If you are an avid surfer, you probably know how important a good surfboard is to having a great time on the water. Foam boards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their lightness, stability, ease and safety 🏄🏽♂️. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, taking care of your foam surfboard is essential to prolong its life and enjoy your surf sessions.
1. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and extreme temperatures 🔥
Keep in mind that your surfboard 's number one enemy is the sun 🌞
Prolonged exposure to the sun can have a more than negative impact on the foam of your surfboard. The UV rays of the sun can degrade the coating on the deck over time, making it more fragile and prone to warping . This can result in pits or cracks in the board. In some cases you may see bubbles appearing on your board.
Additionally, extreme temperatures can also damage the foam core of the board. For example, when it's very hot , the core of your foam board can expand , which can lead to permanent deformations. This is called the de-splitting process.
It is therefore essential to take steps to protect your foam surfboard from prolonged exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ideally, you should store your board in a cool place away from direct sunlight when not in use, especially on the bottom of your board.
If you are transporting it by car, avoid leaving it in the trunk or on the roof of a vehicle in direct sunlight for long periods of time , especially when it is hot outside. By hot we mean temperatures above 30 degrees.
For very dark surfboards (black for example), you have to be particularly careful with the heat because they tend to delaminate even more quickly.
By avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures, you can extend the life of your softop surfboard and ensure that it remains in good condition for many surf sessions to come. It will also keep a better appearance which can be an advantage when reselling on the second-hand market.
2. Rinse your board after each use
Rinsing your foam surfboard after each use 💦 is essential for its maintenance. Indeed, when you surf, the board is exposed to salt water, sand and other residues that can accumulate on its surface. These elements can damage your board over time.
To rinse your board , it is recommended to use fresh water rather than salt water. If you do not have access to fresh water, you can do an initial cleaning with salt water but be sure to rinse the board thoroughly with clean water the next time you have the chance. Use a garden hose or a bucket of water to wet the entire surface of the board, making sure to cover every part, including the rails, deck and bottom.
When rinsing more thoroughly, you can gently scrub the board with a soft sponge or brush to help remove stubborn residue.
Be careful not to use harsh products or solvents as this can damage the foam on the board.
Rinsing your foam surfboard after each use is a simple but effective way to extend its life and maintain peak performance.
If it's dryness in your home , in this case you can take a damp cloth like your poncho or a soft brush to remove sand and salt from your board. If you surf every day for a week you can rinse it only at the end of the week.
3. Dry your board properly
After rinsing your foam surfboard thoroughly in clean water, it is important to dry it properly 🌬️ to ensure its durability and to avoid any build-up of mold or unpleasant bad odors .
It is important to give your board enough time to air dry completely if you are storing it in a cover or enclosed area for a long time. You can place it in a place that is out of direct sunlight, preferably in the shade, and where air can circulate freely. It is essential to avoid leaving your board in a damp or confined area , as this will create an environment conducive to the growth of mould.
4. Use a protective cover
In addition to protecting your board from outdoor elements such as rain, sun and dust, a protective cover offers many other benefits. It helps prevent scratches and damage caused by bumps , accidental drops or rough handling.
Investing in a quality board cover will ensure that your board stays in perfect condition even when you’re on the move. Whether you’re an avid surfer who travels frequently or you just need to transport your board occasionally, a strong and durable board cover is very useful.
Many cases also come with ergonomic straps and handles to make it easier to carry . This saves you the trouble of carrying your board and allows you to transport it more conveniently and comfortably .
In addition to its protective function, a cover can also serve as a practical storage space for your board. It is often equipped with additional pockets to store your surf accessories such as your fins, your leash or your wax. This saves you from having to search for these small essential items for each session.
Choose a quality cover, designed specifically for your type of board, to ensure optimal protection and extend the life of your precious surf equipment.
The Zeus selection:
Our Zeus surfboard bag offers optimal protection thanks to its high-density foam padding that absorbs shocks. Your board will remain safe throughout your travels, whether by car, plane or walking to your favorite surf spot.
5. Store your board in a suitable place
It is important to store your board in a suitable place when not in use. Choose a dry place away from moisture 🏠 if possible, as water can lead to mold and mildew , which can damage the board and reduce its durability .
As we explained earlier, it is also important to keep the board away from extreme temperature variations to avoid any discoloration, warping or weakening. Choose your board's storage space accordingly.
To store your board optimally, use racks that hold the board upright . Make sure the racks are suitable for the size and weight of your board to avoid any risk of it falling or being damaged. Above all, avoid putting weight on a flat surfboard , especially if you leave the fins on , as this could cause deformation.
Be careful to store your board in a place where there is no risk of accidental impact.
Proper storage of your surfboard is essential to maintaining its durability and performance.
6. Avoid violent shocks
To avoid cracks, chips or other structural damage when transporting or handling your surfboard, here are some things to consider:
Avoid violent shocks or impacts ⚠️ :
Handle your board with care . Avoid hitting it against hard objects or dropping it, as this can cause cracks or chips.
Avoid rough or sharp surfaces :
When transporting your board, make sure to place it on smooth, flat surfaces to avoid any damage caused by rubbing against rough areas.
Use straps or padded covers 🧽:
To protect your board during transport, use securing straps to keep it in place. Make sure the straps are not too tight to avoid compressing the board.
7. Repair any damage promptly
When using your board, it is inevitable that it will suffer damage over time . Whether it is due to bumps, cracks or scratches , it is important to take care of your board and repair it as soon as you notice signs of deterioration 🧰.
Minor damage can be easily repaired with repair kits specifically designed for boards . These kits usually contain everything you need to repair small cracks or scratches. All you need to do is follow the instructions provided and take the time to do the repairs properly.
However, if the damage is more serious, it is best to call a professional 👩🔧 to carry out the necessary repairs. An expert will be able to assess the severity of the damage and use the appropriate techniques and tools. Ask your local surf shop for advice on where you can get your board repaired.
It is crucial not to wait until the damage gets worse . The longer you leave problems unrepaired, the more difficult and expensive it will be to fix them. In addition to making your board less capable, unrepaired damage can lead to further structural deterioration and even render the board unusable.
Remember to check your board regularly for any damage, no matter how small, so you can repair it quickly and avoid bigger problems in the future.
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These 7 tips for taking care of your foam board are very simple to implement and take little time. In the long run, they make all the difference, so take a moment to implement them! You will be able to keep your board in good condition and use it for many years. Take care of your board and fully enjoy each surf session 🏄♀️ !
