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Inflatable SUP News Red Paddle Co Starboard SUP

How to straighten SUP fins

Fixed paddle board fins are an essential component of a stand-up paddle board (SUP), providing stability and control on the water. However, these fins can sometimes become bent or twisted, which can negatively impact the performance of the board. If you have a fixed fin on your SUP that is bent or twisted, here are some steps you can follow to straighten it out:

  1. Inspect the fin: Take a moment to inspect it closely. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or breaks, and assess the extent of the bend or twist. If the fin is severely damaged or bent, it may not be possible to straighten it out and you may need to replace it.
  2. Apply heat to the fin: If the fin is only slightly bent or twisted, you may be able to straighten it out by applying heat. The heat will cause the plastic to become more flexible, making it easier to bend back into shape. You can apply heat to the fin using a hairdryer, a heat gun, or by placing the fin in a pot of hot water. Be careful not to apply too much heat, as this can cause the plastic to become too soft and potentially damage the fin.
  3. Gently bend the fin back into shape: Once you have applied heat to the fin, gently bend it back into shape using your hands. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this can cause the plastic to break or snap. If the fin is still not straight after applying heat and bending it gently, you may need to apply a little more heat and try again.

By following these steps, you should be able to straighten out a paddle board fins that has become bent or twisted. Keep in mind that this process may take some time and patience, and it may not always be possible to fully straighten out a severely damaged or twisted fin.

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7 helpful tips to care for your inflatable stand up paddle board

As with all premium products, caring for them is vital to their prolonged service. Inflatable stand up paddles boards are no exception. Despite their extreme durability and resistance to impact, a huge bonus over regular hard SUPs, inflatable SUPs still need some general care. Starboard have created this cool infographic with a few tips.

1. Cleaning

Clean the board after each use with fresh water and mild soap.

2. Avoid direct sunlight

If you need to leave the board inflated in direct sunlight, deflate it to at least 10 PSI, although direct sunlight should be avoided where possible.

3. Don’t use an air compressor

You can easily over inflate the board by using air compressor and void the warranty.

4. No dragging

Sharp debris can puncture your board, it is best not to drag it.

5. Use it frequently

Long-term storage can cause glue bonds to disintegrate. (Less of an issue as fusion and welding technologies evolve.)

6. Store at room temperature

Keep the boards sheltered away from extreme high and low temperatures, and excessive humidity.

7. Keep it dry

Dry the board off after each use and before storing to avoid mold damage.

So whether you are in the market for a Starboard inflatable paddle board, a Red Paddle Co inflatable SUP or a Fanatic inflatable paddle board, these 7 tips to looking after and caring for your board are very handy.

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Inflatable SUP News Paddle Boarding Paddling Starboard SUP

Double chamber inflatable paddle boards

It’s the latest and greatest in the world of stand up paddle boarding, specifically, inflatable paddle boarding. Starboard have introduced double chamber inflatable paddle boards across much of their 2018 range. What does this mean for the average paddler? Well, not only do you get the security of a secondary chamber buoyancy in the (extremely) rare situation that the board deflates, but more importantly, you get a better performing board.

Just like buildings and sky scrapers use I-beams for structural rigidity and load bearing, Starboard are using the same concept to increase the stiffness of their already incredibly stiff boards. The I-beam provides stiffness which in turn improves board performance, responsive and speed. Trust me, I know, I have the 2018 Starboard 12’6″ Touring Deluxe DC, DC for double chamber.

Find out more about the 2018 Starboard inflatable SUP range.

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Inflatable SUP News Paddle Boarding Starboard SUP

Paddling the 2018 Starboard 12’6″ Touring Deluxe inflatable stand up paddle board

Early this June, I went for a morning paddle on our Starboard Touring 12’6″ Deluxe. A great touring and cruising inflatable stand up board.

Watch as I paddle in the bay, enjoy the peace and quiet, take a look at the reef, and enjoy the early morning sun!

For more about the Starboard inflatable paddle boards, head on over to Green Water Sports. They are the leading inflatable stand up paddle board retailer in the USA.