The first step towards mastering surfing is buying a board, then learning how to surf, and finally, maintaining your water ride. Your surfboard looks out for you on the waves; in return, you must reciprocate that care. Surfing boards are not a frequent purchase; they are an investment. Buying your dream board is a huge accomplishment, and this guide will ensure your board remains in perfect shape.
Dos and Don’ts of Surfing Board Maintenance
All surfing boards follow a standard care procedure, regardless of their build, material, or design. Whether you have a long or short board, this guide applies to all surfing boards touching the waves.
Proper Board Placement
Usually, beginner surfers place their boards against a wall, hoping they will stay intact. However, leaning surfing boards vertically against surfaces like pillars or walls increases their chances of damage. The best way to store your board is in a surfing bag. It is recommended to buy a surfing kit when purchasing surfing boards instead of only opting for the board. A surfing kit includes the board, fins, wax, wetsuit, leash, and board bag.
Putting your board in the board bag and hanging it horizontally on a flat surface will maintain its balance, preventing it from hitting the ground. If you want to place it vertically, keep it inside a rack with foam-padded floors and walls to avoid tail and fin damage.
Avoid Direct Sunlight Exposure
Ensure you store your board in a cool and ventilated room, as high exposure to heat and sun can shorten its lifespan. For instance, while fibreglass surfing boards are exceptionally durable, their outer layer disconnects from the foam when exposed to direct sunlight. Repairing surfing boards with broken outer layers requires extra materials, making it time-consuming and financially unfeasible.
When hitting the beach on a bright sunny day, don’t leave your board in the open or on your vehicle’s roof. Direct heat exposure also fades the board’s colour, giving it a yellow hue. Faded colour decreased the board’s value, making even a brand-new surfboard look old and used.
Finding a safe spot for your board on the beach might be challenging, so carrying a board bag is an excellent idea. You should also bring towels to dry your board immediately after use. After wiping the board, cover it with wet towels instead of keeping them away to prevent heat and sunlight from hitting it.
Salt Harms Surfing Boards
In addition to wiping your board dry, ensure you rinse it thoroughly. Surfing attaches sand to your suit and board. While washing the sand off your suit, also wipe it off your board. However, dip your towel in freshwater before cleaning, as ocean water contains salt that damages surfing boards.
Post-Surfing Check-Up
Regardless of the board’s strength, it is not immune to cracks when exposed to rough waves. Therefore, check the board for damages after your surfing session. Cracks might not always be major; sometimes, they are minor and unnoticeable unless observed closely. Neglecting them can shorten the board’s lifespan and affect its performance.
New Wax Coating
A board’s floor has a wax coating for better grip. However, a downside of wax layers is that they hide possible cracks, making it challenging to spot them. You must change the board’s wax every few months to ensure it is in perfect shape.
Wrapping Up
Your surfboard will face some bumps now and then, especially as a beginner. Don’t allow that to dishearten you, though. These maintenance tips will help you care for your board for a thrilling surfing time and performance.