attachment: Securely attach the pump to your board's valve, whether using a manual or electric pump. Inflating to the Right PSI: Inflate your board to the recommended PSI, typically between 12-15 PSI, for optimal performance. Pressure Check: Frequently check the pressure as you near the full inflation to avoid over or under-inflation. Fin Installation: After inflation, attach any detachable fins to aid in the board's stability and maneuverability. Safety Inspection: Conduct a final inspection of the board, valve, and fins to ensure everything is secure before getting on the water. Safety Gear: Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) for safety while paddle boarding.
Get updated with our latest offers.
