With frequent use an iSUP can attract dirt or a few scratches. Whilst these may not be much of an issue, it’s important to look after your board as best you can to keep it looking and performing at its very best. Here are seven things that you can do to keep your SHARK SUP in tip top condition. Don’t drag your board Avoid dragging your board over rough surfaces such as rocks and gravel or even through a car park. You may think that the surface won’t do any damage, but it can damage the surface of the board and that could change its performance over time. Protect your fin Of course you can replace a fin if you lose or damage it, but it will bring a great day to a quick end if you do. If you’re carrying your board over a distance, we recommend you carry your fin separately to avoid it getting knocked. When fixing your fin onto the board check that it is secure. If your board is resting beside the water ensure you keep it fin-side up. If it’s at the edge of the water then make sure it’s deep enough to not get snagged on the bottom. Don’t drop the SUP Avoid dropping your iSUP as this may cause serious or irreparable damage. Even the tiniest hole could lead to the board taking on water and this is something you do not want to happen. SHARK SUPs have well placed carry handles on all boards and for larger SUPs like the Family SHARK SUP board have multiple carry handles to allow your to share the load. Our Yoga-Shark Sup also has D-rings situated on the side of the board which allow you to attach a soft shoulder carry strap for easy transporting on land. Ensure you clean your board after use It’s important to remove mud, gravel, sand and salt water from your board and paddle after use. Not only does it mean that your board stays in great condition, but it also prevents damage to your board when stored. An organic, environmentally based soap should be the best thing, along with fresh water. Don’t scrub the board hard with anything other than a soft brush. A soft towel can then be used to dry the board (especially if it will be packed away for a significant period). We find a micro fibre towel is the best thing to use as it absorbs water quickly and is easy to keep in your bag. Storage From 2022 the SHARK wheeled backpack comes as standard with every SUP package. It’s designed to be an easy form of transport, but it’s also keeps your board safely away from UV damage, and dirt. Remove the fin and leash from your board and tuck them into the pockets within the bag. Deflate the board and carefully roll it up. Featuring double opening zips allowing you to fully open the bag, our SHARK SUPs wheeled backpack has internal loading straps to secure your board to the bag, and a front pocket allows you to store your pump and fins separately. We have made the bag large for ease of packing, however included compression straps so once packed you can transport your board in the most compact form. If you decide that you wish to leave your board inflated, ready for next time, ensure it is stored off the ground and away from direct sunlight and don’t stack anything on top of it as it can cause additional damage to the surface of the board. Be aware that the board will gradually lose pressure so you’ll need to top it up next time you use it. If you’re leaving your board in the open air in the hot sun for extended periods of time whilst not in use then you’ll need to let a little air out of your board as the pressure will gradually increase in the heat and could risk compromising your board. Check the Valve Point Every now and again it’s important to check the valve point on your board. Every package has a valve tool included with the repair kit which can be used to tighten and loosen your valve. It can also be used to remove the valve entirely in order to clean of any sand, girt and dit. It is good practice to clean and keep clear of debris so as to prevent issues in future. When stored keep the valve cover on at all times to ensure that water and other debris doesn’t enter the inside of your board. The video below shows you how to use your valve too Repair Kit and Warranty Every board comes with a repair kit should need to repair a puncture for example. We also give a three year warranty for all the new boards you purchase from our retailers. In the unlikely event that you experience any issues with your board or require replacement accessories then you should contact the retailer you purchased your board from and they will be able to assist you in resolving your issue
