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How to Store, Transport and Inflate your Inflatable SUP (iSUP)
One of the best things about an inflatable paddleboard is how little fuss it involves. Pack it in a bag, pull it out at the lake, pump it up, and you're on the water. But there are a few things worth knowing if you want your board to last for years rather than just seasons.
We get a lot of questions about inflating, storing, and transporting inflatable SUPs — and while none of it is complicated, the details matter. Here is everything you need to know to look after your board properly.
How to inflate your iSUP
Most inflatable SUPs inflate in five to ten minutes. The process is straightforward once you have done it once.
Check the valve
Before attaching anything, make sure the valve on your board is in the closed position. Attach the inflation hose to the valve and the other end to your pump.
Start pumping — dual action first
Most pumps have a dual-action setting that pumps air on both the up and down stroke. Start with this engaged — it fills the board much faster in the early stages when resistance is low.
Switch to single action near full pressure
Once the board firms up and pumping becomes harder, switch to single action by pulling the pin on the pump handle. This makes it easier to reach the final few PSI without exhausting yourself.
Inflate to the recommended PSI
Check your board's specifications for the correct pressure — most inflatable SUPs sit between 12 and 15 PSI. Under-inflating makes the board feel soft and unstable. Over-inflating puts unnecessary stress on the seams.
Detach the hose and attach your fins
Remove the hose from the valve and make sure the valve cap is secure. Attach your fins, clip on your ankle leash, and you are ready to paddle.
If you paddle regularly, an electric pump is a worthwhile investment. It inflates the board to your target PSI automatically and shuts off — no manual effort required. Great for early mornings when you just want to get on the water.
How to store your iSUP
How you store your board between paddles has a bigger impact on its lifespan than almost anything else.
⚠️ Never store your iSUP fully inflated in direct sunlight for extended periods. The air inside expands as the board heats up, putting excess pressure on the seams. Over time, this is one of the most common causes of premature wear.
How to transport your iSUP
This is where the inflatable SUP genuinely earns its place. When deflated and rolled, most boards pack into a bag roughly the size of a large backpack — no roof rack, no trailer, no special vehicle required. The bag fits in the boot of almost any car, alongside your cooler, chairs, and the rest of your gear.
After every paddle, rinse your board with fresh water before deflating and rolling it up. Sand and grit caught in the seams or valves can cause wear over time. A quick rinse takes two minutes and makes a real difference over a season.
A few things worth knowing
Looking after an inflatable SUP is genuinely low maintenance — but a little care goes a long way. The boards we carry at OVAP are built to last, and with proper storage and handling they will give you many seasons on the water.
Ready to get on the water?
Browse our full range of inflatable paddleboards at ovap.ca, or come see us at 67 Madawaska Street in Arnprior. Not sure which board is right for you? Our Demo Centre at McLean Beach is open Thursday through Sunday — try before you buy.
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