How to Help Your Gear Handle the Heat
The hottest months of the year are some of the best times to be on the water. Longer days, warm weather, and plenty of time to paddle or float make summer hard to beat.
But when temperatures rise, your gear needs a little extra attention, too.
Whether you're already part of the iROCKER crew or thinking about adding an inflatable SUP or float to your setup, a few simple habits can help keep your gear ready for more water days.
PSA: YOUR INFLATABLE DOESN’T WANT TO SUNBATHE.
Your inflatable loves being on the water. Sitting fully inflated in the hot sun? Not so much.
As temperatures rise, the air inside an inflatable can expand, increasing internal pressure. That's why it's important to avoid leaving a fully inflated board in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Taking a break from the water? Move your board into the shade whenever possible and keep it off hot surfaces like:
- Sand
- Asphalt
- Concrete
- Metal surfaces
- Other surfaces that can become extremely hot in direct sunlight
During especially hot days, if your board will be sitting out of the water for an extended period, letting a little air out can help reduce pressure buildup.
When you're ready to get back on the water, simply top it back up to the recommended pressure.
PSA: SALTWATER IS GREAT. SALT RESIDUE? NOT SO MUCH.
We love saltwater. Your gear? It deserves a rinse afterward.
Saltwater, chlorine, sand, and other debris can leave residue on your board or float over time. After your adventure, give your gear a freshwater rinse to wash away anything left behind.
Pay attention to areas where sand and salt can collect, including handles, seams, valves, and accessories.
A quick rinse after your session is an easy habit that can help keep your gear looking and performing its best.
PSA: RINSE IT. DRY IT. ROLL IT. REPEAT.
Before packing your inflatable away, let it fully dry.
Rolling up a wet board can trap moisture and create an environment where mildew and odors can develop. After rinsing, give your board or float enough time to dry completely before deflating and storing it.
Think of it as the post-water-day routine:
RINSE. DRY. DEFLATE. ROLL. STORE.
PSA: YOUR GEAR DESERVES A COOL PLACE TO HANG.
Where you store your gear matters.
When you're done for the day, keep your inflatable somewhere cool, dry, and shaded, away from prolonged direct sunlight and extreme heat.
Avoid leaving an inflated board or float in a hot vehicle. Cars can heat up quickly, creating an environment that's much hotter than the outside temperature.
For longer-term storage, keep your gear clean, completely dry, and stored according to the care recommendations for your specific product.
THE BOTTOM LINE
You don't need a complicated maintenance routine to take care of your inflatable. A few simple habits can make a big difference:
KEEP IT COOL.
Avoid prolonged heat and direct sunlight when your gear is out of the water.
RINSE IT.
Wash away saltwater, chlorine, sand, and other residue.
DRY IT.
Make sure your gear is completely dry before storing.
STORE IT SMART.
Choose a cool, dry, shaded place away from extreme heat.
A LITTLE EXTRA CARE NOW = MORE WATER DAYS LATER.
Whether you're heading out for a quick paddle, spending the afternoon on an iLAND® float, or planning your next big water adventure, taking care of your gear means more time enjoying it.
READY FOR YOUR NEXT WATER DAY?
Explore iROCKER inflatable SUPs and iLAND® float and find the gear made for wherever the water takes you.
