Inflatable SUPs (iSUPs) have become a popular choice across Europe—from the calm lakes of Austria to the Mediterranean coast of Spain. They’re portable, easy to use, and perfect for beginners, making them a great choice for city dwellers with limited space. But to keep your board in top condition, knowing how to properly inflate, deflate, and store it is just as important as learning how to balance on it.
How to Properly Inflate Your SUP
Unroll your SUP board on flat ground. Avoid gravel or hot asphalt—grass, mats, or sand will work. Once you’re ready, connect the paddle board pump hose to the valve. Most European iSUPs use a Halkey-Roberts (HR) valve, which you push in, twist, and tighten.
Most inflatable SUPs recommend a pressure of 12-15 PSI. You’ll feel the inflatable paddle board getting firmer as you get closer to the top. Once you’re done inflating, twist the cap on to prevent leaks.
For added convenience, many paddlers opt for a portable electric paddle board pump, especially if you paddle a lot.
How to deflate your SUP without damaging it
Deflation is just as important as inflation especially if you want your SUP to last.
Before deflation, rinse your SUP with fresh water if it has salt or mud on it and let it dry for 5-10 minutes. This is especially important after paddling in the sea or rivers of Southern or Eastern Europe.
Release the air by pressing and twisting the valve. Once most of the air is out, slowly roll the stand up paddle board from the nose to the tail to let out the remaining air.
Note: Do not roll it up too hard, rolling it up smoothly will help protect the seams and internal materials.
How to store your SUP properly
Whether you live in a Paris apartment, a campervan in Norway, or a shed in Dublin, good storage habits will extend the life of your SUP.
Make sure your SUP is completely dry before storage to prevent mold and mildew on the SUP board.
Roll up or fold your deflated SUP loosely as recommended in your manual. We recommend using the original packaging or a dry storage box.
SUPs need to be stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid hot attics or cold garages. You can choose to store under a bed, in a closet, or in a dry basement. Don't leave your inflated SUP in direct sunlight all summer.
Whether you're paddling on the canals of Amsterdam or the coast of Croatia, it's easy to keep your SUP in good condition with a few careful steps. A little care goes a long way - your SUP will thank you next summer with a smooth ride and zero surprises.