Winter storage of your SUP correctly – 8 steps for a longer lifespan 2025

Have you ever wondered why some SUP boards look like new after several seasons while others show wear and tear after just the first winter? The difference often lies in how you store your paddleboard when the season is over.

As a SUP owner, you have made a significant investment in your equipment, and proper winter storage can extend the life of your SUP by several years. At the same time, improper storage can lead to expensive repairs or even the need to buy a new board the very next season.

With over 18 years of experience in the SUP industry, we at Kona Sports have seen both the best and worst examples of how SUP boards are stored over the winter. In this guide, we share our professional advice for optimal winter storage that will protect your investment.

You will learn exactly what steps you need to follow to make your SUP survive Swedish winter conditions, what common mistakes can cost you dearly, and how to prepare your board for a perfect start to the next season. Whether you own an inflatable SUP or a rigid board, these guidelines will ensure that your paddleboard retains both performance and value.

Table of contents

• Why Winter Storage is Critical for Your SUP
• Step 1-2: Thorough cleaning before storage
• Step 3-4: Inspection and necessary repairs
• Step 5-6: Optimal storage environment for different SUP types
• Steps 7-8: Winter checks and ongoing maintenance
• Spring check before the new season
• FAQs about SUP winter storage
  
  

Why Winter Storage is Critical for Your SUP

Storing your SUP properly over the winter is crucial to maintaining both performance and economic value. Swedish winter conditions with temperature swings between minus and plus degrees, high humidity and limited light create challenges that can damage your SUP.

Temperature shocks are the biggest risk to SUP boards during the winter. As materials expand and contract repeatedly, cracks can form in the hull, especially around valves. Inflatable SUPs are especially vulnerable because PVC material becomes stiff and brittle in the cold.

Moisture and mold pose another serious threat. Even small amounts of residual water can freeze and cause material degradation from the inside.

UV damage continues into the winter if your SUP is stored near windows or under transparent roofs. The low angle of the sun during the winter months can actually concentrate UV radiation in unexpected ways.

According to industry studies, proper winter storage extends the lifespan of a SUP by 40-60% compared to boards that are stored haphazardly. For a SUP worth 8,000-15,000 SEK, that's a significant financial difference over time.

Step 1-2: Thorough cleaning before storage

Step 1: Remove all salt and dirt

Start your SUP storage with a thorough cleaning that removes all traces of salt water, algae and dirt from the season. Use lukewarm water and a mild soap – avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the UV protection.

For inflatable SUPs: Clean both the top and bottom thoroughly. Pay particular attention to areas around D-rings and valves where dirt tends to accumulate. Use a soft brush to reach hard-to-reach areas without scratching the surface.

For rigid boards: Be extra careful to clean the area around the fin and any damage from the season. Check that no sand or pebbles are stuck in micro-cracks.

Step 2: Complete drying

This is the most important step for successful SUP maintenance over the winter. All moisture must be removed before storage.

Allow your SUP to air dry for at least 24-48 hours in a well-ventilated environment. Flip the board over several times to ensure both sides dry completely. Use a towel to dry out all crevices and vent areas.

Pro tip: Place your SUP on a slight incline so that any remaining moisture drains away from vents and sensitive areas.

Step 3-4: Inspection and necessary repairs

Step 3: Systematic review

Now that your SUP is clean and dry, it’s the perfect time to give it a thorough inspection. Document any damage you find – both small and large.

Check the following areas:

• The entire hull surface for scratches, dents or discoloration
• Valves for leaks or wear on rubber seals
• D-rings and attachment points for release
• Fins and fin boxes for cracks or loose screws
• Handles and carrying straps for wear

For inflatable SUPs: Inflate the board to the recommended pressure and listen for air leaks. Mark any areas that need to be addressed.

Step 4: Make repairs

The winter period is the perfect time to carry out necessary repairs when you don't need your SUP.

Minor repairs such as small holes in inflatable SUPs can often be fixed yourself with a repair kit. For larger damage, we recommend contacting professional service.

Valve maintenance is critical for inflatable SUPs. Check that all valves are working properly and replace worn seals.

Kona Sports offers valve tool for air SUP that makes this maintenance easy.

Step 5-6: Optimal storage environment for different SUP types

Step 5: Choose the right storage location

The optimal storage environment for winterizing your SUP will vary depending on the type of paddleboard you own, but some basic principles apply to all.

Ideal conditions:

• Temperature between 5-20°C with minimal variation
• Humidity below 60%
• No direct sunlight or UV exposure
• Good air circulation without drafts
• Protection against rodents and pests

Suitable storage locations include insulated garages, well-ventilated basements, or climate-controlled storage rooms. Avoid unheated attics where temperatures fluctuate greatly.

Step 6: Correct positioning

For inflatable SUPs: Store partially inflated (about 50% of normal pressure) to maintain shape without stressing the material. DO NOT roll up your SUP for long-term storage – this can create permanent creases.

For rigid boards: Store them hanging vertically or lying flat on even supports that distribute the weight. Avoid leaning them against walls which can create pressure points.

A The boardsock from Kona protects your SUP from dust and minor damage during storage while allowing air circulation.

Steps 7-8: Winter checks and ongoing maintenance

Step 7: Regular checks

Even when your SUP is properly stored, you still need to check it regularly during the winter. Plan on checking it every two months.

Check the following:

• Air pressure in inflatable SUPs (should not drop more than 10-15% over the winter)
• No signs of moisture or mold
• The storage space has maintained stable conditions
• No new injuries or deterioration

Adjust as needed: If air pressure drops dramatically, it may indicate a slow leak that needs to be addressed.

Step 8: Documentation and planning

Use the winter time to plan for the next season and document the condition of your SUP.

Create a simple logbook where you record:

• Repairs made
• Which accessories need to be replaced?
• Storage solution improvements
• Planned upgrades for the upcoming season

This will help you budget and prepare for optimal performance when paddling season returns.

Spring check before the new season

As spring approaches and it's time to prepare your SUP for the new season, perform a thorough spring check before first use.

Full review:

1. Check all repairs made during the winter
2. Testing the air tightness of inflatable SUPs under full load
3. Check that all accessories are still in good condition.
4. Carry out any maintenance discovered during the winter

Safety Check: Test all safety features and replace worn safety equipment. Your safety on the water is more important than saving money on old accessories.

FAQs about SUP winter storage

Can I store my inflatable SUP completely deflated over the winter?

No, you should avoid storing your inflatable SUP completely deflated. Instead, store it with about 50% of its normal air pressure. This will preserve the shape of the material and prevent permanent wrinkles that can form when the PVC material is folded for extended periods. Complete deflation can also damage the valve mechanism and make it more difficult to inflate the board next season.

What temperature is best for winter storage of SUP?

The optimal temperature for SUP storage is between 5-20°C with as little temperature variation as possible. Avoid places where the temperature fluctuates greatly between day and night or between different weather systems. Constant cold is better than constant temperature changes that cause the material to expand and contract repeatedly, which can lead to material fatigue and cracks.

How often should I check my SUP during the winter?

You should check your SUP at least every two months during winter storage. Check the air pressure in inflatable boards, look for signs of moisture or mold, and ensure the storage area has maintained stable conditions. Regular checks allow you to detect and address problems before they become serious and expensive to repair.

What are the signs that my SUP has been damaged during winter storage?

Common signs of damage from poor winter storage include permanent creases or distortions on inflatable SUPs, white spots or discoloration indicating frost or moisture damage, mold or bad odors, new cracks or delamination on solid boards, and valves that no longer seal. If you notice any of this damage, contact a professional for an assessment before using the board again.

Should I remove the fin before winter storage?

Yes, it is recommended to remove all loose fins before winter storage. This will prevent damage to both the fin and the fin box if the board is accidentally tipped over or subjected to pressure. Store the fins separately in a dry environment and check that all screws and fasteners are in good condition. For SUPs with fixed fins, you only need to ensure that the area around the fin is completely clean and dry.

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As we at Kona Sports always say: "Stand up people. Stand up life." It starts with taking care of the equipment that makes your adventures possible. A well-cared-for SUP will serve you faithfully through many seasons of paddling and discovery.

Do you need professional help with your SUP storage or have questions about specific models? Contact our SUP experts for personalized advice based on your needs and requirements. We are here to help you maximize your SUP experience from the first paddle stroke to the last.